From Kasane/Chobe : Victoria Falls Day Trip With Lunch

Traveling from Botswana to Zimbabwe’s Victoria Falls is a highlight that often tops travelers’ bucket lists, and this day trip offers an appealing blend of natural wonder, wildlife spotting, and cultural insights. While it’s a well-established tour, it’s the kind of experience that can truly fit into a busy travel schedule without sacrificing authenticity or comfort.

What we love about this trip? First, the chance to explore Zambezi National Park en route, which might surprise you with glimpses of local wildlife like elephants or buffalo. Second, the guided walk through Victoria Falls gives you an up-close view of the world’s greatest waterfall, with many viewpoints to soak in the thunderous spray. Third, the lunch at Baines Restaurant offers a prime location with views of the falls, making for an unforgettable meal.

A possible drawback? The tour’s short duration means you’ll want to keep an eye on your timing—particularly if you’re prone to wanting extra time at each stop. Also, there’s a fair bit of driving involved, which might stretch patience if you prefer more active or varied experiences. This tour suits travelers wanting a comprehensive snapshot of the falls without a multi-day commitment.

If you’re eager for a well-rounded day-trip that combines scenery, wildlife, and culture, this tour from Kasane is likely to fit the bill. It’s especially ideal for those short on time but eager to tick off a major natural wonder with the convenience of guided logistics.

Key Points

• Convenient location: Pick-up from Kasane/Chobe makes this accessible for travelers based in northern Botswana.
• Comprehensive experience: Includes park drive, scenic viewpoints, historical insights, and a lovely lunch.
• Expert-guided walk: Knowledgeable guides enhance your understanding of Victoria Falls’ significance and geology.
• Wildlife spotting: Drive through Zambezi National Park and possibly see elephants, buffalo, and more.
• Authentic setting: Lunch at Baines Restaurant with prime views of the falls.
• Value for money: At $130, it offers good value considering all inclusions, though watch for extra costs like park fees.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Pickup and Border Crossing

Your day begins with a hotel pickup in Kasane or Chobe, where a friendly guide will greet you. The journey officially kicks off at the Kazungula border, where you’ll handle immigration formalities. This process is straightforward but worth noting—ensure your visa requirements are sorted beforehand, especially if you’re a first-time visitor. Expect a brief wait, but nothing too burdensome, especially if you’ve prepared your documentation.

Drive Through Zambezi National Park

Once across, your vehicle enters the Zambezi National Park. This part of the trip is a real bonus—it’s not just a transfer, but a chance to spot some of the park’s wildlife. The driver-guide typically keeps an eye out for elephants, buffalo, and maybe some antelope or kudu. Although wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed every time, the scenery itself is lovely, with the landscape shifting from dry plains to lush riverine forest.

Guided Tour of Victoria Falls

After about an hour’s drive, you arrive at the Zimbabwe side of Victoria Falls. Here, you’ll join a guided walk that covers approximately 2.5 hours, exploring 16 different viewpoints around the falls. Your guide, often a local with a wealth of stories, will point out the most dramatic sections, share insights about the local people, and explain why the falls are so significant.

Expect to walk through the rainforest corridor, the lush environment that feeds the falls’ spray and creates a unique microclimate. The views are breathtaking—the roaring water, the mist rising like smoke, and the sheer scale of the falls evoke a sense of awe. It’s worth noting that the local name, “Mosi oa Tunya” (meaning the Smoke that Thunders), perfectly encapsulates the experience.

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Lunch at Baines Restaurant

Midday, you’ll be treated to lunch at Baines Restaurant, which is praised for its scenic location right next to the falls. The restaurant’s terrace offers stunning views, making your meal feel like a special occasion. The menu includes a one-course meal—a simple but satisfying option that allows you to relax and soak in the scenery without feeling rushed.

Some reviews mention that drinks, salads, or soups aren’t included, so consider that if you’re looking for a more elaborate meal. Whether you opt for local dishes or international favorites, the setting alone makes it worthwhile.

Optional Activities and Return

In the afternoon, some travelers opt for additional excursions, like helicopter flights over the falls, offering a bird’s-eye view of this natural marvel. While these aren’t included, it’s worth considering if you want to elevate your experience.

At the end of the day, your guide will drive you back through the border to Botswana, with plenty of time to reflect on your visit.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Knowledgeable Guides

Multiple reviews highlight guides as professional and well-informed. For example, Alejandro praised the guide’s professionalism but mentioned some organizational hiccups, particularly regarding a $40 transfer fee wrongly charged—something worth clarifying beforehand. Still, the guides’ local knowledge and storytelling add depth to the experience.

