The Ultimate Guide to Victoria Falls: What to See & Do

victoria falls

Getting to Victoria Falls

By Air

Victoria Falls is easily accessible via two main airports:

  • Victoria Falls Airport (Zimbabwe)

  • Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport (Livingstone, Zambia)

Both airports offer regular flights from regional hubs such as Johannesburg, Nairobi, Cape Town, and Addis Ababa. The falls are just 10–15 minutes by car from either airport.


Crossing the Border: Zimbabwe & Zambia

Visitors often explore both sides of the falls. The Victoria Falls Bridge connects Zimbabwe and Zambia, and day trips are simple with proper documentation. The KAZA UniVisa allows for multiple entries between the two countries, making it ideal for travelers wanting the full Victoria Falls experience.

 

Best Time to Visit Victoria Falls

High Water Season (February – July)

  • The falls are at their most powerful.

  • Expect dramatic spray and limited visibility at some viewpoints.

  • Best for photographers and scenic viewing.

Low Water Season (August – January)

  • Water levels drop, revealing the falls’ underlying geology.

  • Ideal for adventure activities like Devil’s Pool swimming.

  • Better visibility and more intimate experiences.

 

Top Attractions at Victoria Falls

Must-See Viewpoints

  • Main Falls Viewpoint (Zimbabwe): Best panoramic views, especially at sunrise and sunset.

  • Rainbow Falls (Zambia): Close-up views of the Eastern Cataract and the Boiling Pot.

  • Knife Edge Bridge (Zambia): A thrilling viewpoint with incredible photography angles.

 

Top Adventure Activities at Victoria Falls

Whether you’re looking for extreme thrills or scenic flights, Victoria Falls has it all:

High-Adrenaline Experiences

  • Bungee Jumping: 111m drop from the Victoria Falls Bridge.

  • Gorge Swing & Zip-lining: Fly over the Zambezi Gorge.

  • White Water Rafting: Navigate world-class Grade 5 rapids.

  • Devil’s Pool (Zambia): Swim right at the edge of the falls (dry season only).

  • Microlight Flights & Helicopter Tours: Aerial views of the falls and surrounding landscapes.

Water-Based Activities

  • Jet Boating

  • Canoeing and Kayaking on the Upper Zambezi

  • Sunset Cruises with Wildlife Viewing

Land-Based Adventures

  • Quad Biking & Horseback Safaris

  • Abseiling & Bridge Walking

  • Fishing (including tigerfish) and Bush Dinners

 

Cultural Experiences Around Victoria Falls

Immerse yourself in the region’s rich heritage with:

  • Local Village Tours – Meet the Tonga and Lozi communities.

  • Traditional Music, Dance & Drumming Performances

  • Cooking Classes & Storytelling by Elders

  • Craft Markets & Art Workshops

  • Historic Walking Tours & Archaeological Site Visits

  • School and Community Project Visits

 

Wildlife Encounters Near Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls is not just about the waterfall—it’s also a gateway to top wildlife viewing:

Parks and Safaris

  • Zambezi National Park (Zimbabwe): Elephants, buffalo, and over 400 bird species.

  • Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park (Zambia): Home to white rhinos and ideal for short game drives.

  • Walking Safaris & Night Drives: For up-close encounters with flora and fauna.

  • Photography Hides, River Islands, and Bird Watching Tours

 

Accommodation Options

There’s something for every budget on both sides of the border:

Luxury Lodges & Resorts

  • Royal Livingstone, Victoria Falls Hotel, Toka Leya Camp, Tongabezi Lodge

Mid-Range Hotels

  • Avani Victoria Falls Resort, Ilala Lodge, Elephant Hills, Protea Hotel Livingstone

Budget-Friendly Stays

  • Jollyboys Backpackers, Shearwater Explorers Village, Fawlty Towers, Livingstone Backpackers

Many accommodations offer free shuttles to the falls and other major attractions.

 

Practical Travel Tips

Before You Go

  • Visas: KAZA UniVisa recommended for dual-country access.

  • Health: Malaria prophylaxis and travel insurance (adventure coverage advised).

  • Booking: Reserve high-demand adventure activities in advance.

What to Pack

  • Waterproof clothing for spray zones

  • Warm layers for early mornings and evenings

  • Sun protection and sturdy walking shoes

Money & Payments

  • USD widely accepted; carry small denominations.

  • Credit cards are accepted at most lodges and restaurants.

  • Tipping standard: 10–15% for guides and staff.

Health & Safety

  • Drink bottled or filtered water only.

  • Listen to activity safety briefings.

  • Use insect repellent regularly.

Communication & Connectivity

  • Mobile networks are strong in town.

  • Wi-Fi can be spotty in remote lodges.

  • Learn basic greetings like “Makadini” (when in Zimbabwe) and “Muli bwanji” (when in Zambia) to connect with locals.

 

Final Thoughts

Victoria Falls is more than just a destination—it’s an experience. Whether you’re drawn by the roar of the water, the thrill of the gorge, or the warmth of local culture, this natural wonder delivers memories that last a lifetime.

Plan to stay at least 3 days, but don’t be surprised if you’re tempted to extend your trip. After all, adventure, beauty, and heritage come together here in a way few places on Earth can match.