Located on the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia in Southern Africa, this awe-inspiring waterfall is a must-visit destination for adventurers, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking a travel experience unlike any other. As one of the seven natural wonders of the world, it’s a hotspot for eager travellers who want to experience its unbridled splendour.
In this guide, we will tell you everything you need to know about Victoria Falls. We explain how you can visit the falls, the best things to do in the area and give some recommendations on where to stay in Victoria Falls.
Victoria Falls has been a captivating attraction for centuries, drawing in explorers and travellers from around the world. The falls were first recorded by European explorer David Livingstone in 1855, who named them after Queen Victoria.
However, the falls are known locally as “Mosi-oa-Tunya,” which means “The Smoke that Thunders” in the Tonga language. The local people have revered the falls for generations, attributing spiritual significance to their thunderous cascades and misty spray.
The falls themselves are 108 m tall and stretch out for 1700 m, making it the largest sheet of falling water in the world. With it being such a marvel, Victoria Falls was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1989 and is recognized for its stunning natural beauty and importance in the ecosystem.
The closest major airport is Victoria Falls International Airport in Zimbabwe or Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport in Zambia. Many international flights connect to these airports, making access to the falls relatively easy.
Both Zimbabwe and Zambia offer land crossings to reach Victoria Falls. Entry requirements and visas may vary, so be sure to check the latest information before you travel. Below, we compare visiting the falls in both countries to help you plan your trip.
The majority of Victoria Falls is visible from the Zimbabwean side, offering panoramic vistas of the falls along its entire gargantuan length. The iconic viewpoints like Devil’s Cataract, Horseshoe Falls and Rainbow Falls are all accessible from Zimbabwe. You can also get much closer to the falls in Zimbabwe, providing an immersive experience where you can feel the mist and witness the cascading water.
Visiting the falls from Zimbabwe gives you the opportunity to discover a well-maintained national park with walking trails and guided tours that offer a deeper understanding of the local ecosystem. Equally, the town of Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe has a range of accommodation options, restaurants, and amenities catering to tourists which may make your visit more pleasant.
The Zambian side provides a unique perspective on the falls, particularly the Knife-Edge Bridge, which allows you to feel the raw power of the falls. In Zambia, you can enjoy boat tours on the Zambezi River which approach the falls from below so you can witness its magnificence from another angle. This offers an entirely different viewpoint and a chance to see wildlife along the riverbanks.
When you visit the falls in Zambia, you can also access Livingstone Island, where you can swim in the Devil’s Pool and even take a guided tour to the edge of the falls during the dry season. You can also find the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park on this side, which is home to a variety of African animals like elephants and rhinos.
Both sides offer exceptional experiences, and your choice should depend on your interests. If you want a comprehensive view and the chance to get up close to the falls, the Zimbabwean side might be preferable. If you’re seeking unique angles and perspectives, along with thrilling activities like boat tours and micro-flights, the Zambian side could be more appealing.
One of the best things to do in Victoria Falls is an action-packed afternoon of white water rafting. The Zambezi River offers some of the world’s best white-water rafting experiences where you can tackle the rapids and navigate the wild waters for an unforgettable adventure.
White water rafting at Victoria Falls is a heart-pounding experience that combines the thrill of navigating the roaring rapids with the awe-inspiring natural beauty of the surroundings. It’s a perfect activity for adventure enthusiasts and travellers looking to add a dose of excitement to their Victoria Falls visit.
The Zambezi River offers a range of rapids with varying degrees of difficulty, from Class III to Class V. However, operators at Victoria Falls are very experienced and safety is their top concern. They will ensure that you have a safe but thrilling experience and can provide you with helpful advice if it’s your first time.
If you’re less eager to take on the wild waters, one of the best things to do in Victoria Falls is explore the Zambezi River on a gentle cruise. There are various types of river cruises available, from larger boats with onboard amenities to smaller and more intimate vessels; so you can choose the cruise that suits your style.
On your cruise, you can take in the stunning views of the African landscape as well as spot the diverse wildlife in their natural habitat. What’s more, cruising on the Zambezi River is a peaceful and leisurely activity. You can sit back, enjoy the gentle breeze, and listen to the soothing sounds of the water as you drift along the river.
For an elevated experience, relax on a dazzling sunset cruise along the Zambezi River, enjoying the stunning scenery, wildlife, and a magical African sunset. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky is painted in vibrant hues, creating a magical and romantic atmosphere.
With so many incredible animals calling the region home, going on safari is one of the best experiences you can have at Victoria Falls. Zambezi National Park is just 5 km outside of Victoria Falls Town and is an incredible destination for a safari excursion. A guided journey through the park will pick you up from your hotel for an easy start and is a great way to experience the African wilderness.
