10 Best African Safari Tours That Visit Victoria Falls (on a Budget)

Rising in Zambia and flowing through Angola, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique, the mighty Zambezi is an impressive 2,574 km long. Between Zambia and Zimbabwe, the Zambezi falls over 100 meters (354 ft), across an almost 2 km stretch (1,708 meters, 5,604 ft) known as the Victoria Falls or Mosi-oa-Tunya, the Smoke That Thunders. 

Dreaming of an African safari and the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls? You don't need a fortune! Discover our top 10 budget-friendly Victoria Falls safari tours offering incredible access to southern Africa's most iconic wildlife destinations. Just a short journey from the Falls, you can plunge into Devil's Pool, explore the wildlife-rich Okavango Delta in Botswana, or track game on foot in Zambia's South Luangwa National Park.

Whether it's the start or the grand finale of your southern African exploration, a Victoria Falls safari provides an exceptional opportunity to experience the region's diverse highlights, especially if you're travelling on a budget or have limited time. 

We've handpicked 10 of the absolute best African safari tours, seamlessly combining the majesty of Victoria Falls with unforgettable adventures in southern Africa.

1. 4-Day Vic Falls, Botswana & Zambia Adventure: A Budget-Friendly Multi-Country Experience (From $1,360)

Short on time but craving a taste of southern Africa's best? Our 4-day Victoria Falls adventure is the perfect budget-friendly option. Experience the majestic Victoria Falls and incredible wildlife encounters in Botswana and Zambia – all in one action-packed trip!

Unforgettable Highlights:

• Expert-led tour of the breathtaking Victoria Falls
• Relaxing sunset cruise along the iconic Zambezi River
• Optional Thrills: Soar above the Falls with a "Flight of Angels" helicopter tour
• Optional Cultural Immersion: Visit a local village to experience authentic traditions
• Optional Adventure: Paddle along the scenic Upper Zambezi River by canoe
• Wildlife Encounters: Explore the renowned Chobe National Park in Botswana

Perfect For: Time-conscious solo adventurers, dynamic duos, or groups of friends looking for an affordable multi-country introduction to southern Africa. Customise your experience with optional activities to fit your interests and budget.

2. 6-Day Budget Zimbabwe Overland Safari & Victoria Falls: An Authentic Wildlife Journey (From $1,538)

Looking for an affordable and authentic Zimbabwe safari adventure starting at the magnificent Victoria Falls? Our 6-day Zimbabwe overland safari tour immerses you in the natural wonders, beginning with the awe-inspiring Falls before venturing into Zimbabwe's renowned national parks for exceptional wildlife viewing.

Unforgettable Highlights:

• Guided exploration of the majestic Victoria Falls
• Thrilling game drives in the wildlife-rich Hwange National Park
• Scenic game drives amidst the unique landscapes of Matobo National Park
• Fascinating visit to the ancient Great Zimbabwe ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Perfect For: Budget-savvy travellers seeking an off-the-beaten-path Vic Falls safari with a strong focus on Zimbabwe's diverse wildlife, rich culture, and fascinating history. Note that this adventure includes camping and longer travel days.

3. 7-Day Vic Falls, Chobe & Okavango Delta Overland: Botswana's Wildlife Gems on a Budget (From $2,195)

Are you dreaming of experiencing both the grandeur of Victoria Falls and the legendary wildlife of Botswana? Our 7-day overland African safari seamlessly connects Zimbabwe and Botswana, featuring the iconic Victoria Falls, the elephant haven of Chobe National Park, and the unique waterways of the Okavango Delta. The safari concludes in South Africa with convenient onward travel options.

Read more: How to Combine Kruger and Cape Town

Unforgettable Highlights:

• Spectacular sunset boat cruise along the wildlife-teeming Chobe River
• Exciting game drive within the renowned Chobe National Park
• Serene mokoro (traditional canoe) excursion through the breathtaking Okavango Delta
• Opportunity to spot rhinos at the Khama Rhino Sanctuary
• Optional Aerial Views: Experience the Okavango Delta from above with a scenic flight

Perfect For: Travellers looking for an affordable yet comprehensive Vic Falls safari that combines diverse wildlife encounters with the adventure of exploring multiple southern African regions.

