Victoria Falls Safari with Lunch and Sunset Cruise

This tour combines excitement, natural beauty, and relaxation into one memorable day in Zimbabwe. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the detailed descriptions and reviews paint a vivid picture of what travelers can expect. From spotting wildlife in the Zambezi National Park to marveling at the thunderous Victoria Falls, and unwinding on a sunset cruise — this experience offers a well-rounded taste of Africa’s wilderness and stunning scenery.

What really catches our eye are the knowledgeable guides, the spectacular views from the Lookout Café, and the chance to see a variety of wildlife up close. The fact that it includes both a game drive and a river cruise means you’re getting a mix of adventure and tranquility. One possible consideration is the full itinerary and the weather — it involves some walking and exposure to the elements, so packing appropriately is key. This tour seems perfect for those seeking an active, scenic, and immersive day out that balances wildlife, waterfalls, and relaxation.

Key Points

• Diverse experiences: Combines game drive, Victoria Falls tour, lunch, and sunset cruise.
• Expert guides: Guides like Simon and Fortune are praised for their professionalism.
• Stunning vantage points: The Lookout Café offers breathtaking views 120 meters above the Zambezi.
• Wildlife sightings: Chance to spot elephants, zebras, giraffes, lions, and more in Zambezi National Park.
• Well-organized timing: Activities follow a clear schedule, with plenty of time for each highlight.
• Value for money: At $199, the tour offers a balanced mix of experiences, with some extras paid separately.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown

Morning Pickup and Game Drive in Zambezi National Park

The day kicks off at 7:00 AM with hotel pickup, which is convenient and hassle-free, especially for visitors staying within Victoria Falls. The transportation is in an air-conditioned minivan, helping you start the day comfortably. Your driver is also your guide, so expect friendly, professional service.

The game drive is conducted in an open four-wheel drive vehicle—perfect for getting close to wildlife and absorbing the bush atmosphere. The guides are described as motivated and friendly, with Svetlana mentioning that “the guides are professional (Simon especially).”

This part of the tour is particularly valuable if you enjoy wildlife viewing; it’s a genuine safari experience in Zimbabwe’s wild, unfenced lands. The chance to see elephants, zebras, giraffes, lions, buffalos, and possibly leopards adds the thrill of spotting animals in their natural habitat. According to reviews, the guides work hard to meet the schedule and adapt to unplanned changes, which is reassuring when dealing with wildlife unpredictability.

Guided Tour of Victoria Falls

At 11:00 AM, you’ll head to the iconic Victoria Falls for a guided tour. The walk takes you through parts of the rainforest that surround the falls, providing multiple viewpoints of the cascading water crashing into the Batoka Gorge. The guides’ knowledge helps bring this natural wonder to life, making the experience richer.

Guests report being mesmerized by the power of the falls, with one reviewer noting the “remarkable power of nature” and describing it as a “spectacle you will remember for a lifetime.” The views from the cliffs across the main falls are spectacular, especially if the weather is clear. Remember that this part of the tour involves some walking and exposure to the elements, so sturdy shoes and sun protection are recommended.

Lunch at Lookout Café

By 1:00 PM, it’s time to relax and enjoy a well-earned break at the Lookout Café. Located a remarkable 120 meters above the Zambezi River, the café offers arguably the best panoramic views in Victoria Falls. The menu is à la carte, giving you the flexibility to choose your preferred dish while soaking in the scenery.

Guests have praised the café’s location for its “spectacular view,” making it a memorable dining experience. The bar offers both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, allowing you to unwind with a cold drink as you take in the sights. This is a prime photo opportunity and a chance to reflect on your morning adventures.

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Afternoon Break and Preparation for Sunset Cruise

After lunch, your driver takes you back to your hotel for a short rest. This downtime is perfect to relax, change into warmer clothes (especially if the weather is cooler or if your cruise runs later in the season), or simply enjoy the surroundings. The break also gives you a moment to process the morning’s wildlife encounters and the grandeur of Victoria Falls.

Sunset Cruise on the Zambezi River

At 4:30 PM, it’s time to board the sunset cruise—a peaceful, scenic way to end your day. The boat glides along the Zambezi River as the sun begins to set, casting a golden glow over the water and wildlife. It’s an optimal time to spot animals coming to drink, such as elephants and buffalo, which reviewers say provides a “fantastic opportunity” to observe nature’s evening routines.

The cruise includes a cash bar with drinks, so you can toast the end of your day with a chilled beverage in hand. The gentle breeze, the mesmerizing sunset, and the sounds of the river make for a serene experience. Expect the cruise to last until around 7:30 PM, after which you’ll be driven back to your hotel.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:

• Lunch at Lookout Café
• Professional guide and driver
• Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Victoria Falls
• Bottled water
• Transport by air-conditioned minivan

Not included:

• Entrance fees for Victoria Falls ($30 for internationals, $20 for SADC)
• Sunset cruise fee ($10)
• Guided game drive fee ($15)
• Drinks beyond bottled water (additional beverages available for purchase)
• Transfers outside Victoria Falls

This structure gives a good sense of value—most of the core experiences are included, but the extras like entry fees and optional drinks are paid on-site or separately.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of the Tour

• Bring comfortable shoes for walking around the Falls and on the game drive.
• Sun protection is essential—sun hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen will enhance your comfort.
• Camera with extra batteries or memory cards is a must to capture the stunning vistas and wildlife sightings.
• Dress appropriately for weather conditions; it’s advisable to pack a light jacket or warm clothing for the river cruise, especially in cooler seasons.
• Cash is necessary for park entry fees and optional drinks, so carry some small bills.
• Pack light snacks or energy drinks if you’re prone to fatigue, especially in the heat or humidity, as one reviewer suggested.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re looking for a well-rounded day of adventure and relaxation, this tour is an excellent pick. It’s especially suitable for first-timers who want to get an overview of Victoria Falls, see wildlife, and enjoy a scenic river cruise without the hassle of organizing separate activities.

Travelers who appreciate knowledgeable guides and want to experience the wilderness in an authentic way will find this tour rewarding. Meanwhile, those on a limited schedule or seeking good value for a comprehensive day out will also feel they’ve gotten their money’s worth.

The Sum Up

This Victoria Falls Safari with Lunch and Sunset Cruise balances wildlife encounters, breathtaking scenery, and relaxing moments. The guides’ professionalism, the spectacular views from the Lookout Café, and the opportunity to see animals both on land and on the river make it a strong choice for travelers wanting a full flavor of Zimbabwe’s natural beauty.

While it involves some walking and exposure to weather, the well-organized schedule and variety of activities make this a memorable and worthwhile experience. It’s best suited for curious explorers, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone eager to combine adventure with stunning scenery—all in one day.

For the price, it offers a genuine glimpse into the wilderness, with experts guiding you through some of Africa’s most iconic sights. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning traveler, this tour delivers a balanced taste of nature’s power and serenity.

FAQ

What time does the tour start and end?
The tour begins with hotel pickup at 7:00 AM and concludes around 7:30 PM after the sunset cruise.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Victoria Falls in an air-conditioned minivan.

Do I need to bring my own drinks?
No, bottled water is provided, but drinks from the bar during meals and the cruise are available for purchase.

What is the cost of entrance fees?
Entrance fees are $30 for international visitors and $20 for SADC residents, payable at the gate, so bring cash.

Can I pay the fees in advance?
The tour recommends bringing cash for entrance fees; paying in advance isn’t specified but could be considered for ease.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the minimum drinking age is 18. It’s suitable for families with older children prepared for some walking.

How strenuous is the tour?
There’s some walking involved at the falls and during the game drive. Bring comfortable shoes and be prepared for outdoor conditions.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and layers for the river cruise are advised. A hat and sunglasses are recommended.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews highlight the guides like Simon and Fortune for their professionalism and enthusiasm.

Can I customize the experience?
The tour is scheduled, but you can advise on vegetarian options or wheelchair accessibility when booking.

This full-day adventure offers a great balance of wildlife, natural wonders, and relaxing river time, making it a fantastic way to experience Zimbabwe’s stunning landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here: