Victoria Falls needs little introduction. Straddling the Zambia – Zimbabwe border on the Zambezi River, this UNESCO‑listed wonder is one of the world’s greatest sheets of falling water. Locals call it Mosi‑oa‑Tunya – “The Smoke that Thunders” – for the billowing spray and constant roar that can be seen and heard miles away. Whether you’re travelling as a family, two‑person escape, or on a solo adventure, this guide unpacks how to plan an unforgettable visit, when to go, which side to choose, how to cross between countries, what to do beyond the viewpoints, and how to weave the Falls into a wider Southern Africa trip from the UK.
Victoria Falls at a Glance
- Where: On the Zambezi River between Victoria Falls Town (Zimbabwe) and Livingstone (Zambia).
- What makes it special: A 1.7‑km wide curtain of water plunging into a basalt chasm, creating rainforest micro‑climates, permanent rainbows, and (on full‑moon nights) the famous lunar rainbow or “moonbow”.
- UNESCO status: Inscribed as a transboundary natural World Heritage Site in 1989.
- Airports: VFA (Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe) and LVI (Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International, Livingstone, Zambia), both with regional connections to Southern Africa’s hubs.
Good to know: Many travellers visit both sides. A joint KAZA UniVisa (when available) usually allows multiple entries between Zambia and Zimbabwe and makes popping across for a day painless. Always check the latest entry rules before you fly.
A Short History & Cultural Context
Long before maps and guidebooks, the Falls were known to the Lozi and Tonga peoples, whose names, Mosi‑oa‑Tunya and Shungu Namutitima, speak to the spectacle. In 1855, the Scottish explorer David Livingstone reached an island on the lip of the chasm (now Livingstone Island) and popularised the name Victoria Falls. Railway links in the early 1900s brought visitors from across the British Empire, and over a century later, the twin towns on either side of the cataract remain two of Southern Africa’s most visitor‑friendly gateways for first‑timers and returning travellers alike.
Choosing Your Base: Zimbabwe or Zambia?
Both sides are superb; your choice is limited, which is better? What do you want to see and do this season?
Zimbabwe (Victoria Falls Town)
- The iconic panorama: Paths through the evergreen rainforest reveal a front‑row view of roughly two‑thirds of the entire face of the Falls. In high water, prepare to get drenched and to feel the thunder underfoot.
- All‑round appeal: Easy logistics, plenty of cafés, craft markets and classic hotels – most famously The Victoria Falls Hotel with its bridge views and afternoon tea.
- Great for photographers: When spray subsides (typically late winter into spring), cliff‑edge viewpoints such as Danger Point reveal the gorge and rainbows in full.
Zambia (Livingstone)
- Up‑close drama: Knife‑Edge Bridge and the Eastern Cataract deliver visceral, mist‑soaked perspectives when the Zambezi is surging. The Boiling Pot trail (seasonal) switches the lens to the raging rapids below.
- Bucket‑list experiences: Livingstone Island tours launch from the Zambian bank; when levels are safe (usually mid‑Aug to late Dec), swimmers can edge into the natural rockpool nicknamed Devil’s Pool – strictly with licensed guides.
- Stroll‑from‑bedfall: A handful of resorts sit within walking distance of the park gates, handy for sunrise and sunset ambles.
Verdict: If you can, do both. The views, light and feel differ enough to merit a day on each side. If time is tight, lean Zimbabwe for big panoramas; lean Zambia for experiences on and in the river.
When to Visit (and What Each Season Brings)
Victoria Falls is spectacular year‑round, but the experience changes dramatically with water levels. Broadly:
- High Water (roughly March–May): Peak power. The rainforest turns into a warm “shower”, paths drip, and visibility can be limited by spray – an otherworldly, immersive sensation. Knife‑Edge and the Zimbabwe viewpoints feel truly epic; some adventure activities pause for safety.
- Transitional (June–July): Still plenty of water, with improving clarity and superb rainbows. A sweet spot for general sightseeing, families, and first‑timers who want both drama and views.
- Low Water (Aug–Dec): The rock face emerges, the gorge reveals its zig‑zag, and visibility is crystal clear – prime for white‑water rafting (usually best Aug–Dec) and for Devil’s Pool (typically mid‑Aug to late Dec, strictly water‑level dependent). Late Oct–Nov can be very hot.
- Rainy Season (Nov–Apr): Expect afternoon downpours, lush greenery and excellent birding. By late April, the Zambezi’s flood pulse is roaring over the lip.
Full‑moon magic: On select nights around the full moon during high‑spray months, parks open after dark for the lunar rainbow – a pale arc hovering in the mist. It’s quiet, eerie and unforgettable. Check dates locally and bring a tripod.
Essential Experiences
1) Classic Walks & Viewpoints
Zimbabwe Rainforest Walk: A well‑signposted path strings together a dozen viewpoints from Devil’s Cataract to Danger Point. Expect a soaking in high water – ponchos help, as do quick‑dry layers and grippy shoes.
Zambia’s Knife‑Edge: A narrow footbridge spanning a chasm near the Eastern Cataract. In flood, it’s a wind‑swept baptism of spray; in low water, it’s brilliant for geology and gorge photos. The short, steep Boiling Pot trail descends to the river (conditions permitting).
Photography tips: Early morning light favours the Zambia side; late afternoon often flatters Zimbabwe. Pack a lens cloth, rain cover and microfibre towel. In peak spray, wide-angle and action cameras shine.
2) On the Edge: Livingstone Island & Devil’s Pool (Zambia)
Guided boats skim upstream to Livingstone Island from the Zambian bank several times daily. When levels are safe, licensed guides lead small groups across shallow channels to Devil’s Pool, a natural rock basin right on the lip. Minimum ages usually apply for swimming, and operators may switch to the nearby Angel’s Pool if conditions dictate. Book well ahead in peak months, follow guide instructions to the letter, and leave valuables behind.
3) In the Air: The “Flight of Angels” & Microlights
A 12-25‑minute helicopter flight traces the Zambezi upstream, circles the Falls and sweeps down the Batoka Gorge, the most complete way to grasp the scale. On the Zambian side, microlight flights (one passenger with a pilot) add a visceral, open‑air option; no cameras are usually allowed for safety, but wing‑mounted shots are offered.
4) On the Water: Cruises, Canoeing & White‑Water Rafting
Above the Falls, sunset Zambezi cruises deliver classic golden light, hippo grunts and river‑island vistas. Canoeing offers a quieter alternative with birding galore. Below the Falls, the Zambezi is one of the world’s great white‑water rivers. Full‑ and half‑day rafting typically runs most of the year in two distinct seasons; the most technical “low‑water” runs generally fall from late winter into early summer when the river recedes and more rapids open. Operators adjust start points to conditions and may pause trips in peak flood – always check the latest before you go.
5) Gravity Fix: Bridge Bungee, Gorge Swing & Zipline
The historic Victoria Falls Bridge, an engineering icon completed in 1905, hosts one of the world’s most scenic bungee jumps (a head‑spinning 111‑metre plunge), plus a bridge swing and zipline over the gorge. You’ll need your passport to access the bridge plaza. Not keen to leap? The Bridge Café has front‑row seats and a decent lunch.
6) Safari Day Trips & Short Breaks
- Mosi‑oa‑Tunya National Park (Zambia): Small but rewarding; popular for guided white rhino tracking on foot with rangers, plus giraffe, buffalo and river views.
- Zambezi National Park (Zimbabwe): Easy half‑day drives from town along the river road; elephants favour the Zambezi in the dry months.
- Chobe National Park (Botswana): An effortless day trip from either town. Combine a Chobe River cruise with a Serondela game drive for vast elephant herds, crocs, hippos and prolific birdlife.
- Hwange National Park (Zimbabwe): Zimbabwe’s flagship park pairs beautifully with the Falls on a 2–3‑night add‑on; prime dry‑season game viewing and excellent lodges.
7) Culture & Slow Moments
In Livingstone, the Livingstone Museum covers regional history and exploration; the small but charming Railway Museum speaks to the age of steam. In Victoria Falls Town, don’t miss Lookout Café for gorge views, the open‑air craft market, and a slice of colonial‑era atmosphere at The Victoria Falls Hotel. Evening options range from riverbank sundowners to drumming dinners and contemporary bistros.
Practicalities: Planning Like a Pro
Getting There from the UK
There are no non‑stop flights from the UK to VFA or LVI. Most travellers connect via Johannesburg (JNB), Addis Ababa (ADD), Nairobi (NBO) or Doha (DOH) to Victoria Falls or Livingstone. Flying into one airport and out of the other is common when you plan to visit both sides.
Visas & Borders
- Zambia & Zimbabwe maintain separate entry rules. The KAZA UniVisa, when issued, typically covers both countries (and day trips to Botswana) for multiple entries over a set period. Availability can be seasonal; always confirm the latest rules and carry USD cash and/or a card for fees.
- Crossing the bridge: To walk from one side to the other, you must clear exit formalities, walk across the Victoria Falls Bridge, and clear entry on the far side. Allow time for queues, bring water and a hat, and have onward tickets or accommodation details handy.
Opening Hours & Tickets
- Park hours vary with daylight but commonly open from early morning to early evening, with extended full‑moon openings on specific nights. Your ticket is single-entry; once you exit the rainforest gate, you’ll typically need a new ticket to re‑enter.
