Category: Victoria Falls

6 Things Most People Get Wrong About Victoria Falls

Once a myth takes route, it can be difficult to shake!

Before you visit Victoria Falls, you’ll probably do a little research, and most of what you find will be accurate. But, with that said, a handful of ideas about this place have been repeated so often that they’ve taken on the authority of fact, even when they aren’t quite right…

Here are six of the most common misconceptions – and the Victoria Falls facts that sit behind them. Hopefully we’ll answer a few extra questions you might have about our beautiful town along the way.

1. It’s Too Remote to Reach Easily

It’s true that the African continent – and even Zimbabwe itself – has many wild frontiers, but Victoria Falls town is entirely accessible. With its own international airport, less than 20 minutes from the town centre (and from Ilala Lodge Hotel), getting to us is a piece of cake.

Direct or single connection flights link our airport to Johannesburg, Nairobi, Addis Ababa, Lusaka and Harare, among other hubs.

After you land, Ilala Lodge Hotel offers hotel transfers to collect you directly from the airport and bring you directly to us. Our shuttles can also take you anywhere you might like to go in town during your stay, including our beautiful sister property, Palm River Hotel.

Victoria Falls is compact and safe, making it relatively walkable, too, depending on where you’d like to go and what you’d like to do.

All of this to say: We may be on the fringe of some spectacular and wild scenery, but we are not so remote as to make your travels a mission.

2. You Should Only Visit in Peak Season

This is one of those Victoria Falls facts worth sitting with: there is no bad time to visit. There is only a different experience depending on when you come.

The dry months from May to October bring clear skies, lower water levels in the gorge, and excellent game viewing as wildlife gathers around the Zambezi. The wetter months from November to April transform the Falls themselves and the volume of water increases dramatically, with spray visible from kilometres away.

Visit around the full moon between March and June and you may even witness a moonbow! (A rainbow formed by moonlight, not sunlight, passing through the Falls’ mist.) It is one of the quieter Victoria Falls facts, and one of the most extraordinary things you can see here.

The question isn’t about peak season or off season; it’s what you’d like to see when you join us.

To help you make up your mind, check out this blog post: The Best Time to Visit Victoria Falls

3. David Livingstone Discovered the Falls

Arriving on 16 November 1855, David Livingstone was the first European to describe Victoria Falls, naming it after the United Kingdom’s then-monarch, Queen Victoria. This is true enough, but the word “discover” is misleading.

In fact, the Kalolo-Lozi people knew these falls for generations before Livingstone arrived. They called them Mosi-oa-Tunya – the Smoke That Thunders – a name that has endured alongside the colonial one and is still widely used today. The falls Livingstone ‘discovered’ had a name, a history, and a people who had lived alongside them long before his canoes rounded that last bend in the Zambezi.

4. Victoria Falls Is the Tallest Waterfall in the World

It isn’t. Angel Falls in Venezuela holds that record, at 979 metres. Victoria Falls drops approximately 108 metres; impressive by any measure, but not the tallest.

What Victoria Falls does hold is an arguably more striking title: it is the largest sheet of falling water in the world. At peak flow, the Zambezi stretches approximately 1 708 metres across the Falls, and the combined width and height create a curtain of water that no other waterfall can match.

Tallest? No. Largest? Yes.

5. Victoria Falls Is Only for Adrenaline Seekers

Victoria Falls town may be known as the Adventure Capital of Africa, but don’t be too quick to peg it as a one trick pony. Yes, there is bungee jumping, white-water rafting, gorge swinging, zip lining and numerous other thrilling activities, but they are one layer of what Victoria Falls offers.

For travellers seeking something more settled, cultural or relaxing, there is also the rainforest walk along the Cliff Path, where the sound of the crashing water fills the air and spray from the water drenches you all the way through. There are game drives into Zambezi National Park, where elephants and buffalo move through the bush. There are sunset cruises on the upper Zambezi, where the light changes slowly and the pace drops entirely. There are also restaurants, cultural experiences, markets and, of course, long afternoons beside our hotel’s pool – whatever your heart desires.

Victoria Falls is a place where people with very different ideas of a good day can all find what they’re looking for. The adventure activities draw the headlines, but they don’t define the whole experience.

6. You Need to Cross Into Zambia for the Best View

This one depends heavily on the time of year and what you mean by ‘best.’

During the high-water months, the Zambian side offers views into areas that may be obscured by spray on the Zimbabwean side. But for much of the year, and particularly during the drier months, the Zimbabwean viewpoints along the Cliff Path provide a broader, more varied perspective, including the famous Main Falls, the Devil’s Cataract and the Eastern Cataract.

A full appreciation of the Falls benefits from both sides, if you have the time, and luckily, crossing the border into Zambia is a quick and painless process. But for those staying in Victoria Falls town, the Zimbabwean viewpoints are not a compromise.

Stay With Us

Ilala Lodge Hotel is 5 to 10 minutes away from Victoria Falls National Park on foot and on the very edge of Zambezi National Park. We are the closest hotel to Victoria Falls and incredibly proud of that fact.

This means our guests are well placed for the falls, the wildlife, and everything in between. Browse our rooms, or contact our reservations team at onlinereservations@ilalalodge.com to plan your stay.

You’re also welcome to book directly on our website.

Buck the myths and join us next to one of the world’s great natural wonders!

October 28, 2026
How Victoria Falls Became the Adrenaline Capital of Africa
There are few places in Africa where you can wake up to the sound of a waterfall, walk to one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World before breakfast, and spend the afternoon bungee jumping into a gorge, if that’s your thing. Did we say a few places? We meant to say one.

Victoria Falls has somehow managed to become one of the world’s great adventure destinations while remaining, at heart, a small Zimbabwean town, and we think that this combination is part of the magic.
The cliffs, the river, the rainforest and the bridge have created an almost perfect playground for Victoria Falls adventure activities. But the story of how that happened begins long before bungee cords, helicopters and white-water rafts arrived.

It begins with a bridge…

Traversing Batoka Gorge

Looking down into the Batoka Gorge, it’s easy to understand why adventure took root here.

The Zambezi River has carved a dramatic passage through the basalt below the falls, creating sheer walls, narrow channels and a succession of pulse-spiking rapids. From the Cliff Path above, it looks almost impossible to reach. At river level, it is a completely different world: Rock, spray, current and an enormous amount of moving water.

At the Victoria Falls drop, the Zambezi is approximately 1,7km wide, depending on the time of year. Batoka Gorge is between 50m and 150m wide. The water is squeezed through the gorge, with more than 20 named rapids making this stretch of river famous among white-water paddlers.

In other words, we owe our legendary rapids to nothing less than geography and time – Mother Nature’s best trick!

The Bridge That Changed Everything

The next ingredient in our story is the Victoria Falls Bridge, which was completed and opened in 1905.

