victoria falls has been a popular tourist

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How to Visit Victoria Falls

It’s not the widest or the tallest falls in the world, but it is without doubt the most impressive.

Victoria Falls is on almost everyone’s bucket list, but few people know the best way to experience it. On a recent trip to southern Africa, I saw it from every which way, so you don’t have to.

Why is it worth visiting?

Known by locals as Mosi-oa-Tunya, or “the smoke that thunders,” it was first seen by Western eyes in 1855 when British explorer David Livingstone came upon it and named it after his queen. Reflecting on the experience of seeing Victoria Falls for the first time, he wrote, “Scenes so lovely must be gazed upon by angels in their flight.”

The cataract still has that power to strike awe. It spans about a mile—the entire width of the Zambezi River—and drops a distance about twice the height of Niagara into a narrow gorge in one seemingly continuous sheet, forcing mist to rise high into the sky.

Not only can you see it, but you can hear it (from about a mile away), feel it, smell it, and taste it.

Where is it?

The falls straddles Zimbabwe to the west and Zambia to the east. You can access it from either country, via the town of Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe or Livingstone in Zambia. Both have good air connections.

Zimbabwe has historically been the more popular entry point, but political turmoil and hyperinflation in the 2000s made Zambia preferable.

Zambia has been one of Africa’s most stable and understated democracies; its safari lodges are known for their old-fashioned hospitality and plentiful wildlife.

Tip: At the airport of the country you enter first—Zimbabwe or Zambia—make sure you obtain the UniVisa (currently U.S. $50 for nationals from many countries) that serves as a multicountry pass.

How do I get there?

There are national park entrances on both sides of the falls, easily accessible from the towns of either Livingstone or Victoria Falls.

If you’ve booked through a safari operator, your guide will simply drive you to the entrance. The per-person fee is $20 on the Zambia side and $30 on the Zimbabwe side.

Which side is better?

Put very briefly: To see the falls, go to Zimbabwe; to feel the falls, go to Zambia.

But I recommend seeing it from both sides, and here’s why:

The Zambia side at high flow (February to June) is an exhilaratingly visceral experience; visitors walking on the other side of the narrow gorge can feel the spray (get drenched or rent a poncho). In the dry season, because the falls are at an incline, portions of land stay dry, which opens up other opportunities (see question on Devil’s Pool, below).

The Zimbabwe side tends to offer the more picturesque views because the viewpoints are farther, offering perspective. If you go in the height of the dry season, say, in November, the water volume is at a low point and the falls can feel a little underwhelming.

Can I do both sides in a day?

In fact, I did both sides in a couple of hours. Make sure you have a multiple-country visa in your passport. From either Livingstone or Victoria Falls, visit the border-crossing office and get your passport stamped for exit.

You can drive or walk across the bridge between the two countries, get your passport stamped for entry, and walk to the national park entrance.

If you wish to return, make sure you get your passport stamped leaving the country and entering the other country.

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However, I feel compelled to mention that one of the most compelling experiences I had didn’t even require park entrance. I stood on the bridge between the two countries, straddled Zim and Zam, and gazed at the world’s most famous waterfall.

There were a few other Western tourists, but I was mostly joined by the cross-border drivers and migrant workers. Safety during the day on the border road isn’t much of a concern, though travelers do have to deal with polite but pesky trinket sellers.

What else can I do at the falls area?

A luxury dinner train crosses from Zambia to Zimbabwe over the Zambezi River and stops in the middle for a view of the Falls (though plans call for an additional departure in the other direction).

For an aerial view, microlight flights are popular, and so is bungee jumping. There are comfortable or luxury lodges near both towns, often the launching points of multiday wildlife safaris.

I’ve seen photos of people standing at the edge of the falls. How do I do that and is it dangerous?

Devil’s Pool is an experience you can have only on the Zambia side and only during the dry season (mid-August to mid-January). It involves a boat ride on the Zambezi to Livingstone Island, from which you can swim in a natural pool at the edge of the falls.

Breathe easy: An unseen lip prevents you from actually going over. Run by a well-regarded tour operator, the Devils Pool is not a dangerous activity—provided you follow the directions of the guides. There are other unofficial natural pools in which people have gone over the edge; make sure your outfitter is licensed.

Norie Quintos is an editor at large at National Geographic Traveler . A former editor at U.S. News and World Report and Caribbean Travel and Life , she bikes, hikes, jumps on hotel beds, and tweets @noriecicerone .

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12 Essential Victoria Falls tips: Everything you should know to plan your trip

Are you planning a trip to Victoria Falls? Here are the essential Victoria Falls tips plus everything you need to know before you visit this incredible landmark.

Located in the middle of the Zambezi river and at the border of both Zimbabwe and Zambia, Victoria falls is one of the seven natural wonders of the world that is high on every traveler’s bucket list .

I mean every adventure traveler would one day want to see the biggest curtains of falling water at the Victoria Falls.

Though it may not be the highest nor the widest waterfall in the world, it is classified as the largest waterfall with a height of 108 meters (354 ft) and a width of 1,708 meters (5,604 ft). Now that’s something you’d want to see at least once in a lifetime.

But before you travel to the storm that thunders, there are a few essential Victoria falls tips you should know to make sure that you plan you’re trip very well.

So as you plan your trip to Victoria Falls, here are the best tips you need to know for an amazing time.

Disclaimer* This post contains affiliate links and I might earn a small commission if you purchase through them but with no extra cost to you. This commission helps to keep the lights on here. You can read our privacy policy for more details. Thank you for supporting the Adventurous feet

Victoria Falls tips to know to help you plan your trip

1. Best time to visit Victoria falls

Though Victoria falls is a year-long destination, not every time of the year is perfect to visit depending on what you want to do. You should know that the water levels of the falls change as the season changes.

If you want to see the falls at their highest capacity with the mist so high and the sound so thunderous, you might want to visit from February to May. The only downside of visiting at this time of the year is that some times the mist gets too thick that it becomes hard to see the falls themselves perfectly.

But as the mist clears a bit in the months of January and June, it becomes easier to see the Falls perfectly well plus the bottom of the cliff to see where the water – falls.

Though the water levels reduce a little bit, I believe it’s the perfect season to get a clear view of the Falls and to also take part in some of the Victoria Falls activities like White water rafting.

However, if you want to swim in the devil’s pool on the Zambian side, it can’t be done when the water levels are at their highest as its deadly, you’ll need to wait for September through December when the water levels reduce completely.

With those variations in mind, you’ll need to figure out what you exactly want to do at the Falls and choose the right time for you.

But regardless of what time of the year you visit the Victoria falls, I can guarantee that you’ll be blown away by this incredible natural wonder.

Related post: 15 Things to know before traveling to Africa

2. Which side of the boarder should you stay at

This might be the hugest debate and the most asked question about visiting the Victoria Falls. Since the Falls are right at the border of Zimbabwe and Zambia, it’s sometimes not easy to decide where to stay or visit from.

Of course, it would be so cool to visit from both sides which you should actually do if you can but not everyone is lucky enough to have that option.

Visiting from either side has its own pros and cons that you should put into account. What I advise you is to look at the pros and cons of visiting from either side and then decide on the perfect side for you.

So to make decision making easy for you, here a few advantages and disadvantages of visiting from either side.

From the Zimbabwe side

• You can see 75% of the waterfalls from the Zimbabwean side.
• The Falls of the Zimbabwean side never dry out, unlike the Zambian side which dries out in the months of September to December.
• The closest town “Victoria falls town” is just a few minutes’ walk from the Victoria falls which makes access very easy at any time of the day unlike the 10km distance of Livingstone town in Zambia from the Falls.
• The cost of living is a bit high on the Zimbabwean side as the Victoria falls town is completely designed for tourists with everything a bit pricier than in Livingstone town in Zambia.

From the Zambian side

• You can swim in the devil’s pool which is one of the bucket list activities for adrenaline junkies.
• The cost of living is a bit low in Living stone town. Actually, even the entrance fee to the falls is a bit cheaper here compare to the Zimbabwean side.

With those few points, it’s easy to see why I highly recommend visiting from the Zimbabwean side . Regardless of when you visit, you’ll be able to enjoy one of the most famous landmarks in Africa from the Zimbabwean side.

Related post: Mistakes to avoid while traveling in Africa

3. Check to see if you need a Visa

If you have zeroed down on the side of the border you’ll be staying at, check with your government to see if you need a visa to enter either country and that should be easy.

The tourist Visa is $30 for Zimbabwe and $50 for Zambia but if it’s only a day trip, then you can expect to pay $20.

But what if you plan on visiting the Falls from both countries?

This can be the tricky part! Some people get a visa for one country and loosely assume that it will be automatic to access the falls from the other side of the border without another visa.

But just like crossing any border, you’ll still need to get a visa (depending on the passport you hold).

Zimbabwe might require you to get a visa and Zambia not, or the other way round! What I advise you to do is to make one country your visiting base and treat the other one as a day trip if you don’t plan on doing any activities there other than just seeing the Falls. This will save you a lot of money on accommodation.

You might also look into getting a double entry visa for your base country which is a bit cheaper instead of paying for two separate visas for when you’ll enter the country the second time after your day trip to the other side of the border.

But if both countries require you to get visas, still find out how easy/hard it is to obtain them and whether you need to get them before you travel or visas on arrival are possible. And if it’s Visa on arrival, make sure that you have cash on you to pay for them! It’s normally in US dollars.

Pro tip* Make sure that you get cleared with customs and get your Passport stamped for any border crossing you make not to run into any trouble with the law.

4. How to get to the Victoria Falls

The best part about visiting Victoria Falls is that it’s easily accessible regardless of where you’re coming from and which side of the border you choose to stay at.

To give you an idea, here is how to get to the Victoria Falls both in Zimbabwe and Zambia.

To Victoria Falls town in Zimbabwe

Just fly directly into Victoria falls airport and take a taxi to Victoria Falls town.

If you’re flying from any of the Southern African countries, it’s super easy to fly directly to Victoria Falls town. For some countries, flights are not daily, so check to see and book your flight on time.

When you get to Victoria Falls town, it’s so easy to just walk to the falls depending on where you’re staying. Some hotels (mentioned later in this post) are just a 10 to 20 minutes’ walk to the falls.

But for hotels that are not within a walkable distance, some offer free shuttle transfers to and from the falls at specific times. But if you want to go on your own, you can just hire a taxi that will take you directly to the entrance of Victoria falls national park. It can be anywhere between $5 to $10 depending on the distance.

However, if your booked a guided tour (I recommend some later in the post), the tour company will pick you up and later drop you back to your hotel after the tour.

To Livingstone town in Zambia

You can still fly from any of the Southern African airports directly to Livingstone airport which is the getaway to the Falls in Zambia.

Unlike Victoria Falls town, Livingstone is not near the Falls to walk there so by all means, you will need to find a way to get. Still, some hotels offer free shuttle transfers to the falls but if not, then you can get a taxi from Livingstone which can be around $10 to $15 depending on the distance.

For a complete guide on how to get to the Victoria falls, check out this post to know exactly how to get there whether by flying, self-drive, or using buses from the major southern African countries.

Related post: Common myths about Africa that are simply not true

5. Opening hours for Victoria Falls

Victoria falls national park opening hours (zimbabwe).

In Summer (From 1st September to 30th April): The park opens at 06:00 am and closes at 06:00 pm.

In Winter (From 1st May to 31st August): The park opens at 06:30 am and closes at 06:00 pm.

Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park Opening Hours (Zambia)

The park opens daily at 6: 00 am and closes at 6: 00 pm (regardless of the season).

6. Entrance fee to Victoria Falls

The park entry fees vary depending on your nationality. The park fees can be paid both by cash or by Card.

Victoria Falls National park entry fees (Zimbabwe)

• International visitors: US $ 30
• Southern African Development Community (SADC) visitors: US $20
• Zimbabwean citizens: RTGS$ 60
• Lunar tour visitors: US $40
• Children between 6 and 12: 50% of the adult fee
• Children under 6 years: Free

Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park Entry fees (Zambia)

• International visitors: US $20
• Zambian citizens: US $2 or K20
• Lunar tour visitors: US $30

Disclaimer* Please note that all these prices were accurate by the time this post was written but are subject to change at any time without any warning.

Related post: Important things to know before going on an African safari

7. Where to stay at Victoria Falls

You only need to book accommodation on just one side of the border if you plan to treat the other border as a day trip. And since there are so many things to do on the Zimbabwean side, I’d advise staying on this side.

But if you feel adventurous, have the money, time, and want to explore both sides a bit more, then you can choose to stay a couple of days on each side.

There is a variety of accommodation in both Victoria falls town and Livingstone town ranging from camping, budget, mid-range to luxury. So below are a few places I recommend on both the Zimbabwean and the Zambian side.

Accommodation at Victoria Falls on the Zimbabwean side

For camping.

Victoria falls rest camp and Lodges

The camp offers a number of campsites for both pitched tents and rooftop tented cars. The campsites are fully developed with well-maintained ablutions plus electricity on-site.

The advantage of camping at Victoria falls rest camp is that it is just a few minutes walk to the Falls.

Other than camping, it also offers private guest houses for non-campers. There is also a restaurant on-site – (In da belly restaurant) which serves a variety of cuisines, so you don’t have to move far if you’re hungry.

Check prices, reviews or book your spot at the Victoria Falls rest Camp from here .

Budget accommodation

N1 Hotel & Campsite Victoria Falls

N1 Hotel is a perfect choice for budget travelers and it is just located 1 km away from the Victoria falls.

It also offers a camping area with beautiful green grasses though there is no privacy if you’re someone who wants it while camping.

Check prices, reviews or book a room at N1 Hotel from here.

Mid-range accommodation

Shearwater’s Explorers village

Shearwater Explorers village offers a variety of accommodation types from private chalets, dorm tents, to individual camping. It is also near Victoria Falls.

Campsites are reasonably cheap but the Chalets are mid-range which means that it can accommodate a number of budgets.

Check prices, reviews or book a room at Shearwater’s Explorers Village from here.

Luxury accommodation

Victoria falls Safari Suites

Located in the heart of Victoria falls town, Victoria Falls Safari Suites is a five-star hotel that commands luxury like no other. If want to be at home away from home, then this is the place to stay.

Check prices, reviews or book a room at Victoria Falls Safari Suites from here.

Victoria falls safari Lodge  

Just located 4km from the mighty Victoria Falls, Victoria falls safari Lodge is the place to be for travelers seeking absolute luxury.

Check prices, reviews or book a room at Victoria Falls Safari Lodge from here.

Accommodation at Victoria Falls on the Zambian side

Woodlands Lodge & Tours

For people that want to stay in a comfortable place after a day’s sightseeing, then go to Woodlands Lodge and Tours . The availability of a restaurant, an outdoor swimming pool, and a bar makes up for the distance to the Victoria Falls.

Check prices, reviews or book a room at Woodlands Lodge & Tours from here.

Camp Nkwazi 

Camp Nkwazi   provides amazing views or River Zambezi as it’s right in front of the River. It’s also not far from Livingstone town which makes moving around easy. On top of that, you can participate in fishing and horse ride when you want to chill at the hotel.

Check prices, reviews or book a room at Camp Nkwazi from here.

The Royal Livingstone Hotel by Anantara

If luxury is all you want as you experience one of the best adventures in Africa, then sleep at the Royal Livingstone Hotel . It is right next to River Zambezi and just a short minutes walk to the Victoria Falls.

Check prices, reviews or book a room at The Royal Livingstone Hotel from here.

Related post: Best tips for Backpacking Africa

8. Things to do at Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls offer a range of activities to participate in spanning from the high adrenaline activities to the less adventurous. So below are a few activities you should plan to do on top of gazing at the glorious Falls.

Take a flight over the Victoria falls

Flying over the Victoria Falls is the most exciting activity at Victoria Falls. The flight offers breathing taking views of the Falls from all angles which makes you appreciate them even more.

The flight also comes with an Audio guide which is well in sync with everything making the experience even much more enjoyable.

It was truly the highlight of my entire trip to Victoria Falls and if it were possible, I would do it over and over again. It’s quite pricey but worth every single penny.

So don’t wait to reach there only to be told that it’s booked out on the day you want, book it now to save your spot. This is actually the exact flight I booked and I had an amazing time with Shearwater Victoria Falls.

Check prices, reviews, or book the Flight of Angels from here.

Pro tip* I opted for a flight of angels but I know some people would prefer the Scenic Microlight Flight. I couldn’t bring myself to do it. But if you’re more adventurous than me, then you can check out the prices, review availability, or even book a Microlight Flight from here. Also, if you’re taking the flight over the falls from the Zambian side, then this is the best flight to book .

Go for a sunset cruise along the Zambezi river.

A sunset cruise at Zambezi River is by far the best way to wind up a day while at Victoria falls. The cruise offers amazing views of the river and a chance to spot hippos and giraffes roaming around the Zambezi national park.

It’s an exciting moment where you get lose, have a couple of drinks and enjoy the most beautiful sunset at Zambezi river.

Check prices, reviews, or book the sunset cruise from here

Go Bungee jumping at the Victoria Falls bridge

For the adrenaline junkies, bungee jumping off the victoria falls bridge is a perfect opportunity to test your adrenaline levels.

Honestly, it can be a bit intimidating to jump off the bridge while looking down the bottom of the cliff but it’s one activity you’ve got to tick off your bucket list.

Check prices, reviews, or book your Bungee jumping adventure from here .

Test your adrenaline by going for white water rafting

This is not an activity for the faint-hearted as the rapids along River Zambezi are of grade 5. But there is no better way to experience the falls than this for extremely adventurous individuals.

I personally didn’t go for white water rafting but since I’ve done white water rafting at River Nile in Uganda , I know how fun, exciting and thrilling it can be and I bet it’s much better with the view of the Falls.

So if you plan to participate, this white water rafting tour is highly recommended by previous participants and I believe you’ll have a blast.

Check prices, reviews, or book your rafting spot from here .

Swim at the devil’s pool

This is truly one of the most fun things to do at Victoria Falls on the Zambian side. Imagine how cool it is to swim at the edge of one of the most famous waterfalls in the world! Incredible, right?

However, please note that swimming at the Devil’s pool can be done at specific times of the year as I mentioned earlier. So if you want to do it, you should first check to see if the time is right.

Check prices, reviews, or book your spot from here .

Go for a bridge swing

Believed to bring out the same heartbeat rate as Bungee jumping or even more, a bridge swing is one of the other adrenaline activities to do at the Victoria Falls.

With a free fall of 80m from the bridge, you’re bound to scream your lungs out as you take on this adventure- at least I did. However, it’s so much you don’t want to miss it.

Those are some of the few things to do at Victoria Falls but others include; the bridge slide, the bridge tour, Sunrise photography tour of the falls, Traditional Village tour , zip-lining, Quad biking, Gorge swing , and so many others. You can check out other fun things to do at the Victoria falls from my previous post.

Related post: Best countries to visit in Africa

You can also check out my recommended tours and activities at Victoria Falls in the widget below   all offered by my favorite tour provider, GetYourGuide .

9. Should you take a tour to the Falls?

If you’re already in Victoria Falls town in Zimbabwe or in Livingstone town in Zambia, then you honestly don’t need to book a tour as the falls are nearby and easy to get.

Actually, even when you’re in the nearby countries, say Botswana or South Africa, and you can figure out the best way to get there on your own (you can refer to my previous post on how to get to Victoria fall ), then you may not need to book a tour. I personally did a self-drive from Botswana to Victoria Falls – so it’s totally doable.

However, not everyone wants to figure out the logistics of how, where, and when. If that’s you, then here are the best tours to Victoria falls that you can consider.

Day trip from Botswana to Victoria falls

If you are in Kasane, Botswana, and just want to take a day trip to the Falls and come back, then this day trip is perfect for you.

You get to see the beauty of the smoke that thunders without the hustles of organizing a trip. The best part about this day trip from Kasane to Victoria falls in Zimbabwe is that it’s only limited to 10 people which means that you won’t be overwhelmed by a large group.

Check for availability, prices, reviews or book your day trip from here

From Livingstone: Victoria falls guided tour

You might be in Livingstone town but what to have a guided tour to learn more about the facts and history of Victoria Falls. If that’s you, then this is the perfect tour to opt for .

With over 3 hours of the tour, you’ll learn everything and get all your questions answered as you hear from the knowleagable tour guides.

Check for availability, prices, reviews or book your guided tour from here

From Victoria falls town: Victoria Falls private guided tour

Victoria Falls might be within a walkable distance from Victoria Falls town but if you want to get a deeper understanding of this incredible world natural wonder, then opt for this private guided tour.

With a professional tour guide, you’ll learn all the history of the Falls, the local wildlife, and everything you might have wanted to learn about this smoke that thunders.

Related post: Best safari destinations in Africa

10. What to pack for Victoria Falls

When it comes to what to pack for Victoria Falls, you don’t need to take much. Just a backpack with a few items will be enough. But to make sure that you don’t forget anything, below are a few items that are essential.