- What to bring: Waterproofs/ponchos (you can rent locally), grippy footwear, a drybag for phones, a lens cloth, and small notes for tips.
Accessibility
- On the Zimbabwe side, much of the rainforest path network is paved or hard‑packed with some uneven stretches; several viewpoints are wheelchair‑friendly with assistance. The Zambia side includes steps to Knife‑Edge and the Boiling Pot trail fantastic, but not suitable for all. If mobility is a concern, a guided tour helps you pick the right routes and timings.
Safety & Etiquette
- Devil’s Pool is a guided, conditions‑dependent activity with strict age/fitness rules. Only use licensed operators and follow instructions exactly.
- Rafting on the Zambezi is a serious, Grade IV–V river; operators provide gear and briefings. If you’re not a confident swimmer, let them know there are tamer alternatives.
- Wildlife: Hippos and crocs inhabit the river above the Falls. Stay well back from the water’s edge and only canoe with licensed guides. In town, don’t feed baboons or monkeys; keep bags closed.
- Drones: Heavily restricted or prohibited around the Falls and in national parks without permits. Leave them at home unless you have pre‑approved permissions.
Money, Weather & Connectivity
- Currencies: Zimbabwe widely uses USD in the tourism economy, while Zambia uses the Zambian kwacha. Cards are generally accepted by hotels and tour operators; carry some small cash for tips and markets.
- Weather: It’s warm year‑round. Expect very hot afternoons, Sep–Nov; pack sun protection and drink plenty of water.
- SIMs & eSIMs: Local SIMs are easy to buy in town. Many hotels and cafés have Wi‑Fi, though speeds can fluctuate.
Sample Itineraries
Itinerary 1: One Majestic Day (Both Sides without Rush)
Morning – Zimbabwe panoramas (3–4 hours)
Be at the Zimbabwe Rainforest gate for the opening. Walk the full loop from Devil’s Cataract to Danger Point, pausing at Main Falls for rainbows. Coffee and an early snack at Lookout Café above the gorge.
Midday – Cross the Bridge (60–90 minutes)
Stamp out, stroll the Victoria Falls Bridge (photos galore), and enter Zambia. Stop at the Bridge Museum/Café if open.
Afternoon – Zambia’s Knife‑Edge & Boiling Pot (2–3 hours)
Experience the spray‑drenched footbridge and, if open and you’re up for it, tackle the Boiling Pot path. End with a Zambezi sunset cruise from Livingstone.
Who it suits: Time‑poor couples and solo travellers wanting both perspectives in a single, unforgettable day.
Itinerary 2: 2–3 Days of Highlights (Families & First‑Timers)
Day 1 – Zimbabwe views + gentle adventure
Arrive at VFA, check in near the park. Walk the rainforest trail with a guide (great at engaging kids). Afternoon helicopter flight (12–13 mins) to grasp the scale. Dinner at Three Monkeys or The Victoria Falls Hotel terrace.
Day 2 – Zambezi River life
Morning game drive in Zambezi National Park or a relaxed canoe trip above the Falls (minimum age applies). Afternoon craft market browsing. Sunset cruise with snacks, look for elephants crossing in the shallows.
Optional Day 3 – Chobe day trip (Botswana)
Early transfer to Kasane, boat safari on the Chobe River, lunch in town, and an afternoon game drive before returning. Kids tend to love the elephant herds and croc‑spotted sandbanks.
Who it suits: Families and mixed‑interest groups who want a balanced, low‑stress mix of viewpoints, soft adventure, and wildlife.
Itinerary 3: 4–5 Days for Adventurers (Couples & Solos)
Day 1 – Zambia arrival & twilight
Fly into LVI. Check into a riverside hotel with falls‑gate access. Walk to the viewpoints for golden hour, then dinner on the riverbank.
Day 2 – Devil’s Pool + microlight
Book Livingstone Island early. If levels allow, take a Devil’s Pool swim (age/fitness rules apply). Late‑afternoon microlight or longer helicopter flight tracing the gorge.
Day 3 – White‑water & bridge thrills
Full‑ or half‑day rafting below the Falls (seasonal), or craft your own high‑wire trio (zipline, flying fox, bridge swing). Recovery dinner at Lookout Café with gorge views.
Day 4 – Safari add‑on
Hop across for a Chobe day trip or head south to Hwange for two nights at a waterhole‑side lodge.
Day 5 – Slow Livingstone
Museum morning, coffee on Mosi‑oa‑Tunya Road, last stroll to Knife‑Edge if the spray is calling, then depart.
Who it suits: Active travellers ticking off the big hitters with time for the river, sky and safari.
Where to Eat & Drink
Zimbabwe (Victoria Falls Town)
- Lookout Café: Spectacular gorge‑top setting; casual menus and craft drinks.
