The River Brewing Company is a craft brewery, taproom and smokehouse in the town of Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, a short drive from the Zambezi River and the falls themselves. Founded as one of the area’s first microbreweries, River Brew Co makes its signature River Lager and seasonal craft beers with Zambezi water. It has grown into a social hub where travelers unwind after rafting, bungee jumps and rainforest walks with locally brewed beer, smoked food, live bands and DJs.
What to Expect at The River Brewing Company
The beer list is short and has a strong local identity. The River Lager is the flagship. It is light and crisp, brewed with a touch of baobab, and has smooth citrus notes. Siyabonga Session IPA is a single-hop pour with grapefruit and tropical fruit flavors, and its name means “thank you” in Ndebele. Flying Bantu Red Ale is a copper-hued Irish-style red named after the town’s own Flying Bantu band. Seasonal brews rotate alongside these core beers.
Food comes from The Smokehouse, the brewery’s kitchen. It focuses on slow-smoked meats and hearty plates that suit a pint. Evenings often bring live music or DJ sets, so the mood shifts from relaxed lunches to busy, social nights. Guided brewery tours can be booked through the official website, which also handles private event enquiries.
- River Lager: The signature crisp lager with baobab and citrus notes, brewed with Zambezi water.
- Siyabonga Session IPA: A low-strength, single-hop IPA with grapefruit and tropical aromas.
- Flying Bantu Red Ale: A malty, copper-colored red ale that honors a local band.
- The Smokehouse: The on-site kitchen serving smoked meats and pub-style plates.
- Brewery Tours & Live Music: Bookable tours of the brewhouse, plus regular bands and DJ nights.
The River Brewing Company at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe |
| Neighborhood / Area | Victoria Falls town, near the Zambezi River |
| Operating Hours | Daily, 11AM–11PM |
| Admission / Price Range | No entry fee; $$ (moderate) |
| Recommended Visit Duration | 1.5 to 3 hours |
| Nearest Transit / Parking | Taxi or hotel shuttle; on-site parking |
| Official Website & Phone | riverbrewco.com · +263 8677 174675 |
Visiting Tips, Getting There & Nearby Pairings
For a quieter tasting and an easy chat about the beers, arrive in the mid-afternoon. Come after 7PM on weekends if you want live music and a crowd. Book brewery tours ahead online. Walk-ins are usual for the taproom, but groups should call first. Victoria Falls has no public transit, so use a taxi, hotel transfer or rental car. Most lodges in town are a short ride away. Walking after dark is not advised because wildlife roams the town.
The taproom and outdoor seating are mostly on ground level, though some areas have uneven surfaces. Wheelchair users should call ahead about the best entrance. Nearby, you can pair a visit with the Victoria Falls rainforest trail, the Victoria Falls Bridge, or sundowners at the Victoria Falls Hotel. Each is a short drive away.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the opening hours?
The River Brewing Company is open daily from 11AM to 11PM. Afternoons are calmer, and evenings bring music and bigger crowds.
Do I need a reservation?
Walk-ins are fine for the taproom, and prices sit in the moderate $$ tier. Brewery tours and events should be booked through the official website.
How long should I stay?
Allow 1.5 to 3 hours for a tasting, a Smokehouse meal and some live music. A tour adds extra time.
Is it family friendly?
Daytime visits suit families who want to eat, and the dress code is casual. Late evenings lean toward an adult nightlife crowd.
When planning your Victoria Falls travel guide or browsing verified attractions in Victoria Falls, pair this stop with standout local spots including Victoria Falls River Lodge, Victoria Falls Rainbow Hotel, Mbano Manor Hotel Victoria Falls By Mantis, and Ilala Lodge Hotel (0.1 km away).
