Destination scores
Practical info
Victoria Falls, straddling the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia, offers more than just the iconic waterfall. The Victoria Falls Bridge, a marvel of early 20th-century engineering, connects the two countries and provides a daring bungee jumping platform with stunning views of the Zambezi River. For those interested in history, the Livingstone Room at the Victoria Falls Hotel serves traditional afternoon tea in a setting that evokes colonial-era elegance. In the nearby town of Victoria Falls, the local markets on Adam Stander Drive are a hub for purchasing hand-carved wooden sculptures and intricate traditional fabrics, offering a glimpse into the region’s artisanal craftsmanship. The town's Elephant Walk Shopping and Artist Village is another spot where you can observe artists at work and pick up unique pieces of local art.
Best time to visit
May