Attractions

The area is famous for its myriad adventure activities and excellent wildlife-viewing opportunities, but when all is said and done, the falls are the star of the show.

Soaking Up the Falls -- There are two great vantage points, each in a national park and affording a different angle; it's worth covering both, which will take at least half a day. Break up your return journey by stopping for high tea at the colonial-era Victoria Falls Hotel (or the Royal Livingstone, if you've opted to stay on the Zambian side), and drink in more views.

Viewing Wildlife -- Despite the commercialism of Vic Falls Village, the falls remain surrounded by dense bush, and you can start your African safari right here. Venture a few miles upstream from the river along Zambezi Drive for a look at the Big Tree, a 1,500-year-old baobab (if you're lucky, you'll see elephants, too), or take a guided Zambezi River walk to view species like hippo and crocodile. A number of tour operators will arrange morning, afternoon, and night drives to Zambezi National Park, Mosi-Oa-Tunya Park, and Hwange, as well as full days in Chobe, Botswana; the three biggest operators are Shearwater (www.shearwateradventures.com), Wild Horizons (www.wildhorizons.co.za), and, of course, Safari Par Excellence (www.safpar.com).