• Passport: Obviously you’ll need to take your passport to be able to purchase the entry ticket to the falls. You can also take a waterproof passport jacket to make sure that your passport doesn’t get wet.
• A daypack: I am a backpacker, so I’ll always have a daypack with me wherever I travel to make sure that all my day’s essentials are kept well. I love the Osprey daypack as it’s lightweight, fits everything I need for a day, and also has a water bottle holder where I can just put my bottle. If you don’t have a daypack already, you can check it out here and I promise you’ll love it. You can check for prices and reviews on Amazon or on the actual Osprey website .
• A good Camera: With this incredible sight in front of you, there is no way you wouldn’t want to take a thousand photos. I prefer a small camera as I can go anywhere with it without any hustles but you can get inspiration from these best travel cameras.
• A waterproof raincoat : They say it never stops raining at the falls and they’re right! The water splashes so high, it feels like it’s raining the entire time. If you don’t take a rainjacket, I guarantee you’ll all be wet by the end of the tour (depending on the time of the year you visit). There are a number of shops nearby where you can rent a raincoat but it’s not cheap considering that you’ll be visiting the Falls for a couple of hours. So I recommend taking your own waterproof jacket to avoid spending more. I like this Columbia lightweight and waterproof rain jacket and for the guys, this one is perfect .
• Sunglasses: They may not be necessary to protect your eyes from the sun or look cool for that matter but rather to protect them from the nonstop rain. You could pass on them but I know it’s not fun when water gets into the eyes the entire time.
• Waterproof Phone Case: If you want to take photos very close to the falls, you might consider taking this waterproof phone case – well unless of course, your phone is water-resistant.
• Comfortable walking shoes: There is so much to see and the place is quite big. And since you’ll be on foot the entire time, you might want to take comfortable walking shoes. Also, since water splashes all the time, the ground will definitely get slippery. So you might want to substitute your flip flops for your running shoes.
• Travel Insurance: Travel Insurance is a must-have regardless of where you’re traveling to and Victoria falls is no exception. With travel bringing on its own challenges, you’ve got to be protected the entire time and the best way to do that is to cover yourself with World Nomads travel insurance. It covers a number of items including the most adventurous activities travelers love to do. You can request a quote from World Nomads from here.

Related post: The complete packing list for Africa

11. How long should your visit last

There is no set time on how long your trip should last as that depends on how fast or paced you want to take in the views from each angle of the Falls.

But to get the most out of your visit and this is when you’ve seen every little corner, I suggest putting aside 2 to 3 hours. It might seem like a lot (or little for some), but it’s the ideal time.

If you’re not traveling with a group, you won’t have to worry about this as you can take your time without feeling like you’re delaying or rushing the others.

If you visit the Falls from the Zimbabwean side, it’s very easy to see every spot as they marked out well all the best viewpoints from 1 to 16 with 1 being the starting point – so it’s hard to skip any spot.

12. Where to eat at Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Victoria Falls town is a major tourist place with so many great restaurants to eat at. Whether you want to try out Zimbabwean dishes or Mediterranean dishes, these restaurants offer a wide range of choices.

Lola’s Tapas.

Owned by Lola, a very friendly Spanish native, Lola’s Tapas is a great place to enjoy local games meat and Mediterranean cuisine.

While you’re there, try out the special Crocodile dish. And if you’re lucky, you’ll be treated to a performance from the local artists.

Shearwaters cafe

Want to treat yourself to a western meal? Then opt for Shearwaters cafe. It is perfectly located on the main street of victoria falls town serving a wide range of western meals and cocktails.

Shearwaters café has a great and welcoming ambiance – a quality that has made it a popular spot among tourists.

In da belly restaurant.

Located inside the Victoria falls rest camp, In da belly restaurant serves a mix of local game meats and traditional local dishes. The name “In da belly” is a play of words derived from “Ndebele”, one of the major tribes in Zimbabwe.

There you have it, those were the essential Victoria Falls tips you need to know to plan your trip well. On a scale of 1 to 10 with 10 being the highest, how excited are you to finally see the Victoria Falls! I know I was at 11, so I know how incredibly amazing it is.

For me, visiting the Victoria falls was one of my best travel experiences and I am excited for you! But if you’ve already been to this wonderful landmark, share with me how your experience was!

And if you have more questions as you plan your trip to the Victoria falls, leave them in the comment section and I will answer them soon.

More posts to help you plan your African trip

• Best Countries to visit in Africa
• Safest countries to visit in Africa
• Things to know before going on an African safari
• Best National parks to visit in Africa

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Unesco social media, mosi-oa-tunya / victoria falls.

• Description

These are among the most spectacular waterfalls in the world. The Zambezi River, which is more than 2 km wide at this point, plunges noisily down a series of basalt gorges and raises an iridescent mist that can be seen more than 20 km away.

Description is available under license CC-BY-SA IGO 3.0

Mosi-oa-Tunya / Chutes Victoria

Elles figurent parmi les chutes d'eau les plus spectaculaires du monde. Le Zambèze, large de plus de 2 km à cet endroit, s'engouffre bruyamment dans une série de gorges de basalte, provoquant une brume irisée visible à plus de 20 km de distance.

موزي أوتامبرا /شلالات فكتوريا

تعدّ هذه الشلالات الأروع في العالم، فشلال زامبيزي الذي يزيد عرضه على الكيلومترين في هذه النقطة يسقط هادراً في سلسلة من الفتحات المكوّنة من أحجار البازلت مخلفاً سحابة متقزحة بادية للعيان على بعد يفوق 20 كيلومتراً.

source: UNESCO/CPE Description is available under license CC-BY-SA IGO 3.0

莫西奥图尼亚瀑布（维多利亚瀑布）

这是世界上最壮观的瀑布之一。赞比西河宽度超过2公里，瀑布奔入玄武岩峡谷，水雾形成的彩虹远隔20公里以外就能看到。

Mosi-oa-Tunya – Cataratas Victoria

Estas cataratas figuran entre las más espectaculares del planeta. El río Zambeze, que tiene más de dos kilómetros de ancho en este lugar, se precipita con estruendo por una serie de desfiladeros basálticos, levantando una nube de rocío iridiscente que puede verse a más de 20 kilómetros de distancia.

モシ・オ・トゥニャ／ヴィクトリアの滝

source: NFUAJ

Mosi-oa-Tunya / Victoria-watervallen

Deze watervallen gelden als enkele van de meest spectaculaire ter wereld. Hier stort de meer dan 2 kilometer brede Zambezi rivier zich luidruchtig naar beneden in een reeks basaltkloven. Hierdoor ontstaat een regenboogkleurige mist die van meer dan 20 kilometer afstand te zien is. De watervallen bevinden zich op 915 meter boven zeeniveau en zijn 1.708 meter breed en gemiddeld 100 meter diep. Per minuut valt er 500 miljoen liter naar beneden. Hierdoor vormen ze het grootse gordijn van vallend water wereldwijd. Binnen de watervalzone is er sprake van een rivier-‘regenwoud’ met als overheersende vegetatie Mopane-bos en daarnaast kleine gebieden van teak- en miombo-bos.

Source: unesco.nl

Outstanding Universal Value

Brief synthesis

The Mosi-oa-Tunya/Victoria Falls is the world’s greatest sheet of falling water and significant worldwide for its exceptional geological and geomorphological features and active land formation processes with outstanding beauty attributed to the falls i.e. the spray, mist and rainbows. This transboundary property extends over 6860 ha and comprises 3779 ha of the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park (Zambia), 2340 ha of Victoria Falls National Park (Zimbabwe), 741 ha of the riverine strip of Zambezi National Park (Zimbabwe). A riverine strip of the Zambezi National Park extending 9 km west along the right bank of the Zambezi and islands in the river are all within the Park as far as Palm and Kandahar Islands, with the Victoria Falls being one of the major attractions. The waterfall stands at an altitude of about 915 m above mean sea level (a.m.s.l.) and spans to about 1708 m wide with an average depth of 100 m and the deepest point being 108 m. Sprays from this giant waterfall can be seen from a distance of 30 km from the Lusaka road, Zambia and 50 km from Bulawayo road, Zimbabwe. Basalts have been cut by a river system producing a series of eight spectacular gorges that serve as breeding sites for four species of endangered birds. The basalts of the Victoria Falls World Heritage property are layered unlike those of the Giants Causeway World Heritage site which are vertical and columnar.

Criterion (vii): The Mosi-oa-Tunya/Victoria Falls is the largest curtain of falling water in the world; it is 1708 m wide and with up to 500 million litres per minute descending at 61 m (Devil’s Cataract), 83 m (Main Falls), 99 m (Rainbow Falls), 98 m (Eastern Cataract). Eight spectacular gorges of igneous origin (i.e. comprising basalts) and several islands in the core zone serve as breeding sites for four endangered and migratory bird species, such as the Taita Falcon and Black Eagle. The riverine 'rainforest' within the waterfall splash zone is a fragile ecosystem of discontinuous forest on sandy alluvium, dependent upon maintenance of abundant water and high humidity resulting from the spray plume of about 500 m (at maximum height) that can be seen from a distance of 50 km and 30 km from Bulawayo and Lusaka roads respectively. A direct frontage viewing of the falls is possible from both Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Criterion (viii): The Mosi-oa-Tunya/Victoria Falls and associated eight steep sided gorges have been formed through the changing waterfall positions over a geological time scale. The gorges are an outstanding example of river capture and the erosive forces of the water still continue to sculpture the hard basalts. These gorges take a zigzag course of a distance of about 150 km along the Zambezi River below the falls. Seven previous waterfalls occupied the seven gorges below the present falls, and the Devil's Cataract in Zimbabwe is the starting point for cutting back to a new waterfall. In addition, an aerial view of the falls shows possible future waterfall positions. Upstream are a spectacular series of riverine islands formed during the ongoing geological and geomorphological processes. The property is characterized by banded basalt of ancient lava flow, Kalahari sandstones and chalcedony out of which stone artefacts of Homo habilis dating three million years, stone tools of the middle Stone Age and weapons, adornments and digging tools of the late Stone Age that indicate occupation by hunter-gatherers.

The transboundary property extends over 6860 ha, which is considered relatively intact and adequately sized to maintain the diverse natural processes, functions and interactions including the waterfall, gorges, riverine ecosystem, breeding ground, habitat or landing base for migratory endangered bird species making it an Important Bird Area (IBA), lava flows, ancient stone artefacts and tools for hunter-gatherers. It comprises 3779 ha of the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park (Zambia), 2340 ha of the Victoria Falls National Park (Zimbabwe), and 741 ha of the riverine strip of Zambezi National Park (Zimbabwe). The boundary includes areas of the Zambezi River upstream of the waterfall both in Zimbabwe and in Zambia. The remaining area of these protected areas is considered as the buffer zone on either side of the Zambezi River in Southern Zambia and north‐western Zimbabwe. The Mosi‐oa‐Tunya National Park boundary follows the left bank between the Sinde River and the Songwe Gorge, bounded in the North by Dambwa Forest Reserve and the Maramba Township. On the right bank, the Victoria Falls National Park is bounded by the river from 6 km above to 12 km below the falls and by the town of Victoria Falls on the West. Sprays from this giant waterfall can be seen from a distance of 30 km from the Lusaka road, Zambia and 50 km from Bulawayo road, Zimbabwe. The system is directly bordered by three protected areas which serve as buffering system.

Protection and management requirements

The property is protected under the National Heritage Conservation Act (1998) and the Zambia Wildlife Act on the Zambia part and the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Act Cap. 20. 14 of 2008 (revised) on the Zimbabwean side. This principal legislation provides for legal protection of the resources within the property. The property has a well-defined and buffered boundary which requires clean demarcation. It has a Joint Integrated Management Plan (JIMP) prepared in a participatory manner, approved by the State Parties in November 2007 and being implemented in a participatory manner.

The Plan addresses specifically questions of transboundary coordination, management of urban and tourism facilities and funding schemes. It is divided into three administrative zones (High, Medium and Low Ecologically Sensitive Zones), each with specific prescriptions that best protect the specific resources and values found in each zone. These are surrounded by a buffer zone, and there is a challenge to ensure support for conservation within settlements in this area that pre-date the inscription of the property on the World Heritage List.

The agreed institutional framework for the management of the property is at three levels: Joint Ministerial, Joint Technical and Joint Site Management Committees. 

The property requires continued maintenance and updating of its management plan, supported by adequate staffing and provision of financial resources.

The falls being a major attraction, urban infrastructure developments, tourism facilities and services may impact the property’s integrity and therefore need to be carefully managed not to compromise the exceptional beauty and Outstanding Universal Value of the property.

Effective and continued action is also required to tackle the current and potential impacts of alien species on the property.

• Property inscribed for both geological and ecological values under natural criterion N (ii) before 1994. Criterion N (i) [Operational Guidelines 2002] was added. For more details see Decision 30.COM 8D.1 .
• Protectedplanet.net

The Nomination files produced by the States Parties are published by the World Heritage Centre at its website and/or in working documents in order to ensure transparency, access to information and to facilitate the preparations of comparative analysis by other nominating States Parties.

The sole responsibility for the content of each Nomination file lies with the State Party concerned. The publication of the Nomination file does not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever of the World Heritage Committee or of the Secretariat of UNESCO concerning the history or legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its boundaries.

State of Conservation (SOC)

Protections by other conservation instruments.

1 protection / 1 element

• Victoria Falls National Park

Read more about synergies

Victoria Falls Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Oct 11, 2020 | Destination Guides

Resting between Zimbabwe and Zambia , Victoria Falls is one of the world’s must-see waterfalls and has become a top travel destination for those visiting Africa.

To make sure you don’t miss this sought after travel hotspot, we’ve created the ultimate Victoria Falls guide with everything that you need to know about visiting one of the greatest waterfalls in Africa. 

Read everything from interesting Victoria Falls facts to the best Victoria Falls activities and the best time to go to this sought after travel destination.

Victoria Falls facts – A history of the falls

The formation of the Victoria Falls waterfall system dates back roughly 2 million years. It was during this time that the Zambezi River was formed; when the supercontinent known as Gondwanaland separated. The cracks in the basalt would later give way to the waters of the Zambezi, resulting in what is known today as Victoria Falls.

As well as the waterfall itself, Victoria Falls is also the name of the town on the Zimbabwean side of the waterfall. 

Victoria Falls was named in honour of Queen Victoria by the European explorer David Livingstone in 1855. Although most maps say ‘Victoria Falls”, the local people have long had a name for this natural wonder.  In the language of the indigenous people of Zimbabwe and Zambia, Victoria Falls is called Mosi-oa-Tunya , which translates to “The Smoke that Thunders”. 

Should you travel to Zimbabwe or Zambia?

When visiting Victoria Falls, one must decide whether to stay on the Zambia or Zimbabwe side of the Zambezi River. Experiencing the falls from either Zambia or Zimbabwe can result in a different experience. Both destinations have their own unique visibility of the falls, however, the Zimbabwean side flows all year round.

Staying on the Zimbabwean side

About three-quarters of the falls are seen from the Zimbabwean side which allows visitors to view the falls from every angle thoroughly. The town of Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe shares a name with the waterfall and is situated less than 1-kilometre away from this natural wonder. Victoria Falls town is a busy little tourist town with plenty of restaurants, curio shops and activities for visitors to enjoy. 

If you’re thinking of booking accommodation on the Zimbabwean side of the falls, the Victoria Falls Hotel is an incredible hotel offering private walkways to the falls.

Staying on the Zambian side

The Zambian side is much less crowded, and has less to do in terms of bars and restaurants. Yet many visitors report to enjoy the wild, more rugged element of Zambia. 

The town of Livingstone in Zambia is bigger than Victoria Falls and everything is spread out. Livingstone is a short drive away from the falls and has less viewing points than the Zambian side. It’s important to remember that at the height of the Victoria Falls dry season (October to November) the Zambian side of the falls dries up completely. 

One of our favourite hotels on the Zambian side of the falls is the Royal Livingstone Hotel . There’s also a private walkway to the waterfalls here. 

Moving between Zimbabwe and Zambia

Guests can also enter neighbouring countries with ease. All you have to do is present your visa which permits travellers to move between Zimbabwe, Zambia and Botswana. 

There is a border crossing on Victoria Falls bridge – making it easy to hop between Zimbabwe and Zambia to view the falls from both sides on the same day. To learn how the visa works, contact us .

Victoria Falls Guide

Height of victoria falls  .

It may not be the highest waterfall in the world, but Victoria Falls’ combined size and surface area make it the world’s largest body of falling water. 

The highest point of Victoria Falls is 108 metres, and the largest width is 1700 wide. The ledge is not straight, therefore, there are different heights as you look at it from either Zimbabwe or Zambia.

Victoria Falls Weather

Between May and September, the days are cool and dry where temperatures reach 25 to 27 C (77 to 80 F) during the day and drop from 7 to 10 C (44 to 50 F) at night. 

During October and April, the days are hotter and wetter summer months with highs of 32 to 34 C (90 to 93 F) during the day, and lows of 15 to 19 C (59 to 66 F) at night.

Wildlife in Victoria Falls 

Unlike the neighbouring country of Botswana, Victoria Falls does not guarantee sightings of the Big Five. Despite this, it does have a large number of wildlife species. 

Elephants are in abundance on both sides of the waterfall and can often be seen crossing the river banks when water levels are low. Visitors will spot plenty of crocodiles and hippos bathing in the Zambezi River, and buffalo are often seen drinking near the water’s edge. 

Big predators such as lions and hyenas can also be seen cooling off under the trees. Smaller mammals such as warthogs, impalas, mongoose and otters are found close to the falls. 

How to get to Victoria Falls 

Travelling to Victoria Falls is easy with direct flights from Johannesburg to Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport in Zambia or Victoria Falls Airport in Zimbabwe. Travelling to Victoria Falls can also be done via Kasane Airport in Botswana. 

Best time to travel to Victoria Falls 

Victoria Falls changes with the seasons, therefore, deciding when to travel to this natural wonder is important to your overall experience.

The months of October and November marks the end of a long dry season . During this time, the river is parched and the Zambezi is at its lowest. If you’re travelling to Victoria Falls during these months, your best bet is to go to Zimbabwe as this side of the waterfall flows all year round. That being said, don’t discount visiting other attractions during the dry months in Zambia, the low water levels are the perfect opportunity to experience the famous Devil’s Pool. 

The months of February to June is the prime time to visit the Zimbabwean side of the falls as the water levels are at their highest. During this time, the waterfall offers incredible views, however the mist and spray of the water may pose a challenge for viewing and photography. You’re also guaranteed to get wet.

The weather is most pleasant during the dry winter months of May to September . During this time of year there are cool evenings and warm days.

If you’re looking forward to white water-rafting Victoria Falls , travel from August to early January when the rapids are at their best. 

If you’re going on safari, travel between May and October when the vegetation is low, and animals are easily spotted.

Things to do in Victoria Falls

No Victoria Falls guide is complete without listing a few of the best Victoria Falls activities to get up when visiting the area.

Visit the Victoria Falls National Park

One of the seven natural wonders of the world and one of the greatest waterfalls in Africa, Victoria Falls is something that no traveller to Africa should never miss.

Take a dip in Devil’s Pool 

A favourite spot for the adrenaline junkies, Devil’s Pool is the world’s most epic infinity pool. Visitors have the chance to swim to the edge of the Earth’s largest waterfall in a naturally formed rock pool that looks over the edge of Victoria Falls. 

Go bungee jumping

Daredevils have the chance to plunge off the Victoria Falls Bridge and glide down for 111 metres on the Victoria Falls bungee jump.

Enjoy a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River

Glide down the magnificent Zambezi River while the sun sets over Victoria Falls and watch how the river comes to life. This is one of the most popular Victoria Falls activities.

Go white water rafting

Whitewater rafting down the Zambezi River is a thrilling experience! Rafters sometimes have the chance to get up close to hippos and crocs. 

Enjoy a s afari

Wildlife lovers can enjoy a range of different safaris, from canoe-based safaris, sunset cruises, open vehicle 4 x 4 safaris and even horseback and helicopter excursions. 

Explore the town of Victoria Falls

The town of Victoria Falls is compact and easily accessible. Visitors can wander the streets, strolling between the shops, lodges and craft markets at their heart’s content. The town is tourist-oriented, there are supermarkets and cafes in town, as well as superb restaurants in the hotels dotted around the area.

View the lunar rainbow

One of the most captivating sights of the Victoria Falls is the rare and beautiful view during a full moon. As the light from the moon bounces off the mist from the falls, it creates a Lunar Rainbow or “moonbow”. 

Victoria Falls gives you a chance to experience one of Africa’s natural wonders.  We hope this Victoria Falls guide has helped you learn a bit more about this wonderful destination.

If there is anything else you need to know about Victoria Falls, message us in the comment section below!

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Your ultimate guide to Victoria Falls

Known by locals as Mosi-oa-Tunya, or ‘the smoke that thunders,’ Victoria Falls is one of the most iconic images of Africa .

It’s also one of continent’s most popular tourist destinations, with most visitors carving out a couple of days to view the world’s largest curtain of falling water and sign up for some of the myriad adventure activities on offer.

Here’s how to get the most out of your visit.

Zimbabwe vs Zambia

With around 80 per cent of the falls seen from the Zimbabwean side , most visitors opt to bed down in Victoria Falls town, which is where you’ll stay if you’re travelling with Intrepid. Just a 10-minute walk from the falls, the compact tourist-orientated village is the most convenient base for adventure activities, though all activities are accessible from both sides of the falls with the appropriate visa. Be sure to bring plenty of USD with you, as Zimbabwe currently has a cash shortage, and not all local vendors accept credit cards.

EXPERIENCE VICTORIA FALLS ON AN 18-DAY ADVENTURE AROUND SOUTHERN AFRICA NOW

Viewing the falls

Photo by Mirae Campbell

Entry to the Zimbabwean side of the falls costs US$30. Allow around two hours to check out all 15 viewpoints, and don’t forget your rain poncho – if you’re planning to visit every lookout, you’re unlikely to stay dry. Don’t miss viewpoints one and two, which offer spectacular views through the canyon, while viewpoint 15 offers views across to Victoria Falls Bridge. You can also walk out onto the bridge for a different view. If you have a KAZA multi-entry visa, you can check out the Zambian side of the falls (USD$20) while you’re at it.

Adventure activities

Victoria Falls has an established adventure tourism industry, with some of the most popular activities including bungee jumping (off Victoria Falls Bridge), ziplining, whitewater rafting, gorge swinging, and taking a dip in Devil’s Pool, a rock pool on the Zambian side of the falls. Since Easter 2018, you can also abseil to the bottom of the Zimbabwean side of the falls. If you’re planning to sign up for any of these activities, be aware that some carry high safety risks. On New Year’s Eve in 2011, an Australian tourist was incredibly lucky to survive after her bungee cord snapped, and while there have been no recorded deaths at Devil’s Pool, you don’t need to be a rocket scientist to work out that splashing around on the edge of a slippery 108 metre-high waterfall isn’t exactly safe.

It’ll cost you, but you’re not likely to regret taking a heli flight over the falls. For the ultimate birds-eye-view, Intrepid recommends booking with the Zambezi Helicopter Company.

RELATED: WHAT IT’S REALLY LIKE EXPLORING SOUTHERN AFRICA ON AN INTREPID TRIP

Wildlife tourism

Photo by Sarah Reid

A handful of excellent wildlife experiences are available at Vic Falls, including day trips to Zimbabwe’s Hwange Game Reserve and even Chobe National Park in neighbouring Botswana, as well as walking safaris in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park on the Zambia side of the falls.

Unfortunately, a number of other wildlife experiences available at Vic Falls – such as walking with lions and elephant-back safaris – have been linked to animal cruelty. Intrepid ceased offering elephant rides on its tours back in 2014 due to overwhelming evidence that elephant rides (as well as shows such as painting demonstrations) are harmful for elephants. Intrepid also no longer encourages petting or walking with lions. While it might seem like fun to cuddle an African fur baby, the heartbreaking 2015 documentary Blood Lions exposed the realities of Africa’s horrific lion breeding industry , which is often passed off by tourism operators as a conservation exercise. Unable to be returned to the wild after interacting with humans, big cats used for tourism experiences typically end up in canned hunting farms.

Animal welfare experts also advise against crocodile cage diving, which exploits crocodiles for human entertainment. For more info on wildlife tourism in Africa and elsewhere, check out Intrepid’s stance on animal welfare .

RELATED: THERE ARE NO WINNERS IN THE ELEPHANT TOURISM INDUSTRY

Other activities

More relaxed activities in Vic Falls include sunset cruises, and high tea on Livingstone Island, the spot from where British explorer David Livingstone first viewed the falls in 1855. If you’re planning a day trip to Livingstone in Zambia, don’t miss the Livingstone Museum. Victoria Falls town’s Elephants Walk Shopping and Artist Village is also home to the small but excellent Jafuta Heritage Centre, which is tucked between the town’s best shops.

RELATED: WHY ZAMBIA MIGHT BE AFRICA’S MOST UNDERRATED SAFARI DESTINATION

Where to eat in Victoria Falls town

Victoria Falls town has some of the best restaurants in central southern Africa. For African food, it’s hard to beat the bushbuck lasagna at Lola’s Tapas and Carnivore Restaurant, which serves game meats with Mediterranean flair. If you’re really hungry, opt for the buffet feast at Boma, which includes traditional dancing and interactive drumming. Three Monkeys is the place to go for pizza, burgers, and excellent service, and Nam Took, in the Elephant’s Walk complex, turns out terrific Thai food.

For an afternoon treat, book ahead for high tea (US$30) at the resplendent Victoria Falls Hotel – Zimbabwe’s oldest and grandest hotel – which offers superb views across manicured lawns towards Victoria Falls Bridge as you munch on jam-and-cream scones.

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Where to drink

Perched on the edge of Batoka Gorge, right near the bridge, Lookout Cafe is arguably the best spot on the Zimbabwean side to enjoy a sundowner. The River Brewing Company is perhaps the most atmospheric spot for a brew in town, while the bar at Shoestrings backpacker’s hostel is the place to party on. Dimly lit Invuvu Bar, next to Victoria Falls Rest Camp, is a popular local spot for cheap beers and traditional barbecue. During the day, Dean’s Cafe makes some of the best coffee you’ll find in Zimbabwe.

All set for your Victoria Falls visit? Check out our range of adventures now . 

Feature image by Chris Castle. 

Feeling inspired?

When my ‘little career break’ morphed into two ski seasons in Canada, followed by a year-long backpacking odyssey through Latin America, I could no longer see myself going back to the features desk on a women’s lifestyle magazine. My ‘office’ now ranges from exotic airports to Bedouin tents, Himalayan teahouses to hip co-working spaces. And I wouldn’t have it any other way. Between writing for travel titles around the globe and trying to adjust to whatever time zone I’m in, I also run a sustainable travel-focused blog, ecotravelist.com and recently wrote The Solo Travel Handbook, published by Lonely Planet.

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Victoria Falls

Taking its place alongside the Pyramids and the Serengeti, Victoria Falls (its original, pre-colonial name is Mosi-oa-Tunya – the ‘smoke that thunders’) is one of Africa’s original blockbusters. And although Zimbabwe and Zambia share it, Victoria Falls is a place all of its own.

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Victoria Falls

• 1.1 History
• 1.2 Border crossings
• 1.3 When to visit
• 2.1 By plane
• 2.2 By train
• 3 Get around
• 4.1 Other sights
• 9.2 Mid-range
• 9.3 Splurge
• 9.4 Farther afield
• 10 Services
• 11 Stay safe

Victoria Falls is a town in the western portion of Zimbabwe , across the border from Livingstone , Zambia , and near Botswana . The town lies immediately next to the falls, and they are the major attraction, but this popular tourist destination offers both adventure seekers and sightseers plenty of opportunities for a longer stay.

Understand [ edit ]

No doubt about it, Mosi-oa-Tunya (meaning "The Smoke That Thunders") – but more commonly known as Victoria Falls – is one of the most amazing sights in the world. The Falls are twice as tall as Niagara Falls , and several times longer. Although not the highest, widest or greatest volume of water, they have the largest sheet of water for any fall in the world, and are a sight not to be missed.

History [ edit ]

It took thousands of years of erosion for Victoria Falls to appear as and where it does now. Mosi-oa-Tunya, or "the smoke that thunders” only became known to the western world as Victoria Falls after David Livingstone first set eyes on this astonishing natural wonder in 1855, a heartbeat ago in geological time. During the Jurassic Period (150-200 million years ago) volcanic activity resulted in thick basalt deposits covering large parts of Southern Africa. As the lava cooled and solidified, cracks appeared in the hard basalt crust, which were filled with softer clay and lime. About 2 million years ago the land between Zimbabwe and the Kalahari desert was lifted up by the same series of earth movements that caused the Great African Rift Valley to the north. This blocked the flow of what was then the upper Limpopo river which began to fill up a vast inland sea called Lake Makgadikgadi in the region of modern Botswana. This began to overflow in a new course over Zimbabwe's basalt plateau about 20,000 years ago. Erosion by the mighty Zambezi River cut through the softer materials in the hard basalt, forming the first of a series of waterfalls. Over the last 20,000 years, the Falls have receded 8 km upstream, as the Zambezi carved its way through seven linked gorges. This geological history can be seen in the dark basalt in the shear rocky walls of gorges below the Falls. It is guessed that the Devil's Cataract, which is the lowest point of Victoria Falls, will eventually become the start of the next gorge as the river continues to cut its way back upstream.

Essentially the river falls into a section of gorge along its northern side forming a waterfall a mile long. You view the falls head on from across the gorge on Being a massive land, Victoria Falls comprises eight ravines and several islands that housed four endangered and migratory bird species like Taita Falcon and Black Eagle. Meanwhile, Victoria Falls’ stunning spray mist which can be seen as far as 50km is a result of its lively ecosystem. The newest waterfall can be found in Zimbabwe at The Devil’s Cataract. In an aerial view of Victoria Falls, there is a great chance that there will be more waterfalls in the future.

Border crossings [ edit ]

To cross the border from Zambia to see the falls on the Zimbabwe side you will need to pay at least US$30 for a Zimbabwe single entry visa (depending on nationality), and if you want to return to the Zambian side you will need to pay an extra US$20 for a multiple entry Zambian visa. To cross the border from the Zimbabwean side to the Zambian side you will need to pay an at least US$20 for a single day Zambian visa, and at least an extra US$15 for a multiple entry Zimbabwean visa. Don't forget you will need to decide whether you are getting a single or multiple entry visa when you first apply for it. If you are flying from South Africa just to see the falls, consider if it is worthwhile arriving on the Zimbabwean side and leaving from the Zambian, as you will minimise your visa costs this way (but may pay more for airfares). Flying to the Zambian side usually costs less than flying into the Zimbabwe side.

Still, for less than US$100 you can do both sides and tick another African country off your list.

When to visit [ edit ]

The park is open year-round, but you will get a much different experience depending on the season in which you visit.

• In the rainy season (November to March), the water volume will be higher and the Falls will be more dramatic. You are guaranteed to get wet if you cross the bridge or walk along the trails winding near the Falls. On the other hand, it is precisely because the volume of water is so high that your viewing of the actual Falls will be obscured—by all the water!
• In the dry season, (April to October), the water volume will be lower, and by October Victoria Falls might just be a trickle. You will get a clearer view of the rocky ledge beneath the Falls, which is pretty spectacular, but the Falls might be somewhat underwhelming.

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ]

By train [ edit ].

The classic way of reaching Victoria Falls is by the overnight train from Bulawayo , now back to running daily again. National Railway of Zimbabwe [dead link] still uses lovely British 1950s coaches for this line. Sleeper class 1st class 2-4 beds tickets are Z$20 per person. Linen costs an extra Z$9. 2nd class 4-6 beds is $10 per person. An Economy class seat costs $8 per person. You can pay in USD as well but change will be given in Zimbabwean dollars, if they have any! There is no running water or toilet paper. There are electric lights and shaver sockets but not plug sockets. During the first few hours after departing Victoria Falls you may see some wildlife. Departure from Victoria falls going to Bulawayo is at 19:00 every day, arriving in Bulawayo the next morning around 10:00 to 11:00. The ticket office at Vic Falls is open M-F from 07:00-10:00 and 14:30-18:45, and Sa-Su 09:00-10:00 and 16:30-18:45. -17.929489 25.841158 2 Victoria Falls railway station is on Mallet Dr, next to the Victoria Falls Hotel. It offers a left luggage service.

Trains from Zambia across the spectacular Zambezi Bridge have been suspended for a few years; however, catching a train to Livingstone and then continuing by taxi is a possibility.

By car [ edit ]

The roads within Zimbabwe are relatively good. The most direct way to Victoria Falls overland is from Bulawayo . There is a good road network from the South African border at Beit Bridge right through to the Falls.

It's possible to drive in through Livingstone. Crossing an international border with a vehicle, however, will incur extra costs like carbon tax and insurance. Very annoying is the time consuming and disorganised procedure of obtaining a 'temporary import permit' for the car at the Zambian border posts. Once at the Zimbabwe border post, the whole procedure is to be repeated, though it is a bit faster but also expensive.

Coming from Namibia or Botswana , the best road is from Kasane in Botswana using the Kazungula border post which is about 70km from Victoria Falls.

By bus [ edit ]

Buses operated by Intercape ply the route between Windhoek in Namibia to Livingstone in Zambia three times a week. Notice that the bus stops on the Zambian side: You have to cross the border to Zimbabwe by foot or pick a taxi after crossing the Livingstone border post. A bus journey from Windhoek takes just over 14 hours and costs from R460.

Buses operated by Intercape sometimes have a route between Bulawayo and Vic Falls. Intercape has the largest intercity route network in Southern Africa.

There are two new buslines going from Vic falls to Harare via Bulawayo Extra city and Bravo tours .

Get around [ edit ]

If you stay in the swanky hotels downtown, or even some of the budget accommodation options just outside the downtown area, walking is manageable. Most of the places are no more than 3 km away from Victoria Falls.

Some of the hotels in Victoria Falls are not really in Vic Falls, but most of these have their own transfer services.

Cabs are plentiful, and should not cost more than $6 for a ride.

See [ edit ]

The obvious thing to see is of course the Victoria Falls , also known as Mosi-oa-Tunya (The Smoke That Thunders) and Shungu Namutitima (Boiling Water) in Lozi and Tonga languages respectively. Considered one of the seven natural wonder of the world. Watch and listen to the roar of 1088m³/second of water plunge into a 100m gorge below. The fall is shared by Zimbabwe and Zambia (the Zambian side is covered in the article for Livingstone ). Both sides preserve the natural rainforest which is present because of the continuous spray from the falls.

• -17.928068 25.859593 2 Boiling Pot . Where the water goes after the falls. It can be seen beneath the Bridge or can be reached via a steep footpath within the park on the Zambian side, it is about 150 metres (500 ft) across. Its surface is smooth at low water, but at high water it is marked by enormous, slow swirls and heavy boiling turbulence. Objects and humans that are swept over the falls, including the occasional hippopotamus or crocodile, are frequently found swirling about here or washed up at the north-east end of the Second Gorge. This is where the bodies of Mrs Moss and Mr Orchard, mutilated by crocodiles, were found in 1910 after two canoes were capsized by a hippo at Long Island above the falls. ( updated Jan 2021 )
• -17.924143 25.853321 3 Devil's Pool . Swim right up to the edge at the top of the Falls in a safe natural pool. You can look over the edge, and the guidges will take plenty of photos of you. As of July 2019, US$105 including breakfast, US$170 including lunch, and US$145 including high tea. Does not include visa or transfer. Transfer is US$15 return per person, or you could arrange it yourself for less. You could even walk it, but it's a long walk. ( updated Jan 2021 )

Other sights [ edit ]

• -17.9246 25.8404 5 Jafuta Heritage Center . Small museum focused on cultural heritage of Shona, Ndebele, Tonga and Lozi people. ( updated Jan 2021 )

Do [ edit ]

Prices for activities vary. As of July 2019 the company Wild Horizons appears to be the cheapest, but you will get cheaper prices by not going direct. Wild Horizons website

• Bungee jumping and zip wires rides take place from the bridge and the surrounding gorge.
• Visit the grand Victoria Falls Hotel for a magnificent view of the bridge. This first-class hotel has survived the country's woes, though it has lost its shine. The public areas and corridors are a museum of antique art, maps and photographs making it a kind of museum. You can eat there, including Afternoon Tea (see below).
• Whitewater rafting day trips sell for about $130 plus $10 National Park fees. The price includes a full day of shooting some of the best rapids in the world (including some Class V rapids!); lunch, eaten on the water and all the beer you can chug after the climb out.
• From wherever you stay you can easily arrange for a safari (prices vary), a sunset cruise (around $55), or a helicopter ride (for about $130 plus $8 National Park fee, well worth the price) over the falls.
• An antique steam locomotive shunts railway carriages on to the bridge at sunset to enable fine dining with a view of the falls. This can be viewed from the trackside if you don't want to pay the high price. The British Empire era railway station is also worth a look, it has one train a day in each direction.
• The Victoria Falls Safari Lodge has its Buffalo Bar which is quite simply the best spot to enjoy sundowners in Victoria falls. It is on a hill looking west towards a waterhole in the bush about 200 m away. At sunset see elephants and buffalo come to drink along with a wide range of smaller mammals and birds. Possibly the world's largest flying bird the, marabou stork also frequents the hole. Around noon the hotel also feeds leftover meat to the vultures, and hyenas sometimes turn up. Be prepared for the African bush squirrels to suddenly appear under your table. The hotel has an hourly free shuttle bus to town.
• The Victoria Falls Safari Lodge and The Kingdom Hotel both have a casino on site.
• For something different try an elephant ride ($130), or a lion walk ($130).
• There are bush walking safaris and a horse-back safari offered by a variety of tour operators in town.
• In town you can book a day trip to the nearby Chobe reserve in Botswana for US$150 (July 2019). The Kaza Univisa will allow you to return to Zimbabwe, but you will need to visit Zambia first as it is only available at the Zambian border.
• Zambezi River above the falls, which is beautiful and full of wildlife. Best seen on a cruise, especially at sunset. Prices as of July 2019: breakfast cruise US$65, birdwatching cruise US$55, lunch cruise US$65, sunset cruise US$40, dinner cruise US$75.

Buy [ edit ]

Victoria Falls is not cheap, especially if you want to do any activities.

As of April 2023, Zimbabwean ATMs dispense US dollars, the de facto currency of the country. Singles are difficult to come across but shops and restaurants can break the $100 notes from the ATM. In Zambia, you can withdraw kwacha and change to US dollars.

You will need cash for things like accommodation, and visas. For activities, you can pay by credit card in US$. Some of the supermarkets also accept credit cards and will bill you in US$. Outside Victoria Falls, foreign credit cards are rarely accepted.

There is substantial opportunity to shop in Victoria Falls, and you can find a good deal. The curio markets are just behind the post office and has dozens of tourist shops from which you may select wood and stone carvings, jewellery, t-shirts, curios, books, postcards, artwork, etc. (For fun, see if you can find the shop with the pictures of US Senator Hillary and Chelsea Clinton, from their visit.)

Traders in the sculpture markets are prepared to barter trade: hats, your shoes, T-shirts, pens, batteries are in demand. But think twice before you reduce people to the level of beggars. Just negotiate what you think is a fair price.

• Stanbic Bank , 17-19 Phumula centre . 24 hours atm . mastercard visa card atm. ( updated Oct 2022 )
• Nedbank , shop 2 Sawanga Mall . 24 hours atm. . mastercard and visa card atm. ( updated Aug 2023 )

Eat [ edit ]

The centre has a few coffee shops, sandwich shops, and fast food options. For a few US dollars, you can feed an entire family.

All of the hotels have restaurants, and it is common to sample a new one each night. One place not to miss for a sundowner: The Victoria Falls Safari Lodge offers a-la-carte dinner, and the Boma offers an all-you-can-eat buffet dinner with authentic African dancing (US$45 excluding drinks, July 2019). The Ilala Lodge has a nice a la carte restaurant (a bit overpriced for the portions served; and the In-da-Belly Restaurant located in the camp site is a nice place to have simple meal and hang out at the pool and meet overland travellers from around the world.

There are Pick N Pay and OK supermarkets in town. Pick n Pay accept credit cards. Drinks and take-away food, snacks, camping supplies, are available.

• Makuwa-Kuwa at the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge
• Palm Restaurant at Ilala Lodge
• Livingstone Room at the Victoria Falls Hotel
• Jungle Junction at the Victoria Falls Hotel
• Garden of Eat'n - Great pizzas, breakfast and meals at Shoestring Backpackers Lodge
• The restaurant at the Camp Site serves crocodile burgers and Warthog steak!
• Rainforest Cafe in the Victoria Falls National Park. Monkeys will try to snatch your food if you are not paying attention to it!
• Victoria Falls Hotel . You can have lunch on Stanley's Terrace overlooking the bridge. Afternoon tea is served from 15:00-18:00 for US$15 each. They say "minimum two people" but don't enforce it. Stanley's Bar is by the terrace. Credit cards accepted.  
• -17.92921 25.8467 1 Lookout Café , ☏ +263 83 2840318 . Splendid location overlooking the canyon below the falls including the bridge. The menu also includes regional specialties such as antelope and crocodile. It is not safe to walk in this area after sunset: use a car when going there for dinner. The access track forks from the main road to the bridge right before the falls car park. ( updated Jul 2023 )

Drink [ edit ]

Victoria Falls is not known anymore for its tremendous nightlife. There are a few small bars near the town centre, but they are not well-lit. It might be fun to stop in, but be careful.

The River Brewing Co serves its own beer.

Alternatively, all the hotels feature huge, well-stocked bars. However, the prices will be higher, and you might not feel that you are in Africa anymore.

Sleep [ edit ]

Price ranges quoted are in US dollars.

There are many types of accommodation in Victoria Falls. You can certainly find what you are looking for. Some of the accommodation options are not really in Victoria Falls so be careful, if booking in advance.

Budget [ edit ]

Dorm beds from $15 a night. Camping from $8 pp per night.

• Victoria Falls Rest Camp. , Park Way , ☏ +27 21-6836444 . Camping and dorm beds. Camping $16 per person. Dorm bed $20 . ( updated Apr 2015 )
• Victoria Falls Backpackers , 357 Gibson Road. , ☏ +263 13-42209 . Camping and dorm beds. Small swimming pool. Wifi US$3 per day. Intermittent electricity. 30 minutes walk from town. Camping $10 per person. Dorm bed $18 . ( updated Jul 2019 )
• Shoestring Backpackers , 12 West drive. , ☏ +263 13-40167 . Camping and dorm beds. It has a small swimming pool, a restaurant, and a bar that's also popular with locals. Fun place with a DJ on Saturday nights so the noise level is high on weekends. Camping $8 per person. Dorm bed $18 . ( updated Apr 2023 )
• Adventure Lodge , stand 954 corner Pioneer road & Spencer Street , ☏ +263 1344520 . Camping, swimming pool. Camping US$13 per person. . ( updated Oct 2015 )
• Shearwater Explorers Village . Camping, serviced dome tents, chalets. Swimming pool. ( updated Jul 2019 )

Mid-range [ edit ]

• Amadeus Garden , [email protected] . Owner managed lodging B&B style two kilometers from the Victoria Falls. Eleven en-suite rooms, pool and cool garden to relax. Rates per person sharing around $65–70 per night incl breakfast.  
• Teak Lodge located within the residential area of Vic Falls less than three kilometers to the Victoria Falls. Prices at $30–50/person per night, coupled with impeccable service and completely furnished in teak wood.
• The Sprayview Hotel motel like accommodation is only 2 km from the Falls used to be about US$100/night.
• The Kingdom Hotel Victoria Falls . This resort is constructed in Disney-esque jungle style. Four-star themed resort, swimming pool, close to falls, from US$150/pp. Family rooms available.
• Drifter Inn Victoria Falls . 20 min by foot from the falls, this simple but quiet inn offers rooms from $50.  
• Lorries B and B . Most rooms are ensuite. Meals are affordable. Lovely pool and garden with a nice sports bar. from $50 . ( updated May 2015 )
• Pennywise Cottages , 248 Kingsway . A cozy, family-run B&B/lodge in a quiet neighbourhood. A 20-min walk or a 5-min taxi ride away from town and the falls. Accepts cards and USD cash. English breakfast 5$/day/person. The owner will book you taxis and tours etc. with no commission. 40-50$ . ( updated Jan 2024 )

Splurge [ edit ]

• -17.900893 25.822187 1 Azambezi River Lodge , 308 Parkway Dr , ☏ +1-888-790-5264 . A full-featured resort a few kilometers away from the central town. Located right next to the Zambezi river, it's also a departure point for river cruises. Shuttle service available to the falls.  
• -17.926239 25.84152 2 Ilala Lodge , ☏ +27 21-683-6576 , [email protected] . Quiet elegance with a beautiful colonial veranda for dining. A bit closer to town.  
• -17.930877 25.842438 3 The Victoria Falls Hotel , 1, Mallett Dr , ☏ +263 13 447519 , [email protected] . Built in 1904, this is one of the most romantic hotels in Africa with a faded grand old feeling to it. The Queen Mother herself stayed here when she visited. Views from the manicured lawns out to the railway bridge with the mist from the falls in the distance is surreal.  
• -17.917678 25.819338 4 Victoria Falls Safari Lodge , ☏ +263 13 43211-20 , [email protected] . Close to the falls, it offers safari-themed elegance, a great casino and an excellent, reasonably-priced, buffet dinner.  

