Dates will be announced via newsletter on June 16th.
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Dates will be announced via newsletter on June 16th. --
Group Trip
Victoria Falls 2027
Zimbabwe, Zambia, & Botswana
We will be opening our Victoria Falls Group Trip on June 16, 2026. The dates will be in April and May of 2027. To sign up, you will need to subscribe to our email list below. All communication and forms will be sent using your email address.
Imagine standing in front of one of the most jaw-dropping waterfalls on the planet, mist in your hair, rainbows dancing in the spray—and doing it all with a bunch of new travel buddies who might just become lifelong friends. Our group tour to Victoria Falls isn’t just about checking a wonder off your bucket list—it’s about laughing your way through elephant encounters, trading stories on a Chobe River cruise, and collectively saying “wow” at least 237 times.
We take care of all the logistics (minus your visa and airline ticket)—accommodations, food, transport, tours—so you can focus on the important things, like which animal to photograph or how to pose like you totally weren't scared ziplining through our canopy tour. Whether you’re a solo adventurer who wants built-in company or a couple looking to spice up your travel routine with a splash of group energy, this tour is made for you. It’s equal parts awe and awesome—and let’s face it, everything’s better when you’ve got a crew to high-five at the end of the day.
We can’t wait to meet you!
(Be sure to check out our testimonials below!)
Frequently asked questions…
Cost is $5,300 per person, $2,000 due immediately and remainder February 1, 2027
We will host each week, and travel with you everywhere!
Each week has room for 12 double occupancy & 1 single occupancy at Pamarah Lodge, one of our favorite boutique hotels
Transportation to and from the lodge, all meals, transportation, activities, and gratuities included. Transportation from VFA or local lodge is included when arriving and departing.
Each person is responsible for obtaining a KAZA UNIVISA (multi-entry) at a cost of about $50 at the airport.
Group video call before trip to answer questions near the time of departure and provide travel advice to help build confidence.
Itinerary for Each Week
Participant Testimonials
The 5 GREATS of Victoria Falls with John and Bev!
1. Great food
2. Great accommodations
3. Great adventure
4. Great fun
5. Great friends made.
The week was full of activity, and each day seemed to top the other! It’s hard to imagine the scope of the Falls without actually being there seeing, listening and feeling the enormity of them. I’m still smiling and giggling with memories of the trip weeks after! — Linda
We’ve traveled extensively around the world, and our Victoria Falls trip with John and Bev ranks among our favorite travel experiences ever. Every detail was thoughtfully planned, the accommodations and activities were outstanding, and the group quickly felt like friends. Whether you’re new to international travel or a seasoned traveler, John and Bev make it easy to simply enjoy the adventure. We can’t recommend their trips highly enough and are already looking forward to the next one. — Jay & Sabine
If I were asked what my favorite day during the Victoria Falls trip, I would say “Every Day!” At the end of each day, I would think to myself, this has been the best day, and then the next day another amazing experience happens, and at the end of that day, I think, “this is the best day!” John and Bev have created such a wonderful trip. You can really get the feel for what life is like in Zimbabwe. All the activities planned are fantastic. We loved staying at Pamarah-the hosts and staff are so kind and friendly. — Margaret
If you're considering an African safari in 2027, I strongly recommend the Retirement Travelers 7-Day Victoria Falls Safari. My wife and I joined the tour this past April, and it exceeded our expectations in every way.
From the warm hospitality and attentive service at Pamara Lodge to the unforgettable wildlife encounters, every aspect of the trip was thoughtfully planned and flawlessly executed. We were continually impressed by the attention to detail and personal care provided throughout the journey.
John and Bev Martin truly over-delivered, creating an experience that was both exciting and comfortable. Seeing some of Africa's most majestic animals in their natural habitat was a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, and the memories will stay with us forever.