The bridge was conceived as part of Cecil Rhodes’s grand vision for a railway linking Cape Town to Cairo. Rhodes famously wanted the railway bridge positioned so that passing trains would catch the spray of the Falls. It so happened that he died before construction began and never saw the Victoria Falls Bridge for himself.

The finished bridge was built in sections in England, shipped to Mozambique and transported north by rail. When it opened on 12 September 1905, it stood 128m above the Zambezi and brought something the falls had never had in quite the same way before: tourists.

Before the railway, reaching Victoria Falls meant a long and difficult journey for explorers, missionaries and the particularly determined traveller. Afterwards, the Falls could be reached as part of a much more conventional journey. Hotels followed and the town grew.

More than a century later, that relationship between the railway, the bridge, the Falls and tourism still largely defines Victoria Falls.

At Ilala Lodge Hotel, that history is woven into the property itself. The teak furnishings in the rooms are made from Zimbabwean railway sleepers, a small reminder of the infrastructure that first connected Victoria Falls to the wider world.

Then Someone Looked at the Bridge and Thought: Let’s Jump Off It

For decades, the bridge was primarily what it had been designed to be: A remarkable feat of engineering and a way across the Zambezi.

Then, in the 1990s, someone saw something else.

In 1994, bungee operations began at the Victoria Falls Bridge, turning one of the most famous pieces of infrastructure in southern Africa into an adventure attraction in its own right.

The jump was simple in concept and spectacular in execution: Step from the bridge and free-fall towards the Zambezi. It didn’t take long for word to spread. Victoria Falls already had one of the world’s great natural spectacles. Now it had something else that adventure travellers were looking for: A place where the landscape wasn’t just something to look at; it was something to launch yourself into.

And The River Followed

Bungee jumping was only the beginning.

The Zambezi had long attracted experienced paddlers, but commercial rafting opened the river to a much wider audience. The rapids below Victoria Falls became one of the world’s best-known white-water adventures, combining demanding Grade 5 rapids with the extraordinary setting of the Batoka Gorge.

Then came the helicopters. The famous Flight of Angels offers a completely different perspective, lifting above the river and tracing the Falls from the air. From that height, the sheer scale of the landscape becomes clear: The rainforest, the Zambezi, the gorge and the curtain of spray that is often the first thing you notice from afar on land.

After that, the possibilities seemed almost endless: Gorge swings, zip lines, abseiling, bridge slides and microlight flights. Each activity uses the same relatively small piece of landscape, but offers visitors something completely different!

This is one of the great things about Victoria Falls – you don’t have to travel for hours between attractions. The bridge, river, gorge, Falls and national parks are all packed into the same extraordinary corner of Zimbabwe.

What Can You Actually Do in Victoria Falls?

Today, the list of things to do in Victoria Falls is surprisingly long for such a compact destination:
- You can start above the Falls, with a helicopter or microlight flight, and see the Zambezi spread out across the landscape before it disappears into the gorge.You can head to the Victoria Falls Bridge for a bungee jump, gorge swing, bridge slide or abseil.
- Or you can go down to the river itself. A full-day Zambezi rafting trip takes you through the gorge and its famous rapids, turning the river into the main event.
And then there are the adventures for those who’d like to take it easier:
- A cruise on the upper Zambezi is a beautiful and intimate way to take in the river. We recommend using our sister hotel’s Ra-Ikane River Cruisers for this activity.
- A game drive into Zambezi National Park can bring you close to elephants, buffalo, giraffes and, with luck, lions and leopards.
- And last but not least, there’s the rainforest walk along the Cliff Path of Victoria Falls itself.
Victoria Falls National Park is just a short walk from Ilala Lodge Hotel, and the Cliff Path takes you into the spray zone of the Falls. The closer you get, the wetter the forest becomes. Mist hangs in the air, vegetation thrives in the constant moisture and the sound of the Zambezi gets louder.

Witnessing the Falls is an adrenaline rush of another kind. Your pulse might not thunder from nerves, but from the awe-inspiring sight of Mother Nature’s might and beauty.

The Different Seasons

When you visit Victoria Falls matters. The season affects everything from the volume of water over the Falls to the accessibility of the gorge, the best time for white-water rafting, and wildlife viewing.

From May to October, the drier months bring more accessible gorge conditions, excellent game viewing as wildlife gathers around the Zambezi, and prime conditions for many adventure activities. From November to April, the rising water levels transform the Falls themselves, creating a spectacular curtain of spray and powerful flow.

Visit around the full moon between March and June, and you may also see a moonbow: A rainbow created when moonlight passes through the Falls’ mist.

Different seasons offer different reasons to come – all worthwhile – so be sure to do your research and pick a time that best suits your preferences.

Your Base at Victoria Falls

Just eight minutes on foot from Victoria Falls National Park and on the edge of Zambezi National Park, Ilala Lodge puts you close to the heart of it all.

Whether you’re coming for the Falls, the wildlife, the history or the adventure, we’ll give you a comfortable place to return to when the day’s excitement is over.

Browse our rooms and get in touch with our friendly reservations team at onlinereservations@ilalalodge.com to book your stay. Alternatively, you’re welcome to make use of our online booking platform to secure your own dates.
September 17, 2026
10 Things That May Surprise You About Victoria Falls
You’ve booked a holiday to Victoria Falls, which means something about this remarkable destination captured your imagination. We applaud your excellent taste, but even the most stunning photographs can’t prepare you for everything that awaits.

Some of the most memorable moments here are the details you don’t expect, the encounters you never planned for, and the experiences that only make sense once you’ve lived them.

At Ilala Lodge Hotel, we’ve been welcoming guests to Victoria Falls since 1991 and over the years, we’ve watched thousands of first-time visitors arrive with high expectations, only to leave a few days later with an even deeper appreciation for this special place.

So, in no particular order, here are ten things that may or may not surprise you about Victoria Falls.

1. Town is Walkable

Victoria Falls town covers roughly between 20 and 30 square kilometres and has a population of around 35 000. Most of what a guest needs, like the Victoria Falls National Park entrance, the main street, restaurants, craft markets, and our hotel, sits within comfortable walking distance of the town centre.

Guests of Ilala Lodge Hotel are five minutes from the Falls on foot. This compactness is one of our destination’s great practical advantages: you spend your time here, not in transit.

2. You Hear the Falls Before You See Them

The first thing that often surprises visitors is that you hear The Smoke That Thunders long before you see it. On still days, the distant roar carries all the way to the terrace at Ilala Lodge Hotel. On quiet nights, many guests even drift off to sleep to its steady rumble.

Of course, it makes sense that more than a kilometre of cascading water would make a tremendous sound. But knowing that and actually hearing it – feeling its deep, resonant power in your chest – are two very different things.

3. Wildlife Doesn’t Stay in the Park

The boundary between Victoria Falls National Park and the town is a porous one. Elephants wander through the streets with enough regularity that it is simply part of life here, warthogs are a permanent fixture on hotel lawns (including ours) and vervet monkeys occupy the trees along the main road.

