Family-Friendly Adventures in !

Victoria Falls Bridge

Why Visit?

Embark on a captivating family adventure to the iconic Victoria Falls Bridge, a spectacular testament to engineering nestled between Zimbabwe and Zambia. Here’s a family-friendly itinerary to ensure a memorable visit:

Morning: Arrival and Viewing the Falls

Begin your journey early in the morning by driving or taking a cab from nearby Livingstone, Zambia, or Victoria Falls town, Zimbabwe, to the Victoria Falls Bridge. Prepare for breathtaking views of the falls, known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya, or “The Smoke That Thunders.” The bridge is accessible from both countries, and no visa is required if you"re just visiting the bridge area. Start at the Victoria Falls Bridge Viewpoints for an awe-inspiring panoramic view of the gorge and the cascading waters.

Interesting Fact: The bridge was completed in 1905, part of Cecil Rhodes" vision of a Cape to Cairo railway. It spans 198 meters across and is 128 meters above the Zambezi River.

Midday: Bridge Tour and Historical Insight

Join a guided tour of the bridge around noon, which offers an educational overview of its construction and historical significance. The tour is engaging for children and adults alike, with stories tailored to pique the curiosity of young minds.

Afternoon: Adventure Activities

For the thrill-seeking family, book a bungee jumping or zipline experience from the bridge. For a milder thrill, try the bridge slide, a fun activity for both kids and adults. All activities are safe and operated by experienced professionals.

Late Afternoon: Souvenir Shopping and Relaxation

Conclude your day by visiting the crafts market located near the bridge on the Zambian side. It"s a great place to pick up souvenirs and interact with local artisans. Then, relax at one of the nearby cafes, enjoying some refreshments while reflecting on the day’s adventures.

Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and bring raincoats or ponchos, as the mist from the falls can get you wet, especially during high water season (February to July).

This itinerary offers a blend of education, adventure, and relaxation, perfect for a family day out at the historic Victoria Falls Bridge.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Hwange National Park

Why Visit?

Embark on an unforgettable adventure at Hwark National Park in Zimbabwe, one of Africa"s great wildlife havens. Here’s a perfect itinerary for a family trip:

Day 1: Arrival and Orientation

- Arrive at Victoria Falls Airport: Rent a car or take a pre-booked shuttle for the 2-hour scenic drive to Hwange.

- Check into a family-friendly lodge: Options like The Hide Safari Camp offer comfortable family accommodations and engaging activities for children.

- Evening Safari Drive: After settling in, join an evening game drive. Spot elephants, zebras, and maybe even a lion! Hwange is known for having one of the largest elephant populations in the world.

Day 2: Full-Day Safari

- Morning Safari Drive: Depart early with packed breakfasts. Explore the vast plains and observe the diverse wildlife; keep an eye out for giraffes and antelopes.

- Picnic Lunch: Enjoy a meal amidst nature at one of the park’s designated picnic sites.

- Visit to Painted Dog Conservation: Learn about the endangered African wild dog. This center is dedicated to their conservation and offers an informative tour that’s great for kids.

- Evening at Leisure: Relax at the lodge, where kids can partake in nature walks or storytelling sessions.

Day 3: Cultural Experience and Departure

- Visit a Local Village: Engage with the local community and learn about the Ndebele and Shona cultures. Participate in traditional activities and crafts.

- Lunch and Departure: Return to the lodge for lunch before heading back to Victoria Falls Airport, filled with unforgettable memories.

Throughout your stay, enjoy the chorus of nature and the star-lit African skies. Hwange’s commitment to conservation and community involvement makes it not only a wildlife paradise but also a place to connect with nature and learn about sustainable tourism.

This itinerary ensures a blend of adventure, education, and relaxation — perfect for a family getaway!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Victoria Falls National Park

Why Visit?

Day 1: Arrival and Sunset Cruise on the Zambezi River

Start your adventure at Victoria Falls National Park by flying into either Victoria Falls Airport in Zimbabwe or Harry Mwaanga Nkumbula International Airport in Zambia. Settle into your accommodation and then embark on a sunset cruise along the Zambezi River. This relaxing boat trip offers a chance to see hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of birds in their natural habitat. As the sun sets, the sky"s vibrant colors provide a perfect backdrop for unforgettable family photos.

Day 2: Touring the Victoria Falls

Begin your day early with a guided tour of Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The main pathway along the cliff opposite the falls offers various viewpoints, perfect for experiencing the thunderous sound and breathtaking sight of the cascading water, which can spray up to 500 meters in the air. Remember to wear waterproof clothing as the mist from the falls can drench visitors!

