Victoria Falls Full Day Experience

If you’re considering a full-day adventure around Victoria Falls, this experience from Bantu Safaris offers a thorough way to tick off the major sights and local flavors. Though we haven’t personally done it ourselves, based on reviews and detailed itineraries, it promises a mix of awe-inspiring natural beauty, culture, and fun activities—all wrapped into one sizable package.

What we love most about this tour is its comprehensive nature: from the iconic Zimbabwean viewpoint of the Falls, crossing the historic Victoria Falls Bridge, to exploring a 2,000-year-old Baobab tree, and ending with a lively Zambezi River cruise and traditional dinner show. It’s designed to maximize your day, giving you a true taste of Victoria Falls’ natural and cultural riches, without the hassle of organizing each activity separately.

One potential consideration is the long day’s pace, which can be quite full—especially if you prefer a more leisurely experience or want to spend extra time at certain spots. Also, noting that the tour is priced at $174 per person, the value lies in the inclusions such as transportation, guided tours, and the cultural entertainment, making it a solid choice for first-timers or travelers short on time.

This tour is best suited for those who want to see multiple highlights in a single day, enjoy cultural experiences, and prefer a private, personalized touch. If you’re after a relaxed, slow-paced exploration, you might find it a bit rushed. But if you’re eager to pack your day with exciting moments, this could be just right.

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Combines the Falls, bridge, market, river cruise, and dinner show.
• Private Tour: Exclusively for your group, with a personal guide.
• Authentic Culture: Dinner and dance show featuring traditional Matebele performers.
• Hassle-Free: Includes pick-up, transportation, and organized activities.
• Value for Money: For around $174, you get several activities along with dinner and entertainment.
• Timing & Pace: A long, full day—about 12 hours—so be prepared for a busy schedule.

A Close Look at the Itinerary: What to Expect

Guided Tour of Victoria Falls

Starting at Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, you’ll be led through what many consider the world’s most spectacular waterfall. The sight of the 3-kilometer-long wall of water plunging down 100 meters, with an average flow of 500 million cubic liters per minute, is breathtaking. Expect a lot of spray and humidity, so waterproof clothing or a quick-drying towel might come in handy. Reviewers like Vijay_K mentioned that the falls can soak you, but that’s part of the fun—getting wet and cooling off on a warm day.

The guide’s insights are one of the tour’s highlights—many reviews praise knowledgeable guides like Locke, who “answered all my questions and was full of knowledge.” Expect fascinating facts about the falls’ formation, history, and local significance.

Victoria Falls Bridge and Lunch Break

Post the falls tour, you’ll stop at the Victoria Falls Bridge—a UNESCO-listed feat that spans the Zambezi River, linking Zimbabwe and Zambia. This spot offers iconic photo opportunities, with views of the river and the bridge itself. The included lunch at Rainforest Cafe provides a chance to relax and recharge, with many reviewers appreciating the chance to rest and enjoy a meal amidst lush surroundings.

The Big Tree – Over 2,000 Years Old

Next, you’ll visit the Big Tree, a massive Baobab that has survived for over two millennia. With over 24 meters in height and a girth of over 22 meters, it’s impossible not to be impressed by its sheer size and history. One reviewer appreciated the connection to David Livingstone, who inscribed the tree over 160 years ago—adding a touch of exploration legend to your visit.

African Crafts Market

A visit to the local market offers a peek into Zimbabwean artisan crafts. Here, you can browse and haggle for handmade curios and souvenirs—an experience many travelers value for its authentic flavor. Reviewers mention enjoying the lively atmosphere and testing their haggling skills, making this a fun and cultural interlude.

Sunset Cruise on Zambezi River

As the day transitions into evening, you’ll head out on a sunset cruise. Expect panoramic views of the river and an opportunity to see wildlife like elephants, hippos, and crocodiles. Many reviewers highlight how spectacular the African sunset is from the boat—perfect for memorable photos. Snacks and drinks are included, creating a relaxed yet thrilling way to wind down the day.

Boma Dinner and Traditional Show

Finally, the tour wraps up with a dinner at the Boma, a renowned spot for authentic African cuisine and traditional entertainment. The show features Matebele dancers and drummers, offering an energetic display of local culture. Multiple reviewers—such as Eboniewagstaff—mention the delicious food and the chance to participate in drumming, which genuinely elevates the experience.