If you're looking for a safari that combines outstanding accommodations, expert guidance, and remarkable wildlife viewing, this tour is an excellent choice. — Jeff
My wife and I joined John and Bev during week #4 of their 2026 Victoria Falls trip. While we had some idea what we would experience from the itinerary, neither one of us were prepared for the amazing time we had. Pamarah Lodge instantly felt like home to us. The owners and staff were amazing, along with the beautiful accommodations and the delicious food. Each day was packed full of activities such as safaris, zip-lining, a sunset river cruise on the Zambezi River, a ride on a Victorian era train, and of course the stunning Victoria Falls.
While on safari, we came face to face with a variety of African wildlife, including: lions, elephants, hippos, rhinos, giraffes, and Cape Buffalo. After each day, my wife and I would go to bed thinking that is just couldn’t get any better until the next day when John and Bev did it again. If you’ve ever had any inclination of traveling to Victoria Falls, book yourself on this once in a lifetime journey! You will not regret it. —Jim & Jen
There are trips that fill a photo album, and then there are journeys that shift your perspective on life. Our 7-day expedition with John and Bev Martin of the Retirement Travels was undeniably the latter.
If you’ve been watching their adventures on YouTube, you know the scenery is stunning, their stories are heartwarming and they are the rarest salt of the earth people we just don’t have enough of in today’s world.
To travel alongside them is to realize that the real "magic" isn't just the destination; it’s the wisdom, safety, and heart they pour into every mile. — Stevie & Tiffany
We had never taken a group trip before and we will never take another one with anyone else! John and Bev surpassed all expectations and someone else could never do as fine a job! They put so much of their heart and soul into this trip that it was truly a magical time. We loved every single minute of it (and slept for 24 hours afterwards!) — Jenny
We had an absolutely wonderful week in Victoria Falls with the Retirement Travelers.
The entire experience was thoughtfully planned from start to finish, with a fantastic selection of curated activities that gave us the perfect mix of adventure, sightseeing, and culture.
The lodging was excellent—comfortable, welcoming, and ideally located, making it easy to enjoy everything the area has to offer. Every detail seemed carefully considered, which allowed us to simply relax and enjoy the experience.
What really stood out was the sense of community and fun throughout the week. We met great people, shared memorable experiences, and created lasting memories together. Victoria Falls itself is breathtaking, but the outstanding organization, accommodations, and activities made the trip even more special.
We would highly recommend this experience to anyone looking for a well-organized, enjoyable, and enriching travel. — Susan and Mike
Bev & John created a wonderfully curated trip with every detail considered from start to finish. All questions and communication with them, from sign-up, payments, transfers etc., were promptly answered and arranged. The tour that Bev and John created was beyond excellent. Having done a meet & greet virtually before the tour helped with them knowing us, and allowed the group a bit of familiarity prior to the start.
Once the tour began nobody felt rushed, nobody felt left behind, and the itinerary had just enough flexibility that it never felt like we were just being herded from one spot to the next completing a checklist. Well perhaps we were too well fed. Generous breakfasts, leisurely lunches, and dinners that gave us plenty of reason to linger at the table. Nobody went hungry, that's for sure.
The week offered a nice mix of activities — a sunset cruise on the Zambezi, an environmental walk with elephants, a cruise watching elephants wade along the riverbank, zipline canopy tour, every single day was another unbelievable experience. This wasn't just a tour; it was the kind of trip that turns fellow travelers into lifelong friends. Bev and John made certain that our needs and concerns were well met; they made all of the right choices by creating a homebase at the beautiful Pamarah Lodge and then something new each day.
Well done - cannot recommend enough! — Dea & Jan
What a wonderful trip!
John and Bev designed such a well rounded trip that included beautiful sites, great food, adventures, history and of course, amazing safaris. They made it so easy for us. All we had to do was arrive at the airport and they took care of everything else. It was a week we will never forget! — Karen and Scott
Here is something we did not expect:
The other people in our group were ENJOYABLE and made the trip a lot of fun. They were from all over, several couples and a few singles. Great fun! Many of us are still friends today.
