Zimbabwe 3 Day Itinerary

3-Day Zimbabwe Itinerary:

This itinerary focuses on exploring the natural beauty and wildlife of Zimbabwe. It’s a starting point - you can customize it based on your interests and time constraints!

Day 1: Victoria Falls Majesty

  • Morning: Fly into Victoria Falls Airport (VFA) from Harare or Johannesburg.

    • Visa Requirements: Most nationalities require a visa to enter Zimbabwe, which can be obtained online in advance (e-visa) or on arrival at the airport.

      • Things to know:

        • The Victoria Falls Airport is located about 20 kilometers from the town of Victoria Falls and offers e-visas for many nationalities.
        • Always check the latest visa requirements for your nationality as policies can change.

  • Afternoon: Explore the majestic Victoria Falls on your own! Take in the breathtaking views from various lookout points, marvel at the sheer power of the falls, and listen to the thunderous roar.

    • Transportation:
      • You can walk around the town of Victoria Falls, which is a popular tourist destination with many attractions within walking distance.

Day 2: The Wonders of Nature

  • Morning: Take a guided tour of the Victoria Falls National Park.
    • Things to do: Visit the different viewpoints, learn about the wildlife that thrives in the area, and perhaps even catch a glimpse of some yourself!
  • Afternoon: Enjoy an exciting white water rafting experience on the Zambezi River (highly recommended to book with a reputable tour operator).

Day 3: Wildlife Encounters & Farewell

  • Morning: Embark on a walking safari with experienced guides in the early hours of the morning for optimal wildlife viewing (remember to check with your tour operator about safety precautions and potential encounters).
  • Afternoon: Depart from Victoria Falls Airport (VFA).

Things to consider for a 3-day trip:

  • Focus on one area: This itinerary assumes you’re staying in the Victoria Falls area. For a longer trip, consider expanding to other national parks like Hwange National Park or Mana Pools for a broader Zimbabwe experience.
  • Time of year: The best time to visit Victoria Falls is during the dry season (May-October) when the water levels are lower and animals are more concentrated around the river.

Things to know:

  • Victoria Falls Activities:

    • Guided Tours: While this itinerary focuses on the falls, it’s important to note that a 3-day trip to Victoria Falls is ideal for exploring the Zambezi River for wildlife viewing experiences (like the aforementioned walking safari). You can enjoy activities like a sunset cruise, tiger fishing, or canoeing/kayaking on the Zambezi.

  • Accommodation:

    • Hotels: There are a variety of hotels near Victoria Falls, from luxurious lodges to budget-friendly campsites.

  • Things to know before booking:

    • Location: The Victoria Falls Hotel and other luxury lodges offer stunning views of the falls.
    • Price Range: Prices vary depending on the type of accommodation and the activities you choose.
    • Location: Consider staying closer to the Zimbabwean side for easier access to activities (like the walking safari).

Important Notes:

  • Visa Requirements: Make sure to check visa requirements for your specific nationality, as they can vary. You can often apply for a KAZA Visa online which allows you to visit both Zambia and Zimbabwe.
  • Currency: Zimbabwe uses multiple currencies, including the US dollar, South African rand, and local currency (the RTGS dollar).

Things to do:

  • Victoria Falls Activities: The Victoria Falls National Park is a popular destination for wildlife viewing, offering a variety of experiences:

    • Sunset Cruise: Enjoy a relaxing cruise on the Zambezi River with views of the Victoria Falls bridge and potential sightings of wildlife like elephants, hippos, and various bird species.

  • Things to do:

    • Victoria Falls National Park: Explore the diverse flora and fauna of the rainforest, including the Devil’s Cataract and the breathtaking Angel Falls (a popular, but less intense, alternative to a visit to the Zambezi River).

  • Activities:

    • Sunset Cruise: Experience the majestic beauty of the Victoria Falls from a different perspective.

Things to remember:

  • Wildlife Viewing: Zimbabwe has a fantastic tourism infrastructure. You’ll need to be mindful of safety precautions and follow your guide’s instructions closely.
  • Visa: Remember that you can usually access the falls and viewpoints without needing a visa, but for activities beyond the border, you’ll likely need one.

Things to know about the Zambezi River:

  • Victoria Falls National Park: Offers breathtaking views of the Victoria Falls from various vantage points.
  • Wildlife Encounters: You can usually choose a variety of tours and experiences within the park, such as guided walks or helicopter rides.
  • Walking Safari: Remember to wear neutral colors and comfortable shoes for a walking safari.

Things to know about visiting Zimbabwe:

  • Safety: Always exercise caution and follow the advice of your tour guide.
  • Conservation: Respect wildlife and their natural habitat.

Remember: This is just a basic itinerary, and you can adjust it based on your preferences and time.