Alternatively, you can take a 90-minute drive into Botswana for a day trip to Chobe National Park, one of the most popular national parks for tourists. This is partly due to its stunning countryside landscapes, but also because of the high concentration of elephants that can be found here. Your trip will include both boat and land travel, which ensures you will see a variety of wildlife.
For an even more unique experience, combine your thrilling safari trip with high tea. This tour takes you on a spectacular game drive through the open savannah before settling down in a safari camp. At the camp, you can enjoy a refreshing traditional high tea right by a watering hole where antelope, zebra and a myriad of other creatures will come to drink.
For the ultimate thrill, try bungee jumping off the Victoria Falls Bridge. Spanning the Zambezi River gorge, many adventurous visitors gather here to try bungee jumping in a striking location. Plummeting towards the river below is an exhilarating experience, but it isn’t for everyone.
If you’ve got your heart set on this exhilarating activity, be sure to book in advance as it is very popular and spaces fill up quickly. Likewise, it is worth checking the age and health requirements of your bungee operator, as some of them have restrictions about who is allowed to take part.
The experience is truly unique and we would encourage travellers to conquer their fears and give bungee jumping a try in this wondrous scenic setting.
For a completely different perspective of the falls, consider booking a helicopter flight that will see you soaring over the cascading water. You’ll get a bird’s-eye view of Victoria Falls and get a glimpse of the large game wandering the open plains. The aerial perspective provides a unique appreciation of the falls’ vastness and the surrounding landscape.
Victoria Falls has so many options for places to stay that will suit any trip, be it a family holiday, a backpacking trip or a romantic getaway. Below we give some top recommendations of where to stay when visiting this magical natural wonder.
There are some excellent Victoria Falls lodges that are suitable for budget travellers, backpackers or individuals looking for something a bit different.
Shoestrings Backpackers Lodge is perfect for those who aren’t looking to stretch their funds. From just £57 per night, lodgers can enjoy lovely facilities like the onsite cafe and outdoor pool. The friendly staff will also be able to help you organise excursions and transfers.
Alternatively, travellers seeking more lavish accommodation may want to stay at The Courtney Lodge. This luxury property is perfect for couples seeking a romantic setting. With breakfast served daily and a gorgeous terrace, you will find all your needs catered in your own slice of paradise.
There are some spectacular hotels in Victoria Falls as well. Just 10 minutes away from the falls is the gorgeous Rainbow Hotel. Every room has an enclosed balcony with stunning views and there is even a rooftop bar where you can unwind after a long day of exploration.
victoria falls lodges
To help you make the most of your Victoria Falls visit, we’ve compiled a few tips that you should keep in mind.
The best time to visit Victoria Falls is during the dry season, from May to September. During this period, the flow is less intense, allowing for better visibility and the opportunity to experience activities like Devil’s Pool. The weather at Victoria Falls during this period is also very pleasantly warm and perfect for water activities.
The biggest thing to keep in mind for a trip to the falls is being prepared to get wet, especially when visiting viewpoints close to the falls. Wear waterproof clothing, bring a rain poncho, and protect your camera and electronics.
You should also bring very sturdy footwear. You will likely be doing a lot of walking, especially on guided tours. We recommend wearing good quality hiking boots or trainers.
Both Zimbabwe and Zambia have their currencies, the Zimbabwean Dollar and Zambian Kwacha, respectively. It’s advisable to carry USD if you intend to visit both countries on your visit, as it is widely accepted in both locations.
There are a few precautions you should take before you visit Victoria Falls. As it is located in a malaria-prone area, you should consult a doctor about malaria tablets and pack bug repellent. You should also look into what vaccines you need as well as any boosters, like Hepatitis A and Tetanus.
Remember that you’re visiting a natural wonder, so follow responsible and respectful tourism practices. Stay on designated paths, avoid littering, and respect the local customs and traditions. Your tour guide can provide further insight and advice on how you can do your part in protecting this magical landscape.
Victoria Falls is more than just a waterfall; it’s a sensory masterpiece that ignites amazement and appreciation for this African wonder. From its rich history to the thrilling activities that await, a visit to Victoria Falls promises to be an unforgettable journey that will leave you in awe of the power and beauty of nature. Prepare to be captivated, inspired, and humbled by the magnificence of one of the world’s greatest natural wonders.
If you enjoyed this article, be sure to check out our other Africa posts, like backpacking in Johannesburg and where to go on safari in Tanzania.
You may be surprised to learn that Victoria Falls is not the widest or tallest waterfall on earth. Those titles belong to Khone Phapheng Falls and Angel Falls respectively. Despite this, Victoria Falls is the largest falling sheet of water in the world which earns it the honour of being the largest waterfall on the planet.
If you want a leisurely visit, a week is the perfect amount of time to spend at the falls. However, if you’re stopping off on a longer journey you will definitely want to dedicate at least 2 to 3 days to make the most of your visit and have ample time for tours and activities.
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