Victoria Falls—locally known as “Mosi-oa-Tunya” or “The Smoke That Thunders“—stands as one of Africa’s most spectacular natural wonders. Straddling the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia on the Zambezi River, this UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts the world’s largest sheet of falling water, creating a thunderous spectacle visible from miles away. The falls stretch 1.7 kilometres wide and plunge 108 meters into the gorge below, generating a perpetual mist that nourishes the surrounding rainforest ecosystem. Beyond the magnificent falls themselves, the region offers world-class adventure activities, wildlife experiences, and cultural encounters that make it a must-visit destination for travellers seeking the quintessential African experience.

When to Visit Victoria Falls

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit Victoria Falls depends on what you want to experience. For maximum water volume and the most dramatic views of the falls, visit during the high-water season from February to May. For activities like white-water rafting and swimming in Devil’s Pool, the low-water season from August to December is best.

Seasonal Breakdown

• High-Water Season (February-May): The falls are at their most powerful, with massive water volume creating spectacular views and constant spray (prepare to get wet!). Some activities like certain swimming spots and rafting may be unavailable due to dangerous water levels.
• Transition Period (June-July): Water levels begin to decrease, offering a balance between impressive falls and access to more activities.
• Low-Water Season (August-December): The falls are less powerful but still impressive, especially on the Zimbabwe side. This is ideal for white-water rafting, swimming in Devil’s Pool, and better photography opportunities without the heavy mist.
• Rainy Season (January): The start of the new cycle with increasing water levels. Roads can be muddy and some activities may be disrupted by rainfall.

How to Get to Victoria Falls

By Air

• Victoria Falls Airport (VFA) on the Zimbabwe side and Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport (LVI) in Livingstone, Zambia both receive flights from major African cities including Johannesburg, Cape Town, Nairobi, and Addis Ababa.
• Airlines serving these airports include British Airways, South African Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, and Airlink.
• Both airports are approximately 20-30 minutes by road from the falls.

By Land

• From Zimbabwe: Using road with own transport or regular buses connecting from Harare and Bulawayo.
• From Zambia: Using road with own transport or regular buses and trains connecting from Lusaka.
• From Botswana: Regular transfers connect from Kasane (about 80km away).
• From Namibia: Overland routes via the Caprivi Strip.

Getting Around Victoria Falls

• Walking: The town of Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe) is compact and walkable.
• Taxis: Available in both Victoria Falls and Livingstone.
• Shuttle Services: Most hotels offer shuttle services to the falls and major attractions.
• Car Rental: Available at both airports for self-driving or chauffeured.
• Border Crossing: The Victoria Falls Bridge connects Zimbabwe and Zambia. KAZA Uni-Visa allows tourists to move between both countries (when available).

Top Attractions and Things to Do in Victoria Falls

The Falls Experience

1. Viewing the Falls from Zimbabwe: The Zimbabwe side offers the most comprehensive views with 16 viewing points along a 1.7km walkway facing 75% of the falls.
2. Viewing the Falls from Zambia: The Zambia side offers closer, more intimate views and the chance to stand at the top of the falls at Knife-Edge Bridge.
3. Helicopter Flight (“Flight of Angels”): 15-30 minute flights provide spectacular aerial views of the falls and surrounding landscape.
4. Lunar Rainbow: During full moon nights, a rare moonbow (lunar rainbow) can be seen at the falls.
5. Sunset Cruise on the Zambezi: Experience wildlife and dramatic African sunsets above the falls.

Adventure Activities in Victoria Falls

1. White-Water Rafting: Navigate through class IV-V rapids in the Batoka Gorge (best during low water season).
2. Bungee Jumping: Leap from the 111-meter Victoria Falls Bridge connecting Zimbabwe and Zambia.
3. Devil’s Pool: Swim at the very edge of the falls in this natural infinity pool (Zambia side, available only during low water season, August-December).
4. Gorge Swing and Zipline: Various adrenaline activities crossing the gorge below the falls.
5. River Boarding: Navigate the rapids on a modified bodyboard.

Wildlife Experiences in Victoria Falls

1. Zambezi National Park (Zimbabwe) and Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park (Zambia): Game drives to see elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, and various antelope species.
2. River Safaris: Spot hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and birds from a boat on the upper Zambezi.
3. Elephant Encounters: Ethical interactions with elephants at sanctuaries around Victoria Falls.
4. Chobe Day Trip: Visit nearby Chobe National Park in Botswana, famous for its enormous elephant population.
5. Bird Watching: Over 400 bird species in the area, making it a birder’s paradise.

Cultural Experiences in Victoria Falls

1. Village Tours: Visit authentic local villages to learn about Tonga and Makalolo cultures.
2. Victoria Falls Market (Zimbabwe): Browse local crafts and souvenirs.
3. Livingstone Museum (Zambia): Learn about the history of the falls, David Livingstone’s expeditions, and local culture.
4. Boma Dinner & Drum Show: Experience traditional African cuisine and entertainment.
5. Livingstone Island Tour: Visit the island where David Livingstone first viewed the falls (Zambia side).

Where to Stay in Victoria Falls

Zimbabwe Side

Luxury hotels in Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe)

• Victoria Falls Hotel: Step into timeless elegance at this iconic colonial-era luxury hotel, where you can wake up to breath-taking views of the Victoria Falls Bridge and the misty spray of the falls—an experience fit for royalty
• Ilala Lodge: Closest hotel to the falls with elegant rooms and wildlife often visiting the grounds.
• Victoria Falls Safari Lodge: Overlooks a waterhole with frequent wildlife sightings.

Mid-Range hotels in Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe)

• Batonka Guest Lodge: Boutique accommodation with modern amenities.
• The Kingdom Hotel: Resort-style accommodation with multiple pools.
• Shearwater Explorers Village: Comfortable rooms and convenient location.