Some feedback points out that the dinner tends to be buffet-style, with a lot of meat. While most find it enjoyable, those seeking vegetarian options might need to inquire in advance. The performance is lively, and many say it’s a highlight of the day.

Detailed Breakdown: What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Transportation and Group Size

Transportation is by air-conditioned vehicle, providing comfort during the long day. The tour is billed as private for your group, which means a more personalized experience, though some reviews note that it sometimes feels more like a small group of about 8 people.

Duration and Pacing

The full schedule lasts approximately 12 hours, starting at 8:30 am. This means an early start, but travelers report that the itinerary is well-organized. One reviewer, Anne_D, appreciated the flexibility of skipping lunch to rest at the hotel before the cruise. Keep in mind that the day moves quickly, so pacing is important if you prefer a slower approach.

Cost and Value

At $174 per person, the tour offers a lot—multiple activities, transportation, guides, dinner, and entertainment. The main extra costs are the Victoria Falls entry fee (USD 50) and the Zambezi River usage fee (USD 10), which are not included. Many reviewers feel that for the amount of activity and culture, the price is fair, especially considering how well-organized and comprehensive it is.

Guides and Customer Service

Reviewers consistently praise guides like Locke, Phila, and Isra for their knowledge, friendliness, and helpfulness. A few reviews mention some initial communication issues—like unclear pick-up times or delays in confirmation—but overall, the guides make up for these hiccups with their professionalism.

Highlights & Authenticity

The combination of natural wonders (Victoria Falls from both Zimbabwe and Zambia), the river cruise, and the cultural dinner show makes this tour feel authentic and well-rounded. The live traditional dance and drumming are often cited as the most memorable moments—adding a lively, colorful touch to an already stunning day.

Potential Drawbacks

Some travelers found the long hours tiring, especially if they prefer a more relaxed pace. Others pointed out that the sunset cruise can be crowded, and service might suffer during busy times. Also, a few reviews talked about communication issues before the trip, so double-checking details in advance is advisable.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits first-time visitors wanting an all-in-one day of Victoria Falls and surrounding highlights. It’s perfect for adventurers eager for a mix of scenery, culture, and wildlife, without the hassle of planning every activity separately.

If you’re comfortable with a long, busy day and want to maximize your time, this tour provides excellent value. But if you’re seeking a more leisurely pace or have specific dietary or accessibility needs, you might want to customize or opt for separate activities.

FAQs

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour includes pick-up from your Victoria Falls accommodations or airport in an air-conditioned vehicle.

How much does the Victoria Falls entry fee cost? The entrance fee is USD 50 per person and is paid on the day of the tour.

Are there any extra costs? Yes, the Zambezi River usage fee of USD 10 and the entrance fee for Victoria Falls are not included in the price and need to be paid separately.

What should I bring? Water, comfortable shoes, waterproof clothing or rain jacket (especially near the falls), and any personal items you might need for the day.

Is this tour suitable for all ages? Most travelers can participate, but the long day and outdoor activities mean it’s best suited for those in good health and comfortable with a full schedule.

Can I customize the schedule? While the tour follows a set itinerary, some reviews mention the flexibility to skip certain parts, like lunch or the market.

What do reviewers say about the guides? Guides like Locke, Phila, and Isra are consistently praised for their knowledge, helpfulness, and friendliness, greatly enhancing the experience.

Final Thoughts

The Victoria Falls Full Day Experience offers a rich, well-organized way to see the highlights of this incredible destination. You’ll witness the awe of Victoria Falls from multiple viewpoints, enjoy a scenic river cruise, and learn about local culture with a lively dinner show. It’s a full, satisfying day that balances natural beauty, adventure, and cultural insight.

While it’s more suited to travelers eager to pack in as much as possible, those who enjoy guided experiences and cultural exchanges will find it especially rewarding. Just be prepared for a long day—and bring your sense of adventure (and maybe an extra pair of socks). For first-timers or those with limited time, this tour offers a practical, lively way to make the most of Victoria Falls in just one day.

Remember: Always confirm pick-up times and fees in advance, and prepare for a day full of unforgettable sights, sounds, and flavors. Whether you’re marveling at the thunderous roar of the falls or dancing along to traditional drums, this tour promises a memorable journey into the heart of Zimbabwe’s natural and cultural treasures.