Trip To Victoria Falls Made Easy: Your Step-By-Step Guide

Did you know that Victoria Falls is twice as tall as Niagara Falls? It’s huge! Over a million people visit every year to see this amazing waterfall between Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Planning a trip to Victoria Falls might seem hard, but lucky you, this guide will help you figure out when to go, where to stay, and what to do. I’ll share all the tips I learned on my own Victoria Falls vacation. Let’s start planning your awesome adventure!

When’s the Best Time to Visit Victoria Falls?

So, when should you plan your trip to Victoria Falls? Well, it’s not as straightforward as you might think. The falls change dramatically throughout the year, so timing can make or break your Victoria Falls experience.

Dry Season (July to November)

During the dry season, water levels drop, revealing more of the magnificent rock face. This is when you can really appreciate Victoria Falls’ incredible structure. The weather’s more predictable too, with sunny days and cooler nights.

If you’re itching to try activities like white water rafting or swimming in Devil’s Pool (more on that later!), this is your golden window. I visited in November, and it was perfect because the water flow on the Zimbabwe side was still impressive but not so overwhelming that I couldn’t see anything.

Rainy Season (December to April)

Now, if you want to see Victoria Falls in all its thunderous glory, plan your trip during the rainy season. This is when the falls are at their mightiest.

The spray can be seen from miles away, which is why locals call it “Mosi-oa-Tunya” or “The Smoke that Thunders.” It’s a jaw-dropping sight, but be warned: you’ll get soaked to the bone!

During this time, some activities like Devil’s Pool are off-limits due to high water levels. But if you’re after that picture-perfect, misty, rainbow-filled Victoria Falls experience, this is your time to shine.

My Recommendation on the Best Time to Visit Victoria Falls

Based on my recent trip to Victoria Falls, I’d say aim for the shoulder season, around mid-November. Here’s why I think it’s the sweet spot for planning your Victoria Falls vacation:

• The falls are still impressive, especially on the Zimbabwe side.
• You can still do adrenaline-pumping activities like swimming in Devil’s Pool.
• The weather is warm but not scorching hot.
• You might catch some dramatic thunderstorms, adding to the whole experience.

But here’s a heads up: climate change is affecting the falls. In recent years, droughts have been more severe, especially in Zambia. Keep this in mind when planning your trip to Victoria Falls. It’s always a good idea to check recent visitor reports before you finalize your dates.

How to Get to Victoria Falls: Travel Options Explained

Alright, now that we’ve nailed down when to go, let’s talk about how to get there. Don’t sweat it – reaching Victoria Falls is easier than you might think!

Flying to Victoria Falls

The easiest way to kick off your Victoria Falls journey is by plane. You’ve got two main airport options:

• Victoria Falls Airport (VFA) in Zimbabwe
• Livingstone Airport (LVI) in Zambia (also known as Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport)

I flew into Livingstone Airport from Johannesburg, and it was a breeze. The flight took about 1 hour and 45 minutes. From the airport, it’s just a quick 10-15 minute taxi ride to most hotels.

Here’s a handy table of some airlines that fly to these airports:

Airline	Victoria Falls Airport (VFA)	Livingstone Airport (LVI)
South African Airways	Yes	Yes
British Airways	Yes	Yes
Kenya Airways	Yes	Yes
Ethiopian Airlines	Yes	Yes
Air Zimbabwe	Yes (to Harare)	No
Proflight Zambia	No	Yes (to Lusaka)

Planning tip: book your taxi in advance through a local company. I paid about $10 USD for my ride, which was a steal!

Alternative Ways to Reach Victoria Falls

If you’re up for more of an adventure on your trip to Victoria Falls, consider these alternatives:

By Bus

Several companies connect other Southern African cities with Victoria Falls. It’s a longer journey, but you’ll get to soak in more of the stunning African landscape. Just be prepared for a bumpy ride – African roads can be an adventure in themselves!

By Train

For a touch of luxury to kick off your Victoria Falls vacation, consider the Rovos Rail. This fancy train takes you on a 3-day journey from Pretoria, South Africa to Victoria Falls.

If you’re on a tighter budget, there’s also an overnight train from Bulawayo, Zimbabwe to Victoria Falls. It takes about 12 hours and can be quite an adventure.

From Botswana

If you’re coming from Botswana, head to Kasane. From there, you can hop in a shared taxi to either Livingstone or Victoria Falls town. The drive takes just over an hour and is a great way to start your Victoria Falls experience.

Zimbabwe or Zambia: Which Side Should You Choose for Your Stay?

Now, here’s a big decision you’ll need to make when planning your trip to Victoria Falls: which side should you stay on, Zimbabwe or Zambia?

Both offer unique experiences and ideally, you should try to see both during your Victoria Falls vacation. Let me break it down for you based on my recent visit.

The Zimbabwe Side: Victoria Falls National Park

Zimbabwe is home to the Victoria Falls National Park, and I found it more organized and structured than the Zambia side. Here’s what you need to know:

• Entry fee: $30 USD per person (as of September 2024)
• Visit duration: About 2-4 hours
• Best viewpoints: Devil’s Cataract, Danger Point, and Main Falls

The Zimbabwe side has about 75% of the falls within its park, so you’re guaranteed to see water flowing year-round. The town of Victoria Falls is also just a few minutes walk from the park entrance, which is super convenient. I loved being able to pop in and out of the park easily.

The Zambia Side: Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park

On the Zambia side, you’ll be visiting Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park. Here’s the lowdown:

• Entry fee: $20 USD per person (as of September 2024)
• Visit duration: About 3-4 hours
• Best feature: Closer, more immersive experience of the falls

The Zambian side offers a unique perspective and is generally less crowded. But, it can dry up completely during the dry season (remember what I said about recent droughts?).

When I visited in November, the Zambian side was pretty dry, but the experience of getting up close to the falls was still incredible.

My Take: See Both Sides!

If you’re asking me how to plan a trip to Victoria Falls, I’d say try to see both sides if you can. Here’s why:

• Different perspectives: The Zimbabwe side gives you the grand overview, while the Zambia side lets you get up close and personal.
• Unique experiences: Some activities, like swimming in Devil’s Pool, are only available from the Zambia side.
• Two countries for one trip: With the right visa (more on that later), you can easily cross between Zimbabwe and Zambia.

I stayed on the Zambia side but visited both, and I’m so glad I did. Each side offers a unique Victoria Falls experience that you won’t want to miss. The contrast between the two sides really adds depth to your Victoria Falls adventure.

Visa Requirements: Your Ticket to a Smooth Victoria Falls Trip

Before you get too carried away planning all the exciting parts of your trip to Victoria Falls, let’s talk about the not-so-exciting but super important stuff: visas. Nope, it’s not as complicated as it sounds!

The KAZA Visa: Your Golden Ticket

For most visitors planning a trip to Victoria Falls, I highly recommend getting the KAZA Visa (also known as the UniVisa). Here’s why it’s awesome:

• It allows entry to both Zambia and Zimbabwe.
• You can make unlimited border crossings between the two countries.
• It’s valid for 30 days.
• It even allows a day trip to Botswana’s Chobe National Park (which I highly recommend if you have the time!).

The KAZA Visa costs $50 USD and is available to citizens of about 65 countries, including the UK, US, Canada, Australia, and most EU countries.

You can get a KAZA Visa on arrival at several entry points, including Victoria Falls Airport, Livingstone Airport, and the land border between Zambia and Zimbabwe.

I got mine at Livingstone Airport, and it was a breeze. Just make sure you have $50 in cash (they prefer crisp, new bills) and a pen to fill out the form.

Other Visa Options

If you’re not eligible for the KAZA Visa or only plan to visit one country, you can get single-entry visas for either Zambia or Zimbabwe. These cost between $30-50 USD, depending on your nationality.

Take note: visa requirements can change, so always check the official government websites before your Victoria Falls trip. It’s better to be over-prepared than caught off guard at the border!

Where to Stay During Your Victoria Falls Trip

Now that we’ve covered when to go, how to get there, and the paperwork you need, let’s talk about where to stay during your trip to Victoria Falls. Both the Zimbabwe and Zambia sides offer a range of accommodations to suit every budget and style.

Staying on the Zimbabwe Side

Victoria Falls town in Zimbabwe has a wide range of options. Here are a few I checked out or heard great things about:

• Victoria Falls Hotel: This is the grand dame of Victoria Falls accommodations. It’s a bit pricey, but the colonial charm and views of the bridge are unbeatable. Plus, they make a mean afternoon tea!
• Ilala Lodge: A mid-range option that’s close to the falls and gets great reviews. I popped in for dinner at their restaurant, and the atmosphere was lovely.
• Victoria Falls Rest Camp and Lodges: For budget travelers, this place offers affordable chalets and camping sites. It’s basic but clean and has a great location.

Staying on the Zambia Side

I stayed on the Zambia side during my Victoria Falls vacation, and I loved it. Here are some options:

• Royal Livingstone Hotel: This is the luxury choice. It’s right on the Zambezi River, and you might see zebras wandering the grounds!
• Avani Victoria Falls Resort: This is where I stayed, and I can’t recommend it enough. It’s within the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, so you get free entry to the falls.
• Maramba River Lodge: For a more budget-friendly option, this place offers tents and chalets. It’s a bit further from the falls but offers a great safari-like experience.

My Accommodation Recommendation

If you’re wondering where to stay on your trip to Victoria Falls, here’s my advice: split your time if you can. I loved staying at the Avani on the Zambia side because of the free falls access and the chance to see wildlife right from my room.

But I also wish I’d spent a night or two on the Zimbabwe side for a different perspective and to explore the town a bit more. But no matter where you stay, you’re never far from the falls.

Must-Do Activities on Your Victoria Falls Vacation

Alright, now for the fun part! There’s so much to do on a trip to Victoria Falls beyond just seeing the falls themselves. Here’s a table summarizing these must-do activities:

Activity	Cost (USD)	Duration	Best Season
Devil’s Pool	110	2-3 hours	Dry season (Aug-Dec)
White Water Rafting	120	4 hours	Low water (Aug-Dec)
Sunset Cruise	50-70	2-3 hours	Any
Helicopter Flight	150	15-30 mins	Any (best in high water)
Livingstone Island	110-175	2 hours	Any (Devil’s Pool in dry season)

1. Swimming in Devil’s Pool

This was hands down the highlight of my Victoria Falls vacation. Devil’s Pool is a natural infinity pool right on the edge of the falls on the Zambia side. It’s only accessible during the dry season when water levels are low enough.

• Cost: $110 USD for the morning tour (includes breakfast)
• Duration: About 2-3 hours
• What to bring: Swimsuit, waterproof camera, and sense of adventure!

The experience of looking over the edge of Victoria Falls is indescribable. My heart was pounding as I peeked over the edge, but the guides are fantastic and make you feel safe. Just remember, it’s not for the faint of heart!

2. White Water Rafting

If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush on your Victoria Falls trip, this is it. The Zambezi River below the falls offers some of the best white water rafting in the world.

• Cost: Around $120 USD per person
• Duration: About 4 hours
• Best time: Low water season (August to December)

I did this in November, and it was exhilarating. The rapids have fun names like “The Gnashing Jaws of Death” – don’t worry, it’s not as scary as it sounds! Our guide was hilarious and made sure we were safe while still having a blast.

3. Sunset Cruise on the Zambezi

For a more relaxed Victoria Falls experience, don’t miss a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. It’s a great way to wind down after a day of adventures.

• Cost: Varies, but expect to pay around $50-70 USD
• Duration: 2-3 hours
• What to expect: Wildlife sightings (I saw hippos and crocodiles!), open bar, snacks

This was a perfect way to end my Victoria Falls vacation. The sunset over the river is simply stunning, and sipping a G&T while watching hippos in the water is an experience I’ll never forget.

4. Helicopter Flight over Victoria Falls

While I didn’t do this myself (it was a bit out of my budget), many people I met on my trip to Victoria Falls said it was incredible. It gives you a bird’s eye view of the falls and the surrounding landscape.

• Cost: Around $150 USD for a 15-minute flight
• Duration: 15 or 30 minutes
• Best time: Any season, but especially spectacular during high water

If you can swing it, I’ve heard the views are absolutely breathtaking. It’s on my list for next time!

5. Visit to Livingstone Island

This is where David Livingstone first saw Victoria Falls. You can only visit as part of a tour, which includes a boat ride to the island and a guided walk.

• Cost: Varies by time of day ($110-$175 USD)
• Duration: About 2 hours
• What to expect: Amazing views, historical information, and maybe a dip in Devil’s Pool

I did this tour, and the historical context it provides really adds depth to your Victoria Falls experience. Plus, the views are incredible!

Practical Tips for Your Victoria Falls Vacation

Now that we’ve covered the exciting stuff, let’s talk about some practical tips to make your trip to Victoria Falls smooth and enjoyable. Trust me, these little details can make a big difference!

Money Matters

When I was planning my trip to Victoria Falls, I was a bit confused about currency. Here’s what you need to know:

• Zimbabwe uses US dollars and its own bond notes. I found it easier to just use USD.
• Zambia uses the Zambian Kwacha. As of September 2024, 1 USD equals about 322 Zambian Kwacha.
• Many places accept credit cards, but it’s good to have cash. But here’s a tip: bring smaller denominations. Many places struggle with change for large bills.

Here’s a quick breakdown of what I spent on average per day:

Expense	Cost (USD)
Accommodation	80-150
Meals	30-50
Activities	100-200
Transport	20-30

Remember that your Victoria Falls trip budget can vary widely depending on your travel style. I tried to mix some splurges with budget options to keep things reasonable.

Health and Safety on Your Victoria Falls Vacation

Victoria Falls is generally a safe place to visit, but here are some health tips I picked up during my trip:

• Malaria: Victoria Falls is in a malaria zone. I took anti-malarial tablets and used mosquito repellent religiously. Better safe than sorry!
• Water: Stick to bottled water to be safe. I even used it to brush my teeth, just to be extra cautious.
• Sun protection: The African sun is no joke. I got a bit of a sunburn on my first day, so learn from my mistake! Bring a hat, sunscreen, and maybe even a light long-sleeved shirt.
• Travel insurance: I always get travel insurance, but it’s especially important for a trip to Victoria Falls. With all the adventure activities available, it’s better to be covered.

As for safety, I felt very safe during my Victoria Falls vacation. The locals were friendly and helpful. Just use common sense like you would anywhere else – don’t flash expensive items and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

What to Pack for Your Victoria Falls Trip

Packing for a trip to Victoria Falls can be tricky because you need gear for both adventure and relaxation. Here’s a quick list of essentials:

Walking shoes	Water-resistant hiking sandals or quick-dry sneakers
Clothing	Lightweight, moisture-wicking shirts and shorts/pants
Raincoat/poncho	Packable, lightweight rain jacket or disposable poncho
Sunscreen	SPF 50+, water-resistant
Insect repellent	DEET-based, at least 20% concentration
Camera	Waterproof action camera or phone with waterproof case
Cash	US dollars in $1, $5, and $10 denominations
Binoculars	Compact, 8×25 or 10×25 magnification
Dry bag	10-15 liter waterproof dry sack
First aid kit	Basic kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, and blister pads

Pro planning tip: pack a pair of old sneakers or water shoes specifically for activities like white water rafting or walking near the falls. These might get ruined, but they’ll protect your feet and you can leave them behind, making space in your luggage for souvenirs!

Getting Around Victoria Falls Area

In both Victoria Falls town and Livingstone, I found taxis to be the easiest way to get around. You can also arrange transfers through your hotel. If you’re feeling adventurous, some places offer bicycle rentals!

One thing to note: if you’re crossing between Zimbabwe and Zambia, you’ll need to take a taxi to the border, walk across the Victoria Falls Bridge (which is an experience in itself!), and then take another taxi on the other side.

Foodie Adventures on Your Victoria Falls Trip

Now, let’s talk about something close to my heart – food! Your Victoria Falls experience wouldn’t be complete without trying some local dishes. Here are some of my favorite food experiences from my trip:

• Nshima: This is a staple food in Zambia, similar to polenta. It’s usually served with a side of meat or fish and vegetables.
• Boma Dinner: On the Zimbabwe side, don’t miss the Boma Dinner experience. It’s a bit touristy, but so much fun. You get to try all sorts of local dishes, including things like warthog and crocodile!
• Mopane worms: Okay, I’ll admit, I chickened out on this one. These caterpillars are a local delicacy. If you’re braver than me, give them a try!

Best Restaurants in Victoria Falls

Here’s a table of some of my favorite restaurants from my Victoria Falls vacation:

Restaurant	Location	Specialty	Price Range
Lookout Café	Zimbabwe	Amazing views Great burgers Local dishes (like crocodile kebab)	$12 – $25 per meal
Olga’s Italian Corner	Livingstone, Zambia	Best pizza in town	$8 – $18 per meal
The Palm Restaurant	Victoria Falls Hotel, Zimbabwe	Fine dining Great for a splurge	$30 – $60 per meal
Café Zambezi	Livingstone, Zambia	Local dishes Casual vibe	$5 – $12 per meal

Love travel? Visit https://destination.com/ for more cool guides and tips. We’ve got insider info on Victoria Falls and lots of other awesome places. Our advice helps you plan great trips all over the world. Don’t miss out!

Wildlife Encounters on Your Trip to Victoria Falls

One of the most exciting parts of my Victoria Falls experience was the incredible wildlife. Here are some ways to get up close and personal with Africa’s amazing animals:

Chobe National Park Day Trip

If you have time, I highly recommend taking a day trip to Chobe National Park in Botswana. It’s about an hour’s drive from Victoria Falls, and the wildlife viewing is incredible.

• Cost: Around $170 USD for a full-day trip
• What to expect: Game drive, river cruise, lunch
• Best for: Seeing elephants (Chobe has the highest concentration in Africa!)

I saw elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and even a pride of lions on my trip. It was a long day, but absolutely worth it.

Zambezi National Park Game Drive

If you don’t have time for Chobe, Zambezi National Park is right next to Victoria Falls on the Zimbabwe side.

• Cost: Around $50-70 USD for a half-day drive
• What to expect: Potential sightings of elephants, buffalo, and various antelopes
• Best for: A quick safari experience if you’re short on time

Victoria Falls Snake Park

For those interested in reptiles, the Snake Park in Victoria Falls town is fascinating.

• Cost: About $10 USD
• What to expect: Close-up views of various snake species, crocodiles, and other reptiles
• Best for: Learning about local reptiles and snake conservation

Planning tip: when viewing wildlife, always follow your guide’s instructions and respect the animals’ space. We’re visitors in their home, after all!

Cultural Experiences to Enrich Your Victoria Falls Trip

Your trip to Victoria Falls isn’t just about natural wonders and adventure sports. The area is rich in culture and history, and exploring this aspect can really enrich your Victoria Falls experience.

Visit a Local Village

Many tours offer visits to nearby villages. I did one in Zambia and found it to be a humbling and educational experience.

• Cost: Around $50 USD
• Duration: Half-day
• What to expect: Learn about local customs, see traditional homes, and even try your hand at cooking a local dish

Just make sure to choose a tour operator who is responsible and benefits the local community.

Explore the Museums

Both Victoria Falls town and Livingstone have museums that offer insights into the area’s history and culture.

• Livingstone Museum (Zambia): Learn about David Livingstone’s expeditions and local history.
• Railway Museum (Zimbabwe): For train enthusiasts, this museum showcases the history of the railway in the area.

Shop at Local Markets

For a taste of local life and some unique souvenirs, check out the markets:

• Maramba Market in Livingstone: This is where locals shop. It’s chaotic but fascinating!
• Victoria Falls Craft Market: Great for souvenirs, but be prepared to haggle.

Remember that bargaining is expected in these markets, but always be respectful and fair.

Here’s a Sample Victoria Falls Itinerary

Now that we’ve covered all the exciting things to do, let’s put it all together into a sample itinerary. Of course, you can adjust this based on your interests and the length of your Victoria Falls vacation.

Day 1: Arrival and First Glimpse of the Falls

• Arrive at your chosen airport (VFA or LVI)
• Check into your hotel (I recommend starting on the Zambia side)
• Take a late afternoon visit to the falls for your first view
• Enjoy a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River

Day 2: Adventure Day

• Early morning swim in Devil’s Pool (dry season only)
• White water rafting trip in the afternoon
• Evening: Relax at your hotel or try a local restaurant

Day 3: Explore the Zimbabwe Side

• Cross the border to Zimbabwe (remember your KAZA visa!)
• Spend the morning exploring Victoria Falls National Park
• Afternoon: Visit Victoria Falls town, maybe do some souvenir shopping
• Evening: Boma Dinner experience

Day 4: Culture and Relaxation

• Morning: Visit to a local village
• Afternoon: Spa treatment or relaxing by the pool
• Evening: Dinner at a high-end restaurant (The Palm at Victoria Falls Hotel is great)

Day 5: Wildlife Day

• Full-day trip to Chobe National Park
• Alternative: Game drive in Zambezi National Park and visit to the Snake Park

Day 6: Final Adventures and Departure

• Morning: Helicopter flight over the falls (if budget allows)
• Last-minute souvenir shopping
• Depart for the airport

Hey, this is just a sample itinerary for your trip to Victoria Falls. The beauty of travel is making it your own! Don’t be afraid to adjust based on your interests and energy levels.

Final Thoughts on Planning Your Trip to Victoria Falls

Whew! We’ve covered a lot of ground in this guide to planning a trip to Victoria Falls. From choosing when to go, to picking your activities, to practical tips, I hope this helps you plan your perfect Victoria Falls vacation.

Planning a trip to Victoria Falls might seem overwhelming at first, but I promise it’s worth every bit of effort. The memories you’ll make will last a lifetime. The thundering falls, the friendly people, the incredible wildlife – it all comes together to create a truly magical experience.

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