Victoria Falls Zimbabwe or Zambia? The Great Vic Falls Debate

Which is better Victoria Falls Zimbabwe or Zambia? Find out how they differ and compare the Victoria Falls experience in Zambia and Zimbabwe to see which is the better choice for your trip.

Victoria Falls, the largest sheet of falling water in the world, is a breathtaking marvel that alone justifies a visit. Witnessing the awe-inspiring cascade of water that is “the Smoke that Thunders”, is just the beginning of the incredible experiences that await during Victoria Falls tours. Beyond this awe-inspiring sight, a plethora of outdoor, and adventure activities beckon to travellers, who can choose from a wide variety of adventure activities, from the sedate to the sublime. Victoria Falls temptations include scenic flights for a birds-eye view, horse-back safaris, tranquil river cruises on the upper Zambezi, and adrenaline-pumping white-water rafting through the rapids below Victoria Falls, to name just a few.

Victoria Falls from above

Victoria Falls Fact Box
Located on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe Height 108 m / 354 ft high Width 1,708 m / 5,603 ft wide High season volume: 500 million litres of water per minute Local Name: Mosi-oa-Tunya “The Smoke that Thunders” Claim to fame: Victoria Falls is neither the tallest nor the widest waterfall in the world, rather, Victoria Falls is the biggest curtain of falling water anywhere on the planet.

Offering such an abundance of attractions, Victoria Falls is one of Africa’s most iconic and sought-after safari destinations. The only thing left to decide is which side of the Zambezi River to visit. Vic Falls straddles two countries Zambia and Zimbabwe. To help you make the right decision for you, here's everything you need to know about visiting Victoria Falls in either Zimbabwe or Zambia.

Adventure flight at Victoria Falls

Best Views of Victoria Falls: Zimbabwe vs Zambia

The Victoria Falls can be viewed from either Zambia or Zimbabwe. Each side, however, offers a different viewing experience. Zimbabwe is home to about two-thirds of the Victoria Falls. The Zimbabwe side of Victoria Falls offers well-kept pathways that lead to viewpoints that showcase the epic scale of this natural wonder. The renowned Victoria Falls National Park, with an entrance fee of US$ 50 per person, will give you access to the captivating Devil's Cataract, Main Falls, Horseshoe Falls, and appropriately named Rainbow Falls. For that iconic and classic view of the Main Falls, your destination should be Zimbabwe.

Victoria Falls Entry Points: Zimbabwe vs Zambia
Victoria Falls National Park: US$ 50 per person Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park: US$ 20 per person

Zambia provides a more untamed and adventurous experience. Here, the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park provides a more affordable entrance fee of US$ 20 per person and brings you astonishingly close to the rushing waters. Cross the Knife’s Edge Bridge for a complete view of the Eastern Cataract, explore the Boiling Pot Trail that leads you into the depths of the gorge, or take a stroll upstream for a close-up view of the Zambezi River before it cascades over the edge into the gorge. Here, you can find a tranquil spot above the falls to sit and immerse yourself in the natural beauty and splendour of this jaw-dropping spectacle. Zambia is also the site of Livingstone Island and the Devil’s Pool, for a unique perspective of Victoria Falls.

Choosing between the Zambian Victoria Falls, and the Zimbabwean Victoria Falls is no easy task. While Zimbabwe offers more viewpoints and a longer trail, Zambia has a wild feeling that delivers some up close and personal experiences that are exhilarating. The cheaper Mosi-oa-Tunya will be a factor for those on a budget. If the Zambezi is in full flood, prepare to get thoroughly soaked on either side, as the spray seems to come at you from all directions.

Devils Pool Zambia

The first prize, of course, is to visit both sides, Zambia and Zimbabwe. The downside of this is the visa fees payable on entry to each country. If, for example, you have a single entry visa for Zambia, and you cross into Zimbabwe to see the Vic Falls, you will have to purchase another Zambia visa on your return, this applies in reverse too. There is a special KAZA visa that allows multiple entries into Zambia and Zimbabwe for 30 days. Stay informed and check with an experienced travel consultant for up-to-date information about visas between Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Zambia vs Zimbabwe vs KAZA Visas*

Zambia: single entry US$ 25, double entry US$ 40, multiple entry US$ 75 Zimbabwe: single entry US$ 30, double entry US$ 45, multiple entry US$ 55 KAZA visa: multiple entry for 30 days US$ 50 *The visa landscape does change. Zambia has updated its visa requirements. For example, British and Canadian passport holders do (theoretically) not require a Zambia visa. Zimbabwe, on the other hand, has a separate cost structure for these citizens. It is advisable to do your homework before departure and make sure that you get the right visa to help save money.

Victoria Falls Zimbabwe

Best Time of Year for Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe & Zambia

The best time to visit Victoria Falls is when the water levels are high, between February and June. But it’s not as simple as that. At this time, Victoria Falls are in full flood, vendors sell plastic ponchos to help keep you dry, and the volume of water that cascades over the Falls is truly awe-inspiring. However, capturing good pictures amidst the mist is challenging, and for better visibility, you’ll want to travel slightly later on in the season. Helicopter rides are at their most dramatic the fuller the falls, but white water rafting and dips in Devil’s Pool are only possible when the waters drop to safe levels, July to January. In the driest months from October to November, the falls on the Zambian side can dry up completely, and you could find yourself staring at an impressive rock face, and not the waterfall you were expecting. This doesn’t happen on the Zimbabwe side of Victoria Falls, where the Main Falls flows all year round.

Month-by-Month Guide: When to Visit Victoria Falls
December to March Weather: Peak summer and the rainy season, dramatic afternoon thundershowers. Day Time Temperature: 30 °C / 86 °F + Visibility: the Zambezi River starts off low in December but gradually rises as rainwater pours in from upstream, creating a more spectacular sight. Activities: December and January are good white water rafting months, but due to rising water levels operations close around February, as do Livingstone Island and Devils Pool. Both sides offer excellent experiences.
April to June Weather: Still warm, but temperatures begin to dip, making for pleasant conditions. Day Time Temperature: 25-30 °C / 77-86 °F Visibility: Peak high water season, Zambezi is in full flood. Lots of spray means that certain lookout points are partially obstructed by spray. Activities: Rafting is closed due to high water, and Livingstone Island and Devil’s Pool access is restricted. This is a good time for an aerial view of the Falls by helicopter or microlight. Both sides are excellent.
July and August Weather: Warm and sunny days, cold at night. Day Time Temperature: 20-28 °C / 68-82 °F Visibility: Excellent, enough spray for rainbows. Activities: Peak tourist season. Livingstone Island and Devil’s Pool become accessible, and white water rafting season begins. Good rainbows and lunar rainbows. Visit both sides for a full experience.
September to November Weather: Warm and sunny days, cold at night. Day Time Temperature: 30-40 °C / 86-104 °F Visibility: Excellent visibility from the Zimbabwean side. Falls at their lowest as winter comes to an end. Activities: Peak white water rafting season, Livingstone Island, and the renowned Devil's Pool tours. The best views are in Zimbabwe, as the Zambia side dries out completely.

Victoria Falls, Zambia or Zimbabwe?

What is the best time to visit the Victoria Falls? In short, Victoria Falls offers something all year round. To see the Falls in full flow, the end of December to March, which is a great time for aerial views. For white water rafting, and a dip in the fabled Devil’s Pool, June to December. The happy medium, which also coincides with peak safari season in Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Botswana, is to visit in the dry season from July to October. In October and November, the Zambian side of the Victoria Falls can dry to no more than a trickle, though tours to Livingstone Island and Devil’s Pool are still available.

Livingstone market, Zambia

Livingstone, Zambia vs Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

The Zambezi River forms the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. This is why Zambia and Zimbabwe share Victoria Falls, with roughly two-thirds of the Falls lying on the Zimbabwe side. Livingstone lies on the Zambia side of Victoria Falls, while Victoria Falls Town lies on the Zimbabwe side. Over the past decade or more, due to political turmoil and instability, tourists have favoured Livingstone, but generally speaking, both sides of the Falls are geared toward tourism and make excellent safari destinations.

Victoria Falls bridge

Victoria Falls Town, Zimbabwe

One of the best things about Victoria Falls Town is the proximity to the Victoria Falls attraction. The town is situated less than a kilometre from the Falls, offering easy access to the network of paths that weave in and out of the rainforest, sustained by the perpetual waterfall spray. Zimbabwe has a larger range of accommodation options within walking distance of the falls since most of the lodges and hotels lie in or around Victoria Falls town. In general, Victoria Falls Town is a charming tourist destination with vibrant cafes and curio shops within easy reach of each other, including the Elephant Walk Shopping & Artist’s Village, all creating a delightful atmosphere, that is a little more touristy. In general, accommodation is slightly cheaper at Victoria Falls.

Livingstone, Zambia

On the Zambian side, the town of Livingstone lies around 10km from the Victoria Falls waterfall. Livingstone is about 5 times larger in population than Victoria Falls and offers a more authentic feel for local life. Livingstone is less convenient to explore on foot, but the major downside is the commute to Victoria Falls. There are at least two options a short walk from the Zambian side of Victoria Falls waterfall: a family-friendly resort and a luxury 5-star hotel. For more budget-friendly options, Livingstone has a choice of great backpackers, as well as camping and chalets along the river. For travellers looking for something really special, Zambia is best known for its romantic riverside lodges upstream of Vic Falls. In general, prices for accommodation are slightly higher in Zambia.

Zambia, Victoria Falls

Livingstone Town vs Victoria Falls Town
Victoria Falls More touristy closer to the Falls cheaper accommodations US Dollar, South African Rands Livingstone: Less touristy Larger town +/- 10 km from Falls more expensive accommodation Kwacha and US Dollar.

Aerial view of Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls Activities: Zambia vs Zimbabwe

Victoria Falls is a destination that shouldn’t be rushed; there is so much to do besides visiting the Falls proper, that 2 nights should be the minimum, and three days is highly recommended. Known as the adventure capital of Africa, Vic Falls offers activities for every taste. Sunset river cruises, bungee jumping, helicopter flips, white-water rafting, game drives, animal encounters, and zip-lining – are all available in both Zimbabwe and Zambia.

The big exception is Livingstone Island and Devil’s Pool, which you can only get to from the Zambian side of Victoria Falls. This activity starts gently enough with a boat trip out to Livingstone Island (in Zambia), before venturing through the river for a dip in a rock pool at the edge of one of the tallest waterfalls in the world, which has become one of the most popular Victoria Falls activities. Below is a list of activities and prices at Victoria Falls.

Zambia vs Zimbabwe Activities & Costs*
*These Victoria Falls activity costs were accurate at the time of publishing but are subject to change. All activities come with additional park fees and exclude transfers, and visa fees. For scenic flights, there may be additional fuel levies. Helicopter Flip (plus park fee of US$ 15): 15minutes: US$ 150 per person / 25 minutes: US$ 285 per person Microlight (Zambia only): 15 minutes: US$ 179 per person / 30 minutes: US$ 360 per person Full day white water rafting US$ 120 + US$ 10 Park fee per person
High Wire Activities from Vic Falls Bridge Solo bungee: US$ 168 per person Bridge Slide solo: US$ 48  per person Bridge Swing solo: US$ 168 per person Combos: Slide, swing, & bungee US$ 230 or Rafting and bungee for US$ 275 per person
High Wire Activities: Zimbabwe side (add US$ 3 park fees) Gorge swing solo: US$ 105 per person Zip Line solo: US$ 84 per person Flying Fox solo: US$ 53 per person Canopy Tour: US$ 64 per person Gorge swing, Zipline & Flying fox Combo: US$ 163 per person
Devil’s Swim & Livingstone Island: Zambia only Morning: US$ 120 / Lunch tour: US$ 190 / High tea: US$ 165 per person
Victoria Falls guided tour: US$ 25 per person (seasonal park fee US$ 30 – US$ 100) Zambezi River Cruises: US$ 45 – US$ 90 per person (includes drinks & snacks, excl. US$ 10 park fee)

Although Livingstone Island and Devil’s Pool are exclusive to the Zambian side, all activities are accessible from both sides of Victoria Falls. Transfers will incur extra costs, time, and border crossings will also require forward planning to make sure you do not waste money on visas, but it is otherwise relatively painless and easy. From either Zambia or Zimbabwe, you can access all the wonderful activities that are on offer. One advantage of doing a number of activities is that you get to see the Falls from all angles and BOTH countries, making for a more complete Victoria Falls experience.

Elephant on canoe safari in Zambia

Victoria Falls Safaris

A trip to Victoria Falls is often combined with an African safari. Hotels on both sides of the falls attract wildlife, with warthogs, zebras, and giraffes often grazing on their manicured lawns, providing an enchanting sight from your balcony. While the Falls offer amazing birding, with over 470 recorded species, as well as wildlife like baboons, monkeys, mongooses, shy bushbucks, and warthogs, there are some amazing safari destinations a stone’s throw away. The Zambezi National Park and Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park are situated at the Victoria Falls complex, while Botswana’s Chobe National Park and Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park are not far away either.

Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe Safari: Zambezi National Park & Hwange National Park

Zambezi National Park, you can encounter the Big Four (all but rhinos), along with a wide array of animals in the picturesque mopane woodland and forest landscapes. The Zambezi River hosts over 75 fish species and offers relaxed river cruises and canoeing trips, that present opportunities to witness abundant wildlife, such as hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and various bird species. On foot, you can embark on walking safaris with knowledgeable guides to get up close to the animals.

Hwange National Park, just an hour's drive from Victoria Falls, is Zimbabwe’s premier safari destination. Over 40,000 elephants, along with rhinos, lions, buffaloes, and leopards, make Hwange an excellent Big Five safari destination. In addition to the Big Five, Hwange boasts a large African-painted wolf population and antelope species like roan and sable. Accessible and easy to navigate, Hwange National Park promises an unforgettable safari experience not far from Victoria Falls.

Victoria Falls rainforest

Zambia Safari: Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park

Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, despite its size, boasts an impressive range of species, including buffalo, elephants, Burchell's zebras, giraffes, and sable antelope. The park's star highlight is tracking White rhinos, which were reintroduced from South Africa, offering a rare and thrilling experience. The park is best experienced on foot but can be explored on game drives too.

Chobe hippo, Botswana

Botswana Safari: Chobe National Park

For an extraordinary encounter with wildlife, you can visit Chobe National Park in northern Botswana, situated less than 100 km / 62 mi away from Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe. Boasting one of Africa's most significant concentrations of wildlife, Chobe is home to the world's largest elephant population, with around 50,000 of these majestic creatures. The park offers an abundance of wildlife, including the Big Five, roan and sable antelopes, cheetahs, hyenas, wild dogs, and zebras.

Having a safari experience while visiting Victoria Falls is essential. Both Chobe National Park and Hwange National Park are ideal safari destinations to combine with your Victoria Falls trip. Alternatively, you can make day trips to both parks from either Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe or Livingstone in Zambia, ensuring you have a memorable and diverse wildlife experience.

Victoria Falls Zambia

See Both Sides of Victoria Falls - Zimbabwe & Zambia

Whether you stay at Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, or Livingstone in Zambia, seeing Victoria Falls from both sides means you don’t miss out on anything. Thanks to the KAZA Univisa, a single visa that covers Zambia, Zimbabwe, and day trips to Chobe National Park in Botswana, this is now even easier. The Univisa costs US$ 50 and is available to some 40 nationalities including Brits, Americans, and Australians. Current (2022) advice is to obtain the KAZA Univisa upon arrival in Zambia or Zimbabwe.

KAZA UNIVISA FACT BOX

This information was accurate at the time of publishing. Visa regulations do change, however, and the best practice is to check with your travel agent or an experienced African safari travel consultant. What is KAZA: KAZA TFCA stands for The Kavango Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area. Countries included: Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Botswana* Cost: US$ 50 Where: The KAZA visa is available on arrival in Zimbabwe at Harare International Airport, Victoria Falls International, Victoria Falls Border, and Kazungula Border crossing. In Zambia, it is available at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (Lusaka), Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International (Livingstone), Victoria Falls Border, and Kazungula Border. You can get an e-Visa as long as you arrive via Kenneth Kaunda International, Harry Mwanga International, Victoria Falls Border, or Kazungula Border Control. Eligible nationalities include USA, UK, Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, France, New Zealand, and Australia. *as long as you remain in Zambia or Zimbabwe, and travel through the Kazangula Border crossing, for day trips to Botswana.

Crossing between countries takes you over the Victoria Falls Bridge. Make this part of the adventure by walking (you can always catch a taxi back). The walk takes around 20 minutes, but give yourself enough time to take in those waterfall views or watch the excited huddle of bungee jumpers waiting to earn instant bragging rights by throwing themselves 111 meters toward the river below.

Livingstone international, Zambia

Vaccinations & Practical Travel Advice

We recommend that you visit a travel clinic well in advance of your trip to Victoria Falls. There are no mandatory vaccinations required, and routine vaccinations like typhoid, cholera, rabies, and hepatitis are a personal choice. A Yellow Fever vaccination (and certificate) for travel between Zambia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa is not required, but you will be denied entry if travelling from a Yellow Fever country. Malaria is prevalent, but prophylactics are readily available and effective. Always seek professional medical advice on which vaccinations are recommended before you travel.

Victoria Falls gets very hot. Be prepared with a good hat, sunscreen, and drink lots of water.

Zambia’s currency is the Kwacha, while Zimbabwe’s currency is in disarray. Small denominations of US dollars are used in both countries, as well as South African Rands. Zimbabwe is open to Dollars, Euros, and Pounds, but the US Dollar is the currency of choice. It is a good idea to have a small stash of US$ for tips, curios, and other expenses at the Falls. Credit cards are usually accepted, and ATMs sometimes work. It is best to come prepared and not rely on ATMs or credit cards.

Both Livingstone and Victoria Falls Town have international airports, but there are other practical considerations such as the cost of flights and how Victoria Falls fits into the rest of your itinerary.

Zambezi River cruises at Victoria Falls

Cost: Which is cheaper Victoria Falls Zimbabwe or Zambia?

Victoria Falls in Zambia is generally considered slightly cheaper than Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe. That's because the cost of activities, meals, and accommodation is usually slightly lower on the Zambian side. This is no longer true for activities that have parity across both countries.

The cost of flights is however a different story. Due to flight volume, flights to Victoria Falls International Airport in Zimbabwe often cost less than flights to Livingstone in Zambia. If you are visiting Victoria Falls as part of a longer trip, or at the start or end of a safari in the region, then Zambia is probably a better option in terms of your budget. If you are flying in and out of Victoria Falls, however, then Zimbabwe may be cheaper considering flight prices.

Victoria Falls - smoke that thunders

Either Zimbabwe or Zambia, Let's Take You to Victoria Falls!

Now that you are up to speed on the pros and cons of visiting Victoria Falls Zimbabwe versus Zambia, African Budget Safaris can help you book an action-packed short tour on your preferred side. The following 4-day Victoria Falls Tours are ideal as add-on packages for before or after your travels / longer safaris starting or ending at Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe or Zambia.

The Victoria Falls Adventure Tour Package (Zambia) includes three nights of hotel accommodation close to Livingstone town on the Zambian side of Vic Falls.

The slightly cheaper Victoria Falls Budget Tour Package (Zimbabwe) includes hotel accommodation in Victoria Falls town, within walking distance of Victoria Falls waterfall.

Both of these Victoria Falls Tours include a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River on day one and a day trip to Chobe National Park in Botswana on day two. On both of these excellent-value Victoria Falls Tours, you also enjoy a half-day canoeing trip on the Zambezi River, a helicopter flight over Victoria Falls, a cultural village tour, and, of course, a guided tour of Victoria Falls waterfall. As you can see both of these Victoria Falls Tours include plenty of exciting activities and enough highlights to make them worthwhile standalone packages (short holidays on their own) or as add-on trips.

Victoria Falls rainbow

If you would like to spend a bit more time out in the African bush viewing wildlife when you visit Victoria Falls this slightly longer Victoria Falls & Hwange Lodge Safari is perfect for you. The 6-day Victoria Falls & Hwange Safari Package is similar to the shorter Victoria Falls Tours. Still, in addition to the day trip to Chobe National Park in Botswana, you also spend two nights at Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe. The Victoria Falls & Hwange Safari includes 4x4 game drives in both the Big 5 Hwange National Park and a private wildlife concession area bordering Hwange Park.

Whichever side of Victoria Falls you pick, you’re sure to have an incredible holiday. Just think carefully about the best time to travel based on what you want to experience, and find out beforehand whether you’re eligible for a Kaza Univisa (which is available on arrival at the airport).

Need more guidance and expert travel advice? Talk to one of our African travel experts. You can check out our calendar of upcoming tour departures leaving from Victoria Falls Zimbabwe, and leaving from Livingstone Zambia.

Zambia vs Zimbabwe, Victoria Falls

Tailor-made Private Victoria Falls Safari Options

At African Budget Safaris we specialize in creating tailor-made private safaris on a budget. This enables you to specify the African destinations you want to visit and the type of accommodation, activities, and travel style you prefer. Our team of experienced consultants then designs a private safari itinerary to suit your budget and preferences.

To have a custom Victoria Falls Safari designed specifically for you and your private group, chat with one of our friendly travel consultants.

[Originally posted in May 2015 and last updated in July 2023]