The advice for any encounter with a wild animal is the same as it is in any game reserve: give them space and don’t approach. The presence of wildlife in town is not a hazard to be managed so much as a reminder of where you are. Overall, wild animals avoid human settlements, and at no point will you feel threatened by their presence.

4. The Difference Between Seasons

When is the best time to visit Victoria Falls? It is the most common question we are asked, and the honest answer is: it depends on what you want to see.

At peak flow (March to May), the Zambezi is running at full force and the Falls are thunderous, the mist rising high enough to be visible from kilometres away. The spray from the waterfall is so dense that walking the cliff path feels like walking through warm rain, colours are extra vivid and moonbows appear on full moon nights. The trade-off is visibility. At high flow, the mist can obscure the view of the Falls.

By July and August, water levels have dropped and the Falls look entirely different; quieter, more defined, with the full rock face of the gorge visible and the cliff path walkable with minimal spray. This is also peak safari season, with wildlife concentrating around the river and game viewing in Hwange National Park and Chobe National Park (Botswana) at its most rewarding.

Neither season is better – they are simply different, and both are worth the trip.

5. Low Water is Beautiful

Many guests who visit in July and August worry, having read about the spectacle of peak flow, that they are seeing the falls at the ‘wrong’ time. They are not.

For photography, game viewing, gorge activities, white water rafting, clear skies and cool mornings, low water season is arguably one of the best times to visit Victoria Falls.

6. The Moonbow is Real

On the three nights surrounding each full moon, between roughly March and June, a rainbow forms in the mist of Victoria Falls after dark. It is called a “moonbow,” formed by moonlight rather than sunlight, and visible as a pale, luminous arc rising from the gorge.

To the naked eye it appears white or silver, but long-exposure photography reveals the full spectrum of colour within it. Victoria Falls National Park opens on these nights for guided lunar rainbow tours. Most first-time visitors have never heard of it.

For a full guide to the moonbow and when to see it, see our dedicated blog post on the lunar rainbow experience.

7. Four Countries Meet on Your Doorstep

Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana and Namibia converge within a short drive of Victoria Falls town.
- Livingstone in Zambia is 11km away across the Victoria Falls Bridge.
- Chobe National Park in Botswana is 80km via the Kazungula Border Post.
- The Namibian border at Katima Mulilo is around 210 km away.
This geographic position makes Victoria Falls one of southern Africa’s great travel hubs – a base from which to extend a trip in almost any direction.

8. Seamless Border Crossings

Here in Africa, we’re used to logistical quirks, if you will, but the Victoria Falls Bridge between Zimbabwe and Zambia is one of the most straightforward international crossings out. A simple bridge pass, collected at no cost from the immigration counter at the Zimbabwe side, allows you to cross the bridge on foot, take in the gorge views from the middle, and return without formally entering Zambia.

For a full day trip to Livingstone, the crossing itself takes minutes. The KAZA Univisa, which covers both countries and allows a day visit to Botswana, is available at the airport and the border post and removes most of the administrative complexity.

9. Solo Travel Works Well Here

Victoria Falls town is structured in ways that suit solo travellers. The town is walkable, English is spoken everywhere, and virtually every activity on offer – river cruises, helicopter flights, game drives, guided walks – operates as a group departure. You book a seat, show up, and spend the day alongside other travellers from around the world. The social infrastructure of the destination is built in.

For a full guide to solo travel in Victoria Falls, see our dedicated blog post.

10. Where You Stay Matters

The question of when is the best time to visit Victoria Falls matters, but not as much as where you base yourself. We think that the closer you are to the Falls, the more spontaneous and immersive your visit becomes. Our hotel, within easy walking distance, means returning for a second visit on a whim, stepping out before breakfast to hear the thunder of the water, or wandering back at sunset without needing a transfer.

Ilala Lodge Hotel is the closest hotel to Victoria Falls on the Zimbabwean side, meaning that the ambience it creates is a consistent part of your stay.

Stay With Us

Ready to experience Victoria Falls for yourself?

Ilala Lodge Hotel is a luxury, family-run property with 73 rooms, a pool terrace, an activities desk, and a restaurant that looks out towards the rising mist of the Falls.

Browse our rooms and check availability online, or get in touch with our reservations team directly at onlinereservations@ilalalodge.com and we’ll help you plan the rest.
August 7, 2026
Victoria Falls Beyond “The Falls”
While researching your trip to Zimbabwe, it might have taken you a moment to differentiate between Victoria Falls the town, and Victoria Falls the waterfall. That’s because they share a name! Victoria Falls is as much town as it is natural wonder; with one owing its reputation to the other and vice versa.

However, Victoria Falls town has more to offer than a waterfall, albeit a legendary one. If you’d like to extend your experience at Ilala Lodge Hotel to encompass more of what this region is known for, we have a few Victoria Falls day tours to put on your radar.

After getting out and about for the better part of the day, you will also be better positioned to truly appreciate all that Victoria Falls represents, and find comfort in coming back to such a beautiful hotel located in the heart of it all. (Within walking distance of the falls.)

Chobe National Park, Botswana

Eighty kilometres from Ilala Lodge Hotel, across the Kazungula border into Botswana, lies one of Africa’s great wildlife destinations. Chobe National Park is home to the largest concentration of elephants on the continent (an estimated 50 000) and the Chobe riverfront, which borders the park to the north, is where most of the action happens.

A day trip from Victoria Falls is a full day out, and it’s worth treating it as such. Transfers from Victoria Falls town typically depart around 7:15am, with guests arriving at the park by around 9am after clearing the border. The day is structured in two halves: You will usually enjoy both a river cruise and a game drive; one in the morning and one in the afternoon; split by a lunch at a local lodge or restaurant. There are plenty to choose from!

The river cruise is what sets Chobe apart from your average day trip safari. Getting to experience pods of hippos from up close, as well as super herds of buffalo, elephants coming to drink and crocodiles basking on the river’s edge, from the vantage point of a boat is something that will stay with you for a long time.

Read about this day trip in more detail here.

Some Practicalities:
- The dry season, running from May through October, is considered the prime time for game viewing.
- Bring your passport. You are crossing an international border. Visas to enter Botswana may be required depending on your nationality; if you hold a KAZA Univisa or need a double entry visa for Zimbabwe, arrange this at the Victoria Falls border.
- National park fees are additional to most tour prices.
- The Ilala Lodge Hotel activities desk can arrange the full day trip, including transfers, on your behalf.
Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe

If Chobe is the cross-border day trip, Hwange National Park is the one that takes you deeper into Zimbabwe itself.

Zimbabwe’s largest national park lies about two hours south of Victoria Falls along the main Bulawayo road, and the drive there is part of the experience – passing traditional villages and open countryside before the bush begins to close in around you.

