You simply cannot claim to have truly lived until you have stood before the roaring magnificence of Victoria Falls.
As one of the seven natural wonders of the world and the largest waterfall on the planet, Victoria Falls will stir your soul with its thunderous power and beauty
Located on the Zambezi River at the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe in southern Africa, Victoria Falls spans an astonishing 1.7km wide and 108m high, its misty spray visible from 30km away.
When explorer David Livingstone first set eyes on
Victoria Falls in 1855, he proclaimed it "the most wonderful sight I have witnessed in Africa.
Now over 160 years later, its grandeur remains unparalleled. The enormous volume of water that crashes into the gorge below, the rainbows arcing through the mist, the sense of being in the presence of a primal force of nature - Victoria Falls will ignite your spirit of adventure and inspire a profound sense of wonder that you will carry with you for life. This is a sight that simply must be experienced to be understood. Make the journey of a lifetime and see Victoria Falls with your own eyes.
The Mighty Victoria Falls
As one of the greatest natural wonders of the world, Victoria Falls should be at the top of your bucket list. Located on the Zambezi River bordering Zambia and Zimbabwe, the massive curtain of water spans an impressive 5,604 feet wide and 354 feet high.
Standing at the edge of the falls, you'll feel the power and fury of one of the largest volumes of falling water on the planet. Over 500 million litres cascade over the edge every minute during the peak rainy season, creating a thunderous roar and magnificent plumes of spray that can be seen from miles away.
The best views are from the many viewpoints along the hiking trails and footpaths on both sides of the falls. For the most dramatic vistas, head to the Knife Edge Bridge or Devil's Cataract.
Take a guided tour to learn about the history, geology and wildlife. Or enjoy a range of adventure activities like white water rafting, bungee jumping, gorge swinging or zip lining.
The peak season for viewing the falls is April to June when the water levels are at their highest. But the dry season also offers benefits, like being able to see the jagged rock face and experience the raw power of the falls up close.
A true natural spectacle, Victoria Falls should be experienced in person at least once. Make plans to visit this magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Site and witness one of the greatest waterfalls on the planet in all its thundering glory. You'll be rewarded with memories to last a lifetime.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Victoria Falls deserves a spot at the top of your bucket list. Spanning 1,708 metres wide and 108 metres high, it is one of the world's largest waterfalls.
Located on the Zambezi River at the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe, Victoria Falls is a spectacular sight. The immense volume of water that flows over the basalt cliff face during the wet season creates a thunderous roar and towering mist that can be seen from miles away.
The best time to view the falls is from April to June when the rains swell the Zambezi and the falls reach their peak flow. At their fullest, an astonishing 550,000 cubic metres of water plunge over the edge every minute.
The falls are equally impressive during the dry season from October to February. While the flow is reduced, more of the rocky face is exposed, creating dramatic cliffs and gorges that showcase the geological wonder of the area.
Several vantage points provide panoramic views of this natural wonder. A network of walking trails along the cliff edge allows you to see the falls from different angles and spot rainbows in the clouds of mist. For the adventurous, activities like bungee jumping, gorge swinging, zip lining and whitewater rafting will get your adrenaline pumping.
No trip to Victoria Falls is complete without witnessing the spectacle of the falls in all their glory. The power and beauty of this iconic landmark deserve to be experienced firsthand. Add Victoria Falls to your list - you certainly won't regret it.
The Best Time to Visit Victoria Falls
The dry season from May to October is the optimal time to visit Victoria Falls to experience it in all its thundering glory. During the rainy season, much of the falls' spray is obscured by rain and mist. In the dry months, the volume of water flowing over the falls decreases, unveiling the rocky cliffs and allowing spectacular views of the gorges.
Peak Water Flow
The falls reach their peak water flow and most powerful in April and May after the rainy season. Over 500 million litres of water plummet over the edge every minute during peak flow, creating a deafening roar and immense clouds of mist and spray that can be seen from miles away. Witnessing the falls at maximum volume is a once-in-a-lifetime experience but does come with challenges, as the heavy mist can make visibility and photography difficult.
Stunning Vistas
From the mid-dry season onward through October, the water levels start to recede, incrementally revealing the dramatic cliffs and gorges surrounding the falls. The lessened mist and spray provide opportunities for photos with rainbows and panoramic views that weren’t possible earlier in the year. The falls may have a slightly diminished flow, but they remain an awesome sight and the ideal time for hiking the trails along the cliff's edge.
Comfortable Climate
The dry winter months also offer a pleasant climate with little chance of rain, low humidity, and warm days with average highs of 77 F. The conditions are ideal for the many activities on offer like guided tours, boat cruises, bungee jumping or helicopter rides over the falls.
Whether witnessing the Victoria Falls at its most powerful or experiencing the splendour of the falls and surrounding area under clear blue skies, visiting during the dry season is a memorable trip of a lifetime. Any time between May and October is an excellent time to visit Victoria Falls for ideal views combined with a comfortable climate and range of activities.
Victoria Falls Activities: What to Do There?
When visiting Victoria Falls, there are many exciting activities for you to experience. The thundering falls and surrounding area offer opportunities for adventure and exploration.
View the Falls
No trip to Victoria Falls is complete without seeing the falls themselves. Walk across the Victoria Falls Bridge to get a panoramic view of the Zambezi River plunging over 350 feet into the gorge below. For a closer look, follow the pathways along the cliffs to see the falls from multiple angles. The clouds of mist rising up from the falls are visible for miles and give Victoria Falls the nickname "the smoke that thunders."
Take a Sunset Cruise
A sunset cruise on the Zambezi River is a peaceful way to view wildlife and watch the sky transform at dusk. Glide along in a small boat just before sunset to spot hippos, elephants, and birds along the riverbank. As the sun sinks low in the sky, vibrant oranges and pinks illuminate the clouds and reflect off the water. Hear the sounds of the bush come alive with nocturnal animals awakening for the night. A sunset river cruise is a magical experience you'll cherish forever.
Go Whitewater Rafting
For thrill-seekers, whitewater rafting on the Zambezi River should not be missed. The rapids below Victoria Falls range from class I to class V, suitable for rafters of all skill levels. Navigate through rough waters and feel the power of the falls as you plunge through churning rapids with names like "Oblivion" and "Gnashing Jaws of Death". Rafting the Zambezi is considered one of the top ten whitewater rafting trips in the world due to the stunning scenery and heart-pounding excitement.
Take a Helicopter Ride
One of the best ways to fully comprehend the immense size and beauty of Victoria Falls is from the air. Helicopter tours depart from multiple locations and soar over the falls, giving you a bird's eye view of the Zambezi River as it cascades into the abyss. Choose between quick overflights lasting 10 to 15 minutes or extended tours that follow the river and land in remote locations for a picnic. A helicopter flight over Victoria Falls is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that provides a perspective like no other.
Where to Stay Near Victoria Falls?
When planning your trip to Victoria Falls, one of the most important things to consider is where you will stay during your visit. The falls straddle the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, with accommodation options on both sides.
On the Zambian Side
If you opt to stay in Zambia, the town of Livingstone is located just 6 km from the falls and offers a range of lodging choices. The luxurious Royal Livingstone Hotel is situated on the banks of the Zambezi River with unparalleled views. More affordable options in town include the Victoria Falls Waterfront and the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge. Camping is also available in several locations for budget travellers.
On the Zimbabwean Side
Across the border, the town of Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe is home to the Victoria Falls Hotel, a historic property opened in 1904. This colonial-style hotel provides old world charm just a short walk from the falls. More modern hotels like the Kingdom Hotel Victoria Falls and Victoria Falls Rainbow Hotel are also located in town. Elephant Camp and Victoria Falls Safari Lodge offer luxury tented accommodations in natural bush settings just outside of town.
In the National Parks
For a unique experience, consider staying within Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park in Zambia or Victoria Falls National Park in Zimbabwe. Both parks offer walking safaris where you can view wildlife like elephants, buffalo, and antelope. Accommodation includes rustic bush camps and lodges like Toka Leya Camp, and upscale options like the Victoria Falls Safari Club and Victoria Falls Safari Suites.
Where you choose to stay will depend on your budget and interests. Regardless of which side of the falls or type of lodging you opt for, you will be only a short distance from one of the greatest natural wonders of the world. A visit to Victoria Falls is a once in a lifetime experience, so take the time to explore all it has to offer at your own pace.
How to Get to Victoria Falls?
By Air
The easiest way to reach Victoria Falls is by air. The Victoria Falls International Airport is located just 20 minutes from the falls and receives daily commercial flights from major African cities like Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Nairobi. Major airlines that service the Victoria Falls route include:
Flight times are typically 3 to 5 hours depending on your departure city. The airport is small but modern, with basic services like currency exchange, restaurants, and ground transportation options to take you into town.
By Rail
For a memorable journey, consider travelling to Victoria Falls by rail. The luxurious Rovos Rail and Shongololo Express both offer rail tours from South Africa to Victoria Falls with stops along the way at interesting destinations. The trains feature comfortable private cabins, fine dining, lounges, and observation cars. While a bit pricey, a rail tour is a wonderful way to see the diverse scenery of southern Africa in style.
By Road
Driving to Victoria Falls is challenging but rewarding. The primary routes are from Livingstone in Zambia (80 km/50 mi) and Bulawayo in Zimbabwe (623 km/930 mi). Roads are mainly well-paved highways but border crossings can take time. Having your own vehicle allows maximum flexibility to stop wherever you like. However, it does require confidence driving on the left side of the road, navigating police roadblocks, and sharing the road with pedestrians, wildlife, and livestock. For most visitors, guided bus tours or shuttle services with experienced drivers are a more relaxing option.
No matter how you choose to get there, the journey to Victoria Falls will be an unforgettable part of your adventure. The varied landscapes, colourful cultures, and wildlife sightings along the way build anticipation for the thundering falls that await you in this corner of paradise. By road, rail or air, get ready for a trip of a lifetime.
Crossing Between Zambia and Zimbabwe
Border Crossing Logistics
To travel between Zambia and Zimbabwe at Victoria Falls, you will cross the Zambezi River border crossing. As a foreign tourist, you will need to go through immigration and customs at both border posts. The border crossings are open daily from 6 AM to 6 PM. It is recommended to cross earlier in the day to avoid long queues, especially during the high season from May to October.
Entry Requirements
Make sure you have the necessary documentation for entering either Zambia or Zimbabwe, depending on which country you are travelling from. For most nationalities, a valid passport and either a Zambian or Zimbabwean visa are required for entry. Visas can be obtained in advance or at the border, though border visas often have higher fees. You will go through border control points in both countries, so have your documents ready to present to the immigration officers.
Transport Options
The border crossing point is located within easy walking distance between the towns of Livingstone, Zambia and Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. If you have luggage or prefer not to walk, taxis and shuttle services are available to transport you across the border. Ride-sharing with fellow travellers or booking a taxi/shuttle in advance are good ways to save on fares. Some hotels and tour operators also provide complimentary or paid shuttle service across the border for guests.
Currency Exchange
Zambia’s currency is the Zambian Kwacha and Zimbabwe’s currency is the Zimbabwean Dollar. Most places on the Zambian side accept Zambian Kwacha, U.S. Dollars, and credit cards. In Zimbabwe, U.S. Dollars and credit cards are widely accepted, though smaller bills will be needed for smaller purchases. There are currency exchange bureaus on both sides of the border where you can exchange for the local currency if needed. However, the exchange rates are usually better outside of the border area.
In summary, allow ample time to cross the border, have the necessary documentation ready, arrange transport if walking is difficult, and exchange currency only as needed. By following these guidelines, your crossing between Zambia and Zimbabwe at the iconic Victoria Falls should be as seamless as the flowing waters of the Zambezi River.
Wildlife in Victoria Falls National Park
The Victoria Falls National Park is teeming with wildlife, from large mammals to colourful birds. As one of the largest waterfalls in the world, the park's lush rainforest and grassland provide diverse habitats for many animals.
Large Mammals
The park is home to numerous large mammals, including elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, and several antelope species like kudu and impala. You may spot hippos in the Zambezi river or catch a glimpse of the elusive leopard in the forest. Lion prides can also be seen lounging in the shade or on patrol. While spotting the "Big Five" mammals - lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and buffalo - may be a highlight for many visitors, appreciate any wildlife you encounter in their natural surroundings.
Birds
Over 400 bird species inhabit the park, from vibrant sunbirds to massive fish eagles. Watch colourful lilac-breasted rollers swoop by or hear the haunting call of the African fish eagle. Gorgeous but shy Narina's trogon hide in the dense forest. Various kingfishers, bee-eaters, starlings, and weavers can be spotted near the water. Bring binoculars to help spot these feathered beauties high up in the canopy or across the river.
Other Animals
Smaller animals also abound like mongooses, monkeys, various antelope, and reptiles such as crocodiles and lizards. The park's diverse landscape provides shelter and sustenance for all creatures great and small. As the dry and rainy seasons change, so do opportunities to view different wildlife and witness their natural behaviours.
The abundance of wildlife in Victoria Falls National Park highlights the importance of habitat conservation. When visiting the falls and surrounding area, do your part to respect park rules, keep your distance from animals, and leave no trace. Doing so will help ensure future generations can also experience the magnificence of this natural wonderland.
Victoria Falls FAQs: Everything You Need to Know?
When is the best time to visit Victoria Falls?
The dry season from April to October is the optimal time to visit Victoria Falls. During these winter months, the water levels decrease substantially, exposing more of the rocky face of the falls and resulting in impressive columns of spray. You'll have a better chance of seeing rainbows and the 'moonbow' at night. The falls will still be mighty and thunderous, but you can get much closer to the edge and staying drier will be easier.
How do I get to Victoria Falls?
The town of Victoria Falls is located on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe, in southern Africa. The most common ways to reach the falls are:
Fly into Livingstone Airport (LVI) in Zambia or Victoria Falls Airport (VFA) in Zimbabwe. Both receive international flights from major African cities. It's then a short drive to Victoria Falls town.
Travel overland by bus or train from nearby cities like Lusaka, Zambia or Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. The bus trip takes 6-8 hours. Rail travel offers overnight sleeper trains.
Drive yourself by renting a vehicle in Zambia or Zimbabwe. The drive time is around 6 hours from Lusaka and 8 hours from Bulawayo. Be prepared for border crossings and police checkpoints.
Take a guided tour from a city like Johannesburg, South Africa. Multi-day tours will handle all transport, border crossings, activities and accommodation.
Make sure to apply for any necessary visas for Zambia and/or Zimbabwe in advance. Citizens of most countries need a visa to enter both countries.
What is there to do at Victoria Falls?
There are many exciting activities to experience at Victoria Falls:
Take a guided tour of Victoria Falls National Park to see the falls up close and learn about the history and geography.
Go whitewater rafting on the Zambezi River. The rapids below the falls offer thrilling class V rapids.
Take a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River to see wildlife along the banks and a beautiful sunset.
Do an elephant-back safari, walk with lions, or cage dive with crocodiles.
Shop for local crafts, art, and souvenirs in the vibrant town of Victoria Falls.
Take a day trip to Chobe National Park in Botswana for an open-vehicle game drive to see elephants, hippos, lions and more.
With its thundering falls, abundance of adventure activities and opportunities for wildlife viewing, Victoria Falls should be at the top of everyone's bucket list. Experience this natural wonder of the world for yourself!
Conclusion
As you come to the end of your journey to Victoria Falls, you’ll find yourself in a state of overwhelmed wonder. The raw power and beauty of this natural wonder of the world will stay with you long after you’ve left. Make the effort to visit Victoria Falls at least once in your lifetime. Witness the smoke that thunders and feel the spray on your face. Listen to the falls’ deafening roar and gaze in awe at the rainbows arcing through the mist. Appreciate the privilege of experiencing one of the greatest waterfalls on the planet. Let its magnificence inspire you and remind you of nature’s immeasurable grandeur. Though the rest of the world awaits your return, a part of you will remain forever captivated by the magic of Victoria Falls.
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