Victoria Falls and Zambezi National Park Combined Safari from Livingstone (2 Days/1 Night)

Yes, getting wet is part of the authentic Victoria Falls experience, especially from February to June when water volumes are high! The eastern cataract viewpoints on the Zambian side will expose you to varying levels of spray, from light mist to drenching showers. We recommend wearing quick-dry clothing and bringing a waterproof jacket or poncho. Waterproof bags for electronics and valuables are essential. Many visitors wear swimwear underneath their clothes. Comfortable walking shoes with good grip are important as pathways can be slippery. During peak flow months, we provide waterproof ponchos, but your shoes and lower legs will still get wet. Embrace this as part of the experience – locals call it a “natural shower blessing”!

Zambezi National Park hosts impressive biodiversity with over 75 mammal species and 400 bird species. During game drives, you’ll likely encounter elephants, which are particularly numerous along the Zambezi River. Buffalo herds are common, along with various antelope including impala, kudu, waterbuck, and the water-loving lechwe. Giraffe, zebra, and warthogs are regularly spotted in open areas. Predators like lions and leopards inhabit the park but require patience and luck to spot. Hippos and crocodiles are often seen along the river during the cruise portion. Birdlife is spectacular with fish eagles, kingfishers, bee-eaters, and numerous waterbirds. While wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, our experienced guides know the best locations to maximize your chances of memorable encounters.

Your overnight accommodation will be at a carefully selected mid-range safari lodge or tented camp, typically located along the Zambezi River or with views of Victoria Falls. Standard accommodations feature private en-suite bathrooms with hot water showers, comfortable beds with mosquito nets, and electricity (though generators may operate on limited hours at some locations). The properties blend African aesthetics with necessary comforts, often featuring open-air dining areas overlooking natural features. Many lodges offer additional amenities like swimming pools, observation decks, and bar areas. Rooms are designed to harmonize with the natural surroundings while providing protection from the elements and insects. Specific accommodation is confirmed at booking, subject to availability, but all options provide authentic African hospitality in scenic settings.

Our Overnight Victoria Falls and Zambezi National Park Combined Safari can accommodate families with children aged 6 and above, though we recommend it for children 8+ who can better appreciate the experiences. The itinerary includes activities appealing to curious young minds, with opportunities to learn about wildlife, geology, and local cultures. Parents should be aware that viewing platforms at Victoria Falls have protective barriers but require supervision of children. Game drives last 2-3 hours, which younger children might find challenging. Some lodges have family rooms or interconnecting options, and many can arrange child-friendly meals. For families with very young children (under 6), we recommend our private safari option, which allows flexibility with timing and activity duration to accommodate shorter attention spans.

Yes, visiting both sides of Victoria Falls is possible and recommended for a complete experience, as each offers different perspectives. The Zambian side (included in our standard package) provides close-up views of the Eastern Cataract and access to Knife Edge Bridge. The Zimbabwean side offers panoramic vistas of the Main Falls and can be arranged as an add-on to our standard itinerary. This requires crossing the border via the Victoria Falls Bridge, and you’ll need either a Zimbabwe visa (approximately $30-50 USD, available at the border) or a KAZA Univisa (approximately $50 USD) which covers both countries. Border crossing takes approximately 30-45 minutes each way. Our guide will assist with this process if you choose this option, which we recommend adding for a comprehensive Falls experience.

Victoria Falls offers numerous adventure activities that can be arranged during your free time on Day 1 (subject to time constraints). Popular options include helicopter flights over the Falls (“Flight of Angels,” 15-30 minutes), white water rafting on the Zambezi (half-day), bungee jumping from Victoria Falls Bridge, gorge swinging, zip-lining, and historical bridge tours. Cultural experiences include village visits and traditional dance performances. For wildlife enthusiasts, walking with lions, elephant interactions, and horseback safaris are available (though

we encourage researching the ethics of some animal encounters). Most activities require advance booking, especially in peak season, and range from $50-$300 USD depending on the experience. Our team can help arrange these activities when you book the safari or our guide can assist upon arrival.

Pack light but smart for your Victoria Falls and Zambezi safari. Essential clothing includes lightweight, neutral-colored garments (khaki, beige, olive) for safari activities, a change of clothes, swimwear for getting wet at the Falls, and a light jacket or fleece for cool evenings. Comfortable walking shoes for the Falls tour and a sun hat, sunglasses, and rain poncho are important. Don’t forget necessary equipment like sunscreen, insect repellent, personal medications, binoculars, camera with extra memory cards and batteries (waterproof covering recommended), and a small daypack. While accommodations provide basic toiletries, bring any specific products you require. Cash for souvenirs, optional activities, and gratuities is useful, as are travel adapters for Zambian power outlets (type G, 230V).

Our combined safari can accommodate guests with moderate mobility limitations, though some challenges exist. At Victoria Falls, the main viewpoints on the Zambian side involve walking approximately 1-1.5km on sometimes uneven and wet pathways with some steps. Alternative routes with fewer obstacles can be arranged for those with mobility concerns. Safari vehicles require the ability to step up and sit for extended periods. Most lodges have some accessible rooms, though full wheelchair accessibility is limited. For guests with significant mobility challenges, we recommend our private safari option, which allows customized pacing and assistance. Please discuss specific mobility requirements when booking so we can recommend appropriate accommodations and make necessary arrangements to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

The Zambezi sunset cruise is a highlight of Day 1, conducted on a comfortable double-deck river boat accommodating 10-20 passengers. The 2-hour cruise navigates the calm waters above Victoria Falls, offering excellent wildlife viewing opportunities as animals come to drink in the late afternoon. Standard drinks (beer, wine, soft drinks) and light snacks are included, served by attentive staff as you cruise. Expert guides point out wildlife including hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and numerous bird species. The boat is positioned perfectly to witness the spectacular African sunset over the Zambezi, creating magical photography opportunities. Toilet facilities are available onboard, and the upper deck provides excellent vantage points. Life jackets and safety briefings ensure a secure experience on one of Africa’s mightiest rivers.