The Jetlag team recently hosted a free trip with our subscribers to the majestic town of Victoria Falls, in Zimbabwe. I can confidently say that 24 hours is not nearly enough time to truly experience all that this incredible destination has to offer. However, if you find yourself with just one day in Victoria Falls, fear not – with some careful planning, you can still have an unforgettable experience.

Here’s how to make the most of 24 hours in Victoria Falls:

Morning:

Start your day with a sunrise tour of Victoria Falls. Not only will you beat the crowds, but watching the sun rise over the falls is a truly magical experience. You’ll have the opportunity to take in the beauty of the falls before they become crowded with other visitors. As you walk along the rainforest trail, you’ll feel the mist on your face and hear the roar of the water. It’s an incredible way to start the day.

After your tour, head to the Lookout Café for breakfast. This open-air restaurant offers stunning views of the Batoka Gorge and the Zambezi River, and serves up delicious breakfast options like eggs benedict and pancakes. Plus, the coffee is top-notch.

Midday:

After breakfast, head to the Victoria Falls Bridge for a heart-pumping adventure – a bungee jump or a zipline. These activities offer a unique perspective on the falls and are sure to get your adrenaline pumping. For those who prefer something a bit tamer, a bridge tour is also available.

After your thrill-seeking activity, head to the nearby town of Victoria Falls for lunch. The town is filled with restaurants offering a range of cuisines, from traditional Zimbabwean dishes to international fare. If you’re in the mood for a quick bite, try a local favorite – a beef pie from the Pie Hole.

Afternoon:

In the afternoon, take a helicopter tour of Victoria Falls. This is the perfect way to get a bird’s-eye view of the falls and surrounding landscape. You’ll see the Zambezi River, the Batoka Gorge, and the spray from the falls from a whole new perspective.

After your helicopter tour, head to the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge for high tea. This stunning lodge overlooks a waterhole, and you may spot wildlife such as elephants and giraffes while you enjoy your tea and scones.

Evening:

As the sun begins to set, head back to Victoria Falls for a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. This is the perfect way to end your day in Victoria Falls – you’ll sail along the river as the sun sets, sipping on drinks and taking in the beauty of the surrounding landscape. You may even spot wildlife like hippos and crocodiles.

After your sunset cruise, head back to your accommodation for dinner. There are plenty of dining options in Victoria Falls, from upscale restaurants to casual eateries. For a truly special experience, try the Boma Dinner and Drum Show, which offers a traditional Zimbabwean feast and a live performance featuring local drumming and dancing.

While 24 hours is certainly not enough time to see everything that Victoria Falls has to offer, with some careful planning, you can still have a memorable and exciting experience. From a sunrise tour of the falls to a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River, there are plenty of unique activities to fill your day. Just remember to pack comfortable shoes, a sense of adventure, and a camera – you’ll want to capture every moment of your time in this incredible destination.