Activities
Adventure Capital of Africa
Victoria Falls Activities
Victoria Falls is one of Africa’s leading destinations for adventure, wildlife, and culture, and Ilala Lodge Hotel is ideally positioned to experience it all.
From the Zambezi River to the surrounding national parks, the region offers a wide range of experiences to suit every pace of travel. Our Activities Desk is available to assist with planning and booking, including transfers and cross-border excursions.
Among the most popular experiences are Zambezi River cruises, helicopter flights over the Falls, Chobe Day Trips, and guided game drives – each offering a different perspective of this remarkable destination.
Featured experiences
Plan Something Special
Ra-Ikane River Cruise
Explore the Zambezi River aboard the Ra-Ikane, inspired by the journeys of David Livingstone. With a maximum of 24 guests, the cruise offers a more intimate setting to view birdlife and wildlife along the river and surrounding islands.
Zambezi River Deck Experience
An African-style barbecue dinner beside the Zambezi River at Palm River Hotel. The three-course menu includes locally sourced options such as crocodile and kudu, prepared over open coals. Dine outdoors in a lantern-lit riverside setting.
Contact: fnb@palmriverhotel.com
High Tea Experience
Enjoy High Tea at Palm River Hotel on the banks of the Zambezi River. Set beneath indigenous trees, this riverside experience offers a relaxed setting to enjoy a selection of sweet and savoury treats. Advanced reservations are essential.
Contact: fnb@palmriverhotel.com
A slower pace on the Zambezi
Relaxation
Slow down and take in the Zambezi River from the water with a breakfast, lunch or sunset cruise, each offering a relaxed way to experience the river’s scenery and wildlife.
Sunrise River Cruise
Begin the day on the Zambezi River as the sun rises, with tea, coffee, and pastries served on board while the bush comes alive around you.
Sunset Cruise
Drift along the Upper Zambezi as the sun sets, with drinks and snacks served on board.
Lunch Cruise
A leisurely cruise over lunch, taking in the river at a relaxed pace.
Intimate Cruises
Private or small-group cruises on the Zambezi for a more exclusive experience, ideal for special occasions or those seeking a quieter setting.
Game viewing in every direction
Wildlife
The area surrounding Victoria Falls is rich in wildlife, with opportunities for both short excursions and full-day safaris. Game drives, cross-border trips to Chobe and Hwange, and Zambezi cruises each open up a different angle on the region's wildlife.
Game Drives
Morning, afternoon, or evening drives in nearby national parks — opportunities for both short excursions and full-day safaris.
Chobe & Hwange National Parks
Day trips into Botswana to Chobe National Park, home to one of Africa's densest elephant populations, or extended trips for exceptional game viewing in Zimbabwe's largest national park, Hwange, within 100km of the hotel.
Walk with Elephants
An unforgettable opportunity to walk alongside these gentle giants, learning about their behaviour and conservation in a natural setting.
Cruises on the Zambezi River
Wildlife often seen along the riverbanks during cruises and other water-based activities, with opportunities to spot hippos, crocodiles, and diverse birdlife.
A strong sense of place
Cultural
Cultural experiences that provide insight into local life and traditions - from guided rainforest tours and village visits to township dining and traditional evening performances.
Curio Shopping
Browse local crafts, artwork, and souvenirs at markets and shops throughout Victoria Falls.
Traditional Dining & Performances
Evening experiences combining traditional dinners with music and dance.
Township Dining
An introduction to the region's communities through shared meals at Dusty Road Township.
Rainforest Tour
A guided walk through the Victoria Falls rainforest, exploring its unique ecosystem and the heritage of the region.
Africa's Adventure Capital
Adventure
High-adrenaline experiences set against a dramatic natural backdrop - from white-water rafting on the Zambezi to bungee jumping, gorge swings, zip lining, helicopter flights, and canopy tours.
White Water Rafting
Navigate the Zambezi's Grade 5 rapids — a world-class rafting experience and a Victoria Falls standout.
Bungee Jumping & Gorge Swing
Take the leap from the Victoria Falls Bridge — one of the world's highest commercial bungee jumps at 111 metres — or experience a 70-metre free fall followed by a swing across the Batoka Gorge.
Helicopter Flights
The Flight of Angels offers sweeping aerial views of the Falls and surrounding landscape — among the most popular ways to take in the scale of the region.
Zip Lining
Soar across the Batoka Gorge on a high-speed zip line, taking in dramatic views of the gorge below.