White water rafting below the thundering Victoria Falls is one of the most adrenaline-pumping experiences in Africa. Whether you’re a seasoned thrill-seeker or a first-time adventurer, the Zambezi River promises heart-racing rapids, jaw-dropping scenery, and stories you’ll be telling for years. To help you make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime experience, we’ve put together the ultimate list of Victoria Falls rafting tips—covering everything from when to go and what to pack, to which operators to trust and how to handle the wild Class V rapids.
Whether you’re a first-timer or an experienced rafter, these 6 essential tips will help you prepare for an unforgettable (and safe) adventure.
1. The Rapids Are No Joke – Know the Grades
The Zambezi River below Victoria Falls is famous for its Grade 4 and 5 rapids, some of the most intense in the world. Names like “The Devil’s Toilet Bowl” ,“Gulliver’s Travels”, “Double Trouble”, “Washing Machine “and “Oblivion” should give you a hint!
- Grade 4 rapids = High-intensity, large waves, and precise maneuvering required.
- Grade 5 rapids = Extremely difficult, with steep drops and powerful currents.
Pro Tips: If you’re a beginner, opt for a half-day rafting trip first. Some tour operators offer calmer sections for less experienced rafters.
Visit during low water season (August to December) for more exciting but manageable conditions. High water season (January to July) often closes some sections for safety.
2. You Will Get Thrown Overboard (Probably)
Let’s be real: capsizing is part of the Victoria Falls rafting experience. And yes, you will likely get tossed out of the raft at least once. But don’t worry expert guides are always close by and safety kayakers are ready to assist.
Just trust your team, follow instructions, and float feet-first if you end up in the water.
Some rapids are so powerful that flipping the raft is part of the fun!
- Stay calm if you fall out – Float on your back, feet first.
- Don’t panic – Your guide will get you back in quickly.
- Expect a workout – Paddling through rapids is exhausting but worth it!
3. It’s a Physical Challenge—Train a Bit Beforehand
Rafting below Victoria Falls isn’t just a splashy joyride—it’s a workout. You’ll be paddling hard, holding tight, and navigating steep inclines after the ride.
Stay prepared by doing light cardio and bodyweight exercises before your trip.
4. Dry Bags and GoPro Mounts Are Lifesavers
There’s no worse feeling than losing your phone or camera to the rapids. Bring a small waterproof dry bag and strap it to your lifejacket or raft. If you’re filming, invest in a GoPro chest mount or helmet cam for hands-free action.
5. The Hike Out Is Brutal “Mentally Prepare“
After 2–3 hours on the river, you’ll need to climb out of the Batoka Gorge a nearly vertical gruelling 200m gorge descent hike in hot weather. It’s no joke. Hydrate well, pace yourself, and wear solid shoes with grip.
6. It’s One of the Best Experiences of My Life
Despite the bruises, sunburn, and sore muscles, Victoria Falls rafting is unforgettable. The scenery is surreal, the adrenaline is unmatched, and the shared laughter with strangers-turned-friends is priceless.
Don’t let the fear of the unknown stop you. Just come prepared and let the river do the rest.
Essential Tips Most Blogs Won’t Tell You About Victoria Falls Whitewater Rafting
- Camera Strategy: Guides recommend GoPro head mounts – handheld cameras often get lost in rapids
- Shoe Hack: Wear strapped sandals (no flip-flops!) – expect to walk on sharp rocks
- Timing Secret: September-October offers the perfect balance of water flow and weather
- Fitness Reality: The hike out burns 500+ calories – hydrate well the night before
- Hidden Cost: Most tours don’t include the $10 national park fee
- Group Trick: Book as a group of 6+ for private raft discounts
- Recovery Tip: Pack arnica cream for next-day muscle soreness
10 Essential Gear for Victoria Falls rafting (Don’t Forget These!)
White water rafting on the Zambezi River is an adrenaline-packed adventure, but having the right gear can make the difference between an epic trip and a miserable one. Whether you’re tackling Grade 5 rapids below Victoria Falls or enjoying a milder stretch, here are the 10 must-have items to bring.
- 1. A High-Quality Life Jacket (PFD)
Why You Need It: Safety first! A Type V Personal Flotation Device (PFD) is mandatory for Zambezi rafting. Most tours provide them, but if you prefer your own, get a whitewater-specific vest.
Recommended: Astral YTV Life Jacket (lightweight & secure)
2. Helmet with Secure Fit
Why You Need It: Rocks and rapids don’t mix well with your head. A whitewater helmet protects against impacts.
Recommended: WRSI Current Helmet (comfortable & durable)
3. Sturdy Water Shoes (No Flip-Flops!)
Why You Need It: Slippery rocks and sharp edges demand grippy, closed-toe shoes.
Recommended: KEEN Newport H2 Sandals (secure & quick drying), Teva Hurricane Drift Sandals (Men & Women) or Astral Loyak Water Shoes
4. Quick-Dry Clothing
Why You Need It: Cotton gets heavy when wet. Synthetic or merino wool keeps you comfortable.
Recommended: Columbia PFG Long-Sleeve Shirt (UPF sun protection)
5. Waterproof Dry Bag
Why You Need It: Keep phones, wallets, and snacks bone-dry in case of a flip.
Recommended: Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag (affordable & reliable)
6. Sunglasses with Straps
Why You Need It: Glare off the water is intense—polarized lenses help, but they need a strap, so they don’t disappear downstream!
Recommended: Chums Floating Sunglass Strap
7. GoPro or Waterproof Camera
Why You Need It: You’ll want to relive those Grade 5 rapids later!
Recommended: GoPro HERO12 + Floating Grip
8. Hydration Pack or Water Bottle
Why You Need It: Paddling is exhausting dehydration sneaks up fast.
Recommended: CamelBak HydroBak (hands-free drinking) or Hydro Flask 21oz with Standard Mouth Flex Cap
9. Sun Protection (SPF 50+ & Lip Balm)
Why You Need It: The African sun + water reflection = instant sunburn.
Recommended: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer SPF 70
10. First Aid & Anti-Chafing Balm
Why You Need It: Blisters and chafing can ruin the trip.
Recommended: Body Glide Anti-Chafe Balm
Pick a Reputable Rafting Operator
Safety matters. Choose a licensed operator with experienced guides, modern gear, and strong safety protocols. and you can book through getyourguide.
Top-Rated Operators:
- Shockwave Adventures – Locally owned and highly rated.
- SafPar Rafting – Combo packages with bungee, cruises, and more.
- Wild Horizons – One of the oldest and most reliable.
Pro Tip: Always check if lunch, park fees, and transfers are included.
Victoria Falls Rafting FAQs
How dangerous is Victoria Falls rafting?
While Class V rapids sound scary, operators maintain 100% safety records using:
- Double-reinforced rafts
- Rescue kayakers following each group
- Guides with 10,000+ hours experience
Can beginners do this?
Yes! Some half day packages are perfect for first timers, while still delivering big thrills.
Who is not allowed?
Kids under 15, people with serious back/heart conditions, and non-swimmers.
What’s the best month for rafting?
The optimal time for rafting is during the low water season, from August to December, when the rapids are most intense and accessible.