For a 3-day trip to Zimbabwe, I recommend focusing on:

Victoria Falls (Day 1 & 2):

  • The Falls: Visit Victoria Falls from the Zimbabwe side. The “smoke that thunders” is best experienced in the early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and softer light.

Things to do:

  • Guided Tours: Enjoy a guided tour of Victoria Falls National Park, taking in the majesty of this natural wonder.

Day 1: Walking Safari & Exploration

  • Visit the Victoria Falls Rainforest: Witness the power and beauty of the Zambezezi River’s flow and the breathtaking views it offers.
  • Experience the Falls: Enjoy a guided tour of the Zambezi River and take in the majestic views from the different viewpoints on the Zimbabwe side.

Things to do:

  • Bungee Jumping: Enjoy the thrill of jumping off the Victoria Falls Bridge.
  • Explore the town: Stroll through the town of Victoria Falls, enjoying the local shops, restaurants and markets.

Accommodation Options:

  • Luxury: Victoria Falls Hotel (iconic), The Elephant Camp (campsite and tent options)
  • Mid-Range: A’Zambezi River Lodge, Ilala Lodge

Day 2: Activities:

  • Devil’s Pool: Visit the Victoria Falls from a different perspective.
  • Victoria Falls:

Things to know about the Zam Falls:

  • White Water Rafting:

Remember:

  • Safety First:

Choose your activities wisely and choose experiences that are appropriate for your skill level and fitness.

  • Budgeting:

You can expect to spend around $150-$300 per day on a 3-day trip, depending on the type of experience you choose.

Consider adding:

  • Victoria Falls Activities:

Add other activities like a sunset cruise or helicopter ride for a different perspective of the falls and the surrounding area.

  • Sunset Cruise: Enjoy a relaxing cruise on the Zambezi River.

Remember:

  • Walking Safari: Respect the wildlife, and always follow your guide’s instructions.
  • Bungee Jumping: Remember to listen carefully to your guides for safety tips and precautions.

Things to do:

  • Luxury Lodges: Victoria Falls Hotel, The Lookout Cabin (for a unique experience)

  • Mid-Range:

  • Budget: Consider staying on the Zambia side for cheaper activities.

  • Victoria Falls Hotel:

Enjoy breathtaking views of the Zambezi River and “the Zambezi’s” famous bungee jumping activity.

  • Other Activities:

Consider a sunset cruise, helicopter tour, or other adventurous excursions for your $150-$300 per day budget.

  • Mid-Range: Consider adding activities like:

  • Sunset Canoe Trips: Enjoy the serenity of the Zambezi River as you paddle along and watch the sunset.

  • Guided Tours: Enjoy a variety of guided tours, such as:

  • Victoria Falls Bridge: Take a thrilling bungee jump from this iconic structure.

  • Devil’s Gorge & Activities:

Consider a visit to the Zambia side for a different perspective on the falls and unique experiences like:

  • White Water Rafting/Rafting Trips:

Choose a reputable tour operator, such as:

  • Zambezi River Tours: Experience the Zambezi River up close and personal.
  • Victoria Falls Activities:

Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Zambezi River from various vantage points.

Things to know about your accommodation:

  • Safety: Research and ensure you understand any safety precautions required for visiting the Victoria Falls on the “Zambia side” of the falls, such as:

  • Accommodation:

Consider booking a hotel with stunning views of the Zambezi River (such as The Victoria Falls Hotel).

  • Respecting Wildlife:

Remember to follow these guidelines when encountering wildlife:

  • Observe from a distance:

Maintain a safe and respectful distance from all animals.

  • Stay alert: Always be aware of your surroundings, especially near the river.
  • Listen to your guide:

Follow your tour guide’s instructions for safe and ethical wildlife viewing.

Respecting Nature & Culture:

  • Remember to be respectful: Keep noise levels down, avoid approaching animals, and refrain from using flash photography or feeding them.
  • Stay on designated paths:

This is crucial for minimizing the impact of your presence.

  • Consider a “Zambia side” experience:

The Victoria Falls National Park offers a variety of wildlife experiences. You can also enjoy:

  • Sunset Cruise: A relaxing way to see the falls and the surrounding landscape.
  • Cultural Experiences:

Learn about the local culture and history through various tours and activities.

Safety Considerations:

  • Wildlife Encounters: Always prioritize safety and ethical considerations when observing wildlife.**

Don’t forget:

  • Respecting Local Culture:

Remember to be respectful of the local people and their customs, such as asking permission before taking pictures of them.

Things to do:

  • Victoria Falls Hotel:

Enjoy a variety of activities at this luxurious hotel, including:

  • Sunset Cruise:

Consider the safety guidelines for both boat and boat-based activities:

  • Respecting Nature: Remember to be mindful of the environment.

Remember:

  • This is just a sample itinerary.**

  • You can customize your trip based on your interests and time constraints.