The 5 best things to do in Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls isn’t just home to the world’s most spectacular waterfall; it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site offering breathtaking views, but it is also the perfect place to roll up your sleeves and make a difference. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, or a nature lover, you can combine volunteering with some seriously epic experiences.

Whether you’re helping save Africa’s majestic wildlife or supporting local communities, volunteering in Victoria Falls allows you to do good and have fun all at once.

So, whether you’re taking a break from your volunteering project or just looking to treat yourself after a hard day’s work, here are the 5 best things to do in Victoria Falls—why just work when you can play too? 

Get up Close and Personal with the Falls:

We can’t talk about Victoria Falls without mentioning the massive, awe-inspiring waterfall itself. It’s the reason people travel from all corners of the globe to witness its thundering roar and jaw-dropping beauty.

As a volunteer here, you’ll be right in the heart of it all. The local name for Victoria Falls is Mosi-oa-Tunya, meaning “The Smoke That Thunders.” This magnificent waterfall is over a mile wide and plunges nearly 360 feet, creating a misty spectacle visible from miles away.

If you’re not already on cloud nine from your volunteer work (which we’re sure you will be), head to the falls for a firsthand look. Take a stroll through the rainforest, have lunch at the LookOut Café, or stand on the famous Knife-Edge Bridge where you’ll feel the refreshing mist!

You’ll also find that the area surrounding the falls is full of bustling markets selling handmade crafts, local textiles, and African art that’s perfect for souvenirs (and your Instagram feed).

For a bird’s-eye view, you might even want to take a helicopter ride over the Falls, which really puts into perspective the sheer magnitude of this natural wonder below.

Devil’s Pool Swim

If you’re looking for something slightly more daring than just observing the falls from a distance, then a swim in Devil’s Pool is a must.

Located at the edge of Victoria Falls, on the lip of the Zambezi River, Devil’s Pool offers an extreme (but safe) opportunity to swim right to the edge of the world’s largest waterfall. During the dry season (usually from September to December), the water levels in the river drop low enough for swimmers to safely access the pool, and the natural rock barrier keeps visitors from being swept over the edge.

Led by expert guides and with plenty of safety precautions in place, you’ll definitely gain a reputation as a daredevil once you share those pictures of you hanging over the most famous waterfall in the world.

Ride the Rapids with White-Water Rafting

Okay, now this is probably my favourite activity at Victoria Falls. You simply have to experience the adrenaline-pumping thrill of white-water rafting on the Zambezi River. These aren’t just your average rapids – I’m talking world-famous, rollercoaster-grade 5 rapids.

It’s a wild ride that’ll have you gripping the paddle like it’s your last lifeline, but I promise you, when it’s over, you won’t be able to wipe the smile off your face!

After spending your days working hard on your wildlife projects, this is your chance to really let loose and test just how brave you are.

Imagine navigating some of the wildest rapids in the world, paddling hard, screaming in exhilaration as your raft gets some serious air time, praying you don’t fall out and become an impromptu snack for a crocodile. All that with the thundering sound of Victoria Falls in the background.

It’s the perfect way to mix hard work with excitement.

Take the Leap (Literally) with Bungee Jumping Off the Victoria Falls Bridge

Bungee jumping off the Victoria Falls Bridge is one of the most iconic thrill-seeking activities you can experience in the Falls. At 111 meters (364 feet) above the Zambezi River, the view alone will have your heart racing. The gorge below, the mighty falls in the distance, and then, just as your heart beats out of your chest, you face your fears headfirst and take the plunge.

And you will love it!

The best way I could describe it is like jumping into a full-blown identity crisis. You’re standing on the edge, looking down at the river gorge below, and as they start counting you down, your heart is beating like a caffeinated kangaroo on a trampoline. For a split second, you seriously wonder if you’ve lost your mind.

The moment you leap off the platform is pure chaos – your stomach does a backflip, time seems to slow down, and for just a second, you’re contemplating your entire life’s choices. But then the cord tightens, and you’re yanked upwards, bouncing up and down, suspended mid-air.

Yet all you can think is, “I can’t believe I just did that, and I want to do it again!”

Sunset Cruise of the Zambezi River

If you’re in the mood for something a little more laid-back or maybe you just don’t consider yourself a crazy adrenaline junkie, then consider taking a sunset cruise along the Zambezi River. Unlike the thrill of the previous three activities, this is a perfect way to relax and enjoy your surroundings without raising your heart rate.

Grab a group of your fellow volunteers, watch the sunset over the river, soak in the breathtaking views, and enjoy the golden light which makes for the perfect photo. You can even enjoy a cocktail (or a few) while cruising on the water.

Peaceful landscapes aside, you’ll likely spot various bird species, pods of hippos, and crocodiles (so keep your toes out of the water)!

Conclusion

Victoria Falls is hands down Africa’s adventure capital, where epic natural beauty goes hand in hand with thrilling, adrenaline-packed activities and enriching volunteer opportunities. Whether you’re standing in awe in the presence of the mighty falls or embarking on adventures like white-water rafting and bungee jumping, there’s something for every type of traveller.

And if you’re looking to chill, a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River offers the perfect balance. Whether you’re volunteering to make a difference or just soaking in the local culture, Victoria Falls offers an unforgettable mix of doing good and having an absolute blast.

So, pack your bags, roll up your sleeves, and get ready for an experience that mixes purpose with adventure in the most spectacular way possible.