Victoria Falls Game Drive: 3.5-Hour Safari in Victoria Falls National Park
Board an open 4x4 for a 3.5-hour game drive through Victoria Falls National Park, where early light and quiet tracks reveal elephants, hippos, and prolific birdlife. This concise guide explains what to expect, when to go, and how to prepare for the best wildlife viewing.
The Experience
Before You Go
Start at dawn
Wildlife is most active in the cooler early morning hours—arrive or arrange pick-up for sunrise drives to maximize sightings.
Bring binoculars
An 8–10x pair lets you watch distant herds and birds without disturbing animals.
Dress for dust and sun
Light layers, a sun hat, and closed-toe shoes protect against sun and bumpy tracks.
Follow the guide’s safety rules
Stay seated and quiet on close encounters; do not attempt to feed or approach animals.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Quiet Zambezi river pull-outs for late-afternoon birdwatching
- •Small conservancy tracks off the main roads that concentrate game during the dry season
Wildlife
- •Elephant
- •Hippo
Conservation Note
Victoria Falls National Park is managed to balance tourism and habitat protection—stay on designated tracks, avoid littering, and support local community conservation initiatives.
The area around Victoria Falls carries deep cultural significance; Livingstone recorded the falls in 1855 and the local name Mosi-oa-Tunya reflects the river’s power. The park protects sections of the historic river corridor.
What to Bring
BinocularsEssential
Essential for observing animals at distance without disturbing them.
Closed-toe walking shoesEssential
Stable footwear handles dusty tracks and short stops.
Sun hat and sunscreenEssential
Protects against strong sun during open-vehicle drives.
Light rain jacket
Useful during the rainy season when sudden showers can appear.
Common Questions
How long is the game drive?
The activity is about 3.5 hours total, typically including pick-up and drop-off time—confirm exact timings with the operator.
What animals can I expect to see?
Common sightings include elephants, buffalo, various antelope species, zebra and many birds; hippos and crocodiles are often seen near river pools, while predators are possible but less guaranteed.
Are children and infants allowed?
Infants must sit on a lap and operators usually accept children, but check age restrictions and safety provisions when booking.
Is the drive suitable for people with back or heart issues?
This activity is not recommended for guests with serious spinal, heart or pregnancy-related conditions due to vehicle movement and remote terrain; consult your doctor and the operator beforehand.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3–3.5 hours
Location
Victoria Falls, Matabeleland North
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal hiking or physical exertion required
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