The agenda was just right. Every day was fun interesting and busy but not too busy and we had a blast. We are still talking about it.
Here is the most important question: Would we send our friends and family?
The answer is YES! We had a ball and are 100% confident our friends and family would too!
We can’t wait for John and Bev to put on another tour someplace we have never been before! We will sign up immediately. —John & Bing
The week exceeded all expectations. Victoria Falls was incredible, the river cruise and safaris were unforgettable, and every transfer, meal, and activity was handled smoothly. Exploring the town was easy, safe, and affordable, which made the whole experience even better.
Meeting John and Bev was a highlight. They were friendly, funny, experienced, and genuinely helpful throughout the trip. Our group clicked right away, and it never felt like a typical tour—it felt like traveling with capable, like-minded people who truly wanted everyone to have a great experience.
We made new friends, had an amazing week, and would absolutely travel with the Retirement Travelers again. — Jason & Denise
John and Bev are a pleasure to be with. They are organized, expert travelers that know what they are doing. It was a privilege to be on this trip to Zimbabwe, Botswana and Zambia and we highly recommend it to others. Pamarah Lodge is a gem and the people we met are to be treasured. — Oscar and Gabriela
Our 1st ever group travel could not have been any better, thanks to John and Bev! They had so many activities planned throughout the week, it was non-stop fun and every day was more amazing than the day before! Pamarah Lodge was the most beautiful lodge, with courteous staff and such a wonderful family that owns and operates it! We can’t wait to travel with John and Bev again in the future, we are even considering joining them in Vic Falls again, we had such a wonderful experience! —David and Diane
Traveling to Victoria Falls with John and Bev felt like joining friends on the adventure of a lifetime. Stunning waterfalls, wildlife-filled river cruises and jeep adventures, outstanding restaurants, exceptional accommodations at Pamara Lodge, and a fun group of like-minded travelers made every day special. We were even brave enough to try our first zip-lining experience and loved it! Every detail was taken care of, making it easy to simply enjoy every moment. It was a week of pure bliss! -- Cindy & Jason
We joined the Retirement Travelers on week 3 of their Victoria Falls group trip in March of 2026 and it was flawless start to finish. Communication, planning, and execution were seamless. Pamarah Lodge was top-tier and the staff is best-in-class. Every small detail was handled with ease, allowing the group to fully immerse ourselves in the unbelievable landscapes, wildlife, and cultures. From the breathtaking beauty of Victoria Falls to unforgettable safaris across Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Botswana, every day brought something extraordinary. The wildlife sightings exceeded all expectations. We saw so many animals in their natural habitat and experience the magic of Africa up close. The food, accommodations, and stunning views throughout the trip were exceptional. One of the greatest surprises was the wonderful people we met along the way. Sharing this experience with such a fantastic group created friendships and memories that will last a lifetime. This journey was the perfect combination of adventure, natural beauty, culture, and camaraderie. We returned home with full hearts, incredible photos, and memories we'll cherish forever. It's a trip we'll never forget and would highly recommend to anyone considering an African safari adventure. — Aaron and Sandy
It is one of my great vacations I had. We were very well taken care by John and Bev during the trip. Don't want to list a tons of details since I want to stop boring my readers with long texts. Here are a few my thoughts highlighting this vacation.
1) It is the most restful getaway I've ever had. What I means is John and Bev handled all details of the itinerary, including tips which I always have troubles with. You just go and enjoy all activities.
2) It was a small group. It helped to build a family or very close friend atmosphere within our group. We were not only enjoying all events but also having fun among us.
3) John and Bev arranged so many activities, some exciting, some adventure, and some relax. With varieties, you won't feel boring at all.
