Victoria Falls Safari Experiences

Explore the Zambezi National Park

Victoria Falls is best known for its thundering waterfall, mist-filled rainforest, dramatic gorges, and adventure experiences, but it is also one of Zimbabwe’s most rewarding safari destinations. A Victoria Falls safari is amongst the best things to do in Victoria Falls for travellers planning something memorable. Shearwater Victoria Falls offers the chance to combine one of the world’s greatest natural wonders with authentic wildlife encounters in the African bush.

Just minutes from town, Zambezi National Park opens into a beautiful landscape of riverine forest, open grassland, teak woodland, and untamed bushveld. Unlike remote safari destinations that require long transfers, a safari in Victoria Falls begins almost as soon as you leave your hotel. Within a short drive, visitors can encounter elephants, buffalo, giraffe, antelope, and colourful birdlife moving through landscapes shaped by the mighty Zambezi River.

The experience is scenic, refreshing, and deeply connected to the natural rhythm of the region. Morning safaris reveal soft golden light across the bush, while late afternoons bring warm African skies, quiet river views, and the sounds of wildlife settling into evening. For travellers seeking a nature-oriented African vacation, a safari in Zimbabwe offers more than animal sightings. It creates space to slow down, observe the details of the wilderness, and experience Victoria Falls from a different perspective.

Whether enjoyed on foot with a professional guide, from a safari vehicle, or after sunset on a night drive, these safaris in Zimbabwe add a memorable wilderness dimension to any Victoria Falls holiday.

Game Walks

$132

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 creatures up close, and appreciate the amazing flora that covers 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 up close and personal.

Game Walk – Quick Facts

Duration: ~2 hours including pick‑up and bush walk
Time slots: Morning (6 AM pickup)
Age limit: Participant must be 12 years or older to join the trip.
Inclusions: Expert licensed guides (armed), professional first‑aid care, snacks/drinks
Wildlife: Elephants, buffalo, giraffe, hippo, plains game; rare sightings of lions/leopards
Park setting: Runs through Zambezi National Park adjoining Victoria Falls; unfenced savannah and riverside
What to bring: Neutral clothing, sturdy shoes, warm layers, hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, camera, binoculars
Not included: National park fees (~US$17 pp)
Cancellation: Free up to 24 hours in advance

Game Drives

$187

Full Day Game Drive

A game drive lets you cover more ground in the comfort of one of our specially modified game vehicles. You’ll have ample opportunity to see and photograph game as we drive through the Zambezi National Park. Your guide will stop to point out birds, flora, fauna, and animal tracks. We’ll also get out of the vehicles to enjoy some snacks and have a drink by The Zambezi River.

Game Drive – Quick Facts

Duration: about 3 to 3.5 hours.
Inclusions: Return transfers, light breakfast (tea/coffee & muffins), guided 4×4 tour through Zambezi & Chamabondo Parks
Age/Group: There are no age restrictions on the trip. If you have infants /toddlers (children under the age of 4) you should consult your agent or any Shearwater sales consultant on point of booking
Wildlife: Common sightings include elephants, buffalo, giraffe, hippo, plains game; lions & leopards occasionally
Guides: Licensed, armed guides trained for bush safety, with first‑aid & radio communications
What to Bring: Neutral clothing, sturdy shoes, hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, camera, binoculars, warm layer
Not Included: National park entry fee (~US $17 per person)
Cancellation: Free up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure

Night Drives

US$159 including dinner

Experience the magic of the African bush after sunset with our Night Game Drive and Dinner. As the day fades and nocturnal wildlife begins to stir, you’ll embark on an exciting safari through the heart of the wilderness. With the help of expert guides and spotlights, you’ll have the chance to see elusive animals like lions, leopards, and hyenas as they come to life under the cover of darkness.

After your thrilling game drive, indulge in a delicious dinner under the stars at Jafuta. Surrounded by the sounds of the night and the serenity of the African landscape, this authentic dining experience offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or looking for a unique evening out, this unforgettable night safari with dinner provides a deep connection to nature and a taste of Africa’s untamed beauty.

