Guided Attractions Around Victoria Falls

October 31, 2026

Attraction tours here mix conservation, railway history and river scenery. Most are around Victoria Falls town, with Dete and Hwange about 2.5 hours south-east by road. Prices are normally in US dollars, and several of the venues below do not publish a fixed rate, so ask when you book.

Painted Dog Conservation, Dete

The visitor centre sits at Dete, opposite Hwange National Park Airport, just off the A8 at Cross Mabale. It is outside the park, so no park fee applies. Entry is free and donation based. Opening hours are about 08:00 to 17:00, and the centre may close on the last weekend of each month, so check before you drive out. Allow up to about 2 hours. It is a rehabilitation and conservation centre for African wild dogs, not a zoo.

The Elephant Express

Imvelo Safari Lodges runs an open-sided 22-passenger railcar on the National Railways of Zimbabwe line between Dete Siding and Ngamo Siding. The run is about 70 km and takes about 2 hours each way, followed by a 10 to 15 minute game-vehicle drive to Bomani Tented Lodge or Camelthorn Lodge. It works mainly as a transfer for lodge guests, departure times follow the railway, and seats are not guaranteed. It is a slow way to watch wildlife from a train, with no contact with elephants. Ask Imvelo whether it is running for your dates.

Afternoon tea at the Victoria Falls Hotel

The hotel was built in 1904 and belongs to Leading Hotels of the World. Tea is served on Stanley’s Terrace from about 15:00 to 17:30, and sometimes until 18:00. Non-guests can book a table. Ask the hotel for the current price.

Bamba Tram to the bridge

The Bamba Tram has been run by the Bamba Bus operators since April 2022. It starts at Three Monkeys near Victoria Falls Railway Station and rolls through the national park to the Victoria Falls Bridge. The sunrise run takes about 1.5 hours. Thompsons Africa has also run bridge tours that leave from the Victoria Falls Hotel.

Game drives and dinner

Guided game drives in Zambezi National Park run with local operators, with an international entry fee of about US$17 on top of the tour price. The Boma - Place of Eating at Victoria Falls Safari Lodge is the best-known evening dinner and drumming show, and booking is essential.

Tips

Cash in US dollars is useful as a backup when card machines fail.
Treat rates quoted by resellers as a guide and confirm the final price before paying.
Never book anything that includes riding elephants or walking with lions.

Compare options on Viator . Official pages: Painted Dog Conservation and Victoria Falls Hotel .