Wines, culture, and culinary magic—the iconic Victoria Falls Food and Wine Festival is returning to the majestic city of Victoria Falls with a fresh vision, stronger regional partnerships, and a bold celebration of Pan-African gastronomy.

Leading this exciting evolution is Wines of Color, a groundbreaking collective that is set to bring over 30 Black-owned wineries from South Africa to the festival. This dynamic showcase will spotlight a vibrant and often underrepresented segment of the wine industry, amplifying voices that continue to shape African excellence in winemaking.

Complementing this flavorful journey are nine top chefs from all nine South African provinces, each offering dishes infused with their region’s heritage, ingredients, and culinary flair. Their participation promises an extraordinary fusion of tradition, creativity, and continental pride.

Adding a unique twist to the tasting table, the Sotho people of Lesotho will introduce an exciting gin and trout pairing experience—a first for the festival. Their craft gin, infused with mountain herbs, will be served alongside delicately smoked highland trout. “It’s an intriguing experience, and a rare gastronomic journey,” an organizer shared.

Meanwhile, Zambia, home to the other side of the mighty Victoria Falls, is stepping in with strong representation. A renowned Zambian chef will headline culinary offerings, joined by Zambian hotels and food institutions. Festival insiders have hinted at the potential attendance of Zambian Minister of Tourism, Hon. Rodney Sikumba, a long-standing advocate of the event. His presence would affirm the growing bond between tourism stakeholders in the region.

In an exclusive interview with My Afrika Magazine, festival organiser Patrick expressed that this edition is more than an event—it’s an experience. “This event is unique. It’s more than a festival—it’s an experience,” he said.

He added that the 2025 edition will be elevated by curated signature offerings, including a luxurious train and river journey:

“What sets the 2025 edition apart are its exclusive breakaway experiences designed to create lasting memories:
A VIP train journey aboard the legendary Bushtracks Steam Train, complete with curated food and wine pairings as the train meanders through scenic wilderness.
A luxury boat cruise topped off with a signature tasting at Magetsi Zambezi Vista, an enchanting platform floating above the riverbanks with sunset views of the mighty Zambezi.”

He also highlighted the Business Cocktail evening scheduled at The Lookout Café, a stunning venue perched above the Batoka Gorge and managed by Wild Horizons:

“A sophisticated Business Cocktail evening at The Lookout Café… merges business networking with exquisite bites and bold wines.”

Beyond the glitz, the festival serves a larger vision. It is a powerful vehicle for promoting gastronomic tourism across the KAZA (Kavango-Zambezi) region, reinforcing cross-border culinary diplomacy and sustainable tourism development. The festival also aligns with Zimbabwe’s national #Zimbo campaign, promoting local tourism pride, and supports the “Meet in Zim” initiative, positioning the country as a top-tier MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) destination.

On the entertainment front, festival-goers can look forward to performances from multi-award-winning artist PJ Powers, DJ Wrangler, James Sakala, GoodLuck, DJ Ash T, Band Fusion, and many others. Adding glamour to the lineup will be a fashion show on May 30th at Baobab School Grounds, showcasing African flair through fabric and design.

Running from May 30 to June 1, the 2025 edition is proudly supported by sponsors including Kim and Wine, Bush Cuisine, Simba’s Bakery, Victoria Falls Hotel, Breeze FM, and Wild Horizons.

As the world turns its gaze to one of Africa’s most spectacular wonders, the Victoria Falls Food and Wine Festival 2025 is set to leave a mark not just on palates, but on hearts—with a bold, authentic, and unforgettable taste of Africa’s finest.