The impressive Victoria Falls, stretching at the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe and fed by the Zambezi River, are definitely worth a visit. The waterfalls can be viewed from both countries, with the best view undoubtedly granted from the Zimbabwean side in the border town of Victoria Falls. The Victoria Falls are among Africa's most popular travel destinations and can be excellently combined with other destinations in southern Africa.
Here, the water plunges over a height of more than 100 meters and spans a length of nearly 2 kilometers, making the Victoria Falls twice as deep and wide as the famous Niagara Falls. The spray from these mighty waterfalls rises over 400 meters and is visible from a great distance. The indigenous tribes aptly referred to this thundering waterfall as "the smoke that thunders." |
Regions of the Victoria Falls
Nestled on the border of Zimbabwe and Zambia, these majestic falls form the heart of this stunning area. The Zimbabwean side offers unrivalled views of the falls, allowing visitors to witness the raw power of the cascading waters from various vantage points. Victoria Falls is a bustling town, offering a variety accommodation options, restaurants and a wide range of activities. Outside of the town are a variety of reserves and national parks that can be explored and used a base from which to enjoy a day trip to the falls.
On the Zambian side, visitors can get up close and personal with the falls, experiencing their awe-inspiring magnitude through thrilling activities like Devil's Pool (seasonal). The surrounding landscapes are just as remarkable, offering opportunities for wildlife encounters, serene river cruises, and cultural exploration. Whether you're seeking heart-pounding adventure or tranquil moments in nature, the Victoria Falls regions have it all. |
The Best Time to Travel
As the Zambezi River is fed by rainfall, the flows of the waterfalls on the plains change throughout the year. Make sure to inquire about the water levels in advance so you aren't disappointed if the river has less water, as from November to the end of December, the river level is typically at its lowest. However, this is when the view of the elongated rock walls is clearest, making it the perfect time for a helicopter flight to explore the waterfall from a bird's-eye perspective! From April to May, the Zambezi River and the waterfalls reach their peak. The roaring water wall creates an impressive backdrop for visitors, but sometimes the waterfall's strength can result in impaired visibility due to the spray.
Our tip: During the summer months from October to April, it can get very hot and humid, with the possibility of heavy thunderstorms. In contrast, during the winter months between May and September, it's sunny during the day and quite chilly at night. So, there isn't a "best time to visit" per se. Instead, we would determine the ideal timing of your visit to Victoria Falls based on the safari portion and the route of your self-drive safari or fly-in safari. We recommend spending at least two nights near Victoria Falls. |
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● Peak Water Season ● Medium to High Water Levels ● Lowest Water Levels |
A Paradise for Self-Drivers
The breathtaking Victoria Falls can serve as either a majestic beginning or a grand finale, framing your self-driving expedition with a natural wonder that's second to none. It's unique position on the Zimbabwean and Zambian border, very closely situated to both the Botswana and Namibian borders means a visit to the falls combines very well with a self drive safari in one or more of these fascinating destinations allowing adventurers to explore the diverse landscapes and cultures that this corner of Africa has to offer. Navigating through country borders, your self-drive safari becomes a cross-cultural exploration, where you witness the changing scenery and encounter different wildlife species along the way.
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Fly-in Safaris
Victoria Falls close proximity to a variety of world renowned safari regions makes is a great starting or ending point for a fly-in safari! Enhance your journey by pairing a visit to Victoria Falls with a captivating fly-in safari to the Okavango Delta in Botswana. Marvel at the spectacle of the falls before taking to the skies for an aerial adventure, immersing yourself in the untouched wilderness of the delta's watery channels and thriving wildlife. Take a short light aircraft flight to Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe for a remote 'off the beaten track' experience in an area renowned for its vast landscapes, abundant with diverse wildlife including a large population of elephants.
To reach the Victoria Falls travellers can fly into Livingstone's Airport in Zambia, into Victoria Falls airport in Zimbabwe or into Kasane in Northern Botswana - cross border transfers can be easily arranged. |
Activities & Adventrues
Visitors have a wide range of exciting activities to choose from all year round. These include white-water rafting on the Zambezi River, bungee jumping & ziplining, nostalgic journeys on the Royal Livingstone Express, horseback riding trips, or Big 5 game drives in the neighbouring Matetsi Private Game Reserve. The best time for a refreshing dip in Devil's Pool, perhaps the most spectacular natural pool in the world, is between September and December when the Zambezi is at its lowest, allowing for a refreshing experience.
For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, we recommend a romantic sunset canoe or boat trip on the Zambezi River. |
Our Favourite Lodges & Camps
If you're looking to stay in close proximity to Victoria Falls, we recommend the Shongwe Lookout, situated within Victoria Falls Town (Zimbabwean side). From its viewing tower, you'll have a breathtaking view of the Zambezi River and the spray of the mighty waterfalls. For those who don't want to miss out on exclusive wildlife sightings, the Matetsi River Lodge is located 40 kilometers away on the Zambezi river, in a private reserve teeming with wildlife. This luxurious lodge is especially popular among our honeymooners and Big 5 enthusiasts.
Across the border, in Zambia there are a variety of beautiful lodges nestled along the quiet banks of the Zambezi, such as Tongabezi Lodge by Green Safaris and Waterberry Lodge; which provide a tranquil base from which to explore the falls. |