Victoria Falls Sunset Cruise: A Detailed Review

Looking to dial up the awesome on your trip to Victoria Falls? I think a Zambezi River sunset cruise is something very special, that combines awesome wildlife spotting with stunning scenery and, basically, the pure relaxation of being on the water as the day cools down. So, let’s see what makes it worth your time and money.

Setting Sail on the Zambezi

I suppose before you set off, you have that usual anticipation of a promising evening. It’s almost exciting boarding one of the various cruise boats that depart upstream from Victoria Falls. You might find they range from smaller, more intimate vessels to bigger double-decker boats – your choice will really just shape your vibe for the night.

A smaller boat? Well, in some respects you’ll feel a much cozier, more personal atmosphere, almost, perfect for couples or smaller groups. A bigger boat? That can just mean more of a party atmosphere, complete with music and lots of space to mix and mingle, I find.

Whatever the size, these boats are generally pretty comfortable. Usually there are open decks for viewing and enjoying the breeze, as well as covered areas to chill and get out of the sun (very important, you know). You see, a welcome drink in hand, now that’s something that you can watch as the shoreline drifts by, and anticipate what the evening may reveal. A cold beer, maybe a G&T, very, very good. That is the kind of start to a trip anyone can get behind.

Wildlife Encounters on the Water

So, here’s something fun. You could be forgiven for just chilling on deck and enjoying that sunset. As a matter of fact the real magic starts to happen as you get close to the wildlife that comes down to the riverbank in the late afternoon. One of the coolest parts, basically, is spotting elephants. The sight of these huge, awesome creatures coming down for a drink or a splash in the water can be absolutely amazing. Very cool.

And there’s more, so, hippos are another common sight, yet often seen lurking in the shallows or just popping their heads up to keep an eye on you. Crocodiles, though, they’re maybe a bit more sneaky, very often just sunbathing on the banks, that. Keep your eyes peeled and have your camera ready, alright?

But, as I was saying, that’s not only big game you can spy. A variety of bird species live on and around the riverbanks, too it’s almost. Colorful kingfishers, fish eagles circling overhead – you know, just things for the avid birdwatcher and the casual observer.

The Sunset Spectacle

So, this is what you’re there for, basically, right? Picture this, you’re slowly floating on the Zambezi, in that case and that burning African sun starts to dip toward the horizon. Colors begin to paint the sky – oranges, pinks, purples – yet, honestly, photos never quite capture the feeling.

As I was saying, that play of light on the water, too it’s almost, casts a beautiful glow across the scenery, is that. A sunset on the Zambezi River, you know, it really is a sight to behold, and just adds that certain something very special to your cruise. Arguably, you won’t find experiences like this elsewhere.

Food, Drinks, and Atmosphere

So, beyond the views and the wildlife, you could be thinking about the other things, right? Many of the cruises also, very, come with drinks and snacks included – that almost often adds to that overall sense of indulgence and relaxation. That, too it’s almost, depends on what you pay, I mean, they can sometimes offer fancier meals or cocktails.

Alright, the vibe is typically relaxed and sociable, that. Fellow travelers chat, very often, share stories, you could be looking out at all that awesome stuff passing by. So you can expect a relaxed night.

Things to Consider Before You Book

Now, now, now… to actually make this thing a roaring success. Anyway, you’ll want to do a bit of prep, yet. What time of year it is will obviously affect weather conditions and wildlife sightings, for instance, yet the dry season (May to October) that, arguably, is often favored for wildlife viewing.

Different cruise operators are, anyway, different, I mean. Reading reviews and comparing options will probably point you to the cruise that’s the best fit for what you are into. Some operators, very, focus more on luxury, now that’s something that some operators put their concentration into, others a more budget-friendly vibe. A little due diligence will tell you plenty.

It might be helpful to book in advance, I find, particularly if you’re traveling during peak season. These cruises, often, are very popular, more or less, especially around sunset time.