Victoria Falls
The months in gold are when the weather, the crowds and the prices work out best.
Yes, this is worth visiting if you want to see one of the world's largest sheets of falling water. Go between February and May when the river is full and the spray is at its peak. Plan to spend two days here to see the viewpoints and do one activity.
Prices and availability come from GetYourGuide. If you book through one of these we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.
Two days is enough to see the viewpoints and explore the local park.
Fly into Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport in Livingstone, Zambia, then take a taxi.
Park entry for international visitors is paid at the gate, and cards are accepted.
The spray will soak your electronics, so bring waterproof bags even if you think you are far enough away.
What to expect on the ground
You will get wet. The spray from the Zambezi River rises hundreds of meters into the air, creating a constant localized rainstorm. You need to rent a poncho at the gate and keep your camera sealed in a dry bag.
The Zambian side gives you a close-up view of the water rushing over the edge, especially from the knife-edge bridge. The noise is loud enough that you have to raise your voice to speak to someone standing next to you.
These are partner links. If you book through one we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you. It does not change which places we pick.
Choosing the right month
February to May is the high-water season. The volume of water is immense, but the spray can be so thick that it actually blocks your view of the drop.
During the dry season later in the year, the Zambian side can dry up completely, leaving only bare rock. If you visit in October or November, you will need to cross over to the Zimbabwe side to see any flowing water.
The real cost of the trip
A normal day here costs about 180 USD, covering mid-range lodging, park fees, and meals. Many travelers do not realize that the most famous activities carry high price tags.
Swimming in the Devil's Pool, a natural rock pool right on the edge of the drop, costs over 150 USD per person. You must book this through an official operator, and it is only accessible during the lower-water months when it is safe.
These search Amazon. If you buy through one we may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. It changes nothing about which places are on this site or what is said about them.
Hotel and flight search by Trip.com. If you book through one of these we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.
Accessing the famous Devil's Pool swim costs over $150 USD.
The daily figure is an estimate and does not include flights. The exchange rate is real, and it moves once a day, not by the second.
The background
Victoria Falls (Lozi: Mosi-oa-Tunya, "Thundering Smoke/Smoke that Rises"; Tonga: Shungu Namutitima, "Boiling Water") is a waterfall on the Zambezi River, located on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. It is one of the world's largest waterfalls, with a width of 1,708 m (5,604 ft). The region around it has a high degree of biodiversity in both plants and animals. Archaeology and oral history describe a long record of African knowledge of the site. Although known to some European geographers before the 19th century, Scottish missionary David Livingstone was introduced to the falls in 1855, naming them Victoria Falls after Queen Victoria. Since the mid-20th century, the site has been a major tourist destination. Zambia and Zimbabwe both have national parks and tourism infrastructure at the site. Research in the late 2010s found that precipitation variability due to climate change is likely to alter the character of the falls.
More of Victoria Falls
Guides that include Victoria Falls
Questions people ask
Which side is better, Zambia or Zimbabwe?
Zimbabwe has a more consistent flow of water year-round and more viewpoints. Zambia lets you get much closer to the water and offers access to the Devil's Pool during the dry season.
Can you swim in Victoria Falls?
You can only swim in specific, guided spots like the Devil's Pool when water levels are low. Do not attempt to swim anywhere else in the park due to strong currents and wildlife.
Do I need a visa to cross the border?
Yes, if you want to see both sides, you should get a KAZA UniVisa. This single visa allows you to cross between Zambia and Zimbabwe multiple times.
Is malaria a risk at Victoria Falls?
Yes, the region is a high-risk malaria zone. You should consult a doctor about taking preventative medication before you travel and use insect repellent.
When does the Devil's Pool open?
The pool is usually open from late August to early January, depending on water levels. It is closed during the high-water months of February to May because the current is too dangerous.