Farther afield [ edit ]

• Imbabala Zambezi Safari Lodge sits on a riverside fringe of the mighty Zambezi River where Zimbabwe, Botswana, Zambia and Namibia converge. Located 80 km west of Victoria Falls, access is by transfer from Victoria Falls, Livingstone or Kasane. Imbabala offers not only the chance to unwind but also some of the most amazing game viewing and bird watching in the region, in the seclusion of a private National Parks concession. The 12,000 ha concession has 14 km of private Zambezi river frontage and borders the Chobe Forest Reserve, which is renowned for its massive Elephant population. Herds of up to 1500 elephants have been seen on the floodplains below the Lodge.

Services [ edit ]

You can get a haircut at the Victoria Falls Hotel salon, but it's not good. US$25, cash only. For other hair salons, turn off the main road by the Shearwater Cafe.

Stay safe [ edit ]

You can expect to be met by tourist police on your arrival in Victoria Falls. They are plentiful around the town and the falls and can be trusted. You can identify them by their yellow vests. Zimbabwe is very keen to keep tourists safe following a period of instability which saw visitors at risk, and tourists on the Zimbabwean side drop dramatically. Sometimes it feels like there are more tourist police than tourists.

If you are staying at one of the resorts, it is likely that the guards at the resorts will keep an eye on you on the paths to the falls until you are within site of the tourist police.

Touts are aggressive and desperate and best avoided. They keep a distance from the tourist police and guards. The markets are safe, and the traders there are very polite and keen for your trade.

The path along the side of the river to the Victoria Falls hotel from the falls is not safe to walk after dark.

Go next [ edit ]

Victoria Falls is located within 100 km of the four corners of Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana and Namibia and thus provides access to all of these countries, but the only point of any note within a reasonable distance to the park is Chobe National Park in Botswana . It is a common destination, and most hotels will be able to book a journey on a day safari of one or two days.

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Everything You Need to Know About Visiting Victoria Falls

Adelle Belle

Safari Travel Planner

Author: Adelle Belle - 7 June 2022

Last Update: 6 May 2024

Table of contents

• Interesting facts about Victoria Falls

Where are the Victoria Falls?

How big is victoria falls, the zambezi river, what to do before you visit victoria falls, when is the best time to visit victoria falls, what is the risk of malaria in victoria falls, what is the climate like on a victoria falls holiday.

• How to get to Victoria Falls

Packing list for a Victoria Falls holiday

What you can expect when you’re on a victoria falls holiday, tips for a safe and enjoyable visit to victoria falls, the best place to see victoria falls: zimbabwe or zambia.

• Other activities to enjoy on a Victoria Falls holiday

Cultural experiences in and around Victoria Falls

Combining victoria falls with a safari.

Victoria Falls is undoubtedly one of the most amazing natural wonders in the world. Every year, thousands of people come from all over the globe to see (and hear!) this magnificent sight for themselves.

There are many reasons why visiting Victoria Falls is a great idea! For starters, the waterfalls are absolutely stunning and awe-inspiring to behold. Additionally, Victoria Falls is located in a beautiful and exotic location, making for an unforgettable trip. Plus, there are plenty of activities and attractions available in the area, ensuring that visitors will never be bored.

If you’re planning on visiting Victoria Falls , there are a few things you should be aware of. In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Victoria Falls, from how to get there, when to go, what to pack, where to stay, and what to expect when you arrive.

Interesting facts about Victoria Falls:

• Victoria Falls is located on the Zambezi River, which forms the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe.
• The Victoria Falls are considered as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
• The falls are 1,708 meters (5,604 feet) wide and 108 meters (354 feet) high.
• During the peak season (April to May), the Zambezi River flows at an average of 1,086 cubic meters per second!
• The spray from the waterfalls can reach up to 400 meters (1,300 feet) into the air.
• Victoria Falls is home to a variety of wildlife, including hippos, elephants, and buffalo. This makes it a great destination for those who’d like to enjoy an authentic safari as well as see the Falls themselves. 
• In the local Kololo and Lozi languages, Victoria Falls is called Mosi-oa-Tunya , which means the “smoke that thunders”. 
• The roar of the falling water is so loud, that it can occasionally be heard from up to 25 miles (40 kilometres) away!

Victoria Falls is located on the Zambezi River, which forms the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe . (The Falls straddle Zimbabwe to the west and Zambia to the east.)

The town of Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe is the best base for exploring the Falls from that country, while Livingstone in Zambia is an excellent choice if you’re interested in seeing more of the river and the surrounding area.

Victoria Falls is the largest curtain of falling water in the world – to be specific, it’s 1,708 meters (5,604 feet) wide and 108 meters (354 feet) high. This makes it roughly twice the height of Niagara Falls!

Technically, Victoria Falls is actually made up of five different waterfalls, one in Zambia (the Eastern Cataract) and four in Zimbabwe (The Devil’s Cataract, Main Falls, Rainbow Falls, and Horseshoe Falls). Each of these is spectacular in its own right, and it’s well worth taking the time to see all five:

At 93 meters (305 feet) high, the Main Falls are the largest at Victoria Falls. In fact, they are so high, that before it has a chance to reach the ground, most of the falling water is picked up by rising winds and turned into a fine, shimmering mist. For this reason, it’s often difficult to get a clear view of the Main Falls – but that just adds to their mystery and majesty!

Rainbow Falls

As you might expect from its name, Rainbow Falls are known for the stunning rainbows that form in the mist created by the falling water. These rainbows are best seen early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the sun is at just the right angle, or on a full moon when they create otherworldly ‘moonbows’! More on those later! Rainbow Falls are 108 meters, or 354 feet, tall.

Horseshoe Falls

The Horseshoe Falls get their name from their shape, which – you guessed it – is similar to a horseshoe. They are located on the Zimbabwean side of the river and are often considered to be the most beautiful of all the waterfalls at Victoria Falls.

The Eastern Cataract

101 metres (or 331 feet) high and located on the Zambian side of the Zambezi River, the Eastern Cataract is notable for being much narrower than the other waterfalls at Victoria Falls.

The Devil’s Cataract

The smallest of all the Vic Falls at just 35 meters high, the Devil’s Cataract is still an impressive sight. It gets its name from the foaming, turbulent water that cascades over its edge. Devil’s Cataract is on the Zambian side of the Zambezi River.

The Zambezi is one of Africa’s major rivers, stretching for over 1,600 miles (2,600 kilometres) from its source in Zambia to its mouth on the Indian Ocean. The Zambezi is the fourth-longest river in Africa after the Nile, Congo, and Niger rivers. 

The Zambezi is between 80 and 120 meters (260 and 400 feet) deep at Victoria Falls. The Zambezi is also home to some of the largest populations of hippos and crocodiles in Africa!

There are a few things you should do before your trip to Victoria Falls to make sure everything goes smoothly. 

First, check the visa requirements for both Zambia and Zimbabwe. You can usually get a visa on arrival if you’re from a developed country, but it’s always best to check in advance. 

Next, make sure you have travel insurance that covers you for medical expenses and evacuation. (This is a clever idea for any trip, but it’s especially important if you’re going to be doing any activities like white-water rafting or bungee jumping, which we’ll talk about later.) 

Finally, familiarize yourself with the local currency, the Zambian kwacha and the Zimbabwean dollar. If you’ll be staying in Zimbabwe, many tourist establishments also accept US dollars, which can make things easier for visitors from the US. 

It’s a good idea to have some cash on hand when you arrive, as not all places accept credit cards.

The best time to visit Victoria Falls is between March and May, when water levels in the Zambezi River are at their highest and the Falls are at their most spectacular. 

This is also the busiest time of year though, so if you’re looking to avoid the crowds, you might want to consider visiting during the shoulder season (November to February).

Some people prefer to visit Victoria Falls during the dry season, between June and October. This is when the water levels in the Zambezi River are at their lowest and you can get a closer view of the falls.

Malaria is a serious concern in many parts of Africa, but luckily Victoria Falls is located in a low-risk area. However, it’s still important to take precautions against mosquito bites, such as using insect repellent and sleeping under a mosquito net, which most lodges will provide for you. 

If you’re coming from a high-risk area, you may also want to consider getting malaria prophylaxis before your trip. These are easy enough to get from your doctor or a travel clinic, and they can help offer additional peace of mind while you’re travelling.

The climate in Victoria Falls is tropical, with average temperatures ranging from 20-30 degrees Celsius (68-86 degrees Fahrenheit). There is a wet season (November to March) and a dry season (April to October), but even during the wet season, rainfall is usually confined to short afternoon showers. 

Vic Falls tends to have hot summers from September through to April, with temperatures getting as high as 32 degrees Celsius (about 90 degrees Fahrenheit), and pleasantly mild winters from May through to August, with afternoon temperatures of around 25 degrees Celsius (77 degrees Fahrenheit). 

This is one of the many reasons it’s such a popular destination with tourists from the Northern Hemisphere, who love to escape the harsh winter and bask in the African sunshine – pleasantly cooled by the fine mist, which is so characteristic of Victoria Falls, of course! 

How to get to Victoria Falls?

The best way to get to Victoria Falls is by flying into either Victoria Falls Airport (VFA) in Zimbabwe or Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport (LVI) in Livingstone, Zambia. There are direct flights to both available from a variety of major airports. 

Lots of visitors like to start their holiday in South Africa , and then travel up to Zambia or Zimbabwe via one of the regional airlines. This is a terrific way to see more of Africa, such as the world-famous Kruger National Park or the many attractions of a  Cape Town holiday , but it will of course be more expensive and time-consuming than flying direct. 

There are a few essential items you’ll need to pack for your trip to Victoria Falls, regardless of the time of year you’re visiting:

• First, be sure to bring your passport and any other required travel documents.
• Next, pack comfortable walking shoes and clothing that can get wet . A rain jacket is also a good idea, even if you’re visiting during the dry season. 
• If you’re planning on doing any activities like white-water rafting or canoeing, you’ll need to bring a bathing suit and towel . This is Africa, so sunscreen is a must too.
• Finally, don’t forget to pack your camera ! Victoria Falls is one of the most photogenic places in the world, and you’ll want to have plenty of memories to look back on when you get back home.

Victoria Falls is truly an awe-inspiring sight. When you first see the falls, it’s hard to believe that something so vast and powerful could exist. As the famous explorer David Livingstone put it, “ It has never been seen before by European eyes, but scenes so wonderful must have been gazed upon by angels in their flight “. 

One particularly interesting phenomenon to keep an eye open for is a lunar rainbow, or ‘moonbow’. Thanks to the constant spray from the falls, this is a familiar sight for tourists.

These charming apparitions are created by the light of the moon shining on water droplets in the air. Because the moon is often low on the horizon when Victoria Falls is at its fullest, moonbows are relatively common here. In fact, this is where one of the five falls – Rainbow Falls – gets its name from. 

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If you’re planning a trip to Victoria Falls , it’s important to be aware of the potential dangers and take the necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit. 

There are a few specific safety concerns to be aware of at Victoria Falls. The most dangerous is the possibility of getting swept away by the strong currents in the Zambezi River. 

Be sure to stay well away from the edge of the river, and never attempt to swim in or near the falls. There have been several fatalities over the years, and it’s simply not worth the risk. If you’re after adventure, rather book an adrenalin activity through an experienced local operator – there are plenty to choose from! 

Another potential hazard is getting too close to wild animals. Victoria Falls is home to a variety of dangerous animals, including lions, hippos, and crocodiles. 

While it’s unlikely that you’ll come across any of these while you’re in town, it’s still important to be aware of the danger and take precautions when travelling in rural areas. If you are planning on going on a game drive or bush walk, be sure to book through a reputable operator and follow their safety instructions.

Finally, as with anywhere tourists frequent, it’s wise to follow common sense when it comes to keeping your valuables safe. Most lodges offer safes in your unit where you can store any particularly valuable items and cash while you’re out exploring. 

With these tips in mind, you’re sure to have a safe and memorable trip to Victoria Falls!

It’s a question that has been debated by travel enthusiasts for years: Which country offers the best view of Victoria Falls? Is it Zimbabwe, where the falls are located? Or is it Zambia, which offers a more panoramic view of the waterfall? The answer is not so simple. Both countries have their pros and cons when it comes to viewing Mosi-oa-Tunya , “the smoke that thunders.”

Quick Comparison between Zimbabwe VS Zambia

Personally, we feel Zimbabwe is the better choice if you want to see the falls up close. There are several lookout points along the Zimbabwean side of the Zambezi River, including the Devil’s Pool, which is only accessible during certain times of the year. 

Zambia is the better choice if you want to see the falls from a distance. The best viewing point is from Livingstone Island, which is located in the middle of the Zambezi River.

There are several reasons why Zambia is also a desirable choice for viewing Victoria Falls:

• The falls are located on the Zambezi River – the fourth-longest river in Africa. 
• Zambia offers a more panoramic view of the waterfall. 
• Livingstone Island, the best viewing point in Zambia, is located in the middle of the Zambezi River.

However, there are also several reasons why Zimbabwe makes a wonderful choice too:

• There are several lookout points along the Zimbabwean side of the Zambezi River, including the famous Devil’s Pool. 
• Zimbabwe is also home to Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park , which offers a variety of footpaths and viewpoints from which to view the falls, as well as awesome game-viewing opportunities.

Zimbabwe or Zambia: Which offers better views of Victoria Falls?

Zimbabwe has the most vantage points, with about three-quarters of Victoria Falls located in the nation. From Zimbabwe, you can stand on the edge of the Devil’s Pool (a natural rock pool on Livingstone Island) and peer right over the edge of the Falls. However, this particular viewing point is only accessible during certain times of the year. 

You can also walk along the Knife-Edge Bridge, which gives you a heart-stopping view of the Zambezi River rapids you won’t forget in a hurry! 

One of the best ways to see Victoria Falls from Zambia is via helicopter. The helicopter will fly you over the Falls and then land on Livingstone Island, where you can have a champagne breakfast or lunch while overlooking the Falls. You can also take a tour of the Falls by canoe and explore some of the smaller gorges and tributaries that fed into Victoria Falls.

Whichever side you choose for your Victoria Falls holiday , you won’t want to miss a trip to the Boiling Pot: a large, deep pool at the bottom of the Falls where the Zambezi River violently swirls like a cauldron of bubbling water! 

To get to the Boiling Pot, you’ll need to take a short walk from the Knife-Edge Bridge on the Zimbabwe side or Livingstone Island on the Zambian side. The best time to visit the Boiling Pot is during the dry season when the water level is lower, and you can better see into the “pot”.

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Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe highlights:

• The Zimbabwe side of Victoria Falls offers the iconic view of the Main Falls, with water flowing most of the year at varying degrees of strength. Most hotels are within walking distance of the waterfall, so you can easily explore the area. 
• Victoria Falls Town is a classic “tourist town” with restaurants, bars and backpackers. However, there are also some historic hotels that offer traditional afternoon tea. Be sure to explore the markets for iconic soapstone sculptures that make fantastic souvenirs! 
• If you’re looking for an adventure, consider white-water rafting or bungee jumping off the Victoria Falls Bridge. There are also a number of safari tours that depart from Victoria Falls Town.

Victoria Falls in Zambia highlights:

• For close-up waterfall viewing, the Zambia side is hard to beat. You can swim in Devil’s Pool during the low-water season, visit Livingstone Island when water levels permit, and enjoy the views from several lodges along the Zambezi River. 
• Livingstone is more of a ‘business town’ and home to the Livingstone Museum, but it still has its charms. There are several good restaurants and bars, as well as some interesting shops selling local arts and crafts. 
• For wildlife lovers, the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park is well worth a visit. The park is home to elephants, buffalo, antelope, and many other species of animals. 

Other activities to enjoy on a Victoria Falls holiday:

There’s no shortage of things to do at Victoria Falls, both on the Zambian side and the Zimbabwean side. 

One of the most popular activities is a guided tour of the Falls themselves . These tours usually take about an hour, and they’re a great way to learn about the history and geology of Victoria Falls. 

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of adrenaline-pumping activities available as well in Victoria Falls . Both Zimbabwe and Zambia offer a variety of adrenaline-pumping activities, such as white-water rafting, bungee jumping, zip-lining, and abseiling. 

On the Zambian side, you can go white-water rafting or bungee jumping off the magnificent Victoria Falls Bridge. On the Zimbabwean side, you can take a scenic helicopter ride for a bird’s-eye view of the Falls. 

No matter which side you’re on, you’re guaranteed to have an up-close and personal experience with one of nature’s most magnificent wonders. So, whether you choose Zimbabwe or Zambia, we know you’ll have an unforgettable time!

Swimming in Devil’s Pool is a rite of passage for any visitor to Victoria Falls! Sometimes described as the ‘world’s most extreme infinity pool’, Devil’s Pool is located on the edge of Livingstone Island in Zambia. 

The pool is only accessible during the dry season, when water levels are low enough that a natural rock barrier forms at the edge of the Falls. (When water levels are high, Devil’s Pool is too dangerous to swim in.) You can swim right up to this natural barrier and enjoy the incredible views of the Zambezi River plunging down 328 feet over the edge of the Falls – an activity sure to get anyone’s heart pumping! 

If you’re interested in swimming in Devil’s Pool, be sure to book a tour with a reputable operator, as this is (understandably!) a very in-demand activity at Victoria Falls. 

If you’re a culture vulture, you’ll find plenty of authentic experiences to entertain and inform around Victoria Falls too.

In Zimbabwe, there’s an interesting outdoor museum to visit, built in the style of a traditional African village, which draws from the building styles of several different ethnic groups. 

In Zambia, Mukuni and Songwe villages are both great places to learn about the local way of life. There are also plenty of opportunities to see traditional dancing and music. Many lodges and hotels offer regular shows, or you can book tickets to see a show put on by one of the local villages. 

At Songwe village, you’ll get the chance to see the Royal Drums , a Zambian national treasure. These massive drums are over two hundred years old and were once used to communicate between villages. 

You can also learn about the local beliefs and customs surrounding the falls themselves. For many years, the falls were considered a sacred site, and they feature heavily in local mythology. 

The Livingstone Museum should definitely be on your itinerary too. This world-class museum is located in Zambia and is packed with information on the history of the falls, as well as the people who have lived in the area for centuries. 

We feel no visit to Victoria Falls would be complete without learning about the local culture too. 

Aside from sharing Victoria Falls itself, both Zambia and Zimbabwe are regarded as some of Africa’s best countries to enjoy a safari. 

Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe is home to elephants, lions, zebras, giraffes, and rhinos. Other creatures you might encounter include leopards, cheetahs, and wild dogs. 

On the Zambian side, Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park is a beautiful place to see elephants, buffalo, and antelope. There are also many lodges located along the Zambezi River where you can enjoy the views and spot some wildlife. 

Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park is regarded as one of the best places in Africa to see leopards in the wild, a rare experience indeed, as these are some of the continent’s most elusive creatures. 

Zambia is also home to a wide variety of birds, including some of the most colourful species in the world. The charming Marabou stork, Fulvous and whistling ducks, Lesser and Greater Flamingos, Great white pelicans, and the endangered wattle crane will all enchant keen birders. 

And in Zimbabwe, you’re quite likely to see the distinctive African fish eagle, the national bird of the country. These magnificent birds have a wingspan of up to 2.5 meters (8 feet), and their nests can weigh as much as 30 kg (66 pounds)! Their unmistakable call is perhaps the most distinctive sound of the African bush. 

Buck like the small but powerful klipspringer, huge roan antelope, and majestic Sable antelope will delight wildlife lovers in Zimbabwe too. 

If you’re looking for an unforgettable destination, look no further than Victoria Falls. With so much to see and do, it’s perfect for everyone from adrenaline junkies to nature lovers. Add in the amazing safari experiences on offer and you’ve got a holiday that will stay with you forever. 

Victoria Falls is also one of the most family-friendly holiday destinations in Africa , with lodges and resorts offering plenty of activities to keep children entertained. And considering just how much it has to offer, it’s also exceptionally good value for money. 

So, what are you waiting for? Get in touch with Discover Africa today and let us help you plan the trip of a lifetime ! 

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The Ultimate First Time Visitor’s Guide to Victoria Falls

LAST UPDATED: 4/12/23 – Visitor’s Guide to Victoria Falls

Before Dr. David Livingstone happened to cross paths with it during his explorations of Africa back in 1855, most of the Western world had no idea that Victoria Falls even existed. After seeing this stunning natural wonder for the first time, he nicknamed the Falls “the smoke that thunders” because of the thundering crash and clouds of drenching mist that the enormous amount of water falling into the Victoria Falls gorge creates.

After falling in love with its beauty, he formally named it after the British Monarch at the time, Queen Victoria. As I explain in this guide to Victoria Falls, the Falls are located on the mighty Zambezi River, which forms a natural border between the countries of Zimbabwe and Zambia. While it may not be the tallest or the widest waterfall in the world, Victoria Falls is the world’s largest sheet of water and is a natural wonder that every traveler should see with their own eyes.

While I know you probably want to start making plans to visit Victoria Falls right away, I would strongly suggest taking the time to research your trip first. This way, you can be sure to see and do everything that you want to do and have a trip that you will remember for a lifetime. One of the best ways to do that is to read this detailed guide to Victoria Falls.

In this guide to Victoria Falls, I am going to provide you will all of the information that you need to plan a successful trip to see this beautiful wonder of the world. I cover the best times to visit and the best ways to get there so that you can maximize what you are able to see and do on your trip. 

I also outline all of the top things to see and do while you are there and where the best places to stay and eat are. With the information in my guide to Victoria Falls in hand, you can be confident that your trip to see the Falls will be a trip that you remember for a lifetime.

At a Glance

Before you start making any travel plans, you will want to make sure to take care of all of the passport, VISA, and immunization requirements for your trip.   In addition, you will want to make sure you have a clear understanding of what languages they speak in Zimbabwe and what currency they use so that you can plan any translation needs you might have for your trip and exchange currency before your trip if necessary.  I have included some of this key information in my guide to Victoria Falls below for you to review as you start to make your travel plans.

Passport, VISA, Customs, and Immunization Requirements

In order to assist you in navigating the legal requirements for visiting Zimbabwe, I have included a link to my Zimbabwe Passport, VISA, Customs, and Immunization Requirements Guide for you to review below.  This guide will give you all of the information that you will need to meet the VISA, passport, customs, and immunizations requirements and recommendations for visiting Zimbabwe.

I have also outlined all of the vaccination requirements and recommendations for travel to Zimbabwe in the guide below. You will want to be sure to review this section of the guide thoroughly to ensure your health is protected during your visit.

In addition to this passport, VISA, and immunization advice, I have also included links to supplemental guides that I have created on why I recommend getting the Rabies pre-exposure vaccination before traveling internationally and how to protect yourself from tick and mosquito-borne illnesses when traveling. Even though Victoria Falls isn’t a high-risk area for malaria, it is still good to protect yourself just in case.

Packing Tips

Outside of taking care of the passport, visa, and immunization requirements so that you can get into Zimbabwe and don’t get sick, there is no more important pre-travel planning task than making sure you pack the right clothing and gear for your trip.  To help make sure you are properly packed and prepared, I have included links to some of my packing resources for you to review in my guide to Victoria Falls below.

Top Things to See and Do

While the top attraction that people visit Victoria Falls to see is undoubtedly the Falls itself, there are plenty of other incredible things to see and do in the Victoria Falls area. Whether you are visiting to see the falls and the area’s incredible landscapes, go on safari in the area’s many incredible wildlife parks and reserves, or just want to plan a relaxing stay, visiting Victoria Falls is certain to be an experience you will remember for a lifetime. In order to help ensure that you have all of the top sights on your itinerary, I have outlined the top ten things I would recommend seeing and doing while vising the city in my Guide to Victoria Falls below.

Visit Victoria Falls National Park

One of the best ways to view Victoria Falls from the Zimbabwe side is to visit the Victoria Falls National Park and walk the Victoria Falls footpath. In addition to offering a variety of different viewpoints of the falls from which to take photographs, the park is also home to the Dr. David Livingstone Statue.

While you aren’t able to get as close to the falls from the Zimbabwean side as you are from the Zambian side, the views of the falls from Zimbabwe are much prettier in my opinion because you get to see the largest parts of the waterfall. You have to pay to get into the park, so please be sure to check the official Victoria Falls National Park website for current rates before visiting.

Be aware, while large predators are rarely spotted inside Victoria Falls National Park, this is a wildlife park and wild animals do live there. Some of these animals can be dangerous to humans, so avoid being in the park before sunrise or after sunset. For information on which viewpoints to stop at during your visit, please refer to the map I have included in my guide to Victoria Falls below.

View Larger Map

See the Livingstone Statue

One of the ca n’t-miss spots to stop at within Victoria Falls National Park is the Dr. David Livingstone statue. If you aren’t familiar with who Livingstone was, this is a perfect way to get to know this infamous 19th-century British explorer a little better.

Livingstone was renowned for his explorations of Africa. Throughout his career, he made several trips to the continent to work as a missionary, explore the unknown interior of the continent, and most famously search for the source of the Nile River.

During one of his expeditions, he heard a roaring thunder in the distance and saw what he thought were plumes of smoke rising into the air. As he got closer, he became one of the first Westerners to ever set eyes on what he would later name Victoria Falls.

The waterfall was so huge and powerful that he nicknamed it “the smoke that thunders”. Today, the city of Livingstone, Zambia is named after Dr. David Livingstone and there are many monuments in his honor in the area. One of the most famous is this statue of him in Victoria Falls National Park.

Take a Cruise on the Zambezi River

While seeing Victoria Falls from the foot trail within Victoria Falls National Park is undoubtedly the best way to experience and photograph the falls, there are many other adventures available for you to enjoy near the falls as well.

One such adventure that I recommend every traveler experience is a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. You will be left speechless by the beauty of the river and the abundance of the incredible wildlife that lives both in and around it. There is a great chance you will see hippos or crocodiles in the river as you meander your way down this iconic river.

There is also a great chance you will see elephants, giraffes, and various species of antelope along the river’s banks, so make sure you keep your eyes peeled. Finally, there is nothing more beautiful than seeing the sun set over this breathtaking landscape from your comfortable spot aboard the boat. It is truly an experience you will remember forever.

Go on Safari in the Zambezi National Park

While Victoria Falls is widely considered to be one of the most incredible landmarks in the world for good reason, there is a lot to see and do in the area outside of just visiting the Falls. One of the most popular activities that visitors enjoy during their visit is going on safari to see some of Africa’s most amazing wildlife.

I do strongly suggest that you plan enough time to explore some of the national parks and wildlife reserves outside of the Victoria Falls area. The most notable on this list would be Chobe National Park in Botswana and Hwange National Park to the South in Zimbabwe. However, if you don’t have a lot of time, that doesn’t mean you can’t go on a safari during your visit.

The incredible Zambezi National Park is located just outside of Victoria Falls and is home to four of Africa’s “Big Five” animals. This includes lions, cape buffalo, elephants, and leopards. If you are lucky, you might even spot the critically endangered African wild dogs. For more information on the Zambezi National Park, please check out the official Zimbabwe Parks website for details.

Go on Safari in the Livingstone Private Game Reserve

While the nearby Zambezi National Park is outstanding, it does not allow visitors the opportunity to see all of the “Big Five” animals of Africa. The one animal that you definitely won’t see when visiting is the rhinoceros. If seeing one of these beautiful creatures is on your bucket list, you are in luck.

The nearby Stanley Livingstone Private Game Reserve offers private safaris that give you a great chance of seeing the critically endangered southern black rhino. Unlike the national parks in Southern Africa, the private game reserves are privately owned and maintained. This creates additional conservation lands to help protect the beautiful wildlife.

If you would like more information, I would suggest checking out the Stanley Livingstone Private Game Reserve website . For those who would like to book a tour, there is a great Stanley Livingstone Private Game Reserve safari tour option available on Viator.com.

Go Rafting Down the Zambezi River

For travelers who are looking for a little bit more adventure than just seeing Victoria Falls, there are many incredible adventure travel opportunities that you can try in the area. One of the most popular of these activities is to take a whitewater rafting tour down the Zambezi River.

Your heart will be pounding as your tour group navigates the rapids of the Zambezi River, which is certain to be an experience you remember for a lifetime. Not only is the rafting incredible, but the opportunity to spot elephants and other wildlife on the banks of the river is a bonus you won’t find on many other whitewater rafting tours in the world.

If you are interested in booking a whitewater rafting tour during your stay in the Victoria Falls area, please be sure to check out my Recommended Tours and Excursions section of this guide to Victoria Falls below.

Try Bungy Jumping

Another adventure opportunity that you can try while visiting Victoria Falls is to go bungee jumping into the Zambezi River Gorge. If you are an adrenaline junky that loves to bungee jump, I can’t think of many places more beautiful to try the sport than at the breathtaking Victoria Falls.

There are two locations in which you can jump in the Victoria Falls area. The first is the Shearwater Bungee Jump at the Victoria Falls Bridge . This 364-foot jump off of one of Africa’s most iconic bridges is certain to be an adventure you remember forever.

The second bungee location is the Wild Horizons Lookout Cafe Bungee Jump , in which you jump 364 feet from a platform on the side of the river gorge. Like the bridge jump, it is a truly breathtaking landscape in which to enjoy the sport!

Swim to the Edge of the Falls at Devil’s Pool

Don’t get me wrong, you can get some absolutely spectacular views of Victoria Falls without getting wet. I have already outlined how the foot trail in the Victoria Falls National Park on the Zimbabwean side has some of the best viewpoints and the Knife Edge on the Zambian side lets you get very close to the edge of the Falls.

However, if you want to get some out-of-this-world views of Victoria Falls, there is no better way to do that than at Devil’s Pool. This strangely becalmed 10-foot feet natural pool with a rock lip makes it relatively safe to swim right up to the edge of the Falls and peer over.

There are tours you can book to visit Devil’s Pool, which involves swimming across the Zambezi River with a guide to Livingstone Island, where you can then access the pool. Obviously, swimming to the Devil’s Pool is only safe during the low-water periods during the dry season, so if this is something that you would like to do when you visit Victoria Falls, I would make sure to plan your visit between the months of June and December.

Devil’s Pool is on the Zambian side of the Falls, so if you are staying on the Zimbabwean side, you will need to cross over the Victoria Falls bridge and pay the VISA fee in order to take this tour. For more information on the Devil’s Pool tours available, please check out the Recommended Tours and Excursions section of this guide to Victoria Falls below.

Cross the Bridge Between Zimbabwe and Zambia

Why see Victoria Falls from just one side when you can easily see it from both sides? This natural wonder of the world is unique because it sits on the natural border between the countries of Zimbabwe and Zambia.

While a majority of the Falls are located on the Zimbabwean side, there are some very unique and incredible viewing opportunities on the Zambian side as well. I have already covered the amazing foot trail in the Victoria Falls National Park in Zimbabwe, as well as the Knife Edge and Devil’s Pool in Zambia.

If you are staying in Victoria Falls and want to experience the Falls from Zambia or you are staying in Livingstone and want to see the Falls from Zimbabwe, going back and forth between the countries couldn’t be easier. You will need a VISA to cross between Zimbabwe and Zambia and then back, so you can either pay the $50 USD for a KAZA UniVisa at the border or pre-pay for your VISA by purchasing a Zimbabwe e-VISA and a Zambia e-VISA online ahead of time.

Take a Helicopter Ride Over the Falls

While the views of Victoria Falls from the ground are spectacular, seeing this natural wonder of the world from the air is a whole different level of beauty. It is very hard to really appreciate the scale and the power of Victoria Falls unless you can see the Falls in their entirety.

The only way to do that is to get up in a helicopter and fly over it. For those travelers who are up for the adventure, you will be happy to know that there are helicopter tours available that will fly you over Victoria Falls.

In fact, on some tours, they also fly over the rest of Victoria Falls National Park, so you also have the opportunity to spot elephants, giraffes, and other wildlife from the air. It is a spectacular experience that you will never forget. For more information on Victoria Falls helicopter tours, please see the Recommended Tours and Excursions section of my guide to Victoria Falls below.

How to Get There

If you are planning on visiting Victoria Falls, there are several different ways that you can get there, depending on what else you are planning to see and do during your trip. If you are coming to the area primarily to visit the falls, the easiest way to get to Victoria Falls is to fly into the Victoria Falls International Airport (VFA) , which is located just outside of the city.

You can also fly directly into the area by flying into the Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport (LVI) on the Zambian side. For those who are planning on going on safari in Botswana and would like to take a side trip to visit the falls, you will probably be flying into the Kasane International Airport (BBK) in Botswana. You can then arrange a day tour to Victoria Falls from your lodge in Chobe National Park or the other wildlife parks and reserves in Botswana.

The same can be said for travelers who will be visiting Zimbabwe to go on safari in Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe. If you are planning on spending the majority of your time around Hwange, you may find it more convenient to fly into and out of the Hwange National Park Airport (HWN) and then arrange transportation to Victoria Falls for a day trip. For more information on where these parks and cities are located in relation to Victoria Falls, please see the map I have included in my guide to Victoria Falls below.

Choosing a Side to Visit

What many people who haven’t visited the area don’t realize is that Victoria Falls sits along the border between the countries of Zimbabwe and Zambia and can easily be visited from both countries. The good news is, you don’t need to choose between a side. You can easily pass between the Zimbabwean and Zambian sides of the falls by using the Victoria Falls bridge.

All you will need is your passport and a double\multiple entry VISA (which you will need to pay for at the border). Which side of the falls you choose to use as your base of operations will depend greatly on what else you plan on seeing and doing during your visit to the area.

The Zimbabwe side of Victoria Falls has by far the best view of the falls. Three-quarters of the waterfall is in Zimbabwe, and the Victoria Falls National Park footpath offers a plethora of incredible viewpoints from which to view the falls.

You will actually feel the tremors of the falls thundering into the canyon below your feet as you wander thru the mist-filled rainforest along the path. This incredible footpath makes the Victoria Falls National Park in Zimbabwe an absolute must-see destination when in the area.

While the Zambian side of the falls may not offer as many good viewpoints, you are able to get much closer to the falls on the Zambian side. On the Zambian side, you are able to walk along paved paths at the edge of the waterfall and cross a stomach-turning Knife-Edge bridge that crosses over the falls. During high water season, the experience is absolutely exhilarating and terrifying at the same time.

And for those who are really adventurous, you are even able to swim up to the Devil’s Pool, which sits right at the precipice of the falls during low water season. From here, you can peek your head over the falls and into the canyon below. If you love adventure, it is hard to top this incredible travel experience!

For more information on what you can expect from each side of the falls, please refer to the summary of the Zimbabwe and Zambia side of Victoria Falls that I have included in my guide to Victoria Falls below.

Visiting the Falls from Zimbabwe Side

• Incredible views of the main falls
• You can see a majority of the water flowing over the falls at varying degrees of strength throughout the year
• Most of the hotels are within walking distance of the falls
• You are able to explore Victoria Falls town and its iconic market
• Victoria Falls town is a classic tourist town with a wide assortment of restaurants and bars
• The Victoria Falls Hotel, the most historic hotel in the Falls area, is on this side
• See the critically endangered black rhino at Stanley Livingstone Private Game Reserve

Visiting the Falls from Zambia Side

• Amazingly close waterfall viewing
• The ability to swim to the fall’s edge at Devil’s Pool during the low-water season
• You are able to visit Livingstone Island when water levels permit
• There is a wide assortment of romantic river-side lodges
• Incredible game viewing at Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park
• The city of Livingstone isn’t as tourist-oriented and is mostly comprised of businesses

Best Time to Visit

One of the biggest decisions you will have to make when planning your trip to see Victoria Falls is the time of year you plan your visit. Not only will the time of year impact the type of weather can expect to have during your visit, but it will also have a big impact on what you can see and do at the falls.

Depending on the time of year, Victoria Falls will either look like a wall of raging water or several smaller waterfalls flowing into a large canyon. Victoria Falls is absolutely breathtaking at full capacity during the wet season, but it can also be fun to visit when the water levels aren’t as high as you can safely get closer to the falls. In this section of my guide to Victoria Falls, I outline what you can expect to see and safely do at Victoria Falls and what type of weather to expect throughout the year.

Average Temperature (°F)

The weather in Victoria Falls is typically very warm throughout the year, but it can get incredibly hot between late September and mid-December. During this time of year, daytime high temperatures can reach into the 90s (Fahrenheit) and it can feel much hotter in the sun. If you don’t do well with heat, you may want to avoid visiting during this time of year.

While temperatures can be much cooler during the winter period of late May thru early August, it can get rather cool at night. If you are planning to visit at this time of year, you will want to bring a light jacket with you to wear during the evenings.

Average Precipitation (Inches)

For those who are planning on going on safari while visiting, or have a lot of activities planned outdoors, you will also want to consider the average rainfall that Victoria Falls gets throughout the year. During the wet season, which lasts between late November and mid-March, the area gets quite a bit of rain.

However, during the winter months of May thru the beginning of September, the area sees very little rainfall. During this time of year, the wildlife is much easier to spot while on safari because there is less vegetation to obstruct your view. However, near the end of the dry season is when Victoria Falls is furthest from its peak volumes.

January to March

If you are looking for good travel deals, then January is likely your best time to visit Victoria Falls. Even though it is the height of summer, the water level of the Zambezi is still relatively low. This makes it not the ideal time to see the falls, but you can find some great rates on the luxury Victoria Falls lodges. This is also the ideal time to go whitewater rafting on the Zambezi River as water levels are starting to rise, but they aren’t near their peak.

If you want to see Victoria Falls reaching its maximum capacity, I would suggest waiting until late February. Without a doubt, this is the best time to view and photograph the falls. The waters of the Zambezi will be plummeting down into the gorges and the mist from the falls creates some of the most beautiful rainbows you will ever see.

However, February thru May is one of the worst times to go on safari in nearby Hwange National Park and the parks and game reserves of Botswana such as Chobe. The heavy rainfall from the previous months will mean lush vegetation in the parks, which makes spotting animals much more difficult.

By March, the water levels of the Zambezi and the volume of water going over the falls are at their apex. In fact, there is so much water going over the falls during this time of year that you can hear the waterfall from miles away. You can still go white water rafting during this time of year, but the high water levels of the Zambezi River can make it a terrifying experience if you aren’t an experienced rafter.

April to June

When the calendar hits April, summer comes to an end in Victoria Falls. With the end of summer, the temperatures start to drop a bit. With lower temperatures and water levels of the Zambezi River still relatively high, this is one of the best times to visit Victoria Falls. However, because of the high volumes of water flowing over the falls, the strong mist in the air can make it difficult to see the entirety of the falls. One of the best ways to get around this is to book a helicopter tour and view this iconic landmark from the air.

Starting in May, the dry season in Victoria Falls begins. This is when nighttime temperatures really start to drop, so make sure you pack a jacket and long pants if you decide to visit during this time of year. With very comfortable daytime temperatures, this is undoubtedly the best time of year to visit if you want to avoid the heat.

If you are planning on visiting Victoria Falls and the parks and game reserves of Botswana, including the infamous Chobe National Park, the best times of year to visit are from June to August. The dry season means there is less vegetation to obstruct your views of animals and the shrinking water holes mean the animals need to congregate near the Chobe River. This makes it much easier to find and spot wildlife. It is also a good time to visit Victoria Falls as well. Even though this is the start of the dry season, the volume of water flowing over the falls is still greater than it is at the end of the dry season.

July to September

Even though the month of July is in the middle of the dry season at Victoria Falls and the Zambezi River is no longer at full volume, it can still be a great time to visit the falls. For instance, this is the time of year when the infamous lunar rainbow makes its incredible appearance at Victoria Falls. The mild daytime temperatures also make daytime safaris at Hwange National Park and Chobe National Park much more enjoyable.

Starting in August, the temperatures in Victoria Falls start to increase again. This means that early morning and evening safaris in the surrounding parks aren’t quite as chilly. There is still very little rainfall, so it is a great time to see the falls, go on safari, and try some outdoor activities such as whitewater rafting or Devil’s Pool swim tour.

The month of September is the start of spring in Victoria Falls and is undoubtedly the best time of year to visit the falls if you are planning on going on a safari at one of the surrounding wildlife parks. The temperatures are not too warm, but they are warm enough to make early morning and evening safaris very enjoyable.

This is the month of the year when spotting difficult-to-see wildlife such as the elusive leopard is easiest because of the sparse vegetation. However, the later in September you visit, the dryer Victoria Falls will be. This is why I think late August and early September are the optimal times to visit when combining a visit to Victoria Falls with a safari experience.

October to December

In my opinion, one of the worst times of year to visit Victoria Falls in October. Not only is this the hottest month of the year, but the water level of the Zambezi River is at its lowest level. This means that the water flowing over Victoria Falls is at its least remarkable level.

The wet season officially kicks off again in November, and during this time of year, you can expect to see the first spring rains in Victoria Falls. However, don’t expect the water level of the Zambezi River to rise too quickly in November as it takes time for the rainfall to travel from the Angolan Highlands down to the river.

If you are into bird watching, November is the best time of year to spot many of the migratory birds that start arriving in Victoria Falls. There are some stunning bird species and this is one of the best times of year to spot them.

By December, it is nearing the height of the wet season in Victoria Falls. The daytime temperatures are still very hot and you can expect frequent afternoon thunderstorms. The water level of the Zambezi River is starting to rise and this is the last month for a while that you will be able to safely go whitewater rafting on the river. The migratory birds are also still around the falls thru December, so bird watching continues to be very good.