Scenic and Cultural Value

The viewpoints at Victoria Falls are among the most spectacular in the world, with each offering a different perspective of the cascading water. The walk provides rich context, making it more than just a photo op—it’s a chance to understand the falls’ significance and the local ecology.

Wildlife Encounters

Driving through Zambezi National Park offers a bonus of possible wildlife sightings, making the journey more dynamic. Even if animals aren’t always visible, the chance to see elephants or buffalo adds to the authenticity, especially for nature lovers.

Excellent Location and Lunch Setting

Baines Restaurant is lauded for its location—just a stone’s throw from the falls—with some reviews calling it a highlight. The opportunity to enjoy a meal overlooking the spray and thunder of Victoria Falls turns an ordinary lunch into a memorable event.

Price and Value Analysis

At $130 per person, this tour is a fair deal considering the inclusions: park drive, guided tour, lunch, and border transfers. When you factor in the cost of park entry fees (approximately $50 per person, not included), the guide’s insights, and the convenience of door-to-door pickup, it’s a good value for a full day of sightseeing.

However, the extra costs—such as drinks at the restaurant or optional activities—are not included, so budget for those if you want a complete experience. The flexibility of booking and paying later allows you to secure your spot without immediate commitment, which is handy.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Check Visa Requirements: Make sure your visa for Zimbabwe is sorted before the trip, as border formalities are involved.
• Timing: The tour lasts about 7 hours, so plan your day accordingly to avoid rushing.
• Comfort: The drive through the park and border crossings can be lengthy—wear comfortable shoes and bring water.
• Photography: The viewpoints are ideal for photos, but be prepared for mist and spray—bring a waterproof case or protective cover for your camera.
• Optional Extras: If you’re interested in helicopter flights or sunset cruises, book in advance as these can sell out.

Why This Tour is Worth Considering

This trip offers a fantastic way to experience Victoria Falls with minimal hassle, especially if you’re staying in Kasane or Chobe. It balances scenic exploration with wildlife viewing, cultural insights, and a delightful meal—making it a well-rounded day. The guides’ professionalism and the stunning views are key highlights, though travelers should be aware of potential organizational hiccups, such as unexpected charges, so clarity beforehand is advisable.

It’s best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience that covers the highlights without the need for multiple bookings or arrangements. If you’re pressed for time but eager to see the falls from the Zimbabwe side with the added bonus of park wildlife, this tour hits the right notes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a visa for Zimbabwe?
Yes, you should check your visa requirements before the trip. The tour involves crossing the border, so ensure your documentation is in order.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour typically takes about 7 hours, including pickups, border crossing, driving, sightseeing, and lunch.

Is wildlife spotting guaranteed?
While the drive through Zambezi National Park offers a chance to see elephants and buffalo, sightings depend on the day’s luck and time of day.

What is included in the price?
The $130 fee includes hotel pickup and drop-off, guided tour of Victoria Falls, lunch at Baines Restaurant, and local guide services. Park entry fees are extra ($50), and drinks or additional activities aren’t included.

Can I do optional activities?
Yes, options like helicopter flights are available, but they are not included in the base price and should be booked separately.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for families, but keep in mind that walks involve some walking and exposure to spray, which may not suit very young children.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes, raincoat or waterproof jacket, and clothing suitable for outdoor activities. Bring sunglasses and sunscreen.

Are there any hidden costs?
Be aware of extra charges for drinks at lunch or optional activities like helicopter rides. Also, check if there are additional border or visa fees.

How early should I book?
Booking at least a few days in advance is recommended, especially if you want to secure optional activities or have specific dietary needs.

What if I want to extend my stay at Victoria Falls?
This tour is a day trip, but many travelers choose to stay longer for additional activities like helicopter flights, sunset cruises, or full exploration of the falls and surroundings.

This Kasane-based Victoria Falls day trip offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, wildlife, and cultural insight that makes it ideal for travelers with limited time. The guided walk ensures you get the most out of your visit, and the lunch setting creates a memorable backdrop for your meal. While there are minor organizational issues reported, most travelers find the experience well worth the cost and effort.

If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to tick off one of the world’s greatest natural wonders while enjoying local food and a little wildlife spotting, this tour is a strong contender. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate guided experiences, scenic views, and value for money in a single day.

Remember: Always double-check border and visa requirements, and consider your own pace and interests when booking. Victoria Falls is a must-see for any Southern Africa itinerary—this tour makes it easier to say that you’ve truly experienced it.

You can check availability for your dates here: