Victoria Falls
One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World β Mosi-oa-Tunya, βThe Smoke That Thundersβ
Overview
Victoria Falls is the largest curtain of falling water in the world, spanning 1.7 kilometers wide and plunging over 100 meters into the Batoka Gorge. Located on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe, the Falls are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attract over a million visitors each year.
The Zambian side offers incredible close-up views, the famous Devil's Pool experience, and is the gateway to a vast array of adventure activities. The town of Livingstone, just 10km from the Falls, serves as the main base for visitors.
Best Time to Visit
Peak Season (Apr-Aug)
Maximum water flow, spectacular views. The spray can reach 400m high. Bring waterproof gear β you will get soaked!
Best for: Full Falls experienceShoulder Season (Sep-Nov)
Lower water reveals the rock face. Devil's Pool opens (usually Sep-Dec). Great for photography and adventure activities.
Best for: Devil's Pool & activitiesGreen Season (Dec-Mar)
Fewer crowds, lush landscapes, lower prices. Water starts rising. Great for birding and budget travelers.
Best for: Budget & fewer crowdsFull Moon Nights
Witness the rare lunar rainbow β a moonbow that appears in the Falls' spray during full moon. Truly magical.
Best for: Once-in-a-lifetimeTop Activities
Helicopter Flight over the Falls
15-25 min
Devil's Pool Swim
Half day
White Water Rafting
Full day
Bungee Jump (111m)
1 hour
Sunset Cruise on the Zambezi
2 hours
Victoria Falls Walk (Zambia side)
1-2 hours
Chobe Day Trip (Botswana)
Full day
Microlight Flight
15 min
Getting There
By Air: Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport (LVI) is 10km from the Falls. Proflight Zambia operates daily flights from Lusaka (1hr 15min). International connections via Johannesburg, Nairobi, and Addis Ababa.
By Road: Livingstone is accessible by road from Lusaka (6-7 hours), Namibia (via Katima Mulilo border), and Botswana (via Kazungula Bridge).
Visa: The KAZA UniVisa ($50) covers Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Botswana day trips β highly recommended for visitors wanting to see both sides of the Falls.
Where to Stay
Luxury
$400-1,500/nightTongabezi, Royal Livingstone, Sussi & Chuma
Mid-range
$100-300/nightMaramba River Lodge, Chrismar Hotel, Avani Victoria Falls
Budget
$20-80/nightJollyboys Backpackers, Fawlty Towers, Zigzag
Insider Tips
- π‘Book Devil's Pool months in advance β it sells out fast during peak season.
- π‘Bring a waterproof phone case for the Falls walk on the Zambian side.
- π‘The helicopter flight at sunrise offers the best light for photos.
- π‘Visit the Falls from both Zambia and Zimbabwe sides if possible β they're very different experiences.
- π‘Wednesday and Saturday are typically quieter at the Falls entrance.
- π‘The best sundowner spot is on a sunset cruise, not at a restaurant.
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