The colonial influence on the Victoria Falls region, both in Zambia and Zimbabwe, is still very much evident, from Victorian buildings that have been preserved, to the legacy of David Livingstone and the other explorers who played a key role in the history of the area. High tea is one of the traditions left behind from a bygone era. Tourism Update rounds up some of the best places to enjoy afternoon snacks and leisurely drinks in and around the Falls.

1.The River Club

Guests can enjoy high tea, which is served outside on the main veranda overlooking a sweeping bend of the Zambezi River, while taking in the view of pods of hippos and the Zambezi National Park on the other side of the river. The River Club places a special emphasis on high-quality dining and high tea is no exception. It is served every afternoon and guests are treated to a variety of freshly prepared snacks to enjoy while observing the wildlife that passes by.

For more information, visit www.theriverclubafrica.com.

2.The Royal Livingstone

Sun International’s Royal Livingstone hotel in Zambia serves traditional high tea every day of the week from 15h00 until 17h00. A selection of cakes and confectionaries are served, which guests can enjoy on one of the hotel’s sundecks against the backdrop of the Victoria Falls and the Zambezi River. The hotel is particularly well known for its carrot cake, as well as its eight-texture chocolate cake. Dress code is smart casual.

For more information, visit www.suninternational.com/royal-livingstone.

3.The Victoria Falls Hotel

Arguably the most famous destination for high tea in Zimbabwe, the Victoria Falls Hotel serves up traditional high tea between 15h00 and 17h30 on Stanley’s Terrace, looking straight on to the Victoria Falls Bridge. The silver service tea features a wide selection of traditional confectionary, including scones and cucumber sandwiches, served with tea, champagne or a choice of cocktails. The hotel’s high tea is also open to guests not staying at the property.

For more information, visit: http://www.victoriafallshotel.com/ 

4.Toka Leya Camp

High tea is served outdoors on the deck overlooking the Zambezi River and guests at Wilderness Safaris’ Toka Leya Camp are offered a selection of freshly baked savoury and sweet snacks, along with its signature iced coffee and tea. Toka Leya is inside Zambia’s Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, and the bushveld setting means that guests enjoying high tea are likely to regularly see wildlife, including elephant, as well as the camp’s resident hippo, nicknamed Moto Moto.

For more information, visit www.wilderness-safaris.com/camps/toka-leya-camp.

5.Victoria Falls Safari Club

The Victoria Falls Safari Club in Zimbabwe offers complimentary afternoon tea every day between 15h30 and 16h30 on its deck, exclusively for its guests. From the deck, guests can enjoy views of the surrounding bushveld and the game-rich waterhole. Freshly made pastries are on the menu, along with a huge selection of flavoured teas and speciality coffees. Victoria Falls Safari Club offers Zimbabwean-produced Tanganda tea, along with imported options such as Arabian mint with honey, Italian almond, white tea and pomegranate, and Darjeeling.

For more information, visit www.africaalbidatourism.com/safari-lodges/victoria-falls-safari-club.

6.Livingstone Island High Tea

Located in the middle of the Zambezi River, Livingstone Island touches the lip of the Victoria Falls. After a short boat trip to the island, visitors can take in views of both the Zambian and Zimbabwe side of the Falls, just as David Livingstone first saw them, while a local guide explains more about the local history, geology, flora and fauna. High tea is served in the afternoon, with drinks and freshly prepared snacks. Access to the island depends on water levels in the Zambezi and is usually available between July and March. The tour departs at 15h30 and returns at 17h30 each day.

For more information, visit www.tongabezi.com.

7.Elephant Camp

Situated within Zimbabwe’s Victoria Falls National Park on a concession bounded by two gorges, The Elephant Camp Victoria Falls offers guests a special high tea experience. They are taken on a short game drive to a spot overlooking the Masuie Gorge and the surrounding bushveld. Guests are served a selection of sweet and savoury treats prepared by the camp’s chef.

For more information, visit www.theelephantcamp.com.