The Smoke That Thunders: Waterfalls, Wildlife & Wonder in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Walk all 16 viewpoints of the falls

Start your visit with a guided walk through the full length of the rainforest trail along the falls. Each viewpoint offers a unique perspective, but the first one, where the roar builds and then the water suddenly appears, might just be the most powerful.

Visit the iconic baobab tree

Just outside the park entrance, you’ll find a 1,200-year-old baobab tree that looks like it was planted upside down. Local tribes once gathered here for ceremonies before crossing the river. It’s a small but meaningful stop steeped in legend (and a great photo op).

Sunset cruise on the Zambezi River

End your day on the water with a top-deck view of the sun melting into the river. We chose the Zambezi Explorer boat through the company Pure Africa, and it did not disappoint. Unlimited drinks, soft seating, and views of hippos and zebras made this cruise one of the most relaxing parts of our trip.

The Boma dinner & drum show

This evening experience is a sensory whirlwind: buffet-style dining (you can try buffalo and worms), traditional drumming, dancing, and even a cheeky 360-spin video station. At times it feels a little Disney-esque, but the energy is undeniable.

Lounge poolside at your lodge

After days filled with early mornings and excursions, there’s nothing better than soaking up the heat by the pool. Victoria Falls Safari Lodge offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and watering hole.

Explore Elephant Walk & local markets

Take a stroll through town and wander the Elephant Walk shopping area. It’s lively and colorful, and while the sales pitches can be persistent, you’ll find interesting souvenirs and friendly faces.

Observe wildlife at the lodge’s watering hole

From your room or the restaurant deck at most properties, you might spot monkeys, impalas, giraffes, warthogs, vultures, or even elephants crossing through the reserve. It’s like a nature documentary playing out in real-time.

Learn the story of “Mosi-oa-Tunya”

The falls are known locally as “The Smoke That Thunders.” Hearing the local name and learning its meaning connects you more deeply to the culture and reverence that surrounds this natural wonder.

MaKuwa-Kuwa Restaurant (at Victoria Falls Safari Lodge)

The lodge’s main restaurant serves up stunning views along with fresh, flavorful food. Salmon, ravioli, and ice cream—it’s all done well. And the monkeys provide a bit of unexpected mealtime entertainment.

The Boma: Dinner & drum show

Come hungry and curious. This interactive dinner show features a full buffet with exotic meats and local specialties, live drumming, and dancing. You’ll walk away full—and possibly wearing face paint.

Shearwater Café

A great spot for lunch or coffee while in town. The menu is approachable, the atmosphere casual, and it’s a nice place to take a break between activities.

Elephant’s Walk Café

Right in the heart of the shopping district, this café is perfect for a cold drink or light snack. Our group enjoyed cappuccinos, croissants, milkshakes, and a well-earned Coke Zero after a humid walk.

Zambezi Explorer Cruise with Pure Africa (bar service)

While not a restaurant, per se, the top-deck bar on the sunset river cruise offered unlimited classic cocktails and canapes with a view that rivaled any rooftop in the world. A Cosmopolitan never tasted so good.