The Victoria Falls Experience

Overview

Victoria Falls lies on the Zambezi River, on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. Local people call it Mosi-oa-Tunya, "The Smoke That Thunders". It is among the largest waterfalls on earth: about 1,708 metres across, with the river plunging into the dramatic Batoka Gorge beneath. UNESCO describes it as one of the most spectacular natural sites in the world, and its spray is visible from many kilometres away.

There is far more here than a photograph. A visit takes in tremendous scenery, adventure activities, time on the river, wildlife, culture and views you will not forget.

Many travellers count it among the high points of a safari in Southern Africa.

Why these falls are so special...

Victoria Falls is beautiful, but what strikes you first is its force. The Zambezi spreads across a broad lip of basalt and then drops, all at once, into a deep gorge. What you get is a vast sheet of falling water, clouds of mist, a constant roar and rainbows in the spray. The local name, Mosi-oa-Tunya, says it exactly. You are likely to hear the thunder and see the mist climbing into the sky well before the falls themselves come into view.

The rainforest around the falls adds to the effect. Kept wet by the never-ending spray, it is thick and green and full of plants, birds and small animals, a striking contrast of water, rock, forest and sky.

Top Things to Do at Victoria Falls

Walk the Victoria Falls rainforest trails.

This is how most people first meet the falls. The paths lead to a series of viewpoints, each showing the water from a new angle. According to the season you may walk through fine mist or a drenching spray, see brilliant rainbows or look clear down into the gorge. Bring a raincoat or poncho, above all in the high-water months.

Take a Sunset Cruise on the Zambezi River

Few things here are as restful as a sunset cruise on the Zambezi. The boat drifts while the sun sinks, and you may see hippos, crocodiles, birds and now and then elephants on the banks. It is peaceful and lovely, and a complete change from the fury of the falls.

Enjoy a Scenic Helicopter Flight

The well-known “Flight of Angels” shows you Victoria Falls, the Zambezi, the gorge and the country around them from the air. Zimbabwe Tourism counts it among the popular activities at the falls. Only from above do you grasp how big the falls are and what shape they take; from the ground it is hard to tell.

Visit Livingstone or Victoria Falls Town

A visit can also include local culture, markets, craft shopping, museums, restaurants and time with communities. Livingstone in Zambia and Victoria Falls town in Zimbabwe are both easy-going places to stay, close to the falls and to everything around them.

Add a Safari Experience

The falls fit well with safari areas nearby. You can add game drives or river safaris, or travel on to Chobe National Park in Botswana, Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe or other routes in Southern Africa. For travellers who want wildlife as well as one of the great natural wonders of Africa, it is an ideal addition.

Best time to visit Victoria Falls

You can visit Victoria Falls in any month, though what you find varies with the season.

Roughly February to May, after the summer rains, the falls are normally at full strength. The volume of water is high, the spray is spectacular and the whole place feels overwhelming. Travel specialists often name these months among the best for seeing the falls at their fullest.

Roughly June to August, the water starts to drop, yet the views remain impressive and the weather is usually pleasant for travelling.

Roughly September to November, the level is lower. You may see further into the gorge and have better visibility for some activities, although some sections, particularly on the Zambian side, can carry less water in certain years.

Roughly December to January, the rains return and the falls slowly gather strength again.

No time of year is a "bad" one. Decide what matters most to you: mighty spray, clear views, adventure activities, photography or a safari alongside.