Victoria Falls: Visiting Zambia And Zimbabwe

Introduction Of Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, is a breathtaking spectacle located on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. Known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya or “The Smoke that Thunders,” these falls are an essential destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Having finally visited the falls after years of anticipation, I can confidently say that the experience exceeded every expectation I had. This guide provides all the essential information for anyone planning a trip to Victoria Falls, including tips on how to get there, where to stay, and which side of the falls to choose for your adventure.

Background and History

The falls were “discovered” by the Scottish explorer David Livingstone in 1855, though they had been known to the Tonga people of the Zambezi Valley for centuries. Livingstone’s account of the falls speaks to their beauty and grandeur: “No-one can imagine the beauty of the view… but scenes so lovely must have been gazed upon by angels in their flight.” The falls span 1,700 meters and drop over 100 meters into the Zambezi River, creating a stunning natural phenomenon.

Getting to Victoria Falls

The two main gateways to the falls are Livingstone, Zambia and Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. Both towns have airports that are well-connected to major cities in Africa.

Flights to Livingstone (Zambia)

Airlines: South African Airways, British Airways (from Johannesburg and Cape Town), Ethiopian Airlines (from Addis Ababa), Kenya Airways (from Nairobi), and Proflight Zambia (from Lusaka).
Getting to town: A taxi from Livingstone Airport to the town center takes about 10-15 minutes and costs around USD $10.

Flights to Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe)

Airlines: Similar routes as Livingstone, with the addition of Air Namibia (to Windhoek) and Air Zimbabwe (to Harare).
Getting to town: The journey from Victoria Falls Airport to the town center is about 20-25 minutes by taxi, with fares typically around USD $15.

For those preferring overland travel, buses and trains offer additional options:

Buses from Lusaka, Harare, and Windhoek connect to Victoria Falls or Livingstone.
Trains provide a more scenic option, including luxury trains like the Rovos Rail from Pretoria or standard services from Bulawayo.

Travel from Botswana

If you’re coming from Botswana, head to Kasane, a border town near Chobe National Park. Shared taxis can take you to either side of the falls in just over an hour.

Best Time to Visit

Victoria Falls changes dramatically depending on the season, so timing your visit is crucial.

Rainy Season (November to April): This is when the falls are at their most powerful. Visiting between January and March ensures a spectacular display, but be aware that the intense spray can sometimes obscure the view and make photography difficult.
Dry Season (July to November): The falls slow down, with the Zambian side often drying up completely. However, this is the best time for activities like swimming in Devil’s Pool and visiting Livingstone Island, as water levels are low and conditions are safer. During this season, the Zimbabwean side still offers impressive views, along with clearer skies and majestic rainbows.

I visited in November, when the falls were starting to recover from the dry season. The Zimbabwean side was still flowing beautifully, and we were lucky to witness stunning rainbows over the mist. The Zambian side, however, was nearly dry, but I had the incredible opportunity to swim in Devil’s Pool, a thrilling experience that lived up to the hype.

Choosing Between Zambia and Zimbabwe

Both sides of the falls offer unique perspectives, and choosing which side to stay on will depend on what kind of experience you’re seeking.

Zimbabwe

The majority of the falls (about 75%) can be seen from the Zimbabwean side, making it the better choice for those prioritizing panoramic views.
The town of Victoria Falls is more developed in terms of accommodation, dining, and tours. Many hotels and lodges here are walking distance to the falls.
This side offers year-round access to viewpoints, even when the Zambian side dries up during the dry season.

Zambia

While the Zambian side offers fewer viewpoints, it compensates with adventurous activities like swimming in Devil’s Pool and exclusive access to Livingstone Island.
Livingstone, the nearby town, is slightly quieter and less commercialized, which may appeal to those seeking a more serene atmosphere.
It’s important to note that the falls on the Zambian side can dry up completely between September and November, but the experience of being so close to the brink of the falls, especially during the rainy season, is unforgettable.

Activities Beyond the Falls

In addition to witnessing the awe-inspiring waterfalls, the surrounding area offers an array of activities that make a trip to Victoria Falls an unforgettable adventure:

Devil’s Pool (Zambia): A natural rock pool at the edge of the falls where you can swim during the dry season.
Helicopter Flights: A bird’s-eye view of the falls, known as “The Flight of Angels,” is an extraordinary way to appreciate their full scale.
Zambezi River Cruises: Enjoy sunset cruises, where you can spot wildlife like hippos, crocodiles, and elephants.
Chobe National Park (Botswana): A short drive from Victoria Falls, Chobe offers exceptional safari experiences.
Victoria Falls Bridge: Connecting Zambia and Zimbabwe, this historic bridge is a prime spot for bungee jumping and scenic photography.

Safety, Money, and Practical Tips

Safety: Both Victoria Falls and Livingstone are generally safe for tourists, but like anywhere, caution is recommended, especially at night. Wildlife is often seen around towns, so be mindful when walking after dark.
Currency: In Zimbabwe, the US dollar is widely accepted, while Zambia uses the Zambian kwacha. Both currencies are accepted near the falls, but having small denominations of USD is always helpful.
Visas: If you plan to cross between Zambia and Zimbabwe, consider purchasing a KAZA UniVisa, which allows unlimited crossings between the two countries and even a day trip to Botswana.

Final Thoughts

Victoria Falls is an unparalleled natural wonder that everyone should experience at least once. Whether you choose to visit from the Zimbabwean or Zambian side—or, like me, experience both—you’re guaranteed to be awestruck by the sheer beauty and power of the falls. Each side offers a distinct charm and array of activities, making it a destination worthy of exploration from both perspectives.

If you have any questions or need further advice, feel free to drop a comment below. Happy travels!