Where to Stay

One of the most important decisions you are going to have to make when planning your trip to see Victoria Falls is where you will stay.  When you travel, the accommodations you choose are oftentimes amongst the biggest expenditures for your trip.  So not only do you need to be comfortable where you are staying, but you also need to be comfortable with how much you are paying to stay there. 

Finding the right accommodations for your trip involves looking at the amenities, the location, and most importantly, the price.  If you are starting to plan your trip to Zimbabwe and want some hotel and hostel suggestions, I have included some great options at different price points in my guide to Victoria Falls below for you to review.  As always, don’t be afraid to expand your search to room-sharing sites such as Airbnb or VRBO if you aren’t finding a hotel or hostel that meets your needs.

Where to Eat

When most people plan a trip, the primary focus is on how to get there, where to stay, and what is on the list of things to see and do.  What many travelers neglect to plan, is where to eat when they are there.  Granted, it is sometimes fun to be spontaneous when choosing a restaurant while traveling, and it is always smart to get recommendations when you arrive.

However, it can also be advantageous to have some ideas of restaurants you would like to try during your trip written down beforehand as well.  This way you can be assured that you won’t miss out on a highly recommended culinary experience that you will regret.  To help you decide on some restaurants in Victoria Falls to add to your list, I have included a list of some highly recommended options for you to review in my guide to Victoria Falls below.

Recommended Tours and Excursions

There is an abundance of amazing things to see and do in the Victoria Falls area and one of the best ways to experience those things is on a tour.  If you are looking for fun tours and excursions to fill out your trip, I have included some category links to recommended tours and excursions you can review in my guide to Victoria Falls below.

In addition to the plethora of wonderful tours and activities that I have linked to above, I would strongly recommend considering a safari while visiting the Victoria Falls area. Victoria Falls is situated in close proximity to a number of incredible national parks and wildlife reserves in Zimbabwe, Botswana, and Zambia.

Two parks that I would strongly recommend are Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe, which is a few hours South of Victoria Falls, and Chobe National Park in Botswana, which is located just an hour to the West. For more information on how to plan a safari at these parks, including which tours to book, please see my detailed guides linked below.

Photo Gallery

One thing that Victoria Falls is not in short supply of is amazing things to photograph. I was able to capture a lot of great photographs while touring Victoria Falls, and I have included some of my favorites in a gallery in my guide to Victoria Falls for you to review below.

If you would like to view some more of my top photos from this trip, as well as photos from some of my many other travel adventures, make sure you are  following me on Instagram  as well!

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Published by Josh Hewitt

Avid traveler and photographer who loves to see new places, meet new people, and experience new things. There is so much this world can teach us, we just need to explore! View all posts by Josh Hewitt

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Really impressive and thorough guide!

Thank you so very much for the kind words!! 😄

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Victoria Falls Unveiled: The 10 Best Activities to Make the Most of Your Visit

Last updated on June 12th, 2023 at 11:26 pm

Victoria Falls is a natural wonder located on the Zambezi River at the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe. The falls were named after Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom by the Scottish explorer David Livingstone who was the first European to see them in 1855. However, the falls have been known to local tribes for centuries and were called “Mosi-oa-Tunya,” meaning “The Smoke that Thunders.”

It is approximately 1 mile (1.7 kilometers) wide and 354 feet (108 meters) tall, making it one of the largest waterfalls in the world. The Zambezi River drops into a narrow gorge creating a spray that can be seen from miles away and the mist from the falls creates a microclimate in the area which supports a diverse ecosystem of plants and wildlife.

Victoria Falls is a very popular tourist destination with a bridge that spans the Zambezi River to connect Zambia and Zimbabwe allowing for easier access to the falls. There are several hotels and resorts as well as a variety of activities for tourists such as bungee jumping, white water rafting, and safari tours.

Here are some of the 10 best activities to make the most of your visit to Victoria Falls:

1. Witness the Majesty of the Falls

Victoria Falls is one of the seven natural wonders of the world and witnessing the majesty of the falls is an absolute must-do. The sheer scale of the waterfall and the powerful roar of the water will take your breath away. The mist created by the falling water creates beautiful rainbows adding to the already stunning scene.

There are several viewpoints along Victoria Falls that offer different perspectives and vantage points to witness the breathtaking beauty of the falls. You can take in the incredible sights and sounds of this awe-inspiring wonder of nature from one of these viewpoints or take a guided tour to learn about the history and geology of the falls. 

2. Go Bungee Jumping off Victoria Falls Bridge

Bungee jumping off Victoria Falls Bridge is a popular and thrilling activity for adrenaline junkies. The 364-foot (111 meters) high bridge stretches across the Zambezi River connecting Zambia and Zimbabwe. 

Jumpers are strapped in and take a leap of faith free-falling towards the river before being bounced back up by the bungee cord. It’s a heart-pumping experience with amazing views of the gorge and river below. There are also options for bridge swings and slides for those who want a slightly different experience. 

Safety is a top priority, and all equipment and procedures are thoroughly checked and maintained to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

3. Take a Helicopter Tour

A helicopter tour is a fantastic way to experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Victoria Falls from a bird’s-eye view. The 15-30 minute ride provides panoramic views of the falls and the surrounding landscape, giving visitors a unique perspective on this natural wonder. 

The helicopter flies low and slow providing ample opportunity for sightseeing and photography. The rides are typically offered throughout the day and at sunset when the sky is painted in beautiful hues of orange and pink. 

The helicopters are modern and well-maintained, and experienced pilots provide commentary and information throughout the ride. It’s a thrilling and unforgettable way to experience one of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders.

4. Go on a Sunset Cruise

A sunset cruise along the Zambezi River is a relaxing and picturesque way to enjoy the beauty of Victoria Falls. The cruise typically lasts for about two hours and provides stunning views of the sunset over the river. 

Along the way, you can spot a variety of wildlife including elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species. Many sunset cruises offer drinks and snacks on board and some even have live music or traditional dance performances. 

A sunset cruise is a great way to unwind and soak in the natural beauty of the area while enjoying a leisurely and quiet evening.

5. Go White Water Rafting on The Zambezi River

White water rafting is one of the most thrilling activities to do at Victoria Falls. The river is known for its turbulent rapids and intense currents, providing an exhilarating and challenging experience for rafters. 

The rapids range from Class III to Class V and some sections are only accessible during low water season. Experienced guides lead the trips and provide safety gear and instructions to ensure a safe and fun adventure. 

Rafting trips can last from half a day to several days and include lunch and snacks along the way. It is a great way to experience the power and beauty of the Zambezi River and create unforgettable memories.

6. Take a dip in Devil’s Pool

A dip in Devil’s Pool is a unique and thrilling experience. This natural infinity pool is located on the edge of the falls on the Zambian side and swimmers can experience the sensation of being right at the edge of the falls without being swept over. 

The best time to visit Devil’s Pool is during the dry season when the water level is low enough for the pool to form. Experienced guides lead visitors to the pool and provide safety gear and instructions for the swim. 

A dip in Devil’s Pool is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that provides breathtaking views and a sense of adventure.

7. Go on a Walking Safari

A walking safari in the Zambezi National Park is a unique way to experience the wildlife and natural beauty of Victoria Falls. Accompanied by experienced guides you can explore the park on foot and get up close with animals such as elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, and various antelope species. 

The guides provide insights into the flora and fauna of the area and ensure the safety of the group. Walking safaris typically take place in the early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are cooler and can last from 2-3 hours. 

A walking safari is a great way to connect with nature and experience the thrill of being on foot in the African wilderness.

8. Go on a Canoe or Kayak Safari on The Zambezi River

A canoe or kayak safari on the Zambezi River is a unique and exciting way to experience the wildlife and scenery of Victoria Falls. Accompanied by experienced guides you can paddle along the river and spot hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and various bird species. 

The calm waters and stunning landscapes provide a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere and the guides provide insights into the flora and fauna of the area. Canoe or kayak safaris typically last from 2-3 hours and can be tailored to different skill levels. 

A canoe or kayak safari is a great way to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Zambezi River and create memories of a lifetime.

9. Visit Victoria Falls Rainforest

Located on the Zimbabwean side of the falls, Victoria Falls Rainforest is a lush and green area that offers stunning views of the falls and a variety of wildlife and plant species. The rainforest is home to unique flora and fauna, including rare bird species and monkeys, and provides an ideal habitat for the endemic plant species of the area. 

You can take a leisurely walk along the well-marked trails that wind through the forest that offer multiple viewpoints of the falls. The roar of the water and the mist rising from the falls create a magical atmosphere that is truly unforgettable. 

Visiting Victoria Falls Rainforest is a perfect activity for nature lovers and those looking for a peaceful escape in the heart of Victoria Falls.

10. Visit Livingstone Museum

A visit to Livingstone Museum is a great way to learn about the history and culture of Victoria Falls and the surrounding area. Located in Livingstone, Zambia, the museum offers exhibits on the pre-colonial and colonial history of the region as well as displays on the local flora and fauna, traditional crafts, and archaeology. 

The museum is named after David Livingstone, the Scottish explorer who first discovered Victoria Falls in 1855, and includes displays of his life and legacy. You can also view the ethnographic and archaeological collections, which include traditional clothing, musical instruments, and artifacts from the Stone Age. 

A visit to the Livingstone Museum is a perfect activity for those interested in history and culture and a great way to gain a deeper understanding of the rich heritage of Victoria Falls.

Best Time to Visit Victoria Falls

The best time to visit Victoria Falls depends on what you want to experience. Here are some things to consider:

If you want to see the falls at their fullest and don’t mind the crowds plan your visit during the rainy season. If you prefer milder weather and want to participate in outdoor activities then plan your visit during the dry season.

What are Victoria Falls?

Victoria Falls are a waterfall located on the Zambezi River, on the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia in southern Africa. They are considered one of the seven natural wonders of the world and are a UNESCO world heritage site.

How wide are Victoria Falls?

The width of Victoria Falls varies depending on the time of year and the water levels in the Zambezi River. During the wet season (November to April), the falls can be up to 1 mile (1.7 kilometers) wide. During the dry season (May to October), the falls are usually less than 0.6 miles (1 kilometer) wide.

What are some of the notable features of Victoria Falls?

Victoria Falls has several notable features, including the Main Falls, which are the largest and most popular section of the falls. There is also Devil’s Cataract, Eastern Cataract, Rainbow Falls, and the Boiling Pot. Visitors can also see the falls from various vantage points, such as the Knife-Edge Bridge, which provides an aerial view of the falls.

How do I get to Victoria Falls?

Victoria Falls can be reached by air or road. There are regular flights to the Victoria Falls Airport in Zimbabwe and the Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport in Zambia. From there, visitors can take a taxi or shuttle to the falls. It’s also possible to drive from nearby cities, such as Livingstone in Zambia or Kasane in Botswana, and cross the border into Zimbabwe or Zambia.

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Victoria Falls: A Historical Wonder of the World

•  Devil's Pool
•  Livingstone Island
•  The Big Tree
•  Victoria Falls
•  Victoria Falls Bridge Swing
•  Victoria Falls Bridge Tour
•  Victoria Falls Bridge Walk
•  Victoria Falls Bridge
•  Victoria Falls Bungee Jump
•  Victoria Falls Canopy Tour
•  Victoria Falls Crocodile Park
•  Victoria Falls Helicopter Flight
•  Victoria Falls Rainforest
•  Victoria Falls River Cruise
•  Victoria Falls River Rafting
•  Victoria Falls Safari Lodge
•  Victoria Falls Snake Park
•  Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust
•  Victoria Falls Zip Line
•  Zambezi National Park

•  Chizarira National Park
•  Gonarezhou National Park
•  Nyanga National Park
•  Victoria Falls National Park
•  Beitbridge
•  Bindura
•  Bulawayo
•  Chegutu
•  Chinhoyi
•  Chitungwiza
•  Epworth
•  Gokwe
•  Gweru
•  Harare
•  Hwange
•  Kadoma
•  Kariba
•  Kwekwe
•  Marondera
•  Masvingo
•  Mutare
•  Norton
•  Zvishavane
•  Antelope Park
•  Bvumba Mountains
•  Chimanimani National Park
•  Chinhoyi Caves
•  Eastern Highlands
•  Great Zimbabwe National Monument
•  Harare Botanical Gardens
•  Kariba Dam
•  Khami Mission
•  Khami Ruins National Monument
•  Lake Chivero
•  Lake Kariba

Visiting Victoria Falls: a first-timer's guide

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written by Keith Drew

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One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the Victoria Falls are wider than Niagara and higher than Iguazú – and have more activities on offer than both of them combined. Rough Guides Managing Editor Keith Drew has the lowdown on everything you need to know about Africa ’s adventure capital.

So which side should I visit: Zimbabwe or Zambia?

Will i get wet then, what else should i do, i’ve heard that the rafting is also pretty good…, anything a bit less gung-ho, hippos and crocs... where else can i see some wildlife, and where should i stay for the falls themselves.

Both. The lion's share of the Falls are in Zimbabwe, and it's here that you'll get the best overall impression of their epic scale – all 1700m of thundering whitewater cascades. The numerous lookouts that run along the gorge inside Victoria Falls National Park include show-stopping views of the Devil’s Cataract; precarious Danger Point; and the spectacular Main Falls, the largest single sheet of water in the world.

On the Zambian side, the lookout points in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park give you another angle entirely. Watch the water plummet over the edge from just a few feet behind the Eastern Cataract, or cross the sliver of a bridge to Knife Point Island for that in-the-thick-of-it feeling.

You can also climb down to the river’s edge to the so-called Boiling Pot, named for the way the water rebounds off the rock face to create a treacherous swirl of criss-crossing currents.

Victoria Falls sunset, view from Zambia © FCG/Shutterstock

When the water levels are high, from around March to June, you’ll get absolutely soaked, particularly at Viewpoints 9 to 15 on the Zimbabwean side and around Knife Point Island in Zambia. The spray from the Falls can be so heavy that the island (and its bridge) are showered in a constant “downpour”.

Wear quick-drying clothes and flip-flops and hire one of the ponchos that are available to rent on both sides – they’ll also protect your camera.

It’s not cheap, but for sheer once-in-a-lifetime thrills, a morning microlight flight over the Falls is an absolute must. Exposed to the rushing wind, you’ll buzz over the Zambezi River, soar around the Falls and then plunge through the upper wisps of the Smoke That Thunders itself.

The flight will also give you an aerial lesson in geology that you just can’t get from the ground; you’ll get a good view of the previous gorges that have been carved out over millennia further down the river. Batoka Sky, on the Zambian side, is the only company in the Victoria Falls area that organises microlight flights.

You've heard right. Though that's something of an understatement. In many ways, rafting was where it all began for Victoria Falls Town, and in season (around August to December), the Zambezi still boasts the best whitewater on the planet.

Pick a company that knows its stuff, such as Shearwater, and prepare yourself for a day of getting bucked off rapids with names such as The Washing Machine, Double Trouble and Oblivion.

The quintessential end to a Vic Falls day is a tranquil sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. Many of the three-storey cruisers are packed to the gills, so opt instead for something like the Ra-Ikane , an elegant little wooden boat – designed like the one used by David Livingstone in the mid-1800s – that can drift into the shallows and takes a maximum of eight.

Hippos are a guaranteed sighting, and there are usually a few suspicious-looking crocodiles soaking up the last rays of the day. The undoubted highlight is watching a blood-orange African sun sink slowly into the horizon.

You’ll see plenty of baboons around Victoria Falls Town, and there’s a family of warthogs that likes to hang out at passport control on the Zimbabwean side of Vic Falls Bridge.

But for a proper big-game experience, you’ll need to head to Zambezi National Park, 5km west of town. Walking safaris and game drives through the park’s mopane woodland and riverine forest will probably turn up antelope, zebra and giraffe – you might even spot a lion crossing the open grasslands further inland.

Spend the night in one of the luxurious riverfront tents at Zambezi Sands (complete with four-poster beds, outdoor showers and private plunge pools) and there’s a real chance you’ll drift off to the sound of elephants trumpeting in the bush. The lodge is famous for its canoe safaris down the Zambezi, an early morning exploration that gives you a real appreciation for this majestic river.

Ilala Lodge is your best bet if you want to be as close to the Falls as possible. Occupying lovely grounds, the lodge has stylish rooms, a small pool and an excellent restaurant. Best of all, though, it’s just a 10-minute walk to the park’s entrance; from the hotel’s terrace, you can see clouds of spray rising from the Falls.

On the opposite side of Vic Falls Town – and a good choice if you’re more interested in getting a flavour of the bush so close to the city – is the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge Estate . The Lodge itself is the focal point, with many of its sleek, contemporary rooms overlooking a waterhole. But there’s also the more upmarket Victoria Falls Safari Club and the attractive (and good-value) Lokuthula Lodges , whose large, self-catering thatched cottages share a beautiful pool and come with their own terrace and braai.

Spectacular Gorges Lodge, 25km east of Victoria Falls Town, is by far the best place to stay if you’d rather be a bit more removed from the action. The lodge’s stone chalets, and its sister camp’s designer tents, are strung out along the very edge of the Batoka Gorge, and enjoy dizzying views over the Zambezi some 200m below.

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South African Airways fly daily from London Heathrow to Victoria Falls via Johannesburg. The new 30-day KAZA Visa, available on arrival at Victoria Falls Airport, covers you for entry into both Zimbabwe and Zambia.

Top image © Efimova Anna/Shutterstock

A former Rough Guides Managing Editor, Keith Drew has written or updated over a dozen Rough Guides, including Costa Rica, Japan and Morocco. As well as writing for The Telegraph, The Guardian and BRITAIN Magazine, among others, he also runs family-travel website Lijoma.com. Follow him @keithdrewtravel on Twitter and @BigTrips4LittleTravellers on Instagram.

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About Victoria Falls

All you need to know about victoria falls, zimbabwe, guide to victoria falls.

The town of Victoria Falls is the gateway to the massive waterfall of the same name. The Zambezi River plummets over a cliff and flows into the Boiling Pot before continuing on to a series of gorges. The Devil’s Pool, a natural infinity pool, is a breathtaking sight to see. Visitors can cross the famous Victoria Bridge across the Zambezi River and enjoy views of the waterfall and the city. If you’re a nature lover, you can see elephants and white rhinos in the nearby Zambezi National Park.

If you’re interested in wildlife, Victoria Falls has many attractions for visitors. The surrounding area is home to elephants, which are a highlight of any visit to the country. You can see these majestic animals while dining at one of the many local restaurants, including the Lookout Cafe. Guests can view the falls while eating lunch at this cafe. You can also visit a private reserve where you can see wild elephants. Wood-fired pizza is a popular option, while skewered game meat is a favorite of tourists. Another popular restaurant is Mama Africa, which serves local cuisine and is a must for wildlife enthusiasts.

While the falls are the most famous attraction in the region, visitors can also enjoy more sedate activities. There are guided tours of the town and guided river cruises. You can also enjoy game drives in the nearby national parks. There are also several flights to South Africa to see the waterfalls. For those who prefer to travel by air, they can visit Cape Town or the wine regions surrounding the area. Regardless of the reason for your visit, a trip to the country’s most scenic spot is definitely worth a trip.

While you’re in town, don’t forget to take in the sights. The Victoria Falls can be seen best at night. The waterfall is illuminated at night and if you’re lucky, you’ll catch the lunar rainbow, which is a rare type of nighttime rainbow reflected in the water. For an affordable and memorable stay, visit the region of Victoria Falls and its surroundings. If you’re looking for the best view of the magnificent falls, this is the place for you.

For the shopping enthusiast, the area around the falls is a must-see. While you can purchase souvenirs in the country’s capital, there are also several other ways to explore the region. The main attractions are situated just across the border and are surrounded by lush landscapes. It is advisable to stay at hotels that are situated close to the Victoria Falls. There are plenty of restaurants and bars in the city. Most of the hotels in the town are within walking distance.

You can also spend a lot of money on souvenirs while you are in the country. There are several shops and boutiques that are open to tourists. The best place to buy beautiful jewellery is at the artist’s village. While there are many souvenirs available, you should not spend too much of your time looking at them. In fact, it’s not a good idea to buy anything at the tourist sites, since you’ll end up regret it later.

History of Victoria Falls

The area around Victoria Falls has been occupied for about 3 million years. This was evidenced by the discovery of Middle Stone Age tools and weapons. In addition to the Khoisan, the area was occupied by Bantu tribes, including the Batoka. Over the centuries, these peoples became dominant. The Matabele tribe, also known as the Maasai, arrived in the area. Their descendants still live in the area today.

European settlement began around 1900. In the wake of the First World War, Cecil Rhodes, owner of the British South Africa Company, wanted to control the mineral rights north of the Zambezi. They also sought to exploit the region’s ivory and animal skins. Eventually, they built the first bridge across the Zambezi, and even attempted to mine the water. But the water and spray had become too powerful for them, and they had to evacuate.

During British colonial rule, the falls became a popular attraction. The city was the main tourist center. By 1990, almost 300,000 people visited the city. By the end of the decade, there was expected to be more than a million visitors. Livingstone named the area after Queen Victoria. The site was named for her. There is also a museum that tells the history of the area. The park’s name is derived from this place.

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A hotel in Livingstone was built in 1904. This was built to accommodate the train passengers. The town also grew as a tourist destination. A government museum in Livingstone tells the story of White colonial rule through pictures and artifacts. During the British colonial period, the Victoria Falls became one of the major attractions in the country. By the 1960s, it had become the largest tourist attraction in the country.

The Victoria Falls were discovered in 1855. The Zambezi River became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1989. In addition, the gorges are home to artifacts that date back to 3 million years ago. During this time, the Batswana and Makololo tribes inhabited the area. The river became an important trade route for African goods and services. The town of Victoria Falls was also a major attraction during the British colonial period.