Hwange covers 14 650 square kilometres and is home to an estimated 40 000 to 50 000 elephants, some in breeding herds of up to 300 individuals. These are the numbers that define Hwange’s reputation, and rightly so.

With that said, you will also have the opportunity to spot lion, leopard and buffalo, alongside over 100 mammal species and nearly 400 bird species. A true Eden in terms of animal-sightings!

If you’re interesting in African wild dogs, Hwange runs a Painted Dog Conservation Centre close to the park’s Main Camp. Feel free to enquire about adding this to your Victoria Falls day tour at Ilala Lodge Hotel’s Activities Desk.

Some Practicalities:
- The road from Victoria Falls to Hwange has significant potholes and the drive can be rougher than expected, though road repairs are ongoing.
- Pick-up is typically at 6 am, with departure from the park around 4.30 pm and arrival back in Victoria Falls between 6.30 and 7 pm. It can be a long day, so make sure you’re prepared with plenty of water and a few snacks for the road.
- No borders are crossed (Hwange is in Zimbabwe) though as a traveller it’s always advisable to keep your passport handy.
- The Ilala Lodge Hotel activities desk can arrange day trips and overnight packages on your behalf.
Livingstone, Zambia

The wonderful thing about being located so close to various borders is the opportunity to explore different countries in a matter of hours – something that is not as common in Africa as it is in Europe. We really encourage you to make the most of your location and get a feel for our bordering countries, too!

A great way to do this with Victoria Falls day tours is to take the 11km journey to Livingstone from our front gate. Though Livingstone is not Zambia’s capital (that would be Lusaka), it is considered the tourist capital due to its proximity to the Falls – much like we are.

Though Livingstone is close to us in proximity (you will cross the Victoria Falls Bridge when you pass through the border), it offers both a completely different vantage point of the Falls and a different cultural experience.

Here are some highlights of Livingstone that will add to your Ilala Lodge Hotel and Victoria Falls experience:

The Zambian side of the falls sits within Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park. The Knife Edge Bridge (which you may have seen photos of) is a thrilling footbridge that puts you directly opposite the Eastern Cataract for a full-frontal view of the main drop. From within the park, a trail descends steeply through the rainforest to the Boiling Pot, a vast whirlpool in the Zambezi at the base of the falls. Wear proper shoes. It is steep and wet! But, if you’re up for an adventure and practice caution, it’s worth it.

The Livingstone Museum is the country’s biggest and oldest museum, and is a must-visit for those interested in learning more about this area – from the Stone Age to David Livingstone memorabilia donated by the family.

The Mukuni Park Curio Market, and the main street offer a glimpse of ordinary Zambian life that is quite different from the tourist experience on the Zimbabwe side. The Mukuni Cultural Village, a short drive from town, offers a more structured introduction to the traditions of the local Leya people.

For those with more time or an appetite for adventure, Livingstone has several operators offering white-water rafting through the Batoka Gorge, canoeing on the upper Zambezi, horseback trails, boat cruises, and river safaris by jet boat into remote stretches of the river. The Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, compact at 66 square kilometres, offers game drives and walking safaris where the protected white rhino (rare elsewhere in the region) can be seen.

Some Practicalities:
- You will need your passport to cross the bridge. A KAZA Univisa covers both Zambia and Zimbabwe and allows a day trip to Botswana, making it the most practical option for guests planning to visit both sides of the falls.
- The Ilala Lodge Hotel activities desk can arrange a guided half-day or full-day excursion, or the crossing is straightforward enough to do independently.
More Activities in Victoria Falls

Now that we’ve explored some Victoria Falls day tours, don’t forget that there are plenty of activities right here in town that extend beyond the Falls, too.

From restaurants and iconic institutions to cultural excursions, our Activities Desk has a range of suggestions to pique your interest.

In the meantime, you can browse our various activity options here.

Stay With Us

For a stay that places you in the heart of Victoria Falls (and within a 5-minute walk of Victoria Falls National Park), you really can’t beat Ilala Lodge Hotel.

Not only are we wonderfully located to explore town, but our Activities Desk makes Victoria Falls day tours easy and seamless from your side. Simply sit down with one of our friendly team members and discuss how you would like to extend your trip in new and exciting ways!

Browse our accommodation options and get in touch with our friendly reservations team at onlinereservations@ilalalodge.com. Alternatively, make use of our seamless online booking platform to secure your own dates.
May 14, 2026
The Legendary Victoria Falls Lunar Rainbows

Most travellers arrive at Victoria Falls expecting the extraordinary and, make no mistake – the Falls deliver. There is little that can prepare you for the thundering wall of water as it crashes into the gorge and the resulting spray that rises from it like smoke. It’s truly awe-inspiring, especially when you see all the small rainbows dancing in the droplets; a result of the sun and water that create conditions for their near consistent presence.

But there is another phenomenon here, one that takes place after dark and that far fewer visitors know to look for: lunar rainbows.

Also known as “moonbows“, these are exactly what they sound like – rainbows formed by moonlight rather than sunlight. And Victoria Falls happens to be one of the best places on Earth to witness one.

What Exactly Is a Lunar Rainbow?

A moonbow forms through the same process as a daytime rainbow: Light is refracted through water droplets suspended in the air. The difference is that the light source is the moon rather than the sun. Because moonlight is far less intense than sunlight, the colours of a moonbow are much fainter, often appearing as a glowing white or silver arc to the naked eye. Long-exposure photography, however, reveals the full spectrum of colour hidden within.

For a moonbow to appear, three conditions must align: A full moon, clear skies, and a generous volume of mist. Victoria Falls provides that third ingredient in abundance, making it one of the most reliable locations in the world to witness the phenomenon.

When to See It: Timing Your Visit

The lunar rainbow is only visible on a handful of nights each month, and then only when conditions are right: The night before, the night of, and the night after the full moon. Outside of these three nights, the moon rarely casts enough light to produce a visible arc.

In terms of the best season to see a moonbow during your stay with us, March through June is widely regarded as the prime window. This coincides with the high-water period on the Zambezi, when the river is running at its strongest following the rainy season. The result is a tremendous volume of rising spray, which makes for large, powerful moonbows.

The upcoming full moon dates to note are:

• 2 April 2026 (Pink Moon): Typically the strongest month for water flow and mist
• 1 May 1 and 31 May 2026 (Flower Moon and Blue Moon): A rare double opportunity in a single month

One practical note: While abundant spray makes for a bigger moonbow, extremely heavy mist at peak flow can sometimes obscure the view entirely. The sweet spot is a strong, but not overwhelming, mist, which tends to fall in the weeks either side of absolute peak, making late March and early April a particularly good window.

Where to Stand: The Best Viewing Points

Victoria Falls National Park on the Zimbabwean side opens on specific nights for lunar rainbow tours, typically the three nights surrounding the full moon. Entry to the rainforest is included with a guided tour, which can be arranged directly through the hotel. To see the moonbow, you need the moon behind you and the Falls’ spray in front – this means positioning yourself to look westward in the hours after moonrise.