Night Game Drive – Quick Facts

Duration: ~3 hours including hotel transfers; pickup around 3:35 PM, return after dinner (~8:00–8:30 PM)
Inclusions: 4×4 guided night drive in Zambezi National Park, spotlight-equipped vehicle, drinks/snacks at sunset stop, 3-course bush dinner
Age: There are no age restrictions on the trip. If you have infants /toddlers (children under the age of 4) you should consult your agent or any Shearwater sales consultant on point of booking
Wildlife: Nocturnal species—lions, leopards, hyenas, jackals, civets, genets, and night birds
Guides: Professional armed rangers with spotlight tracking experience, radios, and first-aid
What to Bring: Warm layers, insect repellent, camera (with night mode), comfortable shoes
Not Included: National park entry fee (~US $18 pp)
Cancellation: Free up to 24 hours before departure

Why a Victoria Falls Safari Is One of Zimbabwe's Most Rewarding Wildlife Experiences

A Victoria Falls safari offers an exceptional balance of convenience, scenery, and wildlife viewing that is difficult to find elsewhere in Africa. Unlike remote safari destinations that require lengthy travel times, the region’s wildlife areas are located just minutes from the town itself, allowing visitors to maximise their time in nature.

The proximity of Zambezi National Park creates opportunities to experience several different safari styles during a single stay. Guests can track animals on foot with professional guides, cover larger areas during game drives, or venture into the bush after sunset to discover the fascinating nocturnal world that emerges after dark.

The diversity of habitats also contributes to an incredibly varied wildlife experience. Open grasslands, woodland, riverfront environments, and seasonal floodplains support a wide range of species throughout the year. Combined with expert guiding and the breathtaking backdrop of the Zambezi River, these experiences provide an authentic introduction to the beauty and wildlife that make Zimbabwe one of Africa’s premier safari destinations.

For travellers seeking meaningful encounters with nature, a Victoria Falls safari delivers adventure, discovery, and unforgettable memories in one of the continent’s most iconic settings. Visitors looking to extend their wildlife adventure beyond Zimbabwe may also enjoy a chobe day trip, which offers the opportunity to explore Botswana’s famous Chobe National Park and its remarkable elephant population.

Start Your Victoria Falls Safari Adventure

Journey into the wild & discover the raw beauty & magnificence of Victoria Falls wildlife.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the operating hours?

We offer morning (6am pick-up) and afternoon (2:30pm pick-up) game walks and game drives. Our evening game drive, with dinner at the Jafuta, picks up at 3:35pm. In total the walks and drive last between 3 and 3.5 hours.

What is included?

For the morning walks and drives guests enjoy Light snack which includes muffins, Tea, Coffee & water will be served. For the afternoon game drives and walks, Light afternoon snack which includes peanuts and chips served with local beers, soft drinks, and water. After the evening game drive, a two course a la carte dinner is served, with a cash bar at the restaurant. We include a fleece poncho to keep you warm in the winter and/or early mornings.

*Park fees not included

Who are the guides?

Our guides train for four years to become professional guides and become qualified to lead walking safaris. All guides are licenced to carry a firearm and do so on the walking trips. They also carry a first aid kit and a radio to communicate with Shearwater HQ.

What should I wear?

Wear neutral colours – no bright colours – and comfortable walking shoes. The mornings and evenings can be chilly so bring something warm. Wearing long pants is advised as you will be walking through the bush.

What should I bring?

A camera and binoculars, warm clothing and, if it’s the rainy season, a rain jacket.

What should I leave behind?

Any valuables and food.

How many people can participate?

For your safety there will be a maximum of 6 guests on a game walk and 10 guests on a game drive. Both experiences require a minimum of 2 guests to take place.

Are there any age and health restrictions?

For a game drive, all guests must be over 4 years old and there are no fitness restrictions. For the game walk, all guests must be over 13 years old. There’s no upper age limit, but you must be fit enough to walk through the bush, in the heat, for several hours.

What can I expect to see?

We can’t guarantee sightings, but we often see elephant, buffalo, giraffe, hippo and several species of plains game. While less common, we’ve seen lions and leopards. Guides will also talk about the flora, fauna and bird life of the Zambezi National Park.

What insurance do you have?

Shearwater has public liability insurance of $2m USD, underwritten by Lloyds of London in place for all activities.

When is the best time for a safari in Zimbabwe?

Safaris operate throughout the year, but wildlife viewing is often particularly rewarding during the dry season when animals gather around water sources. Each season offers unique landscapes, wildlife behaviour, and photographic opportunities.

Is Victoria Falls a good safari destination?

Absolutely. Victoria Falls combines one of the world’s most famous natural wonders with excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, making it one of the few destinations where visitors can experience both a world-class waterfall and an authentic African safari during the same trip.

What is the difference between a game drive and a walking safari?

Game drives allow you to cover larger areas of the park in a specialised safari vehicle, while walking safaris provide a more immersive experience focused on tracking wildlife, learning about the environment, and observing nature from ground level.

Is a Victoria Falls safari suitable for first-time visitors to Africa?

Yes. A Victoria Falls safari is one of the most accessible wildlife experiences in Africa. Zambezi National Park is located just minutes from town, allowing visitors to enjoy authentic game viewing without extensive travel.