Victoria Falls Safari Guide

Why go to the Victoria Falls?

Victoria Falls is one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders anywhere in the world. Known as Mosi-oa-Tunya – ‘the Smoke that Thunders’, Vic Falls offers incredible views, adrenaline-pumping adventure activities, relaxing cruises, and access to some of southern Africa’s most sought-after safari destinations.

The Vic Falls is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the world. The waterfall straddles the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. With the KAZA visa, visitors to Vic Falls can move between these two countries. Take advantage of the amazing activities on offer on both sides, like helicopter flights, swimming in Devil's Pool, or taking in serene river cruises along the Zambezi.

Victoria Falls is not just about incredible natural wonders and exhilarating activities, guests can also experience African wildlife. From orphaned elephants to the Zambezi National Park, Vic Falls lies in a game-rich region. Furthermore, trips to Vic Falls can easily be added to longer itineraries that include Chobe, the Okavango, Cape Town, and Kruger.

Visiting this remarkable African destination is a fully immersive experience of nature, adventure, and relaxation.

The World’s Largest Waterfall

Twice the height of Niagra Falls, Victoria Falls is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. This is the largest sheet of falling water on the planet.

Mosi-oa-Tunya—‘The Smoke that Thunders’— remains remarkably unspoiled. During peak flow, Vic Falls offers visitors a humbling spectacle of thundering water and foam. To take advantage of white water rafting and dip into the Devil's Pool that sits on the lip of the falls, visit when the falls are low.

Read the Great Debate Victoria Falls Zimbabwe vs Zambia, or experience both sides of the falls with the KAZA visa.

Adventure at Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls is more than just a beautiful waterfall with incredible views; it's Africa's ultimate adventure playground.

Known as the adventure capital of southern Africa, visitors to Vic Falls can do everything from being above, under, over, and even in the falls. Thrill-seekers can take to the skies in a helicopter or microlight flight, brave the Zambezi's wild rapids, or leap into the unknown with a bungee jump or gorge swing. For a special thrill, consider a dip in the Devil’s Pool that sits on the lip of Victoria Falls.

For more relaxing alternatives, canoe safaris and Zambezi River cruises are a tranquil way to explore the Zambezi River, while a selection of Zambezi lodges - set along the banks of the river – offer exceptional views and wildlife viewing from the comfort of your deck.

A Vic Falls Safari for Everyone

Victoria Falls is a must-visit location whether you are looking for adventure, culture, or relaxation.

Wildlife enthusiasts can take a game drive or visit rescued elephants in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, while history buffs can investigate the area's colonial past. Romantics can take a sunset cruise on the Zambezi, eat on a vintage steam train, or enjoy high tea at the Victoria Falls Hotel. For families, stroll beneath the historic bridge, visit local markets, and watch vultures feed. Photographers can visit Chobe National Park in Botswana for the day, while birders can spot some of the 400 birds known in the area.

Accommodation at Victoria Falls ranges from family-friendly stays to opulent hotels and riverbank lodges. There are options for all travellers. For convenient access to markets and activities, stay in Victoria Falls Town; alternatively, choose Livingstone on the Zambian side of the Falls.

With so many options, Vic Falls is a must-do African travel destination.

Victoria Falls Combines Well With...

Perfectly positioned at the heart of Southern Africa’s safari circuit, Victoria Falls pairs seamlessly with top wildlife destinations.

Both Livingston and Victoria Falls Airports connect with daily flights to South Africa’s major airports. Popular combinations include Botswana’s Okavango Delta and Chobe for water-based safaris and big game encounters, Cape Town and Kruger for fine dining and Big Five safaris, Zimbabwe’s Hwange and Mana Pools for elephants and wild dogs, and Zambia’s Lower Zambezi and South Luangwa for walking safaris and night drives.

Victoria Falls, a destination in itself, makes an excellent adventure as a part of any Southern African tour.

Need Help Planning Your Visit to the Victoria Falls?

Planning a trip to Victoria Falls offers an abundance of sights and activities for every traveller.

African Budget Safaris’ experienced travel consultants can help you decide when to travel, what combinations can work for your time frame, and what safari options are best for your budget.

Expert guidance contributes to a hassle-free safari experience, from choosing the right accommodation - in a low-cost stay, a riverside lodge, or a luxury hotel- to seamless transfers and unforgettable excursions.

Contact an expert Africa travel consultant today and start planning your Africa adventure.

When is the best time to visit the Victoria Falls?

The best time to visit the Victoria Falls is from March to May. This is when you'll see the world's largest sheet of falling water flowing at its greatest volume.

However, there are advantages to travelling to Vic Falls at other times of the year. Victoria Falls' peak flow doesn’t align with the best safari season and some activities, like swimming in Devil’s Pool and doing white water rafting, are unsafe during the high water season.

The worst time to visit is October and November during the peak dry season. Water levels are at their lowest, the weather is hot and humid, and the Zambian side may dry up completely, leaving only bare rock. The low-water season offers clear panoramic views, while the Zimbabwean side has year-round water flow, though it varies with the rains.

Read our guide The Best Time to Visit Vic Falls and find the right time for you.

January to March at Victoria Falls

January is the height of summer at Vic Falls. Though still low-water season, The levels of the Zambezi begin to rise. This is not the time to see the mighty Victoria Falls in full force. It is, however, the ideal time to go white-water rafting.

In February, the Zambezi is in full flow. The dramatic spectacle of millions of litres of water cascading over the lip of the falls is what gives them their name “The Smoke that Thunders”. Raincoats are usually provided and you should expect to get wet.

By March the Falls are in full flow offering the most spectacular experience of the Victoria Falls.

This green season, while great for seeing the Falls in full flow, is not the best time of year for safaris to Botswana.

April to June at Victoria Falls

April marks the end of the rainy season. Expect cooler temperatures and heavy mist from the falls. This is a great time to get a bird's eye view of the Falls from a helicopter or microlight.

May brings dry winter conditions. Cooler temperatures and less rain make this an ideal time to visit Vic Falls.

The falls remain powerful in June. As the dry season deepens, cool nights and warm days are perfect for a trip to Chobe.

July to September at Victoria Falls

July is considered one of the best times to visit the Victoria Falls. Mild weather, good waterfall views, and the stunning lunar rainbow make this one of the best months.

In August in addition to warmer weather, conditions are ideal for white-water rafting. The Devil’s Pool reopens when water levels are considered to be safe again.

September is the start of spring. The weather remains dry, offering excellent wildlife viewing around Victoria Falls and in Botswana.

While the falls are still impressive, they become drier later in the season.

October to December at Victoria Falls

October is the hottest month. The Zambezi River is at its lowest, and the Falls are at their weakest.

The first rains fall in November, marking the start of the Green Season. Birdwatching is excellent as migratory species arrive.

December is warm and wet. Daily thunderstorms revive the barren landscape. Birding is at its peak, and it’s the last chance for white-water rafting before water levels rise.