The advantage of staying at Ilala Lodge Hotel is proximity; a short walk (5 minutes) brings you to the entrance of the national park, and the sound of the falls (never entirely absent from the hotel grounds) will already be your companion as you set out for the night.

Get Lunar Tour times here.

What to Expect

Arrive after dark, torch in hand, and follow the path through the rainforest. Remember to bring a waterproof later and a dry bag for your digital items and camera.

When the conditions are right, your moonbow will appear as a pale, luminous arc rising from the gorge, with some visitors even describing it as “ghostly”. Though not mandatory, guided tours add context to your experience, with guides explaining the science of how it forms and going a little bit into the history of the Falls.

Photographers should bring a tripod and be prepared for long exposures of 15 to 30 seconds or more. This is where the colour of the moonbows, which the naked eye cannot see, reveals itself.

Good to Know

The activities desk at Ilala Lodge Hotel can arrange everything on your behalf, including your pass for a guided tour. Just pop past during your stay and our friendly team will assist!

Remember to take a waterproof jacket, closed shoes, a torch, and a camera with manual exposure settings if you want to photograph the lunar rainbow.

Plan Your Victoria Falls Lunar Rainbow Experience

A stay at Ilala Lodge Hotel puts you within walking distance of one of the natural world’s most extraordinary after-dark spectacles. With full moon dates falling across April and May 2026, there has never been a better time to plan a visit around the Victoria Falls lunar rainbow.

Browse our suites and contact our reservations team at onlinereservations@ilalalodge.com to book your stay. Alternatively, you can make use of our online booking platform to secure your own dates.

We can’t wait to welcome you to Victoria Falls!

March 16, 2026
5 Date Ideas for Valentine’s Day in Victoria Falls

There are few destinations in the world that feel as effortlessly romantic as Victoria Falls. Here, nature stages a spectacle unlike any other, with thundering water plunging into the Zambezi Gorge, mist rising like a veil into the sky, and the rumble of the Falls as your constant companion. At the heart of this cinematic scene sits Ilala Lodge Hotel, perched within earshot of this natural wonder and within sight of its spray.

For couples looking to celebrate Valentine’s Day, or any moment dedicated to togetherness in the month of love, Ilala Lodge Hotel provides a gateway to a few unforgettable experiences.

From elegant dining to serene river cruises, here are five ways to make your romantic escape truly extraordinary.

1. Dinner Beneath A Golden Canopy

For a truly unforgettable date, step into a world of romance at Ilala Lodge Hotel, where golden Cassia Fistula trees form a stunning canopy over the al fresco dining area. As the flowers sway gently in the breeze, you and your partner can share a meal in a setting made for intimate conversation and magical photographs.

Enjoy exquisite cuisine paired with a carefully selected wine list, all while the distant rumble of Victoria Falls provides a natural soundtrack to your evening. As the sun sets and the stars appear overhead, the soft lighting and serene ambience create the perfect backdrop for celebrating love.

Reserve your table and let the romance of Victoria Falls unfold around you!

2. An Intimate Escape Upriver

For couples looking to celebrate love beyond Victoria Falls town, Palm River Hotel, Ilala Lodge’s sister property, offers a selection of romantic experiences just a short drive away.

High Tea on the Zambezi invites you to a luxurious afternoon by the river. Begin with a sparkling glass of hibiscus prosecco, then savour artisanal teas, rich cappuccinos, and a curated assortment of delicate treats like velvety panna cottas, finger sandwiches, mini macarons, and buttery scones with jam and cream. Set beneath the shade of indigenous trees, with the tranquil river flowing past, this is a leisurely, sun-dappled escape perfect for couples looking for something low-key, but elevated and special!

Alternatively, choose the Zambezi River Deck Experience for an enchanting evening out. Feast on traditional African barbecue dishes infused with authentic Zimbabwean flavours, expertly prepared over open flames. Lantern-lit skies, attentive service, and the chance to spot wildlife along the riverbanks create a setting of excitement and experience, where it also just happens to be Valentine’s Day. We bet that none of your friends have sat around a fire beside the Zambezi and under the open African sky on any of their dates recently.

So, whether you prefer a sunlit afternoon or a starlit dinner, shuttle service between Ilala Lodge and Palm River Hotel makes it effortless to enjoy this special outing.

Reserve your experience today by emailing fnb@palmriverhotel.com or calling +263 867 719 6873. You could also swing past our reception desk – the friendly team there would be happy to make the necessary arrangements for you.

3. Walk Through the Rainforest

Sometimes, romance is found in simplicity. Take a hand-in-hand stroll through the lush rainforest trails surrounding Victoria Falls, a mere 5-minute walk away from Ilala Lodge Hotel in Victoria Falls National Park.

Don’t underestimate the thrill of this adventure – the roar of the Falls, getting soaked by the spray of water, marveling at the many views and little rainbows peeking out between the foliage. It’s a sensory experience worth sharing with the one you love most!

4. A Sunset Cruise Along the Zambezi

Step aboard Ra-Ikane River Cruises and let the Zambezi River be the backdrop to your romantic evening. While cruises are available at various times of the day, we recommend the sunset voyage. (For obvious reasons. What could be more romantic than being out on one of Africa’s mightiest rivers as the sky is bursting into fiery colours?) Elephants, hippos, and exotic birds should visit the riverbanks during your excursion, adding a touch of wildlife wonder to the experience.

Savour gourmet canapés and a selection of premium beverages, sharing quiet moments or laughter together as every bend in the river reveals a new view.

The sunset cruise is a gentle, immersive way to celebrate love while soaking in Africa’s natural splendour – the launching dock is on the riverbank outside Palm River Hotel.

5. Couples’ Treatments At Our Spa

After a day of adventure and indulgence, step into the tranquil sanctuary of our spa for a shared moment of calm. Choose from soothing massages, aromatherapy treatments inspired by the surrounding wilderness, or beauty rituals like manicures and pedicures—each designed to help you unwind and reconnect. The serene setting and expert therapists create a private space where you can relax side by side, leaving both body and mind refreshed for the adventures ahead.

Afterwards, why not unwind beside one of the pools with a cocktail in-hand?

Stay With Us

No matter the occasion, Victoria Falls sets the perfect scene for celebrating love, and Ilala Lodge Hotel puts you right at the heart of it all. From golden blooms and al fresco dinners to sunset river cruises, rainforest strolls, and soothing spa escapes, every experience is designed to create lasting memories together.

Whether it’s Valentine’s Day, an anniversary, or simply a moment to say “I love you,” there’s never a wrong time to plan a romantic getaway here. After all, where better to celebrate love than amid the majesty, drama, and beauty of Victoria Falls?

