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Zimbabwe

Victoria Falls Zimbabwe

THE THUNDERING SPLENDOR OF MOTHER NATURE

Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, is an awe-inspiring spectacle of water, mist, and thunder that captivates visitors from around the globe. The Zimbabwe side offers expansive views, vibrant wildlife, and a wide array of adventure activities that combine to create an unforgettable experience. Known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya (“The Smoke That Thunders”), the falls are the heart of this region’s rich natural and cultural heritage.

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ACCOMMODATION FOR ALL TRAVELLERS

The Zimbabwe side of Victoria Falls provides an array of lodging options:

  • Luxury Riverfront Hotels and Safari Lodges: Offering spectacular views and first-class amenities.

  • Boutique and Mid-Range Hotels: Conveniently located near the falls and town.

  • Budget-Friendly Guesthouses and Hostels: Perfect for travelers seeking value without sacrificing charm.

  • Family-Friendly Resorts: Featuring facilities and activities suited for all ages.

  • Bush Camps and Eco-Lodges: For immersive nature experiences.

Many accommodations include guided tours and easy access to both the falls and nearby wildlife parks.

Safari Camps & Lodges
See our Safari Lodges & Camps in 
Victoria Falls Zimbabwe

THE LANDSCAPE

The Zimbabwe side of Victoria Falls features diverse and dramatic landscapes:

  • Victoria Falls Gorge and Spray Forests: Offering stunning views and vibrant flora nourished by the mist.

  • Zambezi River: A lifeline for wildlife and adventure activities.

  • Savanna Woodlands and Riverine Forests: Rich habitats for mammals and birds.

  • Victoria Falls National Park: Protecting the falls and surrounding wilderness.

This scenic diversity makes for a visually spectacular and ecologically rich destination.

Wildlife Highlights

WILDLIFE & EXPERIENCES

Beyond the falls, the area boasts rich biodiversity and thrilling activities:

  • Victoria Falls National Park: Home to elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, and hippos.

  • Big Game Safaris: Nearby parks offer lion, leopard, and rhino sightings.

  • Birdlife: Over 400 species, including African fish eagles, herons, and kingfishers.

  • Zambezi River Adventures: White-water rafting, sunset cruises, canoeing, and fishing.

  • Adrenaline Activities: Bungee jumping, gorge swinging, helicopter and microlight flights over the falls.

  • Cultural Tours: Visit local villages, markets, and craft centers to experience Zimbabwean traditions.

The area is a perfect blend of natural wonder, wildlife, and adventure.

How to Get Here

how to get here:

Access to the Zimbabwe side is straightforward:


From London, Dubai & New York

  • Fly internationally to Victoria Falls International Airport (Zimbabwe), located just 20 minutes from the town and falls.

  • Flights connect via major African hubs such as Johannesburg, Nairobi, and Addis Ababa.

  • Airport transfers to lodges and hotels are widely available.

From Regional Airports

  • Domestic flights from Harare to Victoria Falls.

  • Road connections from Zimbabwean towns and neighbouring countries.

Victoria Falls is often combined with safaris in Hwange National Park or Chobe National Park across the border.

Location

FAQ's

FAQs
Best Time to Visit

1.

When is the best time to visit The Victoria Falls?

The best time to visit the Victoria Falls depends on whether you want to see the largest water flow or enjoy adventure activities and clearer views. Peak Water Flow (Most Dramatic Falls): February to May – Late rainy season into early dry season - The Zambezi River is at its highest, making the falls immense and powerful. - Spray and mist are intense, so photography and close-up views may be difficult. - Walking trails can be wet due to heavy spray. - Best for Activities & Clear Views June to September – Dry season - Water levels are lower, so spray is reduced, giving clearer views and better photos. - Activities are safer and more accessible: - Devil’s Pool (natural pool on the edge of the Zambia side of the falls) - White-water rafting on the Zambezi River - Helicopter or microlight flights over the falls - Wildlife viewing near Zambezi National Park is easier during this season. Shoulder Periods: - October to January – Late dry season to early rains - Water levels are lower, but some early rains may affect trails and visibility. - Fewer tourists, which can make the experience quieter.
Is the Big 5 here?

2.

Can I see the The Big Five in The Victoria Falls?

On the Victoria Falls, you won’t see the full Big Five within the falls area itself, because the site is a protected tourist zone rather than a full safari park. However, nearby reserves and national parks allow sightings of most of the Big Five. Big Five Near Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe Side): Elephant – Common in nearby Zambezi National Park; often seen on day trips. Buffalo – Present in Zambezi National Park and surrounding conservancies. Lion – Possible in guided safaris in the park; sightings are not guaranteed. Leopard – Rare; requires a skilled guide and patience. Rhinoceros – Not present; there are no resident rhinos near the falls. Bottom line: You can reliably see elephants and buffalo, have a fair chance for lions, occasionally spot leopards, but rhinos are absent. Other Rare & Notable Wildlife: Hippos and crocodiles – Abundant in the Zambezi River. Antelope species – Impala, waterbuck, kudu, and sable are found in nearby parks. Birdlife – Over 400 species, including African fish eagles, hornbills, and Pel’s fishing owls. Cultural wildlife experiences – Some conservancies offer tracking of wild dogs and monitoring of predators. Key Takeaways: 1. Directly at Victoria Falls: Not a Big Five destination; mostly birds, hippos, and river wildlife. 2. Nearby Zambezi National Park & private safaris: Elephants, buffalo, and lions are possible, leopards are rare, rhinos absent. Combining a falls visit with a half-day or full-day safari maximizes wildlife sightings.
Is it Expensive?

3.

Are The Victoria Falls expensive?

Visiting the Victoria Falls can range from moderate to expensive, depending on the type of experience and activities you choose. 1. Park Entry Fees: Victoria Falls National Park (Zimbabwe side) entry: Around $20–$30 per adult. Children often pay reduced fees or enter free. Entry is a small portion of the total trip cost. 2. Accommodation: Budget lodges / guesthouses: $50–$120 per night. Mid-range hotels / lodges: $150–$350 per night, often including breakfast and some guided tours. Luxury lodges / resorts: $400–$1,000+ per night, usually including meals, transfers, and activities. 3. Activities: Many signature activities are charged separately: - Devil’s Pool / Livingstone Island tour: ~$100–$150 per person. - Helicopter or microlight flights over the falls: $120–$250 per person. - White-water rafting on the Zambezi: $150–$200 per person. - Guided walking tours in the park: $20–$50 per person. 4. Why Costs Vary: - Activities are optional; total cost depends on how many you do. - Peak season (June–September) is more expensive for accommodation. - Private guides, transfers, and luxury lodges increase the overall price. Bottom line: The Zimbabwe side offers a range of options, from budget-friendly stays to premium, all-inclusive experiences, but adventure activities and guided tours push it into the more expensive range.
Is it safe?

4.

Are The Victoria Falls safe?

The Victoria Falls is generally very safe for tourists, especially in the main town of Livingstone and the national park area. Most visits are trouble-free, with standard precautions recommended. Safety Overview: 1. Crime & Personal Safety - The falls area and Livingstone are tourist-focused and well-patrolled. - Petty theft, like pickpocketing or bag snatching, can happen in busy areas; keep valuables secure. - Most lodges and hotels have 24/7 security, making overnight stays safe. 2. Wildlife Safety - The park is home to wildlife such as elephants, hippos, and crocodiles. - Stay on designated trails and follow park rules. - Do not approach wildlife outside guided tours or marked viewing areas. 3. Adventure & Water Activities - Activities like Devil’s Pool, rafting, and canoeing are safe with licensed operators. - Always follow safety briefings and wear the provided safety gear. 4. Health Considerations - Malaria is present; anti-malarial medication and insect repellent are recommended. - Bottled water is safer than tap water for drinking. Bottom Line: 1. Safe from crime: Mostly, if you take standard precautions. 2. Safe for activities: Yes, with licensed guides and operators. 3. Wilderness caution: Required near rivers and during wildlife encounters. The Zimbabwe side of Victoria Falls is considered one of the safest and most tourist-friendly parts of the region, particularly when sticking to guided activities and park rules.
Additional Activities

5.

What are additional activities in The Victoria Falls?

On the Victoria Falls, there’s a wide range of activities combining spectacular natural sights, adventure, and wildlife experiences. Most are easily accessible from the town of Victoria Falls and the national park. 1. Viewing the Falls: Walk along the Zambia/Zimbabwe side trails in Victoria Falls National Park for multiple viewpoints. Best during February–May for maximum flow or June–September for clearer views. Trails are well-marked and safe, though can be wet from spray. 2. Devil’s Pool & Livingstone Island (Zambia side): Seasonal natural pool at the edge of the falls. Available October–April when water levels are lower. Only accessible with guided tours; safety gear and guides provided. Iconic for swimming at the edge of the falls. 3. Adventure & Water Activities: White-water rafting on the Zambezi River — world-class rapids, typically dry season (June–September). Canoeing or kayaking along calmer river sections. Bungee jumping from the Victoria Falls Bridge. Zip-lining across the Batoka Gorge. Helicopter or microlight flights over the falls for aerial views. 4. Wildlife Safaris Nearby: Zambezi National Park: game drives or walking safaris to see elephants, buffalo, hippos, and antelopes. Day trips can combine falls sightseeing with wildlife viewing. 5. Cultural & Leisure Experiences: Village visits to experience local crafts and culture. Sunset cruises on the Zambezi River — great for birdwatching and spotting hippos and elephants. Fishing trips on the Zambezi for tiger fish. Quick Tips: 1. Some activities are seasonal: Devil’s Pool in Zambia (low water), rafting (dry season). 2. Guided operators are recommended for all adventure activities. 3. Combining multiple activities over 2–3 days gives a full Victoria Falls and Zambezi experience. Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe side) offers a mix of sightseeing, adventure, and wildlife experiences suitable for both thrill-seekers and nature lovers.

And Finally...

The Zimbabwe side of Victoria Falls invites you to witness one of the world’s greatest natural wonders while enjoying thrilling adventures, rich wildlife, and warm local culture. Whether marvelling at the thunderous cascades or exploring the vibrant wilderness around it, this destination promises memories that last a lifetime.

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe... Experience the Smoke That Thunders

Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, is an awe-inspiring spectacle of water, mist, and thunder that captivates visitors from around the globe. The Zimbabwe side offers expansive views, vibrant wildlife, and a wide array of adventure activities that combine to create an unforgettable experience. Known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya (“The Smoke That Thunders”), the falls are the heart of this region’s rich natural and cultural heritage.
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