The mighty Victoria Falls is the stuff of legends, both as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World and as the subject of mythology in which an angry river god turns the waters red and snatches men in canoes who get too close to his rock. Known to locals as Mosi-oa-Tunya, or ‘the smoke that thunders’, this popular African destination will take your breath away. Here’s everything you need to know when you visit.
Zimbabwean side vs Zambian side
You can choose to stay on either side, but here are a few things to note:
Zimbabwe
- Water flows all year round
- Has the lion’s share of vantage points for epic views
- Most hotels on this side are in walking distance of the Falls
- Home to Victoria Falls Town with its markets of iconic soap sculptures
Zambia
- Swim in the Devil’s Pool during low water season
- Explore Livingstone Island when water levels allow
- Home to the town of Livingstone with the Livingstone Museum
- Close-up waterfall viewing, although water does not flow all year round
Whichever side you stay on, you will have access to beautiful accommodation options, a variety of activities and of course, views of the iconic Falls.
Water levels and best times to travel
High water levels: During the rainy season between February and July. This is when you’ll see the full force of the Falls as the Zambezi River bursts at the seems. The downside is that no water-based activities are available as conditions are too dangerous. Considering that more than 17 million cubic feet of water fall over the edge every minute, prepare to get wet during these months!
Low water levels: During the dry season between August and January. Temperatures soar at this time of year but the lower water levels allow for water-based activities such as white water rafting and swimming in the Devil’s Pool (please note this is on the Zambian side and requires a border crossing if you’re staying on the Zim side). You can also head to the Boiling Pot from the Zambian side during this time to check out the massive whirlpool at the base of the Falls.
Peak safari season: June to October, with the “sweet spot” being July and August. It’s during this time when the water levels are neither too high nor too low, and coupled with the milder temperatures, makes for the most suitable time to visit. It’s naturally the best time to combine your visit with a safari, our Vic Falls, Chobe & The Delta tour being especially popular. This is the most popular time to visit so bookings need to be made well in advance.
Day trips from one country to the other across the Victoria Falls Bridge are easily doable, you’ll just need a multiple-entry visa that will allow you to go back and forth. Our travel consultants can talk you through everything and plan all the details for you.
Trading is done in US Dollars
Travellers are often surprised to find out that trading is done mainly in US Dollars. When we send you a quote, the rates will be in Dollars.
Safety concerns
There is no reason to worry about safety and we can confidently say that you’ll enjoy a safe and pleasurable stay during your time there. You’ll be met right off the plane by helpful representatives who will take the lead with regards to clearing customs, hotel transfers and anything else you may need assistance with. Our trusted providers on that side realise the importance of tourism and have put many structures in place to ensure your utmost safety.
Getting there
Obviously this depends on your point of departure but most likely you’ll have to connect via Cape Town or Johannesburg. Specifically with the providers we work with, there are two flights a day that depart from Johannesburg and a flight a day (except Saturdays) departing from Cape Town. When it comes to designing your itinerary, we will always suggest the most time-effective route for you that will take into account where you’ll be travelling in from and where you’ll be ending up.
And then for something extra special…
Flying isn’t the only way to reach Victoria Falls. If you’re looking for something unique, you can always take the Rovos Rail journey that takes you on a three-night journey from Johannesburg, through Botswana and on to the Hwange National Park, before finishing at the Falls. This is a total splurge but an experience that will be unlike any other you’ve had before.
We’d love to help you be able to tick this incredible destination off of your bucket list We can tailor-make your dream itinerary so get in touch and we can get the ball rolling.