4. 8-Day Kruger to Victoria Falls Exclusive Budget Safari: South Africa & Zimbabwe's Icons (From $2,153)

Want to tick off two major African bucket list destinations – Kruger National Park and Victoria Falls – in one incredible trip? Our 8-day overland journey bridges South Africa's premier wildlife reserve with the majestic Falls, exploring Botswana's Chobe National Park and the intriguing Makgadikgadi Salt Pans. This safari offers a fantastic blend of wildlife viewing and unique cultural experiences.

Unforgettable Highlights:

• Exceptional game drives in the world-famous Kruger National Park
• Insightful tour of the Black Mamba Anti-Poaching Unit headquarters
• Guided hike through the dramatic Moremi Gorge in Botswana
• Exploration of the vast and surreal Makgadikgadi Salt Pans
• Optional Exploration: Discover Victoria Falls from both the Zimbabwe and Zambia sides

Perfect For: First-time visitors to southern Africa seeking a well-rounded experience encompassing iconic wildlife encounters, conservation insights, and natural wonders across three distinct countries.

5. 8-Day Vic Falls & Untamed Safari Gems: Exploring Hwange & South Luangwa (From $4,454)

Yearning for an authentic African safari experience away from the crowds, combined with the wonder of Victoria Falls? Our 9-day Hwange, Victoria Falls & South Luangwa Safari offers an unforgettable overland adventure through Zimbabwe's wildlife-rich Hwange National Park and Zambia's South Luangwa Valley, renowned as the birthplace of walking safaris and a prime destination for leopard sightings.

Unforgettable Highlights:

• Diverse wildlife experiences: Game drives, guided bush hikes, and even a horse-riding safari in Hwange National Park
• Picturesque sunset cruise on the Zambezi River
• Immersive wildlife encounters in South Luangwa: Thrilling game drives, guided walking safaris, and unique cycle safaris

Perfect For: Seasoned African travellers seeking a more secluded and wildlife-intensive experience, venturing beyond the popular tourist routes to discover hidden gems.

6. 8-Day Botswana Fly-In Safari & Victoria Falls: Comfort & Exclusive Wildlife (From $4,343)

Maximise your precious time in Botswana's pristine wilderness with the convenience of fly-in transfers, all while experiencing the iconic Victoria Falls! Our 8-day fly-in safari offers a comfortable and exclusive wildlife journey through Chobe National Park (famous for its massive elephant herds) and the remote Khwai Concession in the Okavango Delta, with seamless air transfers to and from the Victoria Falls region.

Unforgettable Highlights:

• Guided exploration of the magnificent Victoria Falls
• Scenic Zambezi River sunset boat cruise
• Exceptional guided game drives and a unique boat safari along the Chobe River
• Immersive wildlife viewing, guided bush walks, and a traditional mokoro excursion in the Okavango Delta's Khwai Concession
• Spectacular helicopter flight providing breathtaking aerial views of the Khwai Concession

Perfect For: Budget-conscious travellers who prioritise comfortable lodge accommodation and exclusive, time-saving access to remote and wildlife-rich areas of Botswana, combined with the must-see Victoria Falls.

7. 9-Day Namibia to Victoria Falls Overland: Deserts, Delta & the Mighty Falls (From $2,768)

Embark on an incredible 9-day overland adventure from Namibia's dramatic landscapes to the thundering Victoria Falls, experiencing a remarkable diversity of ecosystems and wildlife! Our 9-day accommodated tour takes you from Namibia's Etosha National Park (home to the elusive "ghost elephants") through Botswana's Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park, culminating in the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, with comfortable lodge and tented camp stays throughout.

Unforgettable Highlights:

• Exciting afternoon game drive in Namibia's Etosha National Park
• Tranquil sunset mokoro trip in the heart of the Okavango Delta
• Unique stay in a tented camp within the remote Khwai Concession
• Full-day exploration with game drives in Moremi National Park
• Journey across the otherworldly Makgadikgadi Salt Pans
• Relaxing and wildlife-rich Chobe River boat cruise
• Witnessing the grandeur of Victoria Falls

Perfect For: Budget-conscious travellers who prefer comfortable lodge-based accommodation while experiencing Namibia and Botswana's contrasting beauty and wildlife before reaching the iconic Victoria Falls.