All in all, I will definitely join John and Bev again if possible. — Sam
Our Victoria Falls trip with The Retirement Travelers, John and Bev, was truly unforgettable. From the (soaking) wet and exhilarating waterfall trek to up-close and personal encounters with elephants, a beautiful Zambezi River cruise, and thrilling game drives, every day was filled with adventure and memorable experiences. The breathtaking views from the Lookout Café, the lively Boma dinner and drum show, dining aboard the steam train overlooking the Zambezi, and the eclectic atmosphere of Dusty Road were all highlights we won’t soon forget.
Most of all, John and Bev’s warmth, energy, and genuine passion for bringing people together and creating memorable experiences made the week special for everyone. Paramah Lodge was the perfect home base, and its welcoming owners, Phil, Mornette, Ross and Holly along with their exceptionally attentive staff, made us feel less like guests and more like friends.
As incredible as the sights, activities, and dining experiences were, the most unforgettable part of the trip was the people we met along the way. We quickly bonded with a wonderful group of like-minded travelers, creating friendships and memories that we will cherish for years to come. —Scott and Jenni
The entire trip was a fabulous experience! First-rate accommodations, restaurants, safaris, cultural experiences, and activities. Definitely would go again. John & Bev are the best! — Mark and Heidi
If Africa and a safari are on your bucket list, I recommend the Victoria Falls trip organized by Bev and John. This was a once in a lifetime experience for me. Of all the trips I have taken, this was one of the top five. The trip exceeded all my expectations.
Ask yourself if not now when will you go on a trip like this. Don’t wait too long! — Sherry
What stood out to me during my week at Victoria Falls:
1. Meeting John & Bev
Having Bev tell me she was happy I joined in because many solo women are hesitant to travel alone actually brought a tear to my eye. She made me feel special. It was such a thrill to meet the people I've been following on YouTube and discover that they are every bit as authentic and genuine in person as they are in their videos.
I also appreciated how both of you made an effort to spend time talking with everyone in the group.
2. Pamarah Lodge
Excellent choice for accommodations. The staff were among the friendliest and most welcoming I've ever encountered, and the food was wonderful. I thoroughly enjoyed my stay from beginning to end.
3. Activities
The zipline is an absolute must! The sunset cruise was beautiful, although the food wasn't my favorite. Feeding the elephants was an incredible experience, and of course, touring Victoria Falls was unforgettable. — Joanne
I have been on quite a few group tours arranged by different companies. The Victoria Falls trip with The Retirement Travelers was the most organized and one of the most extraordinary trips I’ve ever been on. The activities selected were a great mix of awe-inspiring, exhilarating, and just plain fun! The tour guides were very knowledgeable and happy to answer any questions we had – and we had a lot of them. I enjoyed the varied meals as well – from a restaurant that focused on traditional cooking and ingredients, a drum and dinner show, a multi-course meal on a steam train, and others. John and Bev’s enthusiasm for sharing this special place was evident. Their friendliness also contributed to an atmosphere that fostered friendships between the entire group. I wholeheartedly recommend this trip and would gladly join any other trip they might offer in the future. — MK
We joined The Retirement Travelers during Week 5 of their 2026 group trip to Victoria Falls. Having followed John and Bev for the past four years, we knew this would be a memorable adventure, but we approached the concept of group travel with some trepidation. Bringing 27 strangers together for a week-long excursion could have gone in many directions.
However, the moment we walked into Pamarah Lodge, our worries disappeared. We immediately knew we were about to experience something truly special. Surrounded by like-minded travelers who were eager to share the experience, the entire group came together naturally and seamlessly. The excellent and attentive staff, combined with the outstanding amenities at Pamarah Lodge, created the perfect home base for the week. Having this beautiful boutique hotel exclusively for our group added to the ease with which these 27 strangers quickly became friends in such an intimate and welcoming setting.
Having watched many (ok, most) of John and Bev’s videos, we can confidently say that they are exactly the same people in person as they are on screen – down-to-earth, welcoming, genuine, incredibly engaging, and fun! They organized a truly unforgettable week, blending exciting excursions, educational experiences, and meaningful opportunities to connect with the local culture and community.
