Victoria Falls Guided Tours & Scenic Hikes

A story that's immersive, thrilling & beautiful

Victoria Falls is often celebrated for its dramatic waterfalls and adventure activities, but some of the most memorable experiences happen at a slower pace. Beyond the roar of the Zambezi lies a destination rich in history, culture, wildlife, and local traditions waiting to be discovered through meaningful exploration.

For travellers seeking a deeper connection with the destination, our collection of Victoria Falls guided tours and scenic hikes offers the opportunity to experience the region from a different perspective. Walk through ancient rainforest pathways shaped by millions of years of geological change, explore historic landmarks that played an important role in the development of Southern Africa, meet local communities and learn about the customs that continue to shape life along the Zambezi today.

As one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, Victoria Falls is far more than a waterfall. The surrounding landscape is home to diverse ecosystems, unique wildlife habitats and cultural stories that stretch back generations. Guided experiences allow visitors to discover details that are often overlooked, from the fascinating formation of the Batoka Gorge to the medicinal plants found within the rainforest and the rich history of the people who have lived alongside the river for centuries.

Whether you are visiting for the first time or returning to uncover something new, a guided tour of Victoria Falls provides valuable insight into the destination while allowing you to enjoy its beauty at a relaxed and comfortable pace. Along the way, knowledgeable local guides share stories, historical context and practical knowledge that transform familiar viewpoints into memorable experiences.

Many visitors begin their journey by exploring the famous rainforest, but the region offers much more than iconic viewpoints. Venture into rural communities to gain an authentic understanding of local life, follow scenic trails above the Batoka Gorge, encounter wildlife on foot with experienced guides, or uncover the remarkable engineering and history behind the region’s most famous landmarks.

If you are planning your itinerary and searching for the best things to do in Victoria Falls, these experiences offer a rewarding balance of discovery, culture and natural beauty. From immersive cultural encounters to breathtaking viewpoints and fascinating historical sites, our Victoria Falls tours are designed to help you see, understand and appreciate this extraordinary destination beyond the waterfall itself.

Victoria Falls Guided Tour

Victoria Falls is one of the most compelling sites in the world. This cascading column of sheer energy powers its way down a 100m chasm, taking your breath away as you gaze in awe, mesmerised by its strength and incredible beauty. As you are captivated by this famous wonder, you will be completely enthralled to see and feel “The Smoke that Thunders.” Our expert tour guides will ensure you have the best photographic opportunities while entertaining you with historical and current information.

Victoria Falls Guided Tour – Quick Facts

  • Duration: Up to 2 Hours 30 Min guided walk through rainforest and viewpoints

  • Start Times: Multiple departures daily (e.g., 0800h, 0900h, 1100h, 1400h – 1500h); check with provider

  • Includes: Return transfers, professional English-speaking guide, bottled water (raincoats included), wheelchairs – excludes $20 for the carer to push the wheelchair.

  • Accessibility: Suitable for most fitness levels; wheelchair-friendly options available ($20 for the carer to push the wheelchair) 

  • What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, hat, sunscreen, camera

  • Highlights: Guided exploration of “Smoke That Thunders” via scenic viewpoints, geology, ecology, wildlife, and rainforest trails

  • Educational: Learn about the flora, fauna, birds & wildlife, and other fascinating details of this World Heritage Site. Raincoats are provided when needed.

  • Cancellation: Free up to 24 hours before departure

Additional information on the Rainforest:

  • Shearwater operates a Café in the Rainforest and clients can take time out to have something to drink/eat before walking out of the Rainforest. The Café is open during the normal Rainforest times (06h00 to 18h00 daily).
  • Shearwater runs a souvenir Shop with a wide range of anything you can think of taking back home as  memorabilia.
  • During the Full Moon days, we run a Guided Tour of the Luna Rainbow Falls, giving you an opportunity to view the Falls from a completely different perspective.

Gorge Hiking and Ndebele Village Tour in Zimbabwe

Uncover a side of Victoria Falls few travellers ever get to see. This immersive journey seamlessly blends the raw, rugged beauty of the Batoka Gorge with an authentic, heart-warming encounter inside a traditional Ndebele village. Your adventure begins with a 30 minutes paved road drive followed by a scenic 40-minute drive deep into the picturesque Zimbabwean rural countryside. Arriving at the roadside starting point, you will gear up for an unforgettable guided nature-hike weaving through rural homesteads, seasonal vleis and crossing seasonal streams that drain into the Mighty Zambezi River.

As you trek at a comfortable, leisurely pace, you will stand atop soaring cliffs overlooking the roaring Zambezi River as it carves its way toward Rapid 19. Your guide will bring the landscape alive, sharing the deep-rooted cultural heritage, traditional herbal medicine, and wildlife lore passed down through generations.

The journey culminates in a truly special moment, an authentic cultural immersion at a traditional Ndebele homestead. Welcomed as honoured guests by the local headman and his family, you will share hearty, hotel-cooked Zimbabwean brunch beneath decorated thatched huts, learn about village life, livestock, and customs and experience the legendary warmth of Zimbabwean hospitality.

Gorge Hiking and Ndebele Village Tour – Quick Facts

  • Duration: ~5½ hours including pick-up/drop-off, briefing and transfers
 
  • Includes: Expert English-speaking guide (Advanced First Aid certified), return transfers, guided hike with walking sticks, communal basic first aid kit, and a hotel-cooked Zimbabwean brunch at the Ndebele village.
 
  • Age: Minimum 8 years old
 
  • Fitness: Moderate
 
  • Hiking Duration and Terrain: Clients should be physically fit and capable of approximately 60-minutes walk across varied outdoor terrain including soft sandy paths, seasonal wetlands (vlei), and uneven, rocky bush trails along the gorge shoulder on the Zimbabwean side.
 
  • Highlight: Incredible unobstructed views down into the Zambezi River and the Zambian cliff face of the Batoka Gorge without heavy vertical climbing culminating in an authentic Ndebele village cultural visit where a hearty, hotel-cooked Zimbabwean brunch is served.
 
  • Seasonality: Available year-round (non-seasonal)
 
  • What to bring: Camera, sun protection, sun hat, light clothing for warm weather, sweater for cooler season
 
  • Pickup: Included from Victoria Falls accommodations; additional charge for outside locations
 
  • Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hrs before start

Walking Safari in Zimbabwe

Walking Safari in Victoria Falls – Quick Facts

This active and interactive way to view game allows you to interact with nature in a way that game drives don’t. Examine and follow animal tracks, see animals and nature at a safe distance, and appreciate the amazing flora, fauna and animal tracks that cover the land. Being on foot lets you into a world so few get to see, hear, touch, and smell. Your guide will help you meet Africa’s flora and fauna and learn interesting facts, like the age of an elephant, through their dung up close and personal.

  • Duration: 3 hours—including return transfers

  • Age: Participants must be 10 years of age or older to join the trip. Under 12 years old must be accompanied by an adult.

  • Included: Expert guide, tea/coffee & muffins or snacks & drinks, 4×4 transport into Zambezi & Chamabondo National Parks

  • Excluded: Park Fee: US $18 pp

  • Not Suitable For: Those with health problems or low fitness—some walking and mild bush exposure involved

  • Wildlife: Look out for elephant, buffalo, giraffe, eland, zebra, antelope, and various birdlife

  • Terrain: Flat bush trails on the upper Zambezi floodplain—no big cats or rhinos—but elephants may cross; you’ll be with an armed ranger

  • What to Wear: Clients are to wear comfortable clothing (long trousers) and shoes (closed walking shoes). Please do not wear long skirts, dresses or slops (flip-flops).

  • Transfers: Pick-up from your Victoria Falls accommodation, then we’ll drive you to the Zambezi National Park (about 15 minutes), and then we will find a spot to start the game walk.

  • Park Fee: Approx US $15 pp (not included)

  • Cancellation: Free up to 24 hours before departure

TRADITIONAL VILLAGE TOUR​

African Experience – Traditional Village Tour

Journey beyond the resort trails and step straight into the heart of Zimbabwean heritage. This intimate, hands-on encounter invites you into a living traditional Ndebele homestead to experience rural African village life exactly as it has been lived for generations.

Your cultural discovery begins with a scenic countryside drive out of Victoria Falls into the picturesque rural bushveld. Stepping off the vehicle onto a gentle Kalahari sand trail, you will walk right into the courtyard of an authentic Ndebele homestead, where you are greeted not as a tourist, but as an honoured guest in the warm, traditional Ndebele way.

Immerse yourself in the natural rhythms of village life. As your host family goes about their day, you are invited to roll up your sleeves and join in, whether it is seasonal field preparation, traditional grain pounding, cooking over open fires, craftwork, or tending to livestock. It is an authentic, interactive connection that brings people and cultures together.

The defining highlight of your visit brings you face-to-face with the ancient spiritual and medicinal wisdom of Zimbabwe. Step inside the sacred space of a traditional herbalist and Sangoma (spiritual healer) to discover how indigenous plants, secret roots, and time-honoured remedies have healed and guided the Ndebele people across the centuries.

After an inspiring hour filled with rich stories, shared laughter, and genuine cultural exchange, bid farewell to your host family and return with memories, insights, and photos that will stay with you for a lifetime.

  • Duration: ~2 Hours turn-around time (includes hotel pickup/drop-off, safety briefing, and transfers) 

  • Route & Access: 20-min highway drive à10-min gravel drive à 400m walk on soft Kalahari sand trail (slightly downhill to the homestead, uphill return). Requires moderate fitness; please advise us at booking of any mobility or fitness concerns.

  • Highlights: Hands-on participation in seasonal homestead traditions (grain pounding, cooking, livestock care, craftwork) and a rare, interactive consultation inside the hut of a traditional Sangoma (herbalist).
  • Inclusions: Return transfers from all Victoria Falls hotels and lodges, expert English-speaking driver-guide (Advanced First Aid certified), 2 bottles of ice-cold bottled water per guest, Communal basic first aid kit on board

  • Fitness & Accessibility: Moderate / Easy – requires a comfortable 400m walk on soft Kalahari sand trail. Suitable for all ages (family-friendly) fit enough for the short walk.

  • Seasonality: Available All-Year-Round (non-seasonal). 

  • What to Bring: Camera, sun hat, sun protection, light clothing for warm weather (plus a warm sweater during the cooler months) and comfortable closed shoes for walking on sand. 

  • Pickup: Included from all Victoria Falls hotel and lodge accommodations.

  • Cancellation: 100% Free Cancellation up to 24 hours prior to activity start time. 

Bridge Tour

Journey through over 100 years of history in this engaging, theatrical, and educational tour. Built between 1904 and 1905, the bridge is one of Victoria Falls’ most prominent landmarks.

The Shearwater Bridge Tour, led by our enthusiastic team of guides, takes you through the history of this remarkable structure, from its design and initial prefabrication in England to its construction in Africa.

The bridge, an engineering masterpiece and revolutionary for its time, was central to Cecil John Rhodes’ vision of a Cape to Cairo railway. Its history is entertaining, tragic, and transfixing in equal measure.

Departure Times:  10:00 and 14:30 with check in is 30 minutes before

Duration: 2 hours

Why Choose A Guided Tour
Of Victoria Falls?

A guided tour of Victoria Falls allows visitors to experience far more than the spectacular views alone. Professional guides help interpret the landscape, explain the geological forces that shaped the Falls and share stories that connect visitors to the history and culture of the region.

Guided experiences also provide access to local knowledge that can significantly enhance the visitor experience. From identifying bird species and native plants to explaining seasonal changes in water flow and wildlife activity, expert interpretation transforms a sightseeing visit into a richer and more memorable journey.

For many travellers, Victoria Falls guided tours provide the ideal balance between exploration and convenience. Transportation, route planning and local expertise are all taken care of, allowing visitors to focus on enjoying the scenery, taking photographs and fully immersing themselves in one of Africa’s most iconic destinations.