Fun Fact: The local name for Victoria Falls is "Mosi-oa-Tunya," which means "The Smoke That Thunders."

Day 3: Cultural Experience and Craft Market

Dive into local culture by visiting a nearby village, where you can interact with villagers and learn about their way of life and traditions. Afterward, explore the craft market where your family can shop for souvenirs such as hand-carved wooden sculptures and beautiful beadwork, supporting local artisans.

Day 4: Adventure Activities

For the adventurous family, spend your final day enjoying activities such as zip-lining across the Batoka Gorge or taking a helicopter flight over the falls for a bird"s eye view of this magnificent landscape. These thrilling experiences provide unique perspectives of the falls and the surrounding area.

Departure

Conclude your trip by heading back to the airport, filled with memories of the stunning natural beauty and rich culture you’ve experienced together.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Victoria Falls Crocodile Farm

Why Visit?

Victoria Falls Crocodile Farm Family Itinerary

Morning Arrival & Introduction

Start your adventure at Victoria Falls Crocodile Farm by arriving early in the morning when the animals are most active. You can take a taxi or drive from Victoria Falls town, which is just a few kilometers away. Upon arrival, join the first guided tour of the day to get a comprehensive overview. The guides are knowledgeable and engaging, perfect for sparking children"s curiosity.

Educational Tour

Learn about the life cycle and behavior of Nile crocodiles, one of the farm"s main attractions. The tour usually starts with a visit to the breeding farm where you can see crocodiles at various stages of their life, from eggs to adults. Children will be fascinated to learn how crocodiles can live up to 100 years and grow up to 5 meters long.

Feeding Time Excitement

Align your visit with the feeding times (often mid-morning), which is a thrilling spectacle for all ages. Watch the power and agility of these ancient predators as they leap for their food. This is not only exciting but also a great opportunity for teaching moments about the food chain and crocodile conservation efforts.

Interactive Sessions

After the adrenaline rush of feeding time, engage with some safer wildlife interaction. The farm also hosts a Snake Park, where expert handlers teach about the various snake species, debunk myths, and sometimes allow for safe handling of non-venomous snakes under close supervision – a hit among brave youngsters!

Picnic Lunch

Pack a picnic to enjoy in the designated areas. It’s a great way to debrief and relax while surrounded by the unique flora and fauna of Zimbabwe.

Late Afternoon: Souvenir Shopping

Conclude your visit by stopping at the gift shop where you can buy crocodile-themed souvenirs, ensuring the kids have mementos to remember their exciting day.

This itinerary provides a balanced mix of education, excitement, and relaxation, ideal for a family outing at the Victoria Falls Crocodile Farm.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Bulawayo

Why Visit?

Bulawayo, Zimbabwe"s second-largest city, offers a rich blend of cultural history and natural beauty, perfect for a family adventure. Here’s a fun-filled itinerary for your visit:

Day 1: Explore the City

- Morning: Start your day at the Natural History Museum of Zimbabwe, located on Leopold Takawira Avenue. Easily accessible by taxi or local bus, this museum houses fascinating exhibits on Zimbabwe"s natural environment, geology, and history. It’s a great educational experience for kids and adults alike.

- Lunch: Enjoy some local cuisine at Indaba Book Café, a charming spot with child-friendly menu options.

- Afternoon: Head to the Bulawayo Railway Museum. Just a short drive from the city center, this museum offers a glimpse into the age of steam locomotives, which were pivotal in Zimbabwe’s development. Kids can explore old train cars and learn about the engineering behind rail transport.

Day 2: Encounter with Nature

- Morning and afternoon: Spend the day at Chipangali Wildlife Orphanage and Research Centre, about 25 km outside Bulawayo. You can hire a taxi or drive if you’ve rented a car. This sanctuary cares for rescued wildlife and offers educational tours that highlight conservation efforts. It’s a chance for kids to see animals up close and learn about the importance of wildlife protection.

- Evening: Return to Bulawayo and have dinner at The Kraal Restaurant, offering a taste of traditional Zimbabwean barbecue in an open-air setting.

Day 3: Historical Journey

- Morning: Visit Khami Ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage site located just 22 km west of Bulawayo. Arrange for a guided tour through these ancient ruins to discover the great city that was once the capital of the Kingdom of Butua.

- Afternoon: Conclude your trip with a relaxing stroll through the Centenary Park, perfect for kids to play and enjoy the outdoors.

Each destination in Bulawayo tells a story that captures both the heart of Zimbabwe’s heritage and the spirit of its people, making it a memorable trip for any family.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.