The area around the Victoria Falls has been inhabited for over 3 million years. Before the colonial era, it was inhabited by the Makololo tribe. By the early nineteenth century, the Makololo people had settled the area. Their names were Musi-oa-Tunya and Shungu na Mutitima, which means “raging lion”. However, it was Dr. David Livingstone who named the falls after Queen Victorian.

During the 19th century, Europeans began to settle in the area. They built a railway, which connected Victoria Falls to Bulawayo. During the British colonial period, the area gained popularity. Despite the lack of tourism, the area remained uninhabited for a long time, and Europeans began to settle in the region. A bridge was constructed over the Second Gorge, which is the narrowest part of the Falls.

Victoria Falls Facts

When visiting Zambia or Zimbabwe, one of the must-dos is to visit Victoria Falls. This 1,708-metre-wide waterfall sits on the Zambezi River and is a unique habitat for many unique species of plants and animals. The falls are the highest in the world and are a popular tourist attraction , but did you know there is a lot more to this breathtaking spectacle? There are many fun facts about Victoria’s spectacular beauty, and we’ve compiled some of the most interesting ones for your enjoyment.

The falls are shaped like a horseshoe, and have the least volume of water. The horseshoe falls are also the first to dry out, usually between October and November. The horseshoe falls are located on the Zambian side of the Falls, but you can see them from the Zimbabwean side at the danger point. There are many things to do in Victoria Falls, and you should consider exploring them! During your trip, you may even see the rare lunar rainbow, which appears when moonlight reflects off the falling water drops in the atmosphere.

Upon arriving at the Zimbabwean side of the Falls, it’s best to purchase a KAZA visa. It will grant you access to both countries. The KAZA visa is valid for both countries and includes 22 pages of information. You can also purchase a worksheet pack that contains 22 pages of information about the Falls and its history. In addition, you can find out how the water levels fluctuate in the different sections. The main flow of the river is the Main Falls, which is 460 metres wide. The Horseshoe Falls and Rainbow Falls are both 500-metre-wide, but are usually dry during low seasons.

Since 1855, Victoria Falls has become a UNESCO World Heritage site. The falls have been a tourist attraction for more than 400 thousand people a year, though the Zimbabwean side is more developed than the Zambian side. In fact, the rapid development of the falls has led the United Nations to question the site’s status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The waterfalls’ management is threatening the integrity of its UNESCO status.

The Victoria Falls are at the edge of the Zambezi River. The river flows through Africa, passing through Zimbabwe, Botswana and Mozambique. The water level at the base of the falls is 229 feet (70m) deep . Approximately 550 million liters of water flow each minute through the Zambezi River. The height of the Falls varies between the Zambian and Zimbabwean sides.

The waterfall is situated on the Zambezi River, which is a river that flows through Africa. The falls are named for Queen Victoria of Great Britain, but the locals call them Mosi-oa-Tunya, which means “smoke that thunders.” The area has been inhabited for more than 3 million years. The displaced tribes of the region were based in Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Things to do in Victoria Falls

Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, a trip to Victoria Falls is sure to be memorable. The town of Victoria Falls is a gateway to the huge waterfall of the same name. The Zambezi River roars down a cliff, plunging over the waterfall into the Boiling Pot. The river flows through gorges, including the Devil’s Pool, which is a natural infinity pool. Besides the spectacular scenery, visitors can also enjoy wildlife viewing at the nearby Zambezi National Park. Elephants and white rhinos live in the national park.

The Falls’ lowest level is during November/December. You can also try white-water rafting , see crocodiles, and hike in the park. It’s best to avoid visiting the park during rainy season. The water is very hot and humid from October to December, so plan your activities accordingly. The twilight hours are perfect for bungee jumping and other adrenaline sports. You can also take a helicopter ride to get a unique perspective of the falls.

The falls are spectacular and can be viewed from both sides of the border. From the Zimbabwean side, you can view the waterfalls, or from the eastern side of the Zambian border. The falls are 100 meters high and 1.7 kilometers wide. Locals call the falls Mosi-oa-Tunya, which translates to smoke that thunders. You can even zip line through the gorge. No matter what you choose, you’ll never be bored in Victoria Falls!

The waterfall is the biggest waterfall in the world. It is 100m high and 1.7km wide. It is called Mosi-oa-Tunya by locals, and it literally means smoke that thunders. If you’re an adrenaline junkie, you should definitely check out the bungee jump. It’s a thrilling way to appreciate the beauty of the falls. The falls are located on the Zambian side.

Apart from the waterfall itself, you can also enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. There are tours that take you to the Livingstone Island, which is a tiny piece of land that clings to the edge of the gorge. Besides bungee jumping, you can also try the Bridge Swing, a smaller version of the activity. The two-hour tour includes a high tea on the island and a view of the waterfalls.

The Victoria Falls are a must-see for any visitor. The world’s largest waterfall is visible from both the Zimbabwean and Zambian sides. The falls are 1.7km wide and 100m high. Some people even refer to them as “mosi-oa-tunya” or “smoke that thunders” in local languages. This awe-inspiring spectacle will leave you in awe.

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Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls is perhaps the most famous waterfall in existence. Situated on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe, this massive wall of water is also referred to by its indigenous name ‘Most-oa-Tunya’, which means ‘the Smoke that Thunders’. Fed from the Zambezi River, the Falls are considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Natural World, and have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1989.

Interesting Facts about Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls has a unique structure that produces the largest single sheet of flowing water in the world. However, it’s neither the tallest (Angel Falls, Venezuela) nor the widest waterfall in the world.

Victoria Falls is 5604 feet (1708m) wide and 354 feet (108m) high.

The area upstream from the Falls is notable because it’s a flat plateau with no mountains or deep valleys.

The name “Victoria Falls” comes from Scottish explorer and missionary Dr. David Livingston. Believed to be the first European to see the Falls; he named them after Queen Victoria, the reigning queen at the time.

Upon seeing Victoria Falls for the first time, Dr Livingstone declared “It has never been seen before by European eyes, but scenes so wonderful must have been gazed upon by angels in their flight”.

Most-oa-Tunya – “the Smoke that Thunders” – refers to the sound of the falls and the heavy mist that is produced by the falling water. This indigenous name is still widely in use today. A nearby national park in Zambia is called Most-oa-Tunya, and the World Heritage List also officially recognizes the name.

The relationship between the native people and Dr. Livingston was, and remains, very positive. In 1964, Zambia separated from Britain and became an independent nation. As part of this, they renamed the streets, cities and buildings, removing all British names and replacing them with African ones. However, the one exception to this mass re-naming was anything related to Dr. Livingston, such as the city of Livingston and the official name ‘Victoria Falls’.

Best Time to Visit Victoria Falls

The area around the Falls has two seasons: rainy and dry. The rainy season runs from the end of November through to early April, with the dry season running from late March through mid-November. While the wet season may sound like the ideal time to visit, it’s not in reality. The Falls become almost completely obscured by an abundance of mist and water in the air. Visiting during the latter part of the dry season, between August and October, is also not an ideal time to visit, as you’ll likely see more rock than water. For most people, the best time to visit is in either June or July – the Falls will be robust, but visible.

Best Ways to View the Falls

The Falls are certainly hard to miss, but there are two ways in particular to get the best possible view. The first option is to take one of the many trails that run along the Falls, some of which allow you to get as close as 200 feet (61m). Want to get even closer? During the latter part of the dry season, the water is usually low and calm enough that it’s even possible to walk across the Falls themselves. This can be an unbelievable experience, but is probably best avoided by those with a fear of heights. The alternative (but certainly, more expensive) option is to take an aerial tour, with plenty of helicopter tour operators offering flights.

Zambia vs. Zimbabwe

Victoria Falls sits between the countries of Zambia and Zimbabwe. Whilst travel between the countries is relatively common because of the Falls, it still involves passports and various travel fees.

Most of the trails are on the Zambian side. However, from this side you will only be able to see 25% to 30% of the Falls. While there are fewer trails on the Zimbabwe side, you will be able to see approximately 80% of the Falls.

Tips for Visiting Victoria Falls

Roughly one million people visit the Falls each year. Historically, most visitors have journeyed to Zimbabwe to view the Falls. However, in recent years, conflict in the area has dampened tourism in Zimbabwe, and more tourists are choosing to view the falls from the Zambian side.

The area around the Falls is generally considered pretty safe. In 2004, a special group called the Tourism Police was started. They patrol the tourist areas, where they are easily identified by their yellow reflective bibs.

Whatever time of year you choose to travel to Victoria Falls; be prepared to get wet. Navigating most trails will bring about at least some exposure to mist and falling spray. Aside from appropriate clothing, visitors should ensure that any photography equipment or gear is suitably protected from water.

Latest News about Victoria Falls

A joint Zambia-Zimbabwe $5bn hydropower dam project near Victoria Falls has been approved by the United Nations agency.

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OMG this is truly a heavenly sight and worth looking at im definetly going there this summer

Kindly confirm whether this is a fact or just a statement to smear the other party your article is not aligned to: “Roughly one million people visit the Falls each year. Historically, most visitors have journeyed to Zimbabwe to view the Falls. However, in recent years, conflict in the area has dampened tourism in Zimbabwe, and more tourists are choosing to view the falls from the Zambian side.”

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Top things to do in victoria falls.

Here's some of the top things to do in Victoria Falls and why you must go!

10 May 2021

25 oct 2022.

Some cool info on Victoria Falls

It is estimated that Victoria Falls has been flowing for about 200,000 years. The mighty waters of the Zambezi River eroding away the soft rock over millennia to create what is now one of the seven natural wonders of the world, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a place where over a million tourists and thrill-seekers flock every year.

Named by Dr David Livingstone after Queen Victoria in 1885 – it is the largest waterfall on Earth. It’s not the tallest or the widest but is considered the largest due to the vast curtain of water that falls over its 1.7km wide lip. At its peak, the volume of water coming over the falls is around 150 million gallons per minute. This amount of water is just incomprehensible…a good size bath holds 40 gallons, so 1 million gallons would equate to 25,000 baths… making the high-water mark of 150 million gallons equate to 3.75 million (the entire population of Liverpool and Manchester combined) bathtubs of water thundering over the falls every single minute. That’s a lot of water!

Water levels aside, the falls are impressive whichever way you look at them and you really do have to visit to grasp their enormity. At 1.7km wide and over 100 metres from the top down to the white froth that churns at the base. Again, put into context The Statue of Liberty which stands proud looking out from the great city of New York is 93 metres tall and would fit in the space where the water descends. Then take this height and stretch it the length of Oxford Street in London, running from Marble Arch to Tottenham Court Road. Combine this immensity with the noise generated by the cascading water and the spray that is generated it is no wonder the indigenous people were originally afraid of what they called ‘The Smoke that Thunders’!

When and where to go

These days, Victoria Falls as a destination (whether you visit the Zambian or Zimbabwean side) is a magnet for tourism. Not only to those who come to see the falls but to also partake in a multitude of adventure and adrenalin filled activities. This is the adventure capital of Africa, if not the world and I have listed a few things to do that we recommend as well as when to visit and why.

Best Time to Visit Victoria Falls

There are two seasons: rainy and dry. The rainy season runs from the end of November through to early April, with the dry season running from late March through mid-November. There is not always agreement on when the best time to see the falls is depending on what you want to see.

Some say that the wet season is the best time to go to see the falls when they are at their peak with vast swathes of water flowing. It’s not in reality. The Falls become almost completely obscured by huge quantities of mist and water, you will also get absolutely drenched – most people wear plastic ponchos, trying as best they can to save their camera equipment and give up getting ‘the shot’ altogether.

If you head there in the height of the dry season, between August and October, it is also not an ideal time to visit, as you’ll likely see more rock than water and in extremely dry conditions the falls almost stop flowing altogether.

For most people, the best time to visit is in either June or July – the Falls will be healthy and visible.

Got a question? Chat with one of our specalists via WhatsApp for a quick response.

Zimbabwe or Zambia?

As a rough calculation Zimbabwe has access to view 75% of the falls to Zambia ’ s 25%. Both sides offer amazing views of the waterfall but if you travel in the dry season you could end up not seeing very much water at all from the Zambian side as currently the water tends to flow stronger on the Zimbabwe side during the dry spell.

The town of Livingstone on the Zambian side is about 8km’s from the falls themselves and although there are several hotels right by the lip, such as The Royal Livingstone , if you are not staying here it’s a taxi ride to get to the falls itself. By contrast on the Zimbabwean side, the town of Victoria Falls is a 5 minute walk to the bridge and a 3 minute walk to the entrance of the national park – have a look at The Victoria Falls Hotel .

The border between the two countries is the actual Victoria Falls Bridge, an idea conceived by Cecil Rhodes, unfortunately passing away before a few years before the bridge’s completion in 1905, meaning he never saw his idea in all its glory.

It’s pretty easy to get between Zambia and Zimbabwe if you get a KAZA UNIVISA which allows you to cross into both countries multiple times, as well as doing day trips into Chobe National Park in neighbouring Botswana . So it doesn’t matter too much which side you opt for as part of a safari holiday.

Recently, people have been a little wary of going to Zimbabwe due to the political unrest under Robert Mugabe and now Emmerson Mnangagwa, however Victoria Falls Town is almost a satellite of Zimbabwe and tends to get left alone as they need the tourist dollars. So much so, that during the COVID-19 pandemic the town was put at the head of the vaccination queue , after health workers, in order to inoculate the whole town in a bid to revive tourism. There are daily flights to both Victoria Falls and Livingstone from Johannesburg as well as various other international hubs such as Nairobi , Addis Ababa and the Middle East .

Trip idea - Classic Zambia Safari

From the mighty Victoria Falls to the floodplains of the Zambezi River and the iconic South Luangwa National Park, this trip covers all of the highlights of Zambia. The range of places you visit and experiences you enjoy make this the perfect introduction to this most captivating of safari destinations.

This Classic Zambia Safari includes:

• International, regional and domestic flights
• All applicable transfers
• 3 nights with all meals and one daily activity at Waterberry Zambezi Lodge
• 3 nights Fully Inclusive at Baines' River Camp
• 4 nights Fully Inclusive at Kafunta River Lodg e

Duration: 12 days

Location: Zambia, Africa

Price: £7265pp

Miracles do happen!

In 2013 a tourist fell into the gorge from Knife-Edge Bridge whilst attempting to take a photo of friends. At this point the gorge is 25 metres deep and a fall to rocks at the bottom would result in certain death, but as he fell, he managed to grab onto some shrubs and get a foothold. Clinging on for dear life, he was stranded for over an hour as helicopters searched the river below for his body. Eventually, he was found and rescued by the fire brigade and one of the bungee operators. He has since opened a pharmaceutical plant in the capital Lusaka. Although, the reality is not everyone is so lucky. On average, one person a year dies after falling into Victoria Falls.

Must do's in and around Victoria Falls

Some activities that you will have heard of and are worth doing, 1. see the falls from the air.

The ‘Flight of Angels’ is how Dr. Livingstone described this phenomenon when he first set eyes on it all those years ago, writing, “a sight so wonderful that angels must have gazed down on it in flight”. The modern version is a little different and involves a short flight over this natural wonder of the world. It can be done in a helicopter, microlight or plane and is the best way to see the Falls in their true glory, being able to fully consume their entirety. A sight that you will not get viewing from them ground level. Book in advance and due to changing weather conditions try and do it towards the start of your stay. Best times for photography are early morning or late afternoon.

2. Rafting the mighty Zambezi

Everyone always refers to the river as ‘The Mighty Zambezi’ and there is only one way to really understand this sheer force of nature and that is to raft it. Take it from me, this is a day you will not forget in a hurry and is the best rafting probably anywhere in the world. You spend the day wrestling with big water and trying to stay the right way up in what feels like a washing machine on constant spin. It is not for the faint hearted as it is not a simple float down the gorge as there are 19 rapids to negotiate and by the end you know and feel like you have gone 12 rounds with this heavyweight. And, if you want a really rough day on the water, go in the dry season when the water is low. You will have the ride of your life!

3. Sunset cruise

Another staple for a visit to this part of the world. Whether this is done as a boozy late afternoon cruise or a more respectable / upmarket game cruise, both are well worth it and a lot of fun to be had. For those of you going on the more sedate trip just remember to smile sweetly when you pass the (probably) younger generations doing the boozy cruise.

4. Devil's Pool and Livingstone Island

An awesome way of seeing an alternative angle of the falls from where Dr Livingstone himself originally saw them before taking the plunge into a pool perched right on the lip of the falls where you can literally lie on the edge, lean over and look down as the water cascades to the depths below. Not for the faint hearted but lots of fun. You can only do this from the Zambian side and at low water levels. You can also enjoy afternoon/tea or lunch on the island as part of the experience.

5. Bungee from the Victoria Falls Bridge

Another one for the adrenalin seeker. The bridge to the water is 104 metres and whilst it's not the biggest bungee in the world it can certainly claim to be one of the most spectacular. Cecil Rhodes would probably be turning in his grave at the very thought.

6. Fun is not a formality

The Boma at The Victoria Falls Safari Lodge or Afternoon Tea at The Victoria Falls Hotel – The Boma for a bit of a fun night out for dinner or a more formal afternoon affair at the Victoria Falls Hotel. Its all a bit cliched but a good laugh and you will leave with very full bellies.

And some activities you may not have heard of but are definitely worth a try.

7. sip 'n paint.

Small group artistic experiences in the bush – A unique way of capturing Victoria Falls in your own way with oil on canvas. Or, alternatively be taken into the bush where a suitable spot is chosen, easels are set up along with drinks and snacks and you can paint the African landscaper and wildlife under tuition of local resident artists. A great way to indulge in a passion and spend an afternoon.

8. Cook up a traditional storm

Cook up your own traditional Potjie (pronounced ‘poy-key’ ) – Be helped by a professional chef to prep your own traditional stew in a Potjie Pot. As this is left to cook for 3 hours or so you head off down the Zambezi on a cruise or a paddle to work up an appetite. On your return you get stuck into a superb, tender stew of your own making. Delicious.

9. Gorge swinging

Similar to Bungee jumping this involves tying a rope around you in a harness and jumping off the bridge, only to swing when the rope picks up the slack. Zip Wiring is also an option.

10. Bridge Walk or slide

If you don’t fancy hurling yourself off the bridge but do have a head for heights then take a bridge tour which starts in the museum before moving on out to the bridge where you are strapped in and walk underneath the road and rail level on the original catwalks and see the detail of construction. The slide is open to all ages and is a short zipwire that floats you over the Zambezi near the bridge.

11. Fishing for tigers

Who said you wouldn’t see a tiger in Africa? Tiger Fish are renowned as the greatest fighting fish in the whole world. They can grow up to 15kgs and will make sure you get a proper work out using trolling and spinning lures. A must do for any keen angler.

12. Watch a local football match

This half-day tour gives you the opportunity to watch a local Zambian league football match, meet & greet players, see the village where the players live, visit a local market and get a real insight into Zambian life and culture. The passion for football in Zambia is huge and the commitment on the pitch from the players and from the local crowd makes this an unforgettable, once in a lifetime experience.

13. Experience a lunar rainbow

This is best seen when the water is at its highest from the Zambian side and when there is a full moon. Almost unique to Victoria Falls, the lunar rainbow forms as light refracts due to the ever-present water particles from the spray of the falls in the air. As with most rainbows the colour is pretty feint but it is another gift from the falls that you are unlikely to see anywhere else in the world, so it’s worth staying up a little later for.

There are endless activities to do in Victoria Falls for all ages and levels of thrill. We would suggest staying three nights as this gives you two full days to explore and enjoy everything on offer without feeling rushed or squeezing in too much.

An ideal three night stay for me would involve heading out on a cruise the day of arrival which gives you time to check in and relax at your hotel before taking in the upper Zambezi and having a few ice cold Mosi’s (local brew).

On the first full day I would have an early start and get down to the National Park to drink in the falls and then enjoy watching the football match, meeting the players and taking in the market and their village. After being dropped off I would take in an early evening flight of the Angels. On the second full day I would put myself through the Zambezi’s very own washing machine and raft down the 19 rapids.

Got a question? Chat with a specalist on WhatsApp who can help you.

Where to stay

Zambian side.

If you want to be by the Falls then The Royal Livingstone ticks all the boxes and they even have zebra grazing in the grounds. There is a gate at the bottom which will take you right to the Falls.

Further up river you will find Tongabezi an upmarket lodge with fabulous huge ‘houses’ which offer amazing views out onto the river and are open to the elements. There is also a sister property situated on its own island in the middle of the River – Sindabezi . This is a bit less luxurious but you do get your own island.

Waterberry is a firm favourite too with a magnificent lawn garden surrounding an inviting pool with good food and service.

Zimbabwean side

The Victoria Falls Hotel is the Grand Dame of Vic Falls Town. Located just on the edge with magnificent views of the bridge and a 5 minute walk into town or the national park. It’s a hotel with a heavy colonial history and this is evident throughout and some can find a bit stuffy (jackets for dinner etc…) but it should be taken as it comes and enjoyed. The afternoon tea is definitely worth a whirl.

Ilala Lodge is another very good option, if you can find space as it is very popular. Stunning setting with a bar overlooking the pool, its small and so feels very private.

The Victoria Falls Safari Lodge offers amazing views out over a watering hole and the Boma dinner is also a great addition.

Batonka Guest Lodge and Pioneers both offer good upmarket guesthouse accommodation in the area at a very good price. If you are looking for something out of town then I would suggest either Gorges Lodge which has tremendous views out over the Batoka Gorge or The Zambezi Sands which offers an upmarket tented option on the river.