Discover our rooms and suites, and let us help you plan your romantic escape. Contact us at onlinereservations@ilalalodge.com to reserve your dates. Alternatively, feel free to make use of our online booking platform.

February 7, 2026
Full Flow: Green Season in Victoria Falls

For many first-time visitors, Victoria Falls is imagined in the dry season: Clear skies, gentle spray, and postcard-perfect views. Dry season is an excellent time of year to visit, make no mistake, but it’s not the only time worth visiting…

From November to April, the landscape around Victoria Falls shifts into what is known as the Green Season. At the start of summer, seasonal rains arrive and the Zambezi begins to swell. The full river makes for an absolutely tremendous crash of water over the Falls and gives you a true sense of why Victoria Falls is called “the smoke that thunders” in local languages. It also means that the surrounding landscape is green, the weather is hot and humid and everywhere life seems to be bursting at the seams – from birdlife to larger animals.

Staying at Ilala Lodge Hotel, just a short walk from Victoria Falls National Park (about 5 minutes on foot), allows you to experience this season in its entirety. It also means you have a convenient respite from your explorations and can pick them up again any time you choose. No travel time means more leisure time and we think you’ll soon discover that Victoria Falls in Green Season is a destination in and of itself!

You want to visit Victoria Falls, so what does the Zambezi in full flow entail?

Visit Victoria Falls: Understanding The Green Season

The Green Season coincides with the summer rains in Victoria Falls. Showers tend to arrive as short, dramatic cloudbursts, most common in December and January, before clearing to reveal warm, luminous afternoons. Between rainfall, the days are bright, humid and generous with sunshine. In other words, you’ll love spending plenty of time in our swimming pool, or letting the spray from the waterfall drench you from top to toe.

With the rains, dry grassland turns into thick green growth, trees fill out with leaves and our gardens and lawns flourish. It’s also a less crowded time of year, making it well suited to travellers who value space, time, and a more unhurried pace.

At Ilala Lodge Hotel, this seasonal shift is felt in the movement of wildlife through the gardens, and in the gentle contrast between the power of the Falls nearby and the calm of the hotel itself.

For a little context: Our grounds are in the heart of Victoria Falls town, but entirely fenced off and private. You won’t know about the bustle of the townsfolk going about their business until you step outside the gates, and yet, you can feel the marvelous energy of daily life happening all around you.

The Drama Of The Falls

Victoria Falls is shaped entirely by the Zambezi River, and the Green Season is when the river begins its annual transformation.

As rainfall increases upstream, river levels rise steadily from January onward, usually reaching their peak between March and May. (Remember, water takes time to travel downstream, so the peak level of the Falls doesn’t coincide exactly with the peak levels of rain, though there is a rough, delayed correlation.) This rise changes not only the volume of water pouring over the edge, but the entire experience of the Falls.

During high-flow months, the Falls become a continuous, thundering curtain of water. Mist rises in great plumes, drifting across the rainforest and often carrying with it a full spectrum of rainbows. Visibility varies from viewpoint to viewpoint, but what you lose in sharp definition, you gain in scale, sound and atmosphere.

It’s difficult to describe the sheer might of this body of water. We suppose that’s why it was named one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World!

From Ilala Lodge Hotel, the entrance to Victoria Falls National Park is just a five-minute walk away. Visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon allows you to experience changing light, shifting spray, and quieter moments between the day’s visitors. Waterproof jackets and camera covers are part of the experience, as is returning to the comfort of the lodge afterwards, where you can let your shoes dry out in the sun.

Walking The Rainforest

One of the Green Season’s quiet pleasures is walking through the Victoria Falls rainforest.

Fed by rainfall and the constant spray from the Falls, this pocket of forest remains green year-round, but in summer it becomes especially lush. Leaves gleam, pathways feel cooler beneath the canopy, and birdsong carries through the trees.

Even in the dry season, this rainforest is sustained by mist alone, but during the Green Season, it feels fully awake.

We recommend you visit the Falls more than once during your stay; the first time for the awe, and the following times to notice small details you didn’t before, and to really get to “know” this spectacle at your own pace.

Cruise On The Zambezi River

When river levels rise, the Zambezi River takes on a slower, broader presence upstream of the Falls. This is an ideal time to experience the river itself.

Guests of Ilala Lodge Hotel can enjoy river cruises through our sister property, Palm River Hotel, whose Ra-Ikane fleet offers breakfast, lunch and sunset outings. Wildlife is often drawn to the river’s edge and you’re sure to see elephants, hippos resting in the shallows, and migratory bird species during your cruise.

Simply chat to our friendly team at reservations and they’d be happy to organise a shuttle for you.

Wildlife & Safari Experiences

While summer is not traditionally associated with peak game viewing, the Green Season offers its own rewards. With water widely available, animals move more freely across the landscape, and national parks are noticeably quieter.

Zambezi National Park and Chobe National Park remain accessible, offering great safari experiences and excellent birdlife, particularly during migratory months. Elephant sightings are common, and the greenery adds depth and texture to the landscape.

Again, Ilala Lodge Hotel’s reception team can assist with day-trip planning and logistics – there’s no need for you to worry about a thing!

Your Green Season Base

Ilala Lodge Hotel offers a calm, elegant base from which to experience Victoria Falls in full flow. We’re close enough to walk to the Falls, yet removed enough to feel restful. For first-time visitors, it’s an ideal introduction; not only to Victoria Falls, but to this region of Zimbabwe, which is within day trip distance of destinations in Zambia and Botswana as well.

To book your Green Season stay, contact our reservations team a onlinereservations@ilalalodge.com or book directly online.

We look forward to welcoming you – rain, mist, thunder and all!

January 19, 2026
Top 5 Cliff Path Viewpoints

On the Zimbabwean side of Victoria Falls, we’re fortunate to boast 16 of the 19 Cliff Path Viewpoints. Below we’ll explore a few of our favourites – idyllic no matter the season.

Our Proximity To The Falls

Guests of Ilala Lodge Hotel are delighted to learn just how close we are to Victoria Falls National Park – a 5-minute amble from our gate to the entrance. (Or a 30-second sprint, depending on how eager you are!)

The beauty of our proximity to the Falls means that, on quiet nights, you can hear the rumble of the Smoke That Thunders from your bed and imagine the might with which the Zambezi River tumbles over the gorge’s edge and crashes into the ravine below, both shaping and being led by the landscape’s course until it eventually empties out in the Indian Ocean on Mozambique’s coast.

We’re incredibly proud to border one of the World’s Natural Wonders, and encourage all guests to put aside at least the better part of a day to stroll along Victoria Falls’ Cliff Path.

While every viewpoint offers something to marvel at, we’ve decided to compile a list of the 5 that we think are worth a little extra time.

The link to the map we’re referring to can be found here. Feel free to download it in preparation for your visit!