From experiencing the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, zipping through the trees on a canopy tour, and getting up close with wildlife on safari, to visiting a local market, enjoying a memorable and delicious farm-to-table dining experience, and sharing countless small, intimate moments throughout the week, every day brought something new and special. This group trip is an absolute must-do. And experiencing it all through the eyes and experience of John and Bev is a memory we will cherish! -- Eric & Diane
Zip lining is just more fun in a group and, if you were travelling either solo or with just one friend, you might not bother. Sharing the fun with new friends was super, and John & Bev did the research, planning and booking. That week in Victoria Falls flowed smoothly, was suitably busy, and was filled with memory-making experiences. Even meals were an event. The group was diverse which made for good discussions and the sharing of ideas on a topic of mutual interest: travel and being curious as we explore the world. The average stay in VF is less than 3 days. A week is much better and there were still options. -- Peter and Helen
Historically, we are not group travel people. We like to plan our own and maintain flexibility. When it came to Africa though, we really wanted a bit of guidance. John and Bev planned and executed an amazing trip to Victoria Falls - it was just the right mix of activity and rest, community and down time. They included meaningful activities we probably wouldn’t have booked on our own, but having done them can’t imagine missing out on those experiences. Our advice - sign up immediately. This trip will live forever in our hearts. -- Renee & Bill
The adventure to Victoria Falls, organized by John & Bev, was one of the most exciting and well organized trips. We generally do not do commercial tours as we feel they generally are rushed, but this was seven days of fun, wonder and experiences where each day was better than the last. Our days were full of activities including the Falls themselves, safaris with wonderful guides, river cruises, bridge climbs, cultural nights, ziplining, close animal encounters, fantastic food and wonderful accommodation. We never felt rushed, but the days had plenty to offer with excited anticipation of what the day would bring. We are so glad we were able to join our wonderful Week 1 group. John & Bev made the trip intimate and welcoming. Looking forward to our next adventure with John & Bev.” -- Ian and Deb
A dream come true and beyond! Never imagined there could be so much beauty, and each day was full of surprises. Bev caught me having a WOW moment one of those that you look inside and out in awe wanting to extend it forever! So grateful to you two for making it possible. -- Vicky
The Victoria Falls trip we took with John and Bev was truly epic! It was one of the best trips I have taken in my life, and I am a very frequent traveler. From the luxe, comfy, and friendly accommodations at Pamarah Lodge to the exciting and unique activities we had every day, the trip was outstanding and so much fun! Not to mention the instant camaraderie felt between all the new friends we met as well. I usually don’t do tours, but this was definitely more like a group of friends got together and planned an awesome adventure filled week in Africa. The game drives and wildlife were amazing, the Falls were beautiful, the bridge tour adventurous and the cocktails and dinner in the bush were so unique. Also, the fun shows, dinner train, and all the meals- just so much to love every day! And now they’re adding the exciting helicopter ride too!
All this and a chance to hang out with John and Bev for a week- nothing better than that! What an awesome memorable adventure! -- Kathy
We have traveled a bit around the world, most independently, but have taken 10 small group tours from two highly rated tour companies in recent years. All of them are very good, but John and Bev's Victoria Falls group tour is the best tour we have taken so far because the itinerary was so well designed and lovingly tweaked/perfected each week they ran the tour, to make sure everyone can have the best experience possible.
They are exactly the same people in person as they are in their videos, down-to-earth, genuine, warm, funny, and adorable.
Weeks before the trip began, they created WhatsApp group and scheduled group video calls for each week's participants so we could connect and quickly bonded once we arrived. So we were not traveling with strangers, we were traveling with like-minded new friends.
