Why a Guided Tour is the Best Way to Explore Victoria Falls

02.06.2023 by Lancelot Ncube

Victoria Falls is a breathtaking natural wonder that attracts millions of visitors every year. With its thunderous roar and stunning views, it's no wonder why it's one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. But with so much to see and do, planning your visit on your own can be overwhelming.

That's why a guided tour is the best way to explore Victoria Falls. Not only do you get to experience the beauty of the falls up close and personal, but you also get the benefit of a knowledgeable guide who can provide you with insights and information you might not otherwise know. From learning about the history and geology of the area to discovering hidden spots off the beaten path, a guided tour ensures that you make the most of your visit and leave with memories that will last a lifetime. In this article, we'll explore the top reasons why a guided tour is the best way to make the most of your visit to Victoria Falls. So, buckle up and get ready for an unforgettable journey!

A bird's eye view of Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls, The World's Largest Waterfalls

What to Expect on a Guided Tour

A guided tour of Victoria Falls can take many forms, depending on your interests and preferences. Some popular options include walking tours, helicopter tours, and safari tours. Regardless of the type of tour you choose, you can expect to visit the various viewpoints overlooking the falls as well as explore the rainforest that surrounds the falls. The rainforest is home to a variety of plant and animal species, including monkeys, baboons, and various species of birds. As you explore the rainforest, your guide will point out interesting features of the flora and fauna, as well as provide historical and geological information about the falls.

In addition to the standard viewpoints and rainforest walk, most guided tours also include a visit to the Livingstone Statue, which commemorates the explorer who discovered the falls, and the Victoria Falls Bridge, which spans the Zambezi River and connects Zambia and Zimbabwe. On the bridge, you can take in stunning views of the falls and the surrounding area. Overall, a guided tour of Victoria Falls typically lasts 2–3 hours and covers all the major highlights of the falls and the surrounding area.

Victoria Falls is a place where the soul of Africa is at its purest. It is a place that touches your heart and soul.

~Dr. David Livingstone

Benefits of a Guided Tour

There are many benefits to taking a guided tour of Victoria Falls. One of the biggest benefits is the knowledge and expertise of your guide. A good guide will be able to provide you with insights and information that you might not otherwise know, such as the history and geology of the falls, as well as interesting facts about the flora and fauna in the area. Another benefit of a guided tour is that it takes the stress out of planning your visit. With a guided tour, you don't have to worry about figuring out transportation, buying tickets, or finding your way around the falls. Your guide will take care of all of these details, leaving you free to simply enjoy the experience. A guided tour can also be a great way to meet other travellers and make new friends. Many guided tours are small group tours, which means you'll be travelling with a small group of like-minded individuals who share your passion for adventure and exploration.

Self-Guided Tours vs. Guided Tours

While it's certainly possible to explore Victoria Falls on your own, a self-guided tour can be challenging, especially if you're not familiar with the area. Without a guide, you might miss out on important information about the falls and the surrounding area, and you might not know where to go or what to see. In contrast, a guided tour takes care of all of these details for you, ensuring that you make the most of your visit. With a guide, you'll be able to see all the major highlights of the falls and surrounding area, and you'll have the benefit of their knowledge and expertise.

Ultimately, the choice between a self-guided tour and a guided tour comes down to your personal preferences and travel style. If you're comfortable exploring on your own and don't mind doing some research, a self-guided tour might be a good option for you. But if you want to make the most of your visit and ensure that you don't miss anything important, a guided tour is the way to go.

Additional Activities to Consider

In addition to a guided tour of Victoria Falls, there are a variety of other activities you might consider during your visit. One of the most popular activities is swimming in the Devil's Pool, a natural pool located at the top of the falls that allows visitors to swim right up to the edge of the falls and look over the edge. Another popular activity is taking a game drive or safari in one of the nearby national parks, where you can see a variety of wildlife such as elephants, lions, and giraffes. For a unique experience, you might consider taking a safari in a train, such as the Royal Livingstone Express or the Bamba Tram.

For a truly breathtaking view of the falls, you might consider taking a helicopter ride or microlight flight over the falls. Additionally, there are many adventure activities available, such as bungee jumping off the Victoria Falls Bridge, whitewater rafting on the Zambezi River, and zip-lining through the rainforest. And for a more relaxed experience, you might consider taking a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River, which provides a peaceful and romantic way to take in the beauty of the area. Alwa Africa offers a wide range of activities and tours, including all of these exciting options and more, to help you make the most of your visit to Victoria Falls.

Microlight Flight

Canoeing

Rafting

Game Viewing

Popular Guided Tour Companies at Victoria Falls

Many guided tour companies are operating at Victoria Falls, each with its unique offerings and styles. Some of the most popular companies include Wild Horizons, Shearwater, Alwa Africa, and Pure Africa. These companies offer a variety of tour options, ranging from standard guided tours to more specialized tours that focus on adventure or photography. When choosing a guided tour company, it's important to do your research and read reviews to ensure that you choose a reputable company with knowledgeable guides and a good safety record.