The David Livingstone Statue

Viewpoint 1

After you enter Victoria Falls National Park and pass the information center, curio shops and The Rainforest Café (to be circled back to after your explorations for a refreshing cold drink and something to eat) you will follow a paved walkway toward the Falls and the start of the Cliff Path.

Before approaching the gorge’s edge you will see a statue of David Livingstone, a Scottish explorer who first laid eyes on the Falls on 16 November 1855 and is credited with introducing it to the Western World.

The statue faces east toward the Main Falls, and we encourage you to read the various placards about Livingstone to gain some insight into those times.

While Zimbabwe’s history with colonialism is checkered and complicated, Livingstone remains an important figure in our history. There is no mention of this waterfall – named after England’s Queen Empress at the time – without some reference to his prolific exploits.

The Chain Walk

Viewpoint 2

The very next viewpoint after the statue of David Livingstone is called The Chain Walk, a steep flight of 73 stairs that will take you below the clifftop and have you feeling like you’re descending into a roaring chasm of thunderous water.

You should descend these stairs very carefully and it’s not recommended for those whose knees are not nimble, but, once at the bottom, you will be treated to a magnificent view of the beginning of the gorge.

Visibility will vary depending on the river’s water levels, but you’ll either be able to see down the gorge towards the Main Falls (when levels are low) and enjoy the gorge’s impressive structure, or be swallowed in a misty shroud that is equally exciting to experience.

Main Falls

Viewpoint 8

Viewpoint 8 offers the most ‘head on’ view of the Main Falls – 150 metres wide and 93 metres deep where the water plunges into the gorge. The viewpoint itself is a small area and is surrounded by trees, making you feel as though you’ve emerged from the forest into a different world.

Adding to this feeling, the Main Falls usually produces rainbows in the afternoon, when the sun reflects off of the water droplets from the spray at just the right angle to create a dazzle of colours.

Here’s a fun fact for you: There is a portion of Victoria Falls National Park’s rainforest (which you’ll walk through when following the Cliff Path) that receives ‘rain’ 24 hours a day, 365 days a year thanks to the waterfall’s spray. It’s said that this is one of the only places in the world where this is the case.

Livingstone Island

Viewpoint 12 (Spray Ahoy!)

Speaking of water spray, it’s highly unlikely that you’ll walk the length of Victoria Falls National Park’s Cliff Path and not get wet.

We encourage you not to shrink away from this prospect, but to enjoy it! Aside from protecting your electricals, if you visit during summer, you might even like to forego the rain poncho and delight in getting drenched by the water.

One of the best places to do this is Viewpoint 12 – a notoriously spray-heavy spot that also offers you a wonderful view of David Livingstone Island and Horse Shoe Falls. (When visibility allows.)

Victoria Falls Bridge

Viewpoint 16

From the final viewpoint on the Zimbabwean side of the Falls you can see Victoria Falls Bridge, completed in 1905 and built as part of the Cape to Cairo Railway.

At 111m above (low) water level and spanning 198m in length, it literally “bridges” the gap between Zimbabwe and Zambia.

The bridge is a true marvel of engineering, especially when you consider that its parts weren’t even constructed on-site. Its components were made in England, shipped to Mozambique and then transported to Victoria Falls by rail.

Today, at this viewpoint, you can see bungee jumpers, gorge swingers and bridge sliders taking a brave leap from the bridge’s heights. Who knows? Maybe it will inspire you to get your own adrenaline pumping!

MAP LINK

Stay With Us

Ilala Lodge Hotel offers an unbeatable gateway to Victoria Falls. Embrace the adventure, explore the breathtaking viewpoints, and create unforgettable memories at one of nature’s greatest wonders!

Browse our accommodation options online before getting in touch with our friendly reservations team at onlinereservations@ilalalodge.com to secure your booking.

Alternatively, our online booking platform enables you to secure our own dates in one seamless, user-friendly location.

We look forward to welcoming you to Victoria Falls!

Sources: www.wildzambezi.com, www.exploretravelafrica.com

October 17, 2024
Top 10 Restaurants in Victoria Falls

Eating out is about more than letting somebody else do the cooking for a change – although that is a definite plus.

On holiday, the restaurants and eateries we pick have a tangible impact on our experience of the place we’re visiting. Chosen wisely, these establishments can offer us a glimpse into the culture, life and atmosphere of a town.

This is as true in Vic Falls as it is anywhere else, and below we have a list of locally beloved spots for you to try, each lending a new set of eyes to the diner.

From easy and laid-back to sophisticated and sleek, here is our round-up of the top 10 restaurants in Victoria Falls!

1. Cassia Restaurant

We start this list with our very own Cassia Restaurant – one of the most popular restaurants in Victoria Falls.

We pride ourselves on having created a space where guests can truly relax – be it inside the elegantly decorated dining space, outside on the terrace beneath the Golden Shower trees (Cassia fistula), or by the pool-side bar.

Sitting outside, your meal will be accompanied by the gentle rumble of Victoria Falls in the background as you soak up the serenity of our lush gardens.

You couldn’t ask for a better dining experience when it comes to food. We have á la carte menus for breakfast, lunch and dinner, respectively, as well as a snack menu for those in between times. These menus are frequently updated to suit the season, but also offer classic fare like burgers, wraps, kebabs and fish.

We stock a wide selection of hand-picked South African wines from award-winning vineyards – the perfect accompaniment to an al fresco dining experience under the starry African night sky – and local and international beers.

Join us for an unforgettable culinary experience at one of the highest-rated restaurants in Victoria Falls on TripAdvisor!

BOOK ONLINE

2. Palm River Hotel Restaurant

Our sister hotel, Palm River Hotel, serves eclectic fusion fare with a quintessential Zimbabwean twist!

The dining space is modern and airy, with an old-world feel. The vaulted ceilings create a seamless transition between the dining hall and the veranda – both beautiful areas in which to enjoy a meal as you gaze out on the Zambezi River.

BOOK ONLINE

3. Riverside Dining Experience

For a fun foodie activity, consider the Palm River Hotel’s Riverside Dining Experience.

During this experience you’ll taste authentic African barbecue dishes with Zimbabwean flavours – all cooked over open fires.

Attentive staff will see to your every need as you dine by lantern light on the banks of the Zambezi – you might even spot wildlife while you eat!

This offering is exclusive to guests of Palm River Hotel and Ilala Lodge Hotel – be sure to book ahead to secure your spot.

Email fnb@palmriverhotel.com or call +263 867 7196873 to make a reservation.

4. The Lookout Café

Owned and operated by Wild Horizons, The Lookout Café is one of the most iconic restaurants in Victoria Falls.

Why? Well, the name says it all! Here you’ll be treated to an incredible view of Victoria Falls Bridge as you gaze down upon the gorge and Zambezi River below.

They offer breakfast, lunch and dinner, combining traditional favourites with more adventurous menu items – crocodile, for instance. Their list of cocktails is also extensive, making The Lookout Café a wonderful sundowner location.

