Victoria Falls, known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya, the smoke that thunders, is where the Zambezi River drops into a narrow basalt gorge along the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe.
AT A GLANCE
Best time
February to May for the most powerful flow; late August to December for clearer views, rafting and Devil's Pool.
How long
Three to four nights covers both sides of the falls plus river and wildlife activities.
Getting there
Fly into Livingstone on the Zambian side or Victoria Falls Airport in Zimbabwe; the two towns are a short drive apart.
Why visit Victoria Falls
Victoria Falls changes character through the year more than almost any other natural landmark. In the wet season it is a roaring wall of white water, so loud and misty that you are soaked within minutes on the viewing paths.
The area is also a gateway to wildlife and culture. Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park on the Zambian bank shelters white rhinos, elephants, giraffes and hippos, and Chobe National Park in Botswana is within day-trip reach.
The falls from the Zambian side
The Zambian entrance to the falls lies within Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, about ten kilometres from Livingstone town and just before the border post. A network of paths leads to the main viewpoints.
The Knife-Edge Bridge
This narrow footbridge crosses a deep chasm onto a rocky promontory facing the Eastern Cataract and the gorge known as the Boiling Pot.
The Eastern Cataract
The Eastern Cataract is the portion of the falls in Zambia. Paths along the lip lead to viewpoints where you can look straight along the face of the falls.
The Boiling Pot trail
A steep path descends through rainforest to the bottom of the first gorge, where the river churns in a whirlpool called the Boiling Pot. The walk takes about an hour down and back, longer if you linger, and includes uneven rock steps.
Victoria Falls Bridge
Completed in 1905, the Victoria Falls Bridge arches over the second gorge and connects Zambia and Zimbabwe. You can walk onto the bridge from the Zambian side with permission from the border post, enjoy views back toward the falls and watch bungee jumpers launch from the span.
On and beside the Zambezi
Livingstone Island and Devil's Pool
Livingstone Island sits right at the lip of the falls, near the spot where David Livingstone first viewed them in 1855. Licensed operators run boat trips to the island from Livingstone, combining a guided walk with a swim.
Sunset cruises on the upper Zambezi
Above the falls, the Zambezi is wide and calm, scattered with islands and fringed by palms. Sunset cruises depart from riverfront jetties, and you are likely to see hippos, crocodiles, elephants on the banks and birds such as African fish eagles.
White-water rafting in the Batoka Gorge
Below the falls, the Zambezi tumbles through the Batoka Gorge in a series of powerful rapids, making it one of the best-known rafting rivers in the world.
Wildlife, museums and culture
Mosi-oa-Tunya game park and rhino walks
The game park section of Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, upstream of the falls along the river, is small but easy to reach from Livingstone.
Livingstone Museum
Zambia's oldest and largest museum covers natural history, archaeology, ethnography and the history of the country, with a well-known collection of David Livingstone's letters and personal items. Allow one to two hours.
Mukuni Village
Mukuni, a short drive from Livingstone, is a traditional village of the Toka Leya people. Guided visits introduce daily life, crafts and local customs.
The Zimbabwean side
Across the bridge, the Zimbabwean side offers a long rainforest path with viewpoints facing the Main Falls and Devil's Cataract, and many visitors consider it the best full-length view of the falls. Allow half a day, including border formalities, and check visa requirements before you cross.
Chobe day trips and the Royal Livingstone Express
Chobe National Park in Botswana, famous for its huge elephant herds along the Chobe River, lies within day-trip reach of Livingstone via the Kazungula Bridge.
Planning a trip to Victoria Falls?Compare hotels, flights and vacation rentals for Victoria Falls on Expedia.Book nowFood and local flavors
The staple across Zambia is nshima, a thick maize porridge eaten by hand with relishes.
In Livingstone, Maramba Market is the most authentic place to see local produce, dried fish and everyday goods, while Mosi-oa-Tunya Road, the main street, has cafes and restaurants serving both Zambian and international dishes.
Popular dishes to try in Victoria Falls
Where to stay
Livingstone town suits independent travelers and budget-conscious visitors, with guesthouses, backpacker lodges, restaurants and easy access to transport and tour operators.
The upper Zambezi riverfront, upstream of the falls, suits couples and wildlife lovers who want sunset views, birdlife and a quieter, lodge-based stay.
Near the falls, within the national park area, stays let you walk to the viewpoints early in the morning before the crowds.
Where to stay in Victoria Falls
Best time to visit
The Zambezi floods after the rains, so peak flow usually comes between about February and May.
From June to August, flow is still strong but views clear, temperatures are mild and the bush is dry, making it a comfortable time for wildlife activities.
Getting there and getting around
Harry Mwaanga Nkumbula International Airport in Livingstone has regional connections, including flights from Johannesburg. On the Zimbabwean side, Victoria Falls Airport also serves regional routes.
Taxis are the easiest way to get between Livingstone, the falls and riverfront lodges, and many tour operators include hotel transfers.
A suggested itinerary
First day
Visit the Zambian side of the falls early in the morning, cross the Knife-Edge Bridge and walk down to the Boiling Pot.
Second day
Take an early boat to Livingstone Island, swimming in Devil's Pool if the season allows.
Third day
Cross the Victoria Falls Bridge to Zimbabwe for the rainforest walk facing the Main Falls, or spend the day rafting in the Batoka Gorge during the low-water months.
Practical tips
- Book Livingstone Island and Devil's Pool trips well in advance, especially in September and October.
- Carry a rain jacket and waterproof bags for phones and cameras in high-water months.
- Check visa requirements for both Zambia and Zimbabwe before you arrive, and keep your passport handy near the bridge.
- Consult a travel doctor about malaria prevention and use insect repellent in the evening.
- Wear shoes with good grip on wet paths and on the Boiling Pot trail.
- Keep a respectful distance from baboons near the falls entrance and do not carry food openly.
