Reviews of safaris to Victoria Falls
We have always listened to our travellers, and now you can learn from them also. Below are links to feedback from recent trips - these are their views, not ours! See what they think of us, and about our trips to Africa:
""
"Zimbabwe"
In Amalinda while we were there, there were six people involved in the tourist industry in Botswana. They all had high praise for Expert Africa. Someone, somewhere else, had high praise for Claire.
So well done to all of you. Doing a super job." Read full review: 11 nights in Africa; 10 on a Zimbabwe safari
"A variety of experiences!"
Victoria Falls - the only real problem on our trip. We planned our stay there to include a visit to Zambia, as there is a railway museum in Livingstone we wanted to see. In Botswana there were varying answers as to what Visas would be required. We travelled from Kasane to Victoria Falls with Wilderness.
At the Kazungula Border Post the driver gave us forms to complete and asked for US$ 55 visa fee from each of us. At the immigration counter I asked what Visa we would require as we wished to spend a day in Zambia, and was advised a dual entry Visa. I asked for a dual entry Visa and the Immigration clerk advised I could not have one. I asked why and he replied that such Visas were only issued at his discretion and his discretion was not to give us one. Reasoning did not help and I asked for the head of Immigration - he was at lunch but we waited for his return. I explained the issue, his clerk in the background was laughing throughout, but he said as we by now had the single entry Visa stuck in our passports he could not cancel them. He did however offer to sell us, in addition, dual entry Visas at a cost of US$ 80 each, or whatever. We declined.
I assume that this journey from Kasane to Victoria Falls is operated quite frequently. The driver of the Minibus ( on this occasion Big Boy) should be better informed on the options available beforehand so that such problems do not arise.
Regrettably, this finished our trip on a disappointing note." Read full review: 25 nights in Africa; 13 on a South Africa trip
"Trip Review"
Suggestions to help us improve our trips or our service:
Cannot comment on the web site as I only refer to your brochure and telephone discussions with staff. I also have extensive knowledge of many of the areas we go to." Read full review: 21 nights in Africa; 8 on a Zimbabwe safari
"Botswana safari"
Suggestions to help us improve our trips or our service:
none at this time." Read full review: 14 nights in Africa; 10 on a Botswana safari
"The whole trip"
Seeing how local communities live also enhanced my experience as a whole.
Suggestions to help us improve our trips or our service:
In the pre-departure information, there was very litttle about Zimbabwean visas. Although my daughter knew about these, I didn't and other customers may not." Read full review: 15 nights in Africa; 7 on a Zambia safari
""
"Fantastic Holiday"
Suggestions to help us improve our trips or our service:
All was perfect." Read full review: 21 nights in Africa; 10 on a Namibia trip
"One of the best!"
We have travelled several times with Expert Africa and would always recommend them to anyone planning a safari. Everything worked smoothly and without a hitch. The mixture of bush camps and lodges worked very well for us. We enjoyed meeting all the staff and guests and sharing experiences past and present.
Thank you to everyone involved, especially Claire and Chris.
Suggestions to help us improve our trips or our service:
Perhaps the Painted Dog Conservation Centre could be included in the brochure as a possible activity. They rely very largely on donations, and tourists could provide a valuable addition to their income. Local children stay for a week free of charge but children from private schools and schools farther afield pay.
Incidentally, for information, on the outward flight bags were checked straight through to Vic Falls without reclaiming at Johannesburg but on the way back it was clear we had to reclaim at Johannesburg and check them in again for Heathrow." Read full review: 11 nights in Africa; 10 on a Zimbabwe safari
""
I learnt a lot about the countries I visited, had some great experiences, saw some superb sights including brilliant views of birds, mammals and reptiles and had some insight into different cultures. I was looked after well and had the freedom to explore as I wanted. It was very well organised and ran smoothly.
Suggestions to help us improve our trips or our service:
It is worth bearing in mind the difference in the cultures of the countries to be visited and the UK. Some people may be unprepared for what they may experience when compared to the UK and Europe." Read full review: 24 nights in Africa; 13 on a Namibia trip
Where to stay in Victoria Falls
Our suggestions for safari camps in Victoria Falls
Ilala Lodge
Exceptionally well located between the Victoria Falls and the town of the same name, Ilala Lodge has comfortable rooms, a friendly atmosphere & great food.
Victoria Falls Hotel
With its unique setting, authentic style and excellent service, the Victoria Falls is one of the world’s most iconic hotels.
Batonka Guest Lodge
Small, comfortable and in lovely gardens, Batonka Guest Lodge is a perfect base for exploring the Victoria Falls away from the bustle of the town.
Victoria Falls Lodge
High on a plateau a short distance outside Victoria Falls Town, the comfortable Victoria Falls Safari Lodge overlooks its own waterhole.
Sprayview Hotel
In close proximity to both the town and the Victoria Falls themselves, Sprayview is a value-for-money hotel in a convenient location.
The Elephant Camp
The Elephant Camp is a luxury tented camp in its own private concession within Victoria Falls National Park, just 15-minute's drive town.
Victoria Falls Club
Just outside of Victoria Falls Town, Victoria Falls Safari Club offers an exclusive, relaxing and luxurious base to explore the area.
Old Drift Lodge
A lovely addition to the options in Victoria Falls, the stylish Old Drift has a great location in Zimbabwe's Zambezi National Park, with a range of activities.
Gorges Lodge
Gorges Lodge has spectacular views from its perch on the edge of the Batoka Gorge. Although it is out of town it isn't too far from the main attractions.
Palm River
Palm River Hotel offers a high-quality stay in a picturesque location on the banks of the Zambezi, with excellent food and a shuttle to the Victoria Falls.
Little Gorges
Set high above the Zambezi River, Little Gorges Tented Lodge is a tranquil spot to watch black eagles and from which to visit the Victoria Falls.
Zambezi Sands
Zambezi Sands is a stylish new camp with a range of activities on a remote stretch of the Zambezi River.
Pioneers
Located a five-minute drive from the buzz of Victoria Falls town, the mid-size Pioneers offers a relaxing stay in one of Zimbabwe's most iconic destinations.
Matetsi River Lodge
Situated in the private Matetsi Reserve, Matetsi River Lodge offers luxury suites, game drives and river activities within reach of the Victoria Falls.
Victoria Falls Suites
Just out of the town, Victoria Falls Safari Suites offers an exclusive, relaxing and luxurious base from which to explore.
Mpala Jena
In Zambezi National Park, Mpala Jena offers a luxurious but eco-friendly experience, within easy access of the Victoria Falls.
528 Victoria Falls
528 Victoria Falls is a charming, owner-run, boutique B&B in a leafy suburb of Victoria Falls town, offering an oasis of calm in an often-busy location.
Matetsi River House
Situated in the Private Matetsi Reserve Matetsi River House offers families and small groups privacy, game drives and access to the falls.