8. 13-Day Tanzania, Malawi & Vic Falls Overland Camping: An Epic East & Southern Africa Journey (From $2,338)

Look no further for an unforgettable and extensive East and southern Africa safari adventure culminating at Victoria Falls! Our 13-day overland loop offers a remarkable journey from Tanzania's Mikumi National Park, through the scenic landscapes of Malawi, to Zambia's predator-rich South Luangwa, and finally to the majestic Victoria Falls, providing a captivating blend of renowned and hidden safari gems.

Unforgettable Highlights:

• Exploring the vibrant city of Dar es Salaam
• Visiting the iconic Baobab Valley
• Learning about coffee cultivation at a plantation in the Mbeya Mountains
• Experiencing local life with a village walking tour near Lake Malawi
• Exciting sunset game drive in South Luangwa National Park
• Optional adrenaline-pumping adventure activities at Victoria Falls

Perfect For: Adventurous travellers seeking an affordable and immersive multi-country camping safari that blends diverse cultural encounters with incredible wildlife viewing, all leading to the spectacular Victoria Falls.

9. 13-Day Ultimate Cape Town to Vic Falls Overland: A Grand Southern African Expedition (From $3,332)

Embark on the ultimate southern African overland adventure, starting in the vibrant city of Cape Town and culminating at the breathtaking Victoria Falls! Book our overland Africa safari tour for an extensive 13-day journey through South Africa's major attractions, the world-renowned Kruger National Park, the historical Great Zimbabwe ruins, and finally, the magnificent "Smoke That Thunders."

Unforgettable Highlights:

• Exploring the iconic Table Mountain National Park
• Experiencing the vibrant culture of Soweto on a bicycle tour
• Exceptional wildlife encounters on game drives in Kruger National Park
• Immersive guided bushwalk in the pristine Timbavati Game Reserve
• Discovering the ancient wonders of the Great Zimbabwe Ruins
• Unique guided rhino walk in the dramatic Matobo Hills
• Comprehensive guided tour of the spectacular Victoria Falls

Perfect For: Travellers seeking a comprehensive two-week exploration of southern Africa's diverse highlights – from iconic landmarks and wildlife to history and culture – without needing luxury accommodations.

10. 7-Day Matobo, Hwange & Victoria Falls Zimbabwe Safari: Rhino Tracking & Wildlife Spectacle (From $3,151)

Looking for a unique and immersive Zimbabwe safari experience that combines incredible wildlife viewing with the natural beauty surrounding Victoria Falls? Our 7-day Zimbabwe safari tour takes you through the ancient granite landscapes of Matobo Hills (for unforgettable rhino tracking on foot) and the wildlife-rich plains of Hwange National Park (for exceptional game drives and walking safaris) before concluding at the spectacular Victoria Falls.

Unforgettable Highlights:

• The unique and thrilling experience of rhino tracking on foot in Matobo Hills
• Immersive walking safaris and exciting game drives in Hwange National Park
• Comprehensive and insightful guided tour of the magnificent Victoria Falls

Perfect For: Travellers drawn to active wildlife experiences beyond traditional game drives, such as rhino tracking and exploring ancient rock art, all while enjoying comfortable lodge-based accommodation and the grand finale of Victoria Falls.

Plan Your Perfect Victoria Falls Safari 

A Victoria Falls safari is an extraordinary African adventure; the best part is that it's more accessible than you might think! Our curated selection of African safari tours proves that you can enjoy immersive, thrilling, and affordable experiences, whether you prefer the adventure of camping, the convenience of fly-in safaris, or the comfort of lodge-based itineraries. Start planning your dream trip and prepare to be captivated by the magic of Africa.

Ready to plan your unforgettable and affordable Africa safari to Victoria Falls and beyond? Contact our expert team at African Budget Safaris for personalised assistance in crafting your perfect African adventure.

Lauren Melnick Author

Lauren Melnick is a freelance travel writer and runs Wanderlust Movement, a South Africa travel blog. When she isn't in front of her computer, you can find her rock climbing, running after cats, playing a downtempo DJ set or hosting group tours around South Africa and Morocco.

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