Victoria Falls are one of the seven natural wonders of the world with the largest falling curtain of water in the world, the falls are one of the top bucket list destinations in Southern Africa as well as the world and is often referred to as the adrenaline capital of Africa. With so many awe-inspiring activities to do and millions of travelers from all over the world visiting, it is important to know the perfect time of the year to visit the Mighty Victoria Falls and what you want to experience.
Just like any other destination
Victoria Falls has its seasons. It will really be disappointing to visit the falls during the high season wanting to take a dip in the daring Devil’s Pool which is usually closed in this season due to too high water levels. So it is important to plan your Victoria Falls Holiday appropriately. Just for your information: Victoria Falls is one of the hottest places in the all of Zimbabwe. So if you are looking for an escape from the Northern Hemisphere Winter, Victoria Falls is the right place.
There is no best time to visit Victoria Falls as each season offers something spectacular and unique to the particular season. Deciding when to visit Victoria Falls is mostly a factor of what you want to do, while you here.
Are you an adrenaline junkie looking for a thrilling adventure to the mighty Zambezi River, swim in the Devil’s Pool right on the edge, then the best time is during the low season. But if you are interesting in seeing the sheer power, force and magnificence of
the Falls, high season is the best time for you.
What is the best time to visit Victoria Falls Zimbabwe?
High Season
The high water season at the Victoria Falls is between March-May, just after the rainy season when the falls have had time to fill up between November – and February. The falls are now at their fullest and the volume of flowing water is outstanding, if you want to see the falls at their most dramatic, now is the time. The days are hot and evenings warm. September – December are out of the extreme heat but it is not quite winter yet, more on a Victoria Falls winter to come.
The spray from the falls is heavier and more extreme than you could ever imagine in your wildest
dreams. During your rainforest walk, you will get total soaked. The spray is more powerful than a high pressure shower, there is no escaping the shower as they make your rainforest experience total magical and unforgettable.
During this season, it is not uncommon for a short sharp thunderstorm to clear the heat momentarily which creates an eye-catching sky. If you are travel wish is to see the Victoria Falls in its total element, this is the perfect
time for you.
The High Season is Prime Time for
- Rainforest Walk
- Viewing the Falls with the highest volume of water plunging into the gorge.
Low Season
Victoria Falls’ low season falls between August/September to December and it is an awesome season. The rain is no longer falling and the water level are returning to their lowest, right before the rainy season is due to commence again (in Mid-November). This is the perfect opportunity to view the falls, with less of the heavy downfall of water and if you are keen to check out the geological features of the physical falls, now this is your perfect time.
There is plenty of water, gushing from the Falls, but not at the same kind of level as
during the high season.
If you visit Zambia and check out the Falls from there, you will see hardly any, if any water falling. You will experience a much lighter spray of water during rainforest walk, also the destination is much less crowded. This is the hottest time of the year at Victoria Falls and also one of the hottest locations in Southern Africa. If you are okay with extreme heat, this will be an awesome time for you. The best part of visiting in this hot and dry season? The lower water levels allow for certain water-based activities to happen which aren’t possible during the high season.
This season offers a perfect opportunity to take a dip on to the Falls in the Devil’s Pool – Africa’s Ultimate infinity pool. This natural rock pool is nestled right on the top of the falls, you can test your inner daredevil as you lean over the edge, seeing the Falls from an angle like no other.
Definitely one for the bucket list, the Devil’s Pool is an awesome attraction only open during the low season, between mid-August to mid-January, so don’t miss this grand
opportunity. Also, this is the time of year to take to the might and iconic Zambezi River for white water rafting. For all the dare devils, this is the season for you. However, this season is not good for adventure seekers.
Although this is a very hot season, it is the best time for wildlife lovers to explore and discover all the glory of Africa’s wildlife and where better than the mighty Falls as your backdrop. Game viewing sights are at their peak as wildlife congregate in their huge numbers to watering holds, due to the low levels of water in other area. The vegetation cover is thinner making it easier to spot more game on an incredible game drive.
The Low Season is Prime Time for
- Water-based activities include swimming at the Devil’s Pool White water rafting
- Game viewing and Safaris
Medium – High Waters
If you are looking for a good combination of seasons, this time could be your best alternative. Note –January February is peak rainy season, so be prepared for some rainfall and cloud coverage. June – August is the main winter period around Victoria Falls which is considerably cooler than the rest of the year. In fact, it could be the best time of the year for those looking for cooler temperatures (June – August) or those wanting refreshing rain
breakfast during the summer (rains in January – February).
This period is where you can expect medium to high waters which is a good balance between two seasons. The water levels sit comfortably between high and low, allowing for most water activities to take place, while Victoria Falls are topped up, but the bottom of the falls is also visible. This is considered one of the best times of the year to visit the Falls.
Medium – High Waters season is perfect for
- Seeing the Falls
- Taking part in water-based activities
- Enjoy both seasons, with more flexibility with what is on offer
The Winter Season
This season is not as cold as you may think. June – August are the winter months in Zimbabwe, the temperatures are not as scorching as during the summer months and it is considerable cooler. But donot forget that Victoria Falls is one of the hottest places in Southern Africa and the falls remain warm all year round. Winter in Zimbabwe is not as big as the winter in Europe where you need snow boots and big thick jackets during the day.
However, we recommend you bring some warmer clothes for the evenings, to avoid the chill of the evenings and early mornings, compared to the day. The days will still be warm and pleasant and for all people who are not fun of the extreme heat, this could be your ideal time.
The rainy season starts off around Mid0 November, until around late March Torrential downpours and large thunderstorms are not uncommon during this time. The weather remains warm and these storms are usually quickly followed by blue skies and plenty of sun. This is still peak summertime, you can expect hot weather.
Note: The Zambezi National Park could be closed for a short period of time that is if
roads are drenched from the rai, between mid-November – December.
The Winter Season is Prime Time for
- Viewing the Falls
- Water based activities are mostly available – before the Falls get too full.
In conclusion – regardless of the season, The Victoria Falls offers opportunities for everyone.
Leave a Reply