Overall, Victoria Falls is a great experience for honeymooners or family holidays that bookend a safari in either Zimbabwe, Zambia or Botswana nicely, and adds something different to the start or end of a trip. I have visited both sides numerous times and can honestly say that it’s difficult to pick a favourite as both offer different styles of accommodation, but both have access to almost the same activities. I am heading back there in August 2022 and taking my family to experience Mosi o Tunya!

If you'd like to explore Victoria Falls as part of a safari to Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana or any other African destination - get in touch and let's create the perfect tailor-made safari for you.

Call us on 01768 603 715

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Victoria Falls, Zambia/Zimbabwe

Victoria Falls is a waterfall located on the Zambezi River at the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe in Southern Africa. It is considered one of the largest waterfalls in the world, with a width of 1,708 meters (5,604 feet) and a height of 108 meters (354 feet). The falls were formed over the course of millions of years as the Zambezi River eroded the underlying basalt and created a series of gorges. The falls are known locally as “Mosi-oa-Tunya,” which means “the smoke that thunders,” due to the massive amount of spray and noise created by the falling water. Victoria Falls is a popular tourist destination and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is home to a variety of plant and animal species, including elephants, lions, and baboons, and is surrounded by a national park.

Geology and formation of Victoria Falls

Physical characteristics of victoria falls (size, water volume, etc.), ecology and biodiversity of victoria falls (flora and fauna), human history and culture of the victoria falls area, tourism at victoria falls (attractions, activities, infrastructure).

Victoria Falls is located on the Zambezi River at the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe in southern Africa. The falls are the result of the Zambezi River flowing over a series of basaltic rock formations. The area around the falls is underlain by sedimentary rocks , mainly sandstone and mudstone , which were deposited during the Karoo period about 180 million years ago. These sedimentary rocks are overlain by a layer of basalt that was erupted about 2 million years ago during the Pleistocene epoch.

The basaltic layer is part of the Karoo Lava plateau, which covers a large part of southern Africa. The plateau was formed by a series of massive volcanic eruptions that occurred between 180 million and 2 million years ago. The Zambezi River flows over the basalt layer, eroding it and forming a series of gorges and waterfalls, including Victoria Falls.

The falls themselves are about 1,700 meters wide and up to 108 meters tall, making them one of the largest waterfalls in the world. The water falls into a narrow chasm, creating a cloud of mist and spray that rises high into the air and can be seen from miles away. Over time, the falls have been moving upstream, eroding the basalt and creating a series of gorges and rapids.

Victoria Falls is located on the Zambezi River on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe in southern Africa. The falls are approximately 1,708 meters (5,604 feet) wide and 108 meters (354 feet) high, making them one of the largest waterfalls in the world by width and height. The volume of water that flows over the falls varies depending on the time of year, with the highest flow typically occurring from February to May. At peak flow, an average of 1.7 million liters (450,000 gallons) of water per second can flow over the falls. The spray from the falls can be seen from miles away and creates rainbows in the sunlight.

The Victoria Falls is home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna. The rainforest surrounding the falls is particularly notable for its unique plant and animal life. The rainforest is dependent on the spray from the falls, which sustains a microclimate in the area.

Some of the notable plant species found in the rainforest include the wild date palm, the sausage tree, the monkey bread tree, and the ebony tree. The forest also supports a wide variety of animal species, including primates such as the samango monkey and the vervet monkey, as well as large mammals such as elephants, buffalos, and rhinoceros.

The Zambezi River, which feeds the Victoria Falls, is home to over 70 species of fish, including tigerfish, catfish, and bream. The river also supports a wide variety of bird species, with over 400 species recorded in the area. Some of the notable bird species include the Taita falcon, the African fish eagle, and the trumpeter hornbill.

The Victoria Falls area is rich in human history and culture, with evidence of human habitation dating back thousands of years. The indigenous people of the area, known as the Batoka, have lived in the region for centuries, and their traditional way of life is still evident in the area today.

In the late 1800s, European explorers and missionaries began to arrive in the area, and the Victoria Falls became a popular destination for travelers and adventurers. The Scottish explorer David Livingstone was the first European to see the falls, and he named them after Queen Victoria.

During the colonial period, the area around the falls was part of the British colony of Northern Rhodesia (now Zambia) and Southern Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe), and the falls became an important tourist destination. In the 20th century, the area underwent significant development, with the construction of roads, railways, and other infrastructure to support the growing tourism industry.

Today, the area around Victoria Falls is a popular tourist destination, known for its natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural attractions. Visitors can take guided tours of the falls, go on safaris to see the local wildlife, and learn about the local culture and history through visits to museums and cultural centers.

Victoria Falls is a popular tourist destination with a variety of attractions and activities. Some of the most popular things to do at Victoria Falls include:

• View the falls: Visitors can view the falls from several vantage points, including the Zambian and Zimbabwean sides of the falls. Some of the best viewpoints include the Victoria Falls Bridge, the Devil’s Pool, and the Rainforest.
• White water rafting: The Zambezi River, which feeds Victoria Falls, is a popular spot for white water rafting.
• Bungee jumping: Adventurous visitors can take the plunge off the Victoria Falls Bridge, which connects Zambia and Zimbabwe, and experience a 111-meter freefall.
• Zambezi River cruise: Visitors can take a leisurely cruise down the Zambezi River, which offers scenic views and the opportunity to spot wildlife.
• Helicopter or microlight flights: Visitors can take to the skies to get a bird’s-eye view of the falls and the surrounding landscape.
• Victoria Falls National Park: This park, which is located on the Zimbabwean side of the falls, offers hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities.
• Local culture: Visitors can learn about the culture and history of the local people through visits to museums, craft markets, and cultural villages.

In terms of infrastructure, there are a number of hotels, lodges, and other accommodations in the area to suit a range of budgets. There are also a variety of restaurants, shops, and other amenities to serve visitors.

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Welcome to VICTORIA FALLS

Victoria falls tour, victoria falls zimbabwe & zambia.

One of the greatest attractions in Africa and one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the world, Victoria Falls is located on the Zambezi River, the fourth largest river in Africa, which also defines the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe.

learn about victoria falls

Fact: Victoria Falls is the only waterfall in the world with a length of more than a kilometer and a height of more than hundred meters. It is also considered to be the largest fall in the world.

Fact: The noise of Victoria Falls can be heard from a distance of 40 kilometers, while the spray and mist from the falling water is rising to a height of over 400 meters and can be seen from a distance of 50 kilometers. No wonder that the local tribes used to call the waterfall Mosi-o-Tunya “The smoke that thunders”.

Victoria Falls Discovery

Scottish missionary and famous explorer of Africa David Livingstone (1813-1873) named it after Queen Victoria. Livingstone who was the first European to cross Africa from south to north discovered this awe-inspiring waterfall in 1855, while preaching Christianity in Africa. That is why Livingstone wasn’t very pleased with his discovery: it was just an obstacle on his way.

Despite the inconveniences, he was fascinated by the beauty of the falls. In 1857 Livingstone wrote that no one in England can even imagine the beauty of this scene. Religious Livingstone also wrote that most probably angels are admiring the scenery while flying nearby. He was accompanied by soldiers but only two of them took the risk of approaching the waterfalls with Livingstone. For centuries local African tribes had a sacral fear from the waterfall.

The waterfall was hardly visited by people up until 1905, when a railway to Bulawayo was constructed. Since then Victoria Falls quickly gained popularity until the end of the British colonial rule. At the end of the 1960s the number of tourists started to decrease due to the guerrilla struggle in Zimbabwe. After Zimbabwe gained independence the region has been in relative peace and Victoria Falls started to attract a new wave of tourism.

By the end of 1990 nearly 300,000 people were visiting the falls each year. Victoria Falls is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the citizens of both Zambia and Zimbabwe no longer have fear of the “the smoke that thunders”, and are successfully developing the tourism on both sides of the river.

Victoria Falls drying up

The falls were formed in a zone of crustal faults. On the crest of the fall numerous islands divide the main flow into several branches. During floods, the water flow capacity reaches half a million liters of water per minute.

The water level varies throughout the year; it is at its peak in April, at the end of the rainy season when on average 500,000,000 liters of water flow and it is at its lowest level in October and early November.

Interestingly, during the dry season the water level in the Zambezi River drops sharply, and it becomes possible to walk through some parts of the waterfall. However, during the rest of the year Victoria Falls is a roaring machine that strikes anyone with its power.

Where to Stay | Victoria Falls Hotels

Victoria Falls town in Zimbabwe is one of the most convenient places to start a trip to the waterfall and visit its surroundings and here you can find best accommodation deals for you stay.

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Hundreds rally against plan to establish more national parks in Victoria

Hundreds have gathered in Victoria's West Gippsland region to protest against a proposal to turn several state forests north-east of Melbourne into a national park.  

Under the proposal, large areas of the  Central Highlands state forests could be turned into a protected national parks .

It was put forward by the Victorian Environmental Assessment Council (VEAC), which was engaged by the previous Minister for Environment, Ingrid Stitt.

The Eminent Panel for Community Engagement has been tasked with leading community consultation about Victoria’s state forests, and this VEAC proposal will inform their recommendations which are expected to be handed to the government in June.

This plan is similar to the Great Forest National Park, a separate proposal to link more than 500,000 hectares of Victorian forest in the same area, put forward by the Victorian National Parks Association.

Those who attended the rally in Drouin on Sunday protested both proposals, and raised concerns they would be "locked out" of these areas if they went ahead.

They said access to activities like bushwalking, four-wheel driving, hunting, fishing and camping could also be restricted. 

Chris Wilson, who travelled more than 230 kilometres from Mansfield to attend, said he was worried about restricted access.

"The elites in inner city Melbourne are trying to shut down all of our recreational areas as far as I can see," Mr Wilson said.

"And stop our grandkids and our kids from enjoying what we grew up with and what we enjoyed when we were younger." 

Government says 'no decision has been made'

The proposal follows the  closure of the logging industry  and consultation into how that land should be used.  

Opposition Leader John Pesutto attended the rally along with several other MPs. 

"I'm calling on the premier to listen to todays response and the voices from regional Victoria today and make it clear that they will not be adopting the recommendation from their own agency," Mr Pesutto said. 

"No one's going to accept the Allan Labor Government locking them out."

Member for Narracan, Wayne Farnham, said the proposal would effect about 98 per cent of his electorate. 

He said if access was taken away the local visitor economy would take a hit.

"I'll lose businesses. Our economy will suffer," Mr Farnham said. 

"We want the government to stop. We want them to leave state forests how they are." 

Shooters, Fishers and Farmers MP Jeff Bourman echoed those concerns and said it would pose a risk to the environment. 

"We've got people in there now caring for the bush by getting out the invasive species, and the introduced species, and the game animals," he said.

"If you take them away it's actually going to be a problem for the environment, not a fix."

Victoria's Minister for Environment Steve Dimopoulos said the Victorian Environmental Assessment Council (VEAC) report was only "one part of the process".

"No decision on the future use of state forests in the Central Highlands has been made," he said.

"Conversations from the recent community engagement sessions and interest groups will also form part of the Eminent Panel's recommendation to the government, which is expected in June."

Victorian Greens leader Ellen Sandell said the Great Forest National Park proposal — which is separate but similar to the VEAC proposal — would open up opportunities for Victorians.

"These are forests where people have been locked out of them because they've been turned over to loggers to make big profits for big corporations and Victorians haven't been able to enjoy them.

"If we actually turn them into a park or a reserve, Victorians could do any number of things in these forests... they can camp, they can ride, they can walk, they can enjoy nature, they can take their kids and grandkids into nature to enjoy it."

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Money blog: Avocados 'laser-tattooed' in supermarket trial; Netflix users warned of scam

Lasers are being used to "tattoo" barcodes onto extra large avocados to replace stickers at Tesco. Read this and the rest of today's consumer and personal finance news below, and leave your thoughts in the comments box.

Friday 31 May 2024 21:00, UK

• First-time buyers urged to consider building societies over banks
• Netflix users warned of scam
• Avocados 'laser-tattooed' in supermarket trial
• Drivers unaware as Low Emission Zone fines go live in Scotland

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An investigation has been launched into whether the biggest banking merger since the financial crisis could harm competition.

The Competition and Markets Authority announced the inquiry into Nationwide's £2.9bn takeover of rival Virgin Money this morning.

The move would bring together the fifth and sixth largest retail lenders, creating a combined group with around 24.5 million customers and nearly 700 branches.

It would spell the end of the Virgin Money brand, with Nationwide planning to rebrand the business within six years.

The CMA has invited interested parties to give their views on the deal, as it considers whether it could "result in a substantial lessening of competition" in the market.

Nationwide struck the takeover agreement in March, and last week a clear majority of 89% of Virgin Money shareholders voted in favour, helping to clear the path to complete.

The government has sold £1.24bn of its shares in NatWest, accelerating the process of private ownership.

The Treasury's shareholding in the high street bank has fallen by approximately 3.5 percentage points to 22.5%.

NatWest, formerly Royal Bank of Scotland, received multibillion-pound bailouts during the 2008 financial crisis, leaving the government with an 84% stake.

The government has been selling down its stake in the lender, with Chancellor Jeremy Hunt planning to sell all of its interest in the bank by 2025 or 2026 should the Conservatives be re-elected.

There was supposed to be a public share sale this summer, allowing individuals, not just institutional investors, to purchase stock, but the plans have been shelved due to the election.

In recent years, the sell-off has become more rapid. In 2018, the government owned 62% of the group, but by December of last year that was down to just under 38%.

In March, that fell below 30%, meaning the government was no longer classed as a controlling shareholder in the lender.

Earlier this year, NatWest wrote to shareholders asking them to support an increase in the amount of stock the bank could buy back from the government in a year, from just under 5% to 15%.

The establishment of Great British Energy is among the last remnants of the "green prosperity plan" devised and championed by Ed Miliband, the shadow secretary of state for energy security and net zero, three years ago.

The former Labour leader's vision was to spend £28bn per year in the first five years of an incoming Labour government on decarbonising the UK economy.

However, as the current leader Sir Keir Starmer recognised, the issue was swiftly weaponised by the Conservatives because all the money - as Mr Miliband himself had made clear - would have been borrowed.

More importantly, the plan did not survive contact with Rachel Reeves, the shadow chancellor, who has made fiscal responsibility her priority.

The £28bn-a-year spending pledge was watered down in February this year to one of £23.7bn over the life of the next parliament.

A sizeable chunk of that will be on Great British Energy, described by Mr Miliband as "a new publicly owned clean power company", which Labour has said will be initially capitalised at £8.3bn.

And, instead of the money being borrowed, Labour is now saying "it will be funded by asking the big oil and gas companies to pay their fair share through a proper windfall tax".

Read on  here... 

Edinburgh, Aberdeen and Dundee are joining Glasgow as cities with Low Emission Zones where motorists could face fines up to £480 if they don't comply.

The zones were introduced two years ago, but drivers were given a grace period before charges began.

In Dundee, the grace period ended today - in Edinburgh and Aberdeen it's tomorrow.

A non-compliant vehicle entering the zone can be charged £60, which doubles with each subsequent breach up to a maximum of £480.

If paid within 14 days, the initial fine will be halved to £30.

Despite the warning, only 55% of drivers in Scotland are confident they know where the zones are in operation, according to online marketplace Carwow.

Some 30% of Scottish motorists are not sure if they understand the rules and 24% are not sure if their vehicle is compliant.

"We therefore need to tackle the lack of understanding among motorists about Low Emission Zones in Scotland – where they are and which cars are compliant - because, without better knowledge, millions of drivers are at risk of being fined," said Sally Foote, chief commercial officer at Carwow.

The Low Emission Zones aim to discourage high-polluting vehicles from entering certain areas, just like those in English cities like Sheffield and Bristol.

Unlike English Clean Air Zones, Scottish LEZs apply to all types of vehicles except motorbikes and mopeds.

Non-compliant vehicles are not allowed into those zones whatsoever, unlike English LEZs, which apply a daily charge.

Ultra-low emission vehicles are automatically compliant, but others must conform to certain Euro emission ratings, which can be found in your V5C logbook - or you can check online.

Cars, vans, minibuses, taxis and private hire vehicles with a petrol engine must have at least a Euro 4 rating, while those with diesel engines should have a Euro 6.

Grants are available to people living within 20km of a LEZ who have no other choice but to sell or adapt their vehicles.

Hackers say they have stolen confidential information from all Santander staff and millions of customers, reports the BBC.

A gang going by the name of ShinyHunters posted an advert on a hacking forum claiming to be selling 30 million people's bank account details, six million account numbers and balances, 28 million credit card numbers and HR information for staff.

Earlier this month, the bank said data was accessed belonging to customers in Chile, Spain and Uruguay and all current Santander employees, but nothing that would allow transactions to take place.

As of March, Sandander as a whole employed more than 211,000 people and as of 30 June 2021, 20,900 employees worked for Santander UK.

Santander has declined to comment on the claims beyond a statement released on 14 May.

It read: "Certain information relating to customers of Santander Chile, Spain and Uruguay, as well as all current and some former Santander employees of the group had been accessed.

"No transactional data, nor any credentials that would allow transactions to take place on accounts are contained in the database, including online banking details and passwords. The bank's operations and systems are not affected, so customers can continue to transact securely.

"We apologise for the concern this will understandably cause and are proactively contacting affected customers and employees directly."

ShinyHunters have previously sold data stolen from AT&T and claim to be selling private data hacked from Ticketmaster, the BBC reported.

Lasers are being used to "tattoo" barcodes onto extra large avocados to replace stickers at a UK supermarket.

High-powered beams will draw the Tesco logo by removing a tiny section of the top layer of the skin in a trial designed to be environmentally friendly. 

The etching, directed by a computer program, takes a third of a second to mark an avocado, 70 million of which Tesco sells a year.

Customers at approximately 270 Tesco stores in southeast England will see the new avocados and – if feedback is positive – they will be rolled out across all stores.

Tesco said it could save nearly a million plastic stickers on its loose extra-large avocados, based on current sales information.

"We're really excited to hear customer feedback on our new laser-etched avocados, avoiding the need for a barcode sticker that can easily be forgotten and left on when recycling through household food waste," said Tesco avocado buyer Lisa Gilbey.

The trial also includes replacing the plastic tray packaging for two of its most popular avocado lines and moving to a cardboard container that is easier to recycle.

Westfalia Fruit, which supplies avocados to Tesco, said this could save more than 20 million pieces of plastic tray packaging from the twin-pack avocado alone, increasing up to 25 million pieces across the pre-packed range.

The laser-etched avocados will be in all stores taking part in the trial this weekend.

Income growth over the last 15 years has been the "worst in generations", according to a report.

Pay packets would be 24% higher for the average Briton if incomes had risen at the same rate since 2009-10 as they did prior, the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) found.

Real average earnings this year are expected to be 4% higher than in 2019–20, but disposable incomes will be broadly unchanged due to higher mortgage payments, tax rises and falling employment, the IFS said.

"Although there has been a widespread slowdown in growth internationally since the financial crisis, the UK has fallen from being one of the fastest growers prior to the Great Recession, to one of the weakest performers," said Tom Waters, an author of the report and an associate director at IFS.

UK income growth lagged behind comparable nations between 2007 and 2019, coming 10th out of 14 countries analysed by the IFS.

At 6% growth, the UK was performing half as well as the US, and well below the 30% that could be expected in a similar time period pre-recession.

Germany outstripped the UK by some margin at 16% growth, while only France, Spain and Greece recorded a lower rate.

Between 2019 and 2023, UK incomes fell by 0.5%, the third worst growth among 12 countries for which there was available data.

"Living standards have languished for more than a decade," said Mubin Haq, chief executive of the abrdn Financial Fairness Trust.

"On a range of measures, UK performance has been weak, especially in comparison to other wealthy countries. The danger is that stagnation becomes the new normal. 

"This is in no one's interests and stunts too many futures and too many lives."

Netflix subscribers are being urged to be wary of suspicious emails or texts claiming to be from the streaming giant.

Customers have reported being contacted by scammers claiming to be Netflix, asking for payments or stating there are problems with their account. 

Under no circumstances should links be clicked on in any suspicious-looking messages, consumers have been warned. 

Recent figures cited by Birmingham Live showed victims of scams lost £1,730 on average, with around half saying they were left feeling angry with themselves or "stupid".

Netflix issued a message to millions of its customers: "If you get an email or text message (SMS) asking for your Netflix account email, phone, password, or payment method it probably didn't come from Netflix.

"We'll never ask for payment through a third party vendor or website. 

"If the text or email links to a URL that you don't recognise, don't tap or click it. If you did already, do not enter any information on the website that opened.

"Scammers can't get information from you unless you give it to them. So don't click any links in the messages or reply to them."

By Daniel Binns, business reporter

JD Sports is one of the big losers on the stock market this morning after its shares plunged more than 12% in early UK trading.

It comes after the sportswear retailer released its results for the year to January on Friday - and revealed it had suffered an 8% drop in pre-tax profits.

Revenues also dropped by 8.3% to £3.51bn over the 12 months - but its organic sales grew by 9%.

Despite the figures, the chain's chief executive Regis Schultz hailed the company's "strong" performance in what he described as a "challenging market".

In other markets news, the government has sold £1.24bn of its shares in NatWest.

The Treasury's stake in the high street staple has fallen by around 3.5 percentage points to 22.5% as a result of the move.

The bank received several multibillion-pound bailouts during the 2008/09 financial crisis and is being gradually returned to private ownership.

However, a public share sale planned for this summer has been postponed because of the upcoming general election - as Sky News revealed last week.

Overall, there's little change on the FTSE 100 this Friday morning.

It's down 0.3% as investors await inflation news in the US and Europe which could impact on potential interest rate cuts.

On the currency markets, £1 buys $1.27 US or €1.17 - similar to yesterday's rates.

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