Budget accommodation in Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe)

• Victoria Falls Backpackers: Affordable dormitories and private rooms.
• Shoestrings Backpackers: Popular with younger travelers, offering a social atmosphere.
• Rest Camp: Basic accommodation within walking distance of the falls.

Zambia Side

Luxury hotels in Victoria Falls (Zambia)

• Royal Livingstone Hotel: Elegant luxury on the banks of the Zambezi with direct access to the falls.
• Tongabezi Lodge: Romantic retreat upstream from the falls with unique accommodations.
• Islands of Siankaba: Luxury treehouse lodges on private islands in the Zambezi.

Mid-Range hotels in Victoria Falls (Zambia)

• AVANI Victoria Falls Resort: Colorful resort with zebras and other wildlife on the grounds.
• David Livingstone Safari Lodge: Riverside accommodation with boat dock and spa.
• Protea Hotel Livingstone: Reliable chain hotel with comfortable rooms.

Budget accommodation in Victoria Falls (Zambia)

• Jollyboys Backpackers: Long-standing backpacker favorite with pool and activities desk.
• Livingstone Backpackers: Relaxed atmosphere with camping options.
• Fawlty Towers: Budget-friendly option with private rooms and dormitories.

Food and Dining in Victoria Falls

Zimbabwe Side

• The Boma: Interactive dining experience with traditional dancing and drumming.
• Lookout Café: Perched on the edge of the Batoka Gorge with spectacular views.
• Three Monkeys: Popular restaurant and bar with diverse menu.
• Palm Restaurant at Ilala Lodge: Fine dining with local and international cuisine.
• Mama Africa: Authentic African dishes in a vibrant setting.

Zambia Side

• The Royal Livingstone Dining Room: Elegant dining overlooking the Zambezi.
• Café Zambezi: Relaxed atmosphere with African fusion cuisine.
• Golden Leaf Restaurant: Chinese and Asian cuisine.
• Kuwaha Restaurant: Traditional Zambian dishes and international options.
• Olga’s Italian Corner: Authentic Italian food for when you need a break from local cuisine.

Local Specialties

• Kapenta: Small dried fish served with sadza (maize meal).
• Game Meat: Including crocodile, impala, kudu, and warthog.
• Nshima/Sadza: Staple maize meal porridge.
• Chibwantu: Traditional Zambian millet drink.
• Mazondo: Zimbabwean slow-cooked beef trotters.

Day Trips and Nearby Attractions to Victoria Falls

Chobe National Park, Botswana

Just 1.5-2 hours from Victoria Falls, Chobe offers exceptional elephant viewing and river safaris. Day trips include border crossing, game drive, and boat safari on the Chobe River.

Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe’s largest national park is about 2 hours from Victoria Falls and home to over 100 mammal species, including one of Africa’s largest elephant populations.

Lake Kariba, Zimbabwe

A 3-4 hour drive or short flight from Victoria Falls, this massive man-made lake offers houseboat stays and excellent fishing.

Livingstone Island & Devil’s Pool, Zambia

Visit the island where David Livingstone first saw the falls and, in low water season, swim in Devil’s Pool at the very edge of the falls.

Batoka Gorge

Explore the dramatic zigzagging gorge below the falls through hiking or helicopter tours.

Practical Information for first time visitors in Victoria Falls

Visa Requirements

• KAZA Uni-Visa: When available, allows visitors to travel between Zimbabwe, Zambia, and day trips to Botswana (check current status before travel).
• Zimbabwe: Visas available on arrival for most nationalities.
• Zambia: Visas available on arrival for most nationalities.

Currency

• Zimbabwe: US Dollar is widely used, although Zimbabwe Dollar was reintroduced (bring USD for reliability).
• Zambia: Zambian Kwacha, though USD is accepted at most tourist establishments.
• ATMs are available in both Victoria Falls town and Livingstone, but can be unreliable. Bring sufficient cash.

Safety

• The falls area is generally safe for tourists.
• Avoid walking alone at night, particularly in Livingstone.
• Be cautious of wild animals, especially elephants and hippos that frequently roam through the towns.
• Protect against mosquitoes to prevent malaria.

Health

• Malaria: Both Zimbabwe and Zambia are malaria zones. Take appropriate prophylaxis and use insect repellent.
• Water: Drink bottled water.
• Vaccinations: Yellow fever certificate may be required if coming from endemic countries.
• Sun Protection: Use high SPF sunscreen and wear a hat.

Electricity

• Zimbabwe: 220-240V, UK-style 3-pin sockets (Type G).
• Zambia: 220-240V, UK-style 3-pin sockets (Type G).
• Power outages can occur; many hotels have generators.

Cultural Customs and Etiquette

• Greet people with a handshake and a smile.
• Ask permission before photographing local people.
• Dress modestly when visiting local communities (cover shoulders and knees).
• Small gifts are appreciated when visiting villages, but avoid giving money directly to children.
• Respect wildlife and maintain safe distances.
• When purchasing crafts, friendly bargaining is expected but remember many artisans depend on this income.

Sustainable Tourism Tips

• Choose responsible operators for wildlife activities.
• Avoid plastic waste by bringing a reusable water bottle.
• Stay on designated paths when viewing the falls to protect the fragile rainforest ecosystem.
• Support community tourism projects that benefit local people.
• Conserve water, particularly during dry seasons.
• Never buy products made from endangered species.

Photography Tips

• Protect camera equipment from spray with waterproof cases, especially during high water season.
• Early morning offers the best light for photography and rainbows in the mist.
• The “Big Tree” viewpoint on the Zimbabwe side offers good dry spots for photography.
• The Zambia side provides more close-up shots.
• For rainbows, position yourself with the sun at your back in the late morning or early afternoon.