- The Victoria Falls Hotel: Historic terrace for high tea, sundowners and refined dining.
- Three Monkeys: All‑rounder with wood‑fired pizzas and a lively atmosphere.
- The Boma: The long‑running dinner‑and‑drum experience (go hungry).
- Dusty Road: Homestyle Zimbabwean flavours in a colourful setting.
Zambia (Livingstone & Riverbank)
- Royal Livingstone: Elegant riverside dining; perfect for a celebration meal.
- Café Zambezi: Reliable grill and local staples in town.
- Zest: Modern café‑bistro for brunches and light lunches.
- The Old Drift (day venue): River‑view lunches with wildlife wandering past.
Dietary note: Vegetarian and gluten‑free options are increasingly common; always mention allergies in advance.
Where to Stay: Our Shortlist by Traveller Type
For couples & special occasions
- Zambia: Royal Livingstone (classic riverside romance), Tongabezi (boutique hideaway), Toka Leya (chic safari‑style on the river).
- Zimbabwe: The Victoria Falls Hotel (heritage), Stanley & Livingstone (boutique on a private reserve), Matetsi (ultra‑stylish on the Zambezi, 40 minutes out of town).
For families
- Zambia: Avani Victoria Falls Resort (falls‑gate access, pool and kids’ club), David Livingstone Safari Lodge (space to roam, sunset jetty).
- Zimbabwe: Victoria Falls Safari Lodge (great sunset views and a waterhole), Pioneers (friendly mid‑range base with gardens and pools).
For solo travellers & budgets
- Zambia: Jollyboys Backpackers or Maramba River Lodge (sociable and well run).
- Zimbabwe: Shoestrings Backpackers or 42 on Adylinn (simple, central, easy to meet people).
Location tip: If sunrise or moonbow shoots are a priority, staying within walking distance of the gates, especially on the Zambia side, makes early or late entries friction‑free.
Responsible Travel & Low‑Impact Choices
- Choose ethical wildlife encounters. Skip elephant rides and avoid any venue that encourages touching wild animals. Walking safaris with qualified rangers and reputable river cruises are better alternatives.
- Pack out what you pack in. Litter is hazardous in a gorge environment; use bins and refillable bottles.
- Respect park rules. Stay on paths, heed barriers, and never cross wet rocks to the edge; fatalities have occurred outside designated areas.
- Support local. Book community‑run cultural tours, shop at craft markets, and tip fairly for good service.
Wider Inspiration for UK Travellers
A Victoria Falls trip often anchors a broader Southern Africa adventure – think Okavango Delta, Hwange or Lower Zambezi. Back home, keep the waterfall theme alive with UK classics: High Force (County Durham), Aira Force (Lake District), Pistyll Rhaeadr (Powys), Grey Mare’s Tail (Dumfries & Galloway) or a Highlands loop to Steall Falls and Fairy Pools on Skye. None match the Zambezi’s power, of course, but they scratch that scenery itch and make superb long‑weekend escapes.
Frequently Asked Practical Questions
Can I take a pram/pushchair?
Yes, on the Zimbabwe side’s main paths, though you’ll encounter uneven patches; some lookouts require steps. A baby carrier is often easier in the spray.
Is Victoria Falls suitable for travellers with limited mobility?
Many viewpoints on the Zimbabwe side are accessible with assistance. Zambia’s Knife‑Edge and Boiling Pot involve steps and slippery sections.
Are drones allowed?
Generally, NO in and around the Falls and in national parks without formal permits. There are also aviation safety considerations due to constant helicopter and microlight operations.
What about health precautions?
This is a malaria area; consult a travel clinic well before departure. Use repellent, cover up at dusk and sleep under nets when provided.
Do I need to book activities in advance?
Helicopter/microlight flights, Livingstone Island/Devil’s Pool and peak‑season Chobe day trips can sell out; reserve early. Rafting and sunset cruises are widely available, but still book ahead in school holidays.
Packing Checklist (Beyond the Obvious)
- Light rain jacket or poncho; quick‑dry layers
- Closed shoes with good grip (and sandals you don’t mind getting soaked)
- Drybag / waterproof phone pouch; microfibre towel
- Polarised sunglasses; hat; high‑SPF sunscreen
- Spare camera batteries and lens cloths
- Small USD notes and Zambian kwacha for tips/markets
- Passport, photocopies and pens for border forms
Final Word
Victoria Falls is both grand theatre and intimate detail: the roar you feel in your ribs; the fine spray on your cheeks; the sudden quiet, downstream in the gorge at sunset. With sensible planning, picking the right season for your interests, booking the headline activities, and allowing a day on each side, you’ll see why this is a once‑in‑a‑lifetime trip that many travellers happily repeat.
