As the mighty Zambezi River drops 108 metres (354 feet) down into a powerful whirlpool, it forms the largest sheet of falling water on the planet: the Victoria Falls is the largest waterfall on Earth. Traditionally known as Mosi-oa-Tunya (‘Smoke that Thunders’), the falling water’s impressive roar can sometimes be heard from 40 kilometres (25 miles) away and on a clear day a dazzling cloud of mist can be seen floating high above the Falls. This is truly a magnificent wonder of nature that every safari lover should experience at least once!
Victoria Falls caters to every style and budget. But knowing when to go and what to expect is important for planning your trip. Here a are a few tips to help guide you:
Is Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe or Zambia?
Victoria Falls is part of the mighty Zambezi River. The waterfall straddles Zimbabwe to the west and Zambia to the east and forms the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia. The falls are easily accessed from either country.
Zimbabwe side
Water flowing most of the year at varying degrees of strength with Iconic view of the Main Falls on the Zimbabwian side
A classic ‘tourist town’ with restaurants, bars and all hotels are within walking distance of the waterfall
Zambia side
Exceptionally close-up waterfall viewing
Swimming in Devil’s Pool during low-water season
Livingstone is more of a ‘business town’ and home to the Livingstone Museum with romantic riverside lodges close by
Which Side Has the Best Views?
As about three quarters of Victoria Falls lie in Zimbabwe, the country has the lion’s share of vantage points. Various paths meander through the rain forest and you will discover some tremendous view points.
In Zambia you can walk along the paved paths on the edge of the waterfall and cross the heart-racing Knife-Edge bridge during high water season. During the low-water season, head down the footpath that leads to the Boiling Pot: a massive whirlpool at the base of the waterfall. Here you can look up and marvel at the sheer magnitude of this natural wonder!
Whatever side you stay on, you can easily cross the border to explore the other or to undertake activities like white-water rafting, gorge swinging, bungee jumping, – just have your passport ready for the border crossing!
Victoria Falls Seasons
Victoria Falls Water Seasons: How to Get Your Timing Right
Spring
(Sep-Oct) Sep: Lower
Oct: Lowest Hot and dry
Summer
(Nov-Apr) Dec-Jan: Rising
Feb-Apr: High Hot and rainy
Autumn / Fall
(May-Jun) High Warm and dry
Winter
(Jul-Aug) Jul: High
Aug: Lower Warm and dry
Tips:
Best time to visit for the best views: March to August
Best time to combine your visit with a safari in Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana or South Africa: July to September
Like almost everything else in Africa, the spectacle at the Falls is entirely dependent on rainfall. When you choose to travel will have an impact on your experience of the waterfall. It is a wonderful destination to visit year-round, but if there are specific sights and activities that you’d like to include in your Victoria Falls itinerary please talk to us.
