Named after Queen Victoria, the Victoria Falls are a spectacular natural beauty, right on the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia. The falls are not the widest or tallest in the world but are thought of as the biggest and taking all dimensions into account, it has one of the largest sheets of falling water in the world.
The local Tonga people named the falls ‘Mosi Oa Tunya’, meaning ‘the smoke that thunders’. David Livingstone is believed to be the first explorer to discover the falls, resulting in the nearest town on the Zambian side being named after him (Livingstone).
Victoria falls are truly spectacular, plus there’s so many activities you can do around the area, it’s worth spending a few days here.
| Zambia or Zimbabwe? |
| What to do at Victoria Falls |
| When to visit Victoria Falls? |
| Where to stay near Victoria Falls? |
| Do I need a visa to visit the falls? |
| Is it safe to visit Zimbabwe & Zambia? |
Zambia or Zimbabwe?
As Victoria Falls is located between the countries of Zambia and Zimbabwe it’s hard to know from which county to visit from. The good news is that you can visit both, if time permits. From Zambia you can see about 25% of the falls whilst on the Zimbabwean side you can see 75%. Although the experience from both sides is not too different, you will see a lot more in full view from Zimbabwe.
However from Zambia there are many different viewpoints above and on the ground, you can even swim under the falls in one section. If you’re looking to swim in the famous ‘devils pool’, via Livingstone Island, then this can only be done from the Zambian side. Both sides are worth the visit and the dual visa has made it a lot easier for tourists (more on that below).
If you are coming from Zimbabwe then the closest town is Victoria Falls. This town is a lot more touristy than the Zambian side but the plus side is that it’s walking distance to the falls. It also has more options for shopping and eating out.
The Zambian side is a fair bit cheaper and has lots of options for more budget accommodation but you will have to take a taxi from Livingstone town to the falls (about 10km). The town has a more local feel but does have some western style restaurants. This is the side I was staying on and I found it very quiet and pretty safe during the day.
What to do at Victoria Falls?
Zambia
I visited the Zambian side during wet season and it was incredible. There are many different viewpoints from this side to get an all round view of this breath-taking place. At first you get an overall view of the falls in full panorama mode. The sound is something else too- you can hear the powerful waterfall before you even see it.
Cross the Knife-edge Bridge to get a close up view of the falls (and potentially wet) and then take the trail down to the ‘boiling pot’. This is where the water flows and whirls to look as though the water is churning. This is also a great viewpoint of Victoria Falls bridge, where you can watch people bungy jumping off.
Zimbabwe
On the Zimbabwean side of Victoria falls you can head to the main falls viewpoint to get that iconic view of the majority of the falls. This side also has water flowing all year round, even in the dry season. There are more viewpoints on the Zimbabwean side but if your looking for an all round experience then Zambia may be better for you.
More activities at Victoria Falls: (2019 prices in USD)
· Helicopter & Microlight flights- from $150-$300
· Bungee Jumping Victoria Falls Bridge- $160
· Bridge Swing Victoria Falls Bridge- solo $160 & tandem $240
· Full Day White Water Rafting- $120
· Zip lining (from Zimbabwe)- solo $69 & tandem $111
· Devils Swim & Livingstone Island tour (from Zambia)- $110-$175
· Zambezi Sunset River cruise- $40
· Chobe National Park Botswana- Full day- $170
· Transfer from Victoria Falls town to Livingstone town/hotels- $28
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When to visit Victoria Falls?
The falls are a year round destination, providing a different experience with each season. March and April are when the waterfall is at it’s most powerful. The mist may block some of your views but the aerial view will be incredible with the spray being seen from afar. From mid-August to mid-January the water levels are much lower and ‘devils pool’ will be open. June to August is a great time to combine your trip with a safari to neighbouring Botswana.
Where to stay near Victoria Falls?
There are accommodations for all budgets on both sides of the falls, however the Zambian side may be more budget friendly. From five star hotels like the Victoria Falls Hotel (Zimbabwe) to budget hostels such as Livingstone Backpackers (Zambia). Most of the hostels are well done, complete with swimming pools.
I camped at the Victoria Falls Waterfront in Livingstone, Zambia. There are more expensive private rooms here or you can camp on site for a cheaper price. The views over the Zambezi river are beautiful, plus there are two swimming pools, a bar and restaurant. And they did an all you can eat buffet breakfast- yum!
Do I need a visa to visit the falls?
Yes, both Zambia and Zimbabwe both require visas which can be obtained on arrival. If you want to visit both sides then getting the KAZA UniVisa will work out much cheaper. It will allow you to travel between Zimbabwe and Zambia, plus day trips to Botswana through the Kazlunga border.
The visa is available at Harare, Bulawayo and Victoria Falls airports and at the Victoria Falls land border. With the KAZA visa you can visit Zambia and Zimbabwe multiple times within the 30-day validity period. You can also apply for an e-visa in advance but that only applies to certain border points. For more information visit the Zambia Gov site.
Is it safe to visit Zimbabwe & Zambia?
I travelled with a tour group throughout Africa which made me feel a lot safer knowing I was with a group of people. However it is possible to make the trip on your own perfectly safely. As always, take precautions when travelling through these countries as there are definitely cases of muggings and robberies.
I would advise not to walk around after dark, especially if solo and to not carry to many personal items on you. During the day is usually fine though and as long as you are vigilant and sensible there’s no reason why you cant enjoy a trip here hassle free. In some areas you will meet fairly pushy trinklet sellers but a firm no should do the trick. Make sure you book activities and tours with a reputable company. Most of the locals are very friendly so don’t be put off by stories you may hear online.
Always keep up to date with any political situations when you are travelling and check the safety rating on your government website. The UK and Australian government travel advice sites are very useful.
Whichever country or time you visit Victoria Falls you are sure to have a once in a lifetime experience. I hope this post has been helpful and as always please share on social media.
You may also enjoy reading: Botswana: 8 Adventurous Reasons To Add To Your Bucket List