Frequently Asked Questions about Guided Tours of Victoria Falls

How much does a guided tour of Victoria Falls cost?

The cost of a guided tour varies depending on the company and the type of tour. Generally, you can expect to pay between $50 and $100 per person for a standard guided tour.

How long does a guided tour of Victoria Falls last?

A guided tour typically lasts 2–3 hours.

What is the Devil's Pool at Victoria Falls, and is it safe to visit?

The Devil's Pool is a natural pool located at the top of Victoria Falls, on the Zambian side. It's a unique and thrilling experience that allows visitors to swim right up to the edge of the falls and peer over the edge into the gorge below. While the experience can be safe when approached with caution and under the guidance of experienced guides, it's important to note that the swim can be dangerous and visitors should take appropriate precautions. The best time to visit the pool is during the dry season, when water levels are lower and the current is weaker. Visitors should also wear appropriate swimwear and avoid the swim if they have any medical conditions that could be exacerbated by the activity.

What is the best side to visit Victoria Falls?

Victoria Falls is located on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe, and visitors can access the falls from either side. Both sides offer stunning views of the falls, but the Zimbabwean side is generally considered to offer the best views. The Zimbabwean side offers a wider range of viewpoints, including the popular Devil's Cataract and Main Falls viewpoints, as well as a wider range of activities, such as helicopter tours and bungee jumping. However, the Zambian side offers a more up-close and personal view of the falls, with the opportunity to swim in the Devil's Pool and access the falls via the Knife Edge Bridge. Ultimately, the best side to visit Victoria Falls depends on your personal preferences and what you want to experience during your visit.

Are there any activities other than viewing the falls that visitors can do at Victoria Falls?

Yes, there are many activities available for visitors to Victoria Falls beyond simply viewing the falls. Some popular activities include taking a helicopter or microlight tour over the falls, going on a sunset or dinner cruise on the Zambezi River, bungee jumping off the Victoria Falls Bridge, going on a safari in one of the nearby national parks, or visiting a local village to learn about the local culture and way of life. Additionally, there are many adventure activities available, such as zip lining, white water rafting, and abseiling. No matter what your interests, there's something for everyone at Victoria Falls.

Conclusion: Why a Guided Tour is the Best Way to Explore Victoria Falls

A guided tour with a reputable company is highly recommended when exploring Victoria Falls. With a knowledgeable guide, you can experience the falls up close and personal, while also learning about the history and geology of the area. A guided tour also provides access to hidden spots and off-the-beaten-path locations that you might not discover on your own. At Alwa Africa, we believe that our personalized tour experiences can greatly enhance your time at Victoria Falls. Our expert guides are dedicated to providing you with a deeper appreciation of the falls, as well as leading you to hidden gems that you might not otherwise discover. We offer a variety of unique and personalized tour experiences to match your interests and preferences, whether you're interested in a walking tour, a helicopter tour, or a safari tour.

For an unforgettable adventure, we invite you to consider our "Ultimate Victoria Falls & Chobe Package," which includes a helicopter tour, full day Safari trip at Chobe National Park, Botswana, village and township experience, among other exciting activities. At Alwa Africa, we take pride in providing our guests with exceptional service and expertise, and we would be honored to show you the beauty and wonder of Victoria Falls. Don't wait - book your tour with us today and experience the best of Victoria Falls!

Most Booked Victoria Falls Package

Zimbabwe & Botswana

Ultimate Victoria Falls & Chobe Experience

This unforgettable travel deal offers the chance to explore two of Africa's most iconic destinations, all in one unforgettable trip. From the thundering Victoria Falls to the teeming wildlife of Chobe National Park, this package is the perfect way to experience the best that Africa has to offer.

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Author

02.06.2023 by Lancelot Ncube

Meet Lancelot Ncube, the travel consultant and Victoria Falls native with a passion for exploring the beauty of this incredible destination. With over three years of experience in the travel industry, Lancelot has gained a wealth of knowledge about the best spots to visit, exciting activities to do, and unique experiences to enjoy.

As a born and bred Victoria Falls local, Lancelot has an intimate understanding of the area and a deep appreciation for its natural wonders. His love for travel and his dedication to providing the best possible experience for his clients are evident in his work, where he takes pride in sharing his expertise and insider knowledge with others.

With Lancelot as your travel consultant, you can trust that you are in good hands. His attention to detail and commitment to excellence will ensure that your journey is stress-free and enjoyable. Let Lancelot guide you on your next adventure to Victoria Falls and experience the beauty of this incredible destination through the eyes of a local.