All-inclusive / simple pricing. Some tour companies may offer a cheaper tour on paper, but if you add up everything (arrival and departure transfers, all the food and drinks, add-ons like photo and video packages from activities, tips for EVERYTHING ...), it may not be cheaper anymore.
Pamarah Lodge, the perfect home base for the week. Absolutely the most wonderful hosts and staffs you could possibly ask for.
We wholeheartedly recommend this trip and would love to join other new trip(s) they might offer in the future. --Dave & Xiaowei
Our trip with John and Bev to Victoria Falls was the trip of a lifetime! The gift was to experience Africa’s beauty in wildlife safaris, cultural theater and dance, boat rides, unique dining opportunities and exciting zip lines you never imagined you could do! While meeting such beautiful new friends who share your love of travel only adds to the amazing experience! Next, we can’t wait to join you in China! -- Karl and Ethel
Traveling to Africa with the Retirement Travelers (John and Bev Martin) was an unforgettable experience. As inexperienced international travelers, we were a bit hesitant and nervous about taking this trip. We need not have been. It turned out to be stress-free and worry-free. John and Bev had every detail planned out - absolutely everything was taken care of from the time we got off the plane until we boarded the plane to return home. John and Bev accompanied us on all the activities that were included in the trip. The variety of these activities gave us an appreciation of Africa - the wildlife, the scenery, the culture, and the food. The trip was truly an amazing experience! -- Gayle and Dave
Africa wasn’t originally on our retirement bucket list. However, after following John and Bev from The Retirement Travelers on YouTube and hearing about their first hosted group trip to Africa, we decided it was an opportunity we couldn’t pass up and we even asked our friends Lisa and Craig to join us and they did.
We chose to arrive a few days early and stay a few days afterward to explore more of the region. But after experiencing everything included in the Victoria Falls itinerary that John and Bev put together, we can honestly say that anyone looking to get a true taste of Africa in just one week should absolutely book this trip.
In a single week, we experienced more than we ever imagined—from the breathtaking Victoria Falls and a scenic cruise along the Zambezi River to an unforgettable safari in Chobe National Park. We even added zip-lining and the bridge tour for a little extra adventure.
John and Bev, along with the wonderful team at Pamarah Lodge, made this a truly memorable trip of a lifetime. Every detail was thoughtfully planned, allowing us to relax and enjoy the experience while creating memories that will stay with us forever.
If you want a first-class African adventure that delivers an incredible variety of experiences in just one week, we highly recommend The Retirement Travelers Victoria Falls Trip.
Thank you, John and Bev, for making this journey so special and unforgettable. -- Todd & Janice
A trip worthwhile. The friends we made will remain with us for a lifetime. The beauty of the scenery was breathtaking. We just had to show up and that was only planning required so it was very uncomplicated. --Joe
Traveling to Africa on my own was something I both dreamed about and quietly worried about. As a solo woman, I did face a few challenges along the way—moments where I had to dig deep, stay flexible, and trust myself. But what I didn’t expect was just how supported and cared for I would feel throughout the entire journey. Meeting John and Bev from Retirement Travelers was truly a turning point for me on this trip. From the moment I joined the group, they made me feel seen, included, and completely safe. They have a genuine warmth that goes beyond just being great hosts—they truly care about the people traveling with them. Every detail of the trip was thoughtfully taken care of. I didn’t have to worry about logistics at all—meals, transportation, safaris, and experiences were all seamlessly organized. That allowed me to be fully present and soak in everything around me, from the incredible wildlife to the beauty of Africa itself. What meant the most to me, though, was how they showed up during the moments I needed it. Traveling alone can sometimes feel isolating, but I never felt alone on this trip. John and Bev created a space where I felt supported, welcomed, and part of something special. This experience pushed me in the best ways and reminded me of my own strength—but it was their kindness and care that made it truly unforgettable. I came home with amazing memories, a full heart, and so much gratitude.
You two are truly what you see is what you get in the most amazing way. With much thanks, Kirsten