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Victoria Falls Gorge Hike to Rapid #1

A Thrill-Seeker’s Dream Beneath the Smoke That Thunders

Descend. Explore. Conquer.

The Victoria Falls Gorge Hike is one of the most exhilarating ways to experience the majesty of Victoria Falls and the raw, untamed beauty of the Batoka Gorge. If you're looking for a real adventure - away from the crowds and into the heart of the Zambezi's power - this is it.

Victoria Falls Gorge Hike

Descending into the Boiling Pot below the mighty Victoria Falls

This intense guided hike takes you from the top of the gorge right down to the water's edge at Rapid #1, the iconic rapid below the bridge on the Zambezi River. Prepare for a vertical descent of between 101 and 150 meters, followed by an equally challenging climb back up. This is not just a walk in the park - this is a real physical challenge designed for fit, adventurous travellers.

Highlights of the Victoria Falls Gorge Hike

  •  Hike deep into the Batoka Gorge, carved out over millennia by the mighty Zambezi River.
  •  Look up at the thundering Victoria Falls - one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
  • Enjoy unforgettable views and epic photo opportunities that few ever get to witness.
  •  Tackle the most demanding and rewarding hike in Victoria Falls, guided by experienced locals.

What to Expect on Your Gorge Hike Adventure

Your journey begins with a hotel pick-up from anywhere in Victoria Falls town, followed by a short transfer to the edge of the gorge. Here, you'll meet your professional guides who will brief you on the route, safety, and conditions. You’ll be fitted with a helmet for safety, then it’s time to begin your descent into the gorge.

The path is steep, narrow, and rocky - hugging the cliffs in places, with loose stones and sharp edges underfoot. But for every ounce of effort, there’s a payoff in views and adrenaline. At the bottom, the Zambezi River greets you in full glory - boiling, swirling, and churning in hypnotic patterns as it winds its way through the gorge.

Victoria Falls Batoka Gorge Hike

Navigating slippery rocks near Rapid #1 beneath the Victoria Falls Bridge.

You’ll spend some time at the riverbank near Rapid #1, soaking in the power of the river and the grandeur of the gorge. Then comes the climb- a challenging ascent that leaves you feeling tired, tested, and totally alive.

Trip Schedule

This unforgettable hike runs daily at the following times:

  • 07:00 AM
  • 11:00 AM
  • 03:00 PM

Each hike lasts approximately 2 hours, including transfers. The cool morning and late afternoon hikes are recommended, especially during the hotter months.

What to Bring

  • Sturdy hiking shoes or trail runners (well broken-in, with strong grip)
  • ✔ A refillable water bottle
  • Comfortable activewear
  • $10 cash for the National Parks fee (payable at check-in)
  • ✔ A camera or smartphone for photos (waterproof case recommended)
  • ✔ A good level of fitness and determination

Important Information

  • 🕒 Duration: ~2 hours (including transfers)
  • ⚠️ Fitness Level: High – this is a physically demanding activity with steep inclines, loose rocks, and uneven terrain.
  • 🚫 Not suitable for children under 12, pregnant guests, or anyone with mobility or health issues.
  • 💡 This is a non-technical hike - no climbing gear is required, but the terrain is challenging.
  • 🚶‍♂️ Maximum group size is kept small to ensure safety and personal attention.

Why Choose the Victoria Falls Gorge Hike?

While most visitors experience Victoria Falls from above - on helicopter flights, or sunset cruises - very few get to feel its power from below. This hike offers an authentic, immersive, and primal encounter with one of the world’s greatest rivers.

If you're already considering adventure activities in Victoria Falls, such as, bungee jumping, high wire or the Devil’s Pool swim, the Victoria Falls Gorge Hike is a perfect addition to your adrenaline-filled itinerary.

Booking Information

Ready to go deeper? Click below to check availability, pricing, and secure your spot on this unforgettable hike into the depths of the Zambezi River Gorge.

Challenge yourself. Witness the wild. Look up at the Falls.
This is the Victoria Falls Gorge Hike - raw, real, and ridiculously rewarding.



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Brilliant service and so helpful
by Sally (Blisworth, U.K.)
I stumbled across Victoria Fall Guide by accident, but I am so glad I did. Tony and Boo were so helpful, advising us on the best activities for us as I have mobility issues, and arranging our itinerary and booking everything. I had no worries about using them, or sending a very large payment to someone I didn’t know. Everything they booked for us was so well organised, pick ups on time, knowledgeable and friendly guides, clean transport. We did the walking tour of the falls, the sunset dinner cruise, full day at Chobe, the team, lion encounter and the helicopter and every single one was faultless. We were also due to do the lunar rainbow but unfortunately it was cancelled, however boo arranged the refund immediately. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them to anyone. We are so grateful to them for making our special holiday even more so.

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