Discover The Stories Behind Victoria Falls

Venture into the heart of the Victoria Falls & discover the wonders it holds.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get there?

Return transfers to and from your accommodation in Victoria Falls. Accommodation outside of Victoria Falls will attract an additional fee.

What is not included?

Please bring cash with you to cover park fees (excluding Rural Village Tour from Victoria Falls). 

As well as sunblock for guided tours of the falls

What should I leave behind?

Anything valuable, heavy to carry or that you do not want to get wet in the wet season.

Are Victoria Falls tours suitable for families?

Yes. Many Victoria Falls tours are suitable for families and travellers of all ages, offering a comfortable way to experience the destination’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

How long does a guided tour of Victoria Falls take?

Most guided tours of Victoria Falls take between two and three hours, depending on the route, weather conditions and time spent at viewpoints.

What should I bring on a Victoria Falls guided tour?

Comfortable walking shoes, a camera, water, sun protection and a light rain jacket are recommended, especially during periods of high water flow.

Which Victoria Falls tour is best for learning about local culture?

The Rural Village Tour provides valuable insight into local traditions, daily life and community culture while offering authentic interactions with residents.

Does Shearwater conduct tours on the Victoria Falls Bridge?

Yes. Shearwater offers guided experiences that explore one of the most iconic landmarks in the region. The Victoria Falls Bridge Tour takes visitors onto the historic bridge spanning the Zambezi River between Zimbabwe and Zambia, providing fascinating insights into its engineering, construction and role in the history of Victoria Falls. Along the way, guests can enjoy spectacular views of the Batoka Gorge, the Zambezi River and the Victoria Falls spray while learning about the stories and people that shaped this remarkable cross-border landmark.

Pick Your Next Adventure

Victoria Falls

Specials

Shearwater offers a wide range of accommodation and activity packages. Save big when you book one or more of our special Combos.

Online Special Offer.

10% Off!

Use Code: “NOV10%” when you checkout and get 10% off your next adventure.

Valid until 30th November 2026

Price Match Guarentee

At Shearwater Victoria Falls, we ensure you get the best price with our Price Match Guarantee, offering our activities at the very best price possible.

What Qualifies?

Identical Activity
The activity must be identical in all aspects (e.g., same provider, same inclusions, same cancellation policy).
Included Competitors
To request a price match, provide evidence of the competitor's lower price. This might involve submitting a link.
Exclusions
There may be exclusions, such as special events, limited-time promotions, or activities offered by third-party sellers on marketplaces like Groupon.

*Included Competitors : GetYourGuide, Viator, Tripadvisor and Booking.com

Cancellation Policy

24hrs Prior
Within 24hrs
Fully Refunded Cancellation
50% Refund Cancellation

At Shearwater Victoria Falls we understand that plans can change, and we strive to be as accommodating as possible. However, to ensure that all participants have the best experience, we have implemented the following cancellation policy:

  1. Cancellations Made 24 Hours Prior to the Activity:

    • If you need to cancel your reservation, please notify us at least 24 hours before the scheduled activity. Cancellations made 24 hours or more in advance will receive a full refund or the option to reschedule at no additional cost.
  2. Cancellations Made Less Than 24 Hours Prior to the Activity:

    • Cancellations made within 24 hours of the scheduled activity time will be subject to a 50% refund. We understand that unforeseen circumstances can arise, so we offer the option to reschedule your activity, subject to availability and a rescheduling fee of 5% of the activity.
  3. No-Shows:

    • Failure to attend the activity without prior notice will result in the full charge of the activity with no option for a refund or rescheduling.
  4. Exceptions:

    • In certain cases, such as emergencies or extreme weather conditions, exceptions to this policy may be made at the discretion of our management team. Please contact us as soon as possible if such circumstances arise.
  5. Group Bookings:

    • For group bookings, cancellations must be made  48 hours prior to the scheduled activity. Cancellations made within this time frame will be subject to the terms outlined above.

By booking with us, you agree to the terms of this cancellation policy. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.