The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Victoria Falls Zimbabwe

The mighty Victoria Falls Zimbabwe is one of the seven natural wonders of the world and is also one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the world, the falls is located on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe on the Zambezi River.

In this Guide to Visiting Victoria Falls, you will learn that Victoria Falls is 1,708 meters wide and 108 meters high with a spray that rises up to 400 meters above the drop and can be seen from up 30 kilometers away. The mist of the falls is the reason to why the local people call the falls the “Smoke that Thunders”, there is a lot of mist that it creates a smoke like effect and the unbelievable thunderous noise which you can hear from a distance.

Victoria Falls is a popular tourist destination in Southern Africa attracting millions of visitors from all over the world.

This blog “The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Victoria Falls Zimbabwe” will give you all the information you need as you plan your Victoria Falls Trip.

Victoria Falls Facts

Victoria Falls is the largest waterfall in the world and is listed among the most awe-inspiring natural wonders on the planet. Here are some interesting facts about this incredibly beautiful falls.

The Victoria Falls is 108 meters high and 1,708 meters wide, making it the largest sheet of falling water in world. It is worth noting that Victoria Falls isn’t the highest drop waterfall in the world, a title held by Angel Falls in Venezuela.
Victoria Falls is fed by the Zambezi River which is the fourth – longest river in Africa
Each year, over a million visitors only visit the Zimbabwean Side of the falls
David Livingstone name the waterfalls its name “Victoria Falls” after the then reigning British Monarch – Queen Victoria. The Town on the Zambian side of the falls is called “Livingstone” and while there have been talks about renaming the falls. Its English name is maintained for now.
There are 5 gorges in the Victoria Falls system, named first, second, third and fourth gorges followed by the better named Songwe Gorge which is where the Songwe River feeds in.
If you are lucky enough to visit on a full moon, the mist creates a “moonbow” which is really breathtaking to see. Hard to photograph but great to see.

The 5 Falls Making Up Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls is made up of several sections, each with its unique features

The Devil’s Cataract

The Devil’s Cataract stands at 70 meters high on the Zimbabwean side, separated from the rest of the falls by Boaruka Island – a name that means “water diver” and the falls were named “Devil’s Cataract” by missionaries who arrived in the area and were horrified by the local tribes performing sacrificial ceremonies there.

Today, a statue of David Livingstone overlooks the cataract and serves as the first of 19 viewing points of the falls.

The Main Falls

This is the largest of the falls with 93 high and has a peak flow rate of 700,000 cubic per minute. The sheer volume of water here is so great that it is turned into mist and appears to be smoke, never reaching the ground.

The Horseshoe Falls

Horseshoe Falls is actually a fissure that has been eroded over time into a horseshoe shape, this 95 meter high section of the falls is the first to dry up during the dry season and is a popular nesting side for birds such as swifts, martins and long-tailed wagtails.

The Rainbow Falls

At108 meters, Rainbow Falls is the highest of the falls and one of the most dangerous spots to view from. As the name suggests, clear days often result in a stunning rainbow being visible.

The best time to see the rainbow is around 4 pm from the Zimbabwean side, when the angle of the sunlight reflects off the rainbow.

The Eastern Cataract

This part of the falls is entirely within the Zambian Border and is a 101 meter high section.

What to See at Victoria Falls Town

The Victoria Falls Town has become a tourism hub and has grown to meet the tourism levels for visitors to Victoria Falls, this little decent town hosts a number of cafes, restaurants, bars and a wide range of accommodation options.

Here are what to see and do after you have spent your day at Victoria Falls

The Victoria Falls Bridge

The Victoria Falls Bridge spans the Zambezi River and is a popular tourist attraction on the Victoria Falls, it boasts stunning views of the Victoria Falls and is a great spot for bungee jumping.

If you are not interested in bungee jumping but still seek for a thrill, consider the gorge swing instead.it is higher than the bungee platform. Also, you can just sand back and watch those taking part in the thrilling activities at the bridge or do a walking tour takes you in the bridge and is a great way to get more information and see the bridge as well.

Victoria Falls Wildlife Park

The Victoria Falls Wildlife Park is home to a variety of wildlife including elephants, giraffes, and zebras among others. The Park is a great place to go on a safari and get an up close encounter with the animals.

High Tea at Victoria Falls Hotel

Experiencing the High Tea at Victoria Falls Hotel is one of the best things to do in Victoria Falls, hosted on the hotel’s Stanley’s Terrrace, the hotel‘s famous high tea is a wonderful way to spend some time at the hotel looking out over the bridge to the mist from the falls.

High Tea is from 3pm to 6pm daily and must be booked, it can be booked a day or two in advance but booking earlier is advised as it sell out regularly.

If you would like to combine High Tea at Victoria Falls Hotel with a visit to town and Cultural Tour of Victoria Falls, here is what to get

A guided walking tour of Victoria Falls (duration about 2 hours)
Visit Lookout Café Perched 120 meters above the Zambezi River Rapids
Discover the bridge and learn about its constructions
Short tour of Victoria Falls Hotel – one of the oldest hotels in Zimbabwe and enjoy the famous high tea on Stanely’s Terrace with spectacular views of the Victoria Falls Bridge. You will also visit the big tree which is over 1000 years old.
Visit the township of Victoria Falls and learn about the local customs, see how local people live and browse craft markets with handcrafts made by Zimbabwean artists.

Victoria Falls Private Game Reserve

Just like the name suggests, Victoria Falls Private Game Reserve is located within the Zambezi National Park boasting the Big 5 – lion, leopard, elephants, buffaloes and the reintroduced black rhinos.

The reserve is a perfect place to go for a game safari.

White Water Rafting on the Zambezi River

White water rafting on the Zambezi River is an exhilarating experience, the river has grade 4-5 rapids which mean it can be terrifying at times. While on this experience, listen to your guide attentively and do exactly what they ask of you for safety reasons.

White water rafting on the Zambezi River is super fun and after the first rapid, you will gain confidence and relax into it.

If you would prefer something that is less thrilling, consider the Upper Zambezi Raft Float. It is way more sedate and you still get to experience the river and its magic.

Take The Dinner Run Steam Train

The Rovo’s Rail’s 14a Class locomotive will take you on a fine dining experience from the Victoria Falls Station (opposite the hotel) across the bridge stopping for some photo time and then down to Jafuta Siding where you partake in a 3 course dinner prepared by the Victoria Falls Hotel Team.

The whole trip usually lasts about 3-4 hours depending on the season and usually runs on Tuesday, Friday and Sunday.

Get An Aerial View of The Falls

Enjoy both helicopter and microlight trips over the Victoria Falls for 15 and 30 minutes’ options. The microlights are really fund and can get quite low over the water as well the wildlife.

Helicopters are more readily available but as long as you are prepared to have your Gopro or Camera strapped on to you, the microlights means you have unobstructed views for the best photos.

Microlight flights are available from Livingstone only but it is not hard to get across the bridge to that side, you only need to have a Zimbabwe – Zambia Visa (Zim Zam Visa)

Do A Sunset Cruise on The Zambezi River

Zambezi River Cruises are very popular and there are several options for both budget travelers and more upmarket boats some of which include dinner. The River Cruise is a great way to finish your Victoria Falls or Livingstone Experience, it is recommended to book this experience in advance.

The Zambezi River Cruise can take more time that you imagine to walk all around the Victoria Falls, cross into Zambia or Zimbabwe, view the other side and get home.

Do The Boma Dinner and Drum Show

The Boma Restaurant has a Dinner and Drum show that is really entertaining to watch, the food is great with a menu that includes things like Crocodiles and warthog and great vegetarian meals. The restaurant is a great place for meat eaters and the prices are very fair.

Go Abseiling Down Victoria Falls

Abseiling is one of the must do activities on Victoria Falls Holiday and most of the best adventures, being able to abseil down one of the 7 natural wonders of the world is really mind-blowing.

When is The Best Time of Year to Visit Victoria Falls?

The best time to visit Victoria Falls is from April to May and from August to November, during these months the water flow is higher and the spray of the falls can be seen from both side of the border. Also, it is the best time to go on a safari as the animals are more active during the dry season.

It is important to note that the rainy season in Victoria Falls is from November to December to March/April, during this time the waterfall is at its highest and the spray can be seen from miles away. It is also the best time for white water rafting and other water activities.

If you wish to swim in Devil’s Cataract, you need to go in the dry season which will also be better for spotting wildlife.
If you wish to see Victoria Falls at its peak, April to May when the wet season is just finishing will be the time to visit.

Should I See Victoria Falls From Zambia or Zimbabwe

With a Zim Zam Visa, it is possible to cross into and out of Zimbabwe and Zambia so you can see both sides.

Victoria Falls from Zambia

The Zambian side of the Victoria Falls offer a unique perspective of the waterfall and is the perfect spot for taking photos of the main falls opposite. The viewpoint is quite close to the border crossing, but Livingstone town itself is about 7 kilometers from the viewpoint.

If you cross from Zimbabwe, and if you want to head into the main town you will have to have some transportation, there are plenty of accommodation options and the National Art Gallery is really worth a visit in Livingstone.

Victoria Falls from Zimbabwe

The Zimbabwe Side of the Victoria Falls offers a different perspective of the waterfall and is a much way to grasp the sheer volume of water roaring over the waterfall each day. Once you enter, you can follow the walkway along the length of the falls and there are some beach seats to allow you to sit and take it all in or to eat your lunch.

In my opinion, you need to visit both sides of the falls. The Zimbabwean side will be so impressive, noisy and wet and the Zambian side allows you to stand back a little further and really take in the scale.

Tips for Visiting Victoria Falls

Visiting Victoria Falls Zimbabwe is an awe-inspiring experience and there are a few things to keep in mind to make sure you have the best experience possible. Here are some tips for visiting the falls.

Make sure to bring comfortable walking shoes and plenty of water, get ready to get a little wet though it can also get really hot. The Zimbabwean side particularly can also be very wet and slippery so call descent shoes.
Bring sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses as the sun can be intense
Make sure to bring insect repellent as the insects can be quite pesky. Consider Malaria protection as there are malaria mosquitoes in this area
If you are including a safari on your Victoria Falls Holiday, make sure to wear neutral-colored clothing as white and bright colors can scare away the animals.
Book your accommodation in advance as it can be difficult to find last-minute accommodations
Check the weather before you go as the waterfall can be dangerous in the rainy season
Make sure to check the rules and regulations for most of the activities you plan to do as some activities may be prohibited.

Accommodation Options At Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls Zimbabwe offers a variety of accommodation options ranging from luxury resorts to budget – friendly guesthouses. There are a number of lodges, hotels and campsites in the region perfect for any budget or preference.

If you are looking for a high-end option, the most popular luxury accommodation option is the Victoria Falls Hotel which is located right on the edge of the falls and offers stunning views of the area. It is a great spot for honeymooners as it offers luxury suites and fine dining.

Other accommodation options range from safari lodges, luxury tented camps, budget-friendly guest houses and camping sites.

In conclusion – Victoria Falls Zimbabwe is an incredible must see African destination for any traveler on Africa Safari Holiday to Southern Africa. The Victoria Falls is a combination of a powerful waterfall, striking scenery and abundant wildlife which makes it a truly unforgettable experience.

End of this Guide to Visiting Victoria Falls

General Information

On this 9 Days Zimbabwe Victoria Falls Safari, all visitors must have a valid passport with at least 4 consecutive blanks pages. Any applicable visa and/or relevant documentation are the responsibility of the traveler. For further information on Visa requirements visitors are advised to contact their nearest South African Embassy or Consulate.

Language On This 9 Days Zimbabwe Victoria Falls Safari:

English

Time:

GMT +3

Voltage:

220 Volts/AC50Hz. Sockets are UK style, 3 pin square plugs. Power is from the government in the city/major towns and generator with inverter back up in the Safari Lodges and Camps.

Currency:

Foreign currency must be changed at the Bank, Bureau de Change, and Hotel/Safari lodge/Camp/Resort. Major Credit Cards, Master card, Visa, American Express, are usually accepted throughout the country. Where credit cards are accepted, the payment will normally be recorded in US$ regardless of the card’s default currency.

Clothing:

Dress is mainly informal and should be comfortable as well as practical. Something warm should be brought along for early morning and evenings. Safari clothes are available from hotels/lodges/camps.

Baggage:

Where possible, travel light. Baggage space on safari is limited to medium suitcase or soft bag per person plus reasonable amount of hand luggage. There is 15 Kilogram per person limit on all flights to the wildlife sanctuaries. Excess luggage must be stored in your arrival hotel.

Water:

You will find many different of opinions of what is safe and what is not. We recommend for peace of mind, to drink local Bottled Mineral water. It is important to drink plenty of water, especially during the hotter months. We would recommend that guests drink at least 2 to 3 liters of water per day to limit the effects of dehydration.

Health;

South Africa is a safe and secure destination; however, it is a good idea to take a few precautions. Kindly consult your GP or local doctor at least 6 weeks before you travel, with regards to malaria prophylactics. East Africa is a known malaria area and preventive measures are essential.

You are advised to take one of the recommended anti-malarial drugs. Be sure to wear long-sleeved shorts and trousers after sunset and spray the exposed parts of your body with a mosquito repellent spray Remember to protect yourself from direct sun rays with sunscreen cream or a safari hat.

Dietary Requirements:

For those guests with specific dietary requirements, please ensure we are notified prior to travel

Gratuities:

As a guideline and dependent on how happy you are, we would suggest the following: The General Hotel/Lodge/Camp Staff – Approximately U$ 10.00 per person per day Driver Guides – Approximately US$ 15.00 to US$ 20.00 per person per day

Photography:

Please be careful when photographing public buildings, airports, bridges, the national flag and people in uniform. Ensure that you have sought permission before photographing local people and their villages. If in doubt, please check with your guide.

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