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Victoria Falls: Where Adventure Begins Where Certainty Ends
Victoria Falls reminded us that adventure often begins where certainty ends. From navigating visas and border crossings to experiencing the awe-inspiring power of one of the world’s greatest natural wonders, this leg of our journey demanded preparation, courage, and a willingness to embrace the unknown—and it rewarded us in ways nothing else could.
An Early Start and Leap of Faith
Our day began early, checking in at Cape Town International Airport (an international flight) at 6:45 am for our 09:45 flight to Victoria Falls. Seats confirmed, passports triple-checked, and documents organised with the precision any seasoned traveler thrives on.
By 12:40 pm, we landed at Victoria Falls International Airport, Zimbabwe, greeted by warm air and the unmistakable sense that we were somewhere very different.
Drive to Royal Livingstone: Crossing Borders, Embracing the Unknown
The journey from the airport to the Royal Livingstone Hotel was an adventure in itself. As we drove, we crossed “no man’s land”—the stretch of border territory between Zimbabwe and Zambia—followed by the iconic bridge spanning the Zambezi River with Victoria Falls roaring just beyond. The mix of uneasiness and excitement was palpable. Driving from one country to another, passports in hand, offered a thrilling reminder that the world’s borders are as tangible as the landscapes they divide.
Crossing from Zimbabwe into Zambia was equally eye-opening. Standing on the bridge, looking over the river and the mist rising from the falls, you feel both the vastness of nature and the fragility of human-imposed boundaries. It was a moment of reflection: travel is as much about navigating uncertainty as it is about sightseeing.
Visa and Border Crossings
Australian residents require a visa for Zimbabwe, and with multiple checkpoints between Zimbabwe and Zambia, border crossings can be overwhelming for the less experienced. We highly recommend using a trusted transfer agent to ensure a smooth process. From airport pickup to crossing the borders, our experience was flawless. Standing at immigration, passports in hand, all that preparation paid off—approval was smooth, calm, and reassuring.
Arrival at Royal Livingstone Hotel
By 2:00 pm, we arrived at the Royal Livingstone Hotel by Anantara, our home for the next three nights. Nestled along the Zambezi River, the property offered sweeping river views, wildlife sounds, and an immediate sense of stillness.
Our first welcome? A giraffe visiting our doorstep—a truly unforgettable introduction to this magical property. The Deluxe Zambezi River Balcony Room combined luxury with immersion in nature, creating a perfect base for exploring the Falls and surrounding reserve.
Saturating Visit to Victoria Falls
On our first visit, we got completely drenched and quickly understood why everyone else was wearing ponchos and Crocs. The experience was exhilarating: the sheer power of Mosi-oa-Tunya (“The Smoke That Thunders”) is impossible to describe in words.
A late afternoon storm rolled in, prompting a relaxing massage during a tropical downpour, followed by zebra-watching over cocktails and nibbles. Safari luxury at its finest.
The following day, fully prepared with ponchos, waterproof bags, hiking shoes, and selfie sticks, we explored Victoria Falls in all its glory. Nearly 7 km of walking trails offered lookout after lookout of breathtaking vistas, and we still got a little wet—but every drop was worth it.
Sunset Cruise on the Zambezi
That evening, a sunset cruise organized by Royal Livingstone was the highlight of our stay. We drifted along the river with bottomless G&Ts, surrounded by hippos, crocodiles, and abundant birdlife. The Zambezi came alive as the sun dipped below the horizon. It was serene, intimate, and unforgettable.
Life at Royal Livingstone
Three nights at Royal Livingstone allowed us to enjoy:
- World-class beds—the best we’ve ever slept in
- Vast all-inclusive breakfasts, with other meals reasonably priced
- Wildlife roaming the estate, including zebras and giraffes
- Proximity to the Falls, with the hotel being the only property where guests can walk to Victoria Falls without extra charges
Victoria Falls is a bucket-list experience. The combination of adrenaline, natural beauty, and luxury accommodations reminded us why preparation, trust, and embracing the unknown are part of the journey.
Practical Tips for Travelers
- Visa: Australians require a visa for Zimbabwe; arrange in advance.
- Airport: Victoria Falls International Airport is closest to Royal Livingstone.
- Transfers: A transfer agent is highly recommended for seamless border crossings, we used African Leisure Travel (formerly Wild Horizons).
- Gear: Ponchos, waterproof bags, and hiking shoes are essential.
- Timing: Visit early to avoid crowds; short rain showers add to the experience rather than hinder it.
- Currency: USD is king in all hotels and activites, ensure you have small denominations.
- Tipping: The Royal Livingston hotel automatically adds a 10% service surcharge on all services, so unless the service is exception to further tips are expected.
Victoria Falls is more than a destination—it’s an experience that challenges, amazes, and inspires. From border crossings to drenched adventures and serene sunsets on the Zambezi, this journey reminded us why we travel: not just to see the world, but to move through it fully, courageously, and with open hearts.
— Alex
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