Are you looking for exciting dining options at the Victoria Falls which will offer you nothing but the real deal, perhaps with a touch of luxury added in? The spectacular grandeur of the Zambezi rushing over the Earths edge attracts huge crowds on both the Zimbabwean and Zambian sides, many in search of adventureora once-in-a-lifetime experience. Now add to this, authentic Victoria Falls dining. Here are some places worth a visit, or two.
The Royal Livingstone
Widely praised as one of southern Africas most prestigious resorts, Zambias Royal Livingstone has several dining options. Theres the famous Sun Deck with views over the Zambezi River, where you can enjoy gourmet barbeque with the coldest of drinks a welcome refreshment with views over the mighty river. Then there is the Royal Livingstones Lounge, where you are taken back to the times and travels of David Livingstone. Opt for high tea treats served daily around tea time and when sunset comes, you can sit in the shadow of this legend with a gin and tonic.
MaKuwa-Kuwa
Travelers return to MaKuwa-Kuwa again and again. MaKuwa-Kuwa has been voted Zimbabwes top restaurant on several occasions, and if you see and taste their menu, youll understand why. African cuisine, infused with a strong intercontinental flavor and views overlooking the Zambezi National Park this is the MaKuwa-Kuwa experience. Do not depart from this distinguished restaurant without tasting at least a few of their African cuisine selections, including game and even smoked crocodile. And to round it all off, pair your dish with some ofneighboring South Africas best wines.
The Boma Place of Eating
Local culture, heritage and dining like youve never experienced before. Probably the most authentic of all Victoria Falls dining options, The Boma starts each night out with Amakwezi dancers, a local story teller and sometimes even a fortune teller. Dinner is served during the entertainment and includes your choice of several Zimbabwean dishes: warthog fillet, traditional hunters stew, or Zambezi Bream and Kapenta to name a few. And then it is time for the campfire and drumming shows, taking you late into the Zimbabwean night.
The Rainbow Kraal
Only a short distance from Victoria Falls, the Rainbow Hotel and its acclaimed Rainbow Kraal restaurant is yet another unique and exciting Victoria Falls dining experience. The restaurant is modelled on a traditional African village or kraal, giving it an original African feel. At the Rainbow Kraal, game meat is the undisputed favorite but it is infused with Western flavors and side dishes, so don’t expect exclusive Zimbabwean dining. Cuisine aside, the Rainbow Kraal wants to reconnect you to pre-colonial times where travelers, traders and explorers where entertained by locals around the campfire. And living up to its African village ambience, cultural performers are your nightly entertainment.
Africa Caf
For breakfast, brunch or an early lunch, head out to the Africa Caf located at Zimbabwes Elephant Walk Shopping & Artist Village. Its the ideal place to enjoysome nosh, and perhaps a quick browse around the village shops, before making your way to the Falls. This is vibrant caf which attracts both locals and tourists, and its menu has an equal mix of local and international favorites. Order home-grown Zimbabwean coffee or tea and look out for the fresh ingredients straight from the cafs backyard garden, locally known as the Happy Hippo Organic Garden. And another plus point – this caf in particular has gone to great lengths to keep children entertained and amused.
Bridge Caf Restaurant
As its name suggests, the Bridge Caf is located at the Victoria Falls Bridge, a landmark connecting Zimbabwe and Zambia over the Zambezi River. With uninterrupted views across the Victoria Falls, including the Victoria Falls Bridge and the Batoka Gorge (and the brave bungee jumpers), the Bridge Caf is the ultimate place to savour a light lunch in such closeness to the Falls. Its bistro-style meals will appeal to most, with a good selection of burgers to choose from and a full bar. This is dining on the Victoria Falls like no where else, and if you are brave enough walk across the bridge or plunge down for an adrenaline-laden bungee jump while there.
Whether you find your way to the Victoria Falls from the Zambian or Zimbabwean side, the Victoria Falls is a must-see on every discerning travelers list. Now you can add Victoria Falls dining, and by choosing any one of these dining options, you will experience the full picture of Victorian Falls hospitality, culture and cuisine. Nothing but the real deal.