They even present a Full Moon Dinner which may coincide with your visit!

BOOK ONLINE

Image Credit: Instagram | the_lookout_cafe

5. The River Brewing Company

If you’re a lover of beer, you can’t miss out on a visit to The River Brewing Company!

This quirky establishment has everything you want in a craft brewery – quirk, eccentricity and a staff dedicated to creating brews as unique as our incredible African setting.

You’ll find their beers at several outlets in Vic Falls, but nothing beats going to the source and enjoying a meal at their very own bar – where the magic happens!

Be sure to buy a few cans – like Siyabonga Session IPA and Painted Dog Pale Ale – to take home with you.

BOOK ONLINE

Image Credits: Instagram | Shared by theriverbrewingco & taken by the.salty.zebra.co

6. The Three Monkeys Restaurant & Bar

There’s always a buzz at The Three Monkeys Restaurant & Bar!

Clustered around an old train carriage, which serves as the main kitchen area and food outlet, here you can be guaranteed of tasty meals enjoyed in what feels like a “beer tent” atmosphere.

This is a great restaurant for families as they serve all the classics – burgers, wraps and pizzas for the kids and killer cocktails for the adults.

Take a bite of the authentic Vic Falls in what has quickly grown into a town hub for tourists and locals alike!

BOOK ONLINE

Image Credits: Instagram | the_three_monkeys_vic_falls

7. The Rainforest Café

Located in the heart of the action – in Victoria Falls National Park – this is the ideal place to relax beside the rainforest after taking in the Falls.

The café-style meals are simply delicious – think chicken mayo paninis, pan-seared Zambezi bream and ginger beer waffles!

The laid-back setting and buoyant atmosphere is sure to recharge you for the rest of the day.

BOOK ONLINE

Image Credit: Instagram | the.rainforestcafe

8. Dusty Road

Dusty Road is a Zimbabwean catering company born right here in Vic Falls under the stewardship of Sarah Lilford.

They have a restaurant in Chinotimba, the largest and oldest township in Victoria Falls, just 2km from the town’s centre. It’s here where you can enjoy the Dusty Road Township Experience – where meals are prepared in cast iron pots and over open fires.

This is an authentic and vibrant activity that every foodie should add to their list of things to do in Victoria Falls.

Here you’ll also be able to buy wares from local vendors and immerse yourself in this welcoming community.

BOOK ONLINE

Image Credit: Instagram | dustyroadtownshipexperience_

9. The Boma – Place of Eating

Experience more than just dining at The Boma, a unique cultural enclave nestled in a Gusu Forest.

Delight in Zimbabwean delicacies, from game meats to traditional dishes, amidst nightly entertainment featuring a hand-washing ceremony, Shangaan dancers and local fortune tellers.

This experience is the perfect way to unravel the rich tapestry of Zimbabwe’s folklore, culture, and heritage during your trip!

BOOK ONLINE

Image Credit: Instagram | thebomadinneranddrumshow

10. Baines Restaurant

Travel upriver to Baines Restaurant, located along the Zambezi above the Falls.

The magical setting lends a sense of serenity to your dining experience, with modern dishes like Turmeric Pumpkin Risotto with Fillet Steak and Zambezi sesame battered Tilapia.

Seated right on the waterfront, you couldn’t ask for a more elegant dining experience when visiting Victoria Falls. And remember, as their menu states: Ithemba – entrust the chef!

BOOK ONLINE

Image Credit: Instagram | bainesrestaurant

Stay With Us

Nestled in the heart of town, Ilala Lodge Hotel is the ideal place to base yourself when on holiday in Victoria Falls.

Our lush gardens provide sanctuary and seclusion, while our location makes us the perfect choice for those looking to explore town on foot.

Browse our luxury accommodation options here and make your pick.

Bookings can be done online or via email.

Once settled in, Victoria Falls is at your fingertips!

March 27, 2024
Lesser-Known Victoria Falls Activities

As Africa’s “Adventure Capital,” there are so many things to do in Victoria Falls that it can make your head spin!

You’ve heard of the adrenaline-inducing bungee jump off the Vic Falls Bridge, white water rafting down the Zambezi and taking the awe-inspiring Flight of Angels over the Falls, but there may be a few lesser-known gems you’ve overlooked.

Carry on reading to discover a few lesser-known things to do in Victoria Falls.

Bamba Tram

Take a quaint tram ride across the iconic Victoria Falls Bridge on the Bamba Tram! This 1,5-hour round trip is perfect for families and offers panoramic views over lush landscapes, including the Falls.

Your trip will begin at Three Monkeys near the Victoria Falls Railway Station. Guests can choose their ideal time: Sunrise, morning, sunset safari or dinner.

Discover more here.

Image Credits: Instagram | bambatram

Bridge Tour

If taking flying leaps off of manmade objects isn’t your thing, why not explore the historic Victoria Falls Bridge with an informative guided tour instead?

During your bridge tour, you will learn about this engineering marvel’s past and present, including details of its construction and significance – all the while taking in panoramic views of the Zambezi River and the breathtaking Victoria Falls below.

The tour includes an exhilarating walk on the catwalk beneath the bridge, where you’ll witness daring bungee jumpers and be in the thick of things.

An enriching experience for history buffs and adventure-seekers alike!

More information can be found here.

Jet Boat On The Zambezi

Zoom through rapids and channels of the Zambezi River near the thundering crash of the mighty Falls! Marvel at the towering cliffs and wildlife along the riverbanks as experienced guides navigate the water on your behalf.

If this sounds like your idea of fun, click here for more details.

Image Credit: victoriafalls-guide.net

Witness A Moonbow

On full moon nights, the spray from the Falls reveals a magical lunar rainbow – also known as a moonbow!

On these nights, Victoria Falls National Park opens the rainforest for nighttime visitors to come and enjoy this occurrence – weather and spray permitting! This is truly a magical activity to tick off your bucket list.

We’ve dedicated an entire blog post to moonbows – click here for all the information you need.

Dine Beside The Zambezi

For the foodies among you, we bet you didn’t know that our sister property, Palm River Hotel, offers a dreamy outdoor dining experience beside the Zambezi River.

Under a starlit canopy and beside the lanterns’ glow, guests will enjoy an authentic African-style barbeque dining experience featuring locally sourced delicacies like crocodile and kudu steaks!

Contact fnb@palmriverhotel.com for more information.

Stay With Us

Victoria Falls, Africa’s “Adventure Capital,” promises a whirlwind of activities. Beyond the famed bungee jumps and rafting, explore hidden gems like the Bamba Tram for panoramic views or delve into the bridge’s history. Whether jet boating or marveling at moonbows, every moment here is an adventure waiting to unfold.

Stay with us at Ilala Lodge Hotel to make the most of all that Victoria Falls has to offer.

Browse our luxurious accommodation options here.

February 13, 2024