Victoria Falls: Sunset Cruise and Dinner at The Eatery

Imagine cruising along the Zambezi River as the sky displays a fiery sunset, followed by a delicious three-course meal by the water’s edge. That’s exactly what the Victoria Falls Sunset Cruise and Dinner at The Eatery offers—an evening that combines scenic beauty, wildlife sightings, and gourmet dining into one seamless experience.

While we haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews consistently highlight its stunning vistas, friendly guides, and excellent value. We love how this experience provides a relaxed way to soak in the natural beauty of the river at dusk, enjoy top-notch food, and listen to the sounds of the African bush.

A possible consideration? The dinner at The Eatery can be quite filling after a hearty cruise, so it’s worth planning for a lighter meal beforehand or scheduling dinner on a different night.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a combination of scenic beauty, wildlife spotting, and a good meal in a tranquil setting—perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a memorable, laid-back evening around Victoria Falls.

Key Points

• Stunning Sunsets: The cruise offers breathtaking views of the Zambezi River as the sun dips below the horizon.
• Wildlife Encounters: Spot animals like crocodiles, hippos, and elephants during the cruise, guided by knowledgeable crew.
• Gourmet Dining: Indulge in a three-course meal served alfresco at The Eatery, with great riverfront ambiance.
• All-Inclusive Feel: Enjoy unlimited drinks and canapés on the cruise, plus a delicious dinner, all at a competitive price.
• Convenient Transfers: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off for guests staying in Victoria Falls Towns, easing logistics.
• Authentic Experience: Reviewers love the friendly guides and the relaxed, authentic African atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting with the Sunset Cruise

The adventure kicks off with a pick-up from your accommodation (if you’re staying in Victoria Falls Towns), where a friendly guide from Pure Africa Limited greets you. The boat, described as gorgeous and tastefully decorated, is spacious and comfortable, with plenty of room to relax.

You’ll set sail on the Zambezi Explorer around two hours before sunset. Guides like Moses, who are praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude, point out wildlife such as crocodiles, hippos, and elephants as they meander along the riverbanks. The canapés and drinks flow freely during the cruise, with guests raving about the plentiful and quality offerings—some even mention ordering as many drinks as they wanted, which adds to the laid-back vibe.

The highlight? Watching the sunset paint the sky with shades of amber, pink, and purple, creating perfect photo opportunities. One reviewer, Blair, called it an “amazing” experience, noting how the “gorgeous boat” and the included drinks made it extra special. The sound of the bush at night, with occasional animal calls, makes this a peaceful yet lively experience.

Wildlife and Scenic Views

The cruise isn’t just about the sunset; it’s also a wildlife safari of sorts. Guests have seen hippos, crocodiles, and even elephants along the river, making it a truly immersive experience. Guides like Moses or other crew members are experts at spotting wildlife, and their commentary adds a layer of education and entertainment.

Several reviewers emphasize how relaxing and enjoyable the boat trip is, with Katrina describing it as “relaxing and enjoyable spotting animals on the way.” It’s a great way to see the river’s natural inhabitants without the rush of a game drive. Plus, the boat’s design allows for a quiet, comfortable ride, with minimal engine noise, so you can truly soak in the sounds and sights.

Transition to The Eatery for Dinner

The cruise wraps up as the sun sets completely, and guests are ferried back to the Pure Africa Waterfront. The next part of the experience is a leisurely walk to The Eatery, a riverfront dining spot that offers a three-course meal in a relaxed outdoor setting.

The reviews frequently mention the quality of the food and the atmosphere. The menu features dishes prepared by attentive chefs, with many guests praising the generous portions and tasty flavors. Katrina mentions the dinner as “divine,” with a memorable ambiance sitting by the fire pit after the meal.

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The Food and Service

The three-course dinner is served alfresco, with the dining area set right on the riverbank, allowing diners to continue enjoying the natural scenery. The menu includes a variety of options, and while specific dishes aren’t listed in the tour info, reviews highlight the high quality and good portions. Guests appreciate the excellent service, friendly staff, and the chance to unwind in a beautiful setting after their river adventure.

A tip from one reviewer: the canapés and drinks on the cruise are so plentiful that some guests found themselves full before dinner, suggesting it’s a good idea to pace yourself or consider a lighter snack before the cruise if you plan to eat at The Eatery.

Practical Details and Value

At $100 per person, this combined experience offers good value considering the inclusions: hotel pickup and drop-off, a two-hour sunset cruise with unlimited drinks and canapés, and a gourmet three-course dinner. The reviews reflect that many guests found it to be excellent value for money, especially given the quality of the guides, the scenic beauty, and the relaxed atmosphere.

However, there are a few things to keep in mind. National park fees ($10 USD per person) are payable at check-in, and drinks at dinner are cash bar only. Also, transfers from Livingstone hotels or lodges are not included, which is worth considering for travelers staying across the border in Zambia.

Timing and Logistics

The tour typically starts in the late afternoon, aligning with sunset viewing. The pick-up is complimentary for guests staying within Victoria Falls Towns, which makes it convenient. The entire experience, from cruise to dinner, lasts around 3-4 hours, making it a perfect evening activity. Some guests have expressed a desire for slightly more flexible timings, as one review noted feeling a bit rushed after the cruise.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers wanting a relaxed, scenic evening with wildlife sightings and excellent food. It suits couples looking for a romantic sunset, small groups seeking a memorable outing, or anyone wanting to combine nature and comfort in one package. It’s especially good for those who appreciate knowledgeable guides and authentic African ambiance.

Final Thoughts

The Victoria Falls Sunset Cruise and Dinner at The Eatery offers a well-rounded, beautiful way to experience the Zambezi River at dusk. From the stunning sunset views and wildlife sightings on the cruise to the delicious, well-presented meal at the riverfront restaurant, it delivers a memorable evening that balances natural beauty with gourmet indulgence.

The experience’s biggest strength lies in its combination of scenic serenity, wildlife encounters, and tasty dining, all at a reasonable price point. The friendly guides and attentive staff make the trip even more enjoyable, ensuring you feel well cared for while immersed in Africa’s stunning landscape.

While the dinner portion can be quite filling, that’s a small price to pay for such an authentic and high-quality experience. This tour is best suited for those who want a leisurely, scenic evening that captures the essence of Victoria Falls and the Zambezi River, creating memories to cherish.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, complimentary pickup and drop-off are included for guests staying in Victoria Falls Towns. If you are staying in Livingstone or outside the designated area, transfers are not included.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts around 3 to 4 hours, starting in the late afternoon with the cruise and ending after the dinner.

Are drinks included during the cruise?
Yes, canapés and drinks are included during the cruise, with guests able to order as many drinks as they wish.

Do I have to pay extra for park fees?
Yes, national park fees of $10 USD per person are payable at check-in.

Can I do this tour if I don’t want dinner?
The tour package specifically includes dinner; if you prefer a different experience, you may want to consider separate bookings.

Are vegetarian options available?
While specific menu details aren’t provided, reviews mention that vegetarian options are very good.

Is this activity suitable for children?
The tour is generally suitable for all ages, but you should check with the provider about specific age restrictions or recommendations.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor dining and boat travel is recommended; layers can be helpful as it might cool down at sunset.

How many people are typically on the cruise?
Group sizes are generally small to moderate, making for an intimate and relaxed experience, based on reviews.

This combined sunset cruise and dinner offer a blend of scenic beauty, wildlife, and fine dining that’s hard to beat in Victoria Falls. It’s a fantastic way to finish a day exploring the falls, providing a peaceful yet exhilarating perspective of Africa’s natural wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here: