Everything you need to know

Planning a trip to Southern Africa is exciting, but we know there are plenty of logistics to figure out. From choosing the best time to see the Falls to navigating border crossings and packing for your first safari, we’ve gathered everything you need to know right here. Explore the sections below for practical advice on visas, safety, and local tips to help you prepare for your adventure.

Planning Your Visit

Any time is magnificent, but the ‘best’ time depends on your preference for water volume and weather:

  • High Water Season (Feb – May/June): The Falls are at their most powerful and magnificent. Expect immense spray (the “Smoke that Thunders”) which can obscure the views from the ground, especially on the Zambian side. Great for scenic helicopter flights.
  • Low Water Season (Aug – Jan): Water flow is significantly lower, especially on the Zambian side which can dry up completely (Oct-Nov). Visibility is best during this time, allowing for clear photos of the rock face and gorge. This is also the best time for high-adrenaline activities like white-water rafting and the famous Devil’s Pool (usually open late Aug-early Jan).
  • Weather: Winter (May – Aug) offers cooler, dry, and mild days (great for safaris). Summer (Sept – Apr) is hot and humid, with the main rainy season from Nov-March.

For the most complete and uninterrupted view, visit Zimbabwe.

  • Zimbabwe (approx. 75% of the Falls): Offers more viewpoints and a permanent, high volume flow year-round. This is where you get the iconic, panoramic photos.
  • Zambia (approx. 25% of the Falls): Provides a closer, more personal feel to the Falls, including the thrilling Knife-Edge Bridge and access to swimming spots like Devil’s Pool and Angel’s Pool during the low water season. The Zambian side often dries up entirely between October and December.

Recommendation: If your budget and visa allow, visit both sides for the full experience. The KAZA Uni-Visa makes this easy.

A minimum of 2 nights allows you to see both sides of the Falls and do one major activity (like a sunset cruise or a game drive). 3-4 nights is ideal, allowing time for more adventure activities (rafting, bungee), relaxation, and a day trip to Chobe National Park in Botswana.

The US Dollar (USD) is the dominant and most widely accepted currency.

  • Zimbabwe: Prices for tourists are usually quoted in USD. Have small denominations ($1s, $5s, $10s) for tips and local markets. The local currency (ZWL) is less useful for tourists. Credit/Debit Cards (Mastercard/Visa) are widely accepted at major hotels and activity operators.
  • Zambia: The local currency is the Zambian Kwacha (ZMW), but USD is also accepted for tourist services.
  • Botswana (Chobe): The local currency is the Pula (BWP), but USD is widely accepted for tourism.

Note: Inform your bank of your travel dates and destinations to avoid card freezes.

Comfortable, casual, and practical clothing is best.

  • For the Falls: A rain poncho or jacket is essential for the spray (high water season). Wear clothes that dry quickly. Raincoats are available for hire at the falls.
  • For Safaris/Game Drives: Neutral colours (khaki, brown, olive, grey) are best for blending in. Pack layers, as mornings and evenings can be quite cool, even in summer. A fleece or light jacket is recommended.
  • General: Comfortable walking shoes, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, swimwear, and good quality sunscreen and insect repellent are essential.

For Victoria Falls only, any standard suitcase is fine. However, if your trip includes safaris or travel via light aircraft (especially to Chobe or the Delta), you must use soft-sided luggage.

Recommendation: A soft-sided duffle bag is strongly recommended as they can be easily manipulated into the small storage compartments of safari vehicles and light aircraft.

Weight Limits: Be aware of strict luggage weight limits on light aircraft, which are often 15kg – 20kg per person, including hand luggage.

Entry Requirements & Health

Yes, most nationalities require a visa for at least one of these countries. Visa requirements are country-specific and subject to change.

  • Best Option: The KAZA Uni-Visa (currently US$50, available to citizens of over 65 countries) is the perfect choice. It grants you access to both Zimbabwe and Zambia for up to 30 days and includes day trips to Botswana (but not overnight stays).
  • On Arrival: Many nationalities (Category B) can purchase visas at the port of entry (airport/border). Cash in USD is required for payment.
  • Pre-Arranged: Some nationalities (Category C) must apply for an eVisa or through an embassy in advance.

Always check the official eVisa websites for Zimbabwe and Zambia for your specific nationality before you travel:

If you plan to visit the opposite side of the Falls or stay overnight, the process is straightforward. First, you will clear immigration to exit your current country (e.g., Zimbabwe) and then enjoy an incredibly scenic 10-to-15-minute walk across the historic bridge. Finally, you will enter the next country (e.g., Zambia) by presenting your KAZA Uni-Visa or a pre-arranged entry permit.

If your goal is simply to admire the bridge, view the gorge, or participate in high-wire activities like the Bungee Jump, you do not need a full visa. Simply request a “Bridge Pass” from the immigration officer. This allows you to walk onto the bridge and return to your starting country without the cost or paperwork of a standard border entry.

For your travel planning, please note that the border post typically operates daily from 06:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

  • Malaria: The Victoria Falls area is considered a malaria risk area, especially during the warmer, wetter months (Nov-June). Antimalarial tablets are highly recommended. Please consult your doctor or a travel clinic for the most suitable prophylactic (medication) for you.
  • Yellow Fever: A Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate is only required if you are arriving from, or have transited for more than 12 hours through, a country with a risk of Yellow Fever transmission. Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Botswana are not on the risk list, so you only need the certificate if you are coming from a listed country.

Generally, the tap water in the main hotels and lodges is treated and considered safe, especially on the Zimbabwean side. However, as a precaution, it is always recommended for international visitors to drink bottled water, particularly in more remote areas or when you have a sensitive stomach. Reusable water bottles that can be filled from purified sources are environmentally friendly.

Getting around

Walking is a great way to move between your hotel, the town center, and the Victoria Falls entrance, especially if you are staying near the center. It is safest and most convenient during the day; however, please remain cautious of local traffic (which drives on the left) and opportunistic wildlife like monkeys or baboons. For your safety, we recommend you avoid walking alone after dark.

Shuttles are the primary choice for airport transfers to Victoria Falls (VFA) and for scheduled transport between major hotels and the Falls. Please note that airport transfers must be pre-booked and typically cost approximately US$16 to US$20 per person for a one-way trip.

Taxis are readily available and very inexpensive for getting around town or arranging a private airport transfer. A ride anywhere within the small town center should cost between US$5 and US$10. It is standard practice to negotiate and confirm the price with the driver before you get into the vehicle.

You don’t need to worry about logistics for your excursions. Activity transfers for experiences like White-Water Rafting, Bungee Jumping, or Chobe Day Trips are almost always included in the price. The operators will pick you up and drop you off directly at your hotel or lodge.

Must-do Activities & Adventures

The Zambezi is famous for having the world’s best one-day white-water rafting, known for its challenging Grade 5 rapids.

  • Best Time (Low Water Season): August to December. The lower water level exposes more rapids, making them technically difficult, more continuous, and far more exciting. Trips start right below the Falls (the “Boiling Pot”).
  • High Water Season: January to July. The river is too high and fast to run the top section, so trips start further downriver and are shorter and less intense. Note: Rafting typically closes completely during the peak high water months (usually April to early June) for safety.

The bungee jump is a thrilling 111-meter (364ft) freefall from the historic Victoria Falls Bridge, which spans the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia.

  • Height: 111 meters.
  • Requirements: Minimum age of 14 years and minimum weight of 40 kg (max 120 kg).
  • Logistics: You must bring your passport to access the bridge as it is a border crossing point. Inform the immigration officials on either side that you are going to the Bungee/Bridge Cafe; you will be issued a “Bridge Pass” which does not require a visa for the other country.

All high wire activities (Bungee, Swing, Zipline, Flying Fox) are operated from the Victoria Falls Bridge or the platforms in the Batoka Gorge.

  • Gorge Swing: A controlled 70m freefall and then a giant pendulum swing across the gorge.
  • Zipline: A high-speed slide across the gorge (can be done solo or tandem).
  • The Bridge Slide / Flying Fox: A mild adventure, where you slide across the gorge while seated, offering stunning scenic views.

While Victoria Falls is famous for the “Smoke that Thunders,” it is also an excellent gateway to some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife destinations. You have three excellent options for a Big 5 safari experience:

  • Stanley and Livingstone Private Game Reserve: Located just 12km from town, this is your best option for a Big 5 safari without a long commute. It is particularly famous for its Black Rhino conservation efforts. You can enjoy a morning or afternoon game drive with the option to add a bush dinner under the stars.
  • Hwange National Park: Zimbabwe’s largest park covers nearly 15,000 km² and is known for its massive elephant herds and predators. Day trips involve up to a 3-hour drive each way on a scenic road, typically departing early morning and returning by early evening for a full day of wilderness exploration.
  • Chobe National Park (Botswana): Home to one of the largest elephant populations in the world — with as many as 120,000 African elephants — this full-day excursion includes a morning river cruise to see hippos and crocodiles, a buffet lunch, followed by an afternoon game drive. Please note that a passport is required for the Kazungula border crossing.

Absolutely. The “Flight of Angels” is a short scenic flight (usually 12-15 minutes) that offers the only way to see the Falls in their entirety and truly appreciate their scale and the zigzagging Batoka Gorge. It is especially recommended during high-water season when the ground view is obscured by mist. Microlight flights (Zambia side only) offer a similar experience without a cabin.

This is a highly seasonal and famous activity on the Zambian side of the Falls.

  • Activity: A guided swim in a natural rock pool right on the very edge of the Falls, with a natural rock barrier stopping you from going over.
  • Seasonality: Only safe and open during the low water season (typically mid-August to mid-January). When the Devil’s Pool is closed due to water levels, it is typically alternated by the Angel’s Pool, which remains open and operating until the Devil’s Pool is ready. Please note that both activities are strictly dependent on seasonal water levels for safe operation.

Don’t miss the Guided Victoria Falls Rainforest Tour to explore the falls up close with expert commentary, the Sunset Dinner Cruise on the Zambezi River for a relaxing evening with wildlife sightings, and the Village Experience Tour, an authentic visit to a natural homestead where you will experience genuine Zimbabwean village life and traditions.

Local Culture & Dining

Zimbabwean cuisine is hearty, centered on a staple cornmeal porridge, but also features unique regional delicacies:

  • Sadza: The national staple, a thick cooked porridge made from maize meal. It is traditionally eaten with the right hand and rolled into a ball to scoop up relishes.
  • Nyama: Meat relish, often including beef, chicken, or goat, cooked in a stew with tomatoes and onions. Game meat (such as kudu or impala) is also widely available.
  • Muriwo Unedovi: Leafy green vegetables (like collard greens or pumpkin leaves) cooked with peanut butter, which gives them a rich, savory, and unique flavor.
  • Zambezi Bream (or Tilapia): Freshly caught river fish, usually grilled or fried.

The most famous and recommended cultural experience is: The Boma – Dinner & Drum Show (Zimbabwe side).

  • The Experience: This is an immersive cultural evening featuring a four-course African buffet (including game meats, sadza, and vegetarian options), traditional dancers, an interactive drumming lesson for all guests, and even the option to try a Mopane Worm for a “bravery certificate.”
  • Other Options: Look for local eateries like Dusty Road Township Experience for an authentic, homely meal cooked on an open fire in the local Chinotimba township or Zulu Bristo.

For scenic dining, you can’t beat the Lookout Cafe (Zimbabwe), which is perched on the edge of the gorge and offers stunning views of the Batoka Gorge. Alternatively Baines Restaurant by the riverside banks of Victoria Falls.

Tipping is a sign of appreciation for good service and is widely practiced, especially since wages in the hospitality sector are often modest. Always tip in USD cash.

  • Restaurants: 10% of the bill for good service.
  • Safari Guides / Activity Guides: $10 – $25 per person, per activity/day.
  • Hotel Porters: $2 – $5 per bag.
  • Transfer Drivers: $5 – $15 depending on the distance and service.

Safety & Logistics

The Victoria Falls tourism area is generally considered very safe. Both Victoria Falls Town (Zimbabwe) and Livingstone (Zambia) are heavily focused on tourism and have low crime rates directed at visitors.

General Tips: Use reputable, registered tour operators like us and taxis. Avoid walking alone after dark in less-populated areas. As in any tourist area, be aware of pickpockets in crowded markets, and secure your valuables.

Yes. You are in a wildlife area, even in town.

  • Baboons & Monkeys: They are common near the Falls entrance and hotels. Do not feed them and secure all food items and water bottles, as they are opportunistic and will snatch anything unattended.
  • Larger Wildlife: You may see warthogs, bushbuck, and occasionally elephants or hippos, especially near the river and hotel lawns. Always maintain a safe distance and be cautious when walking at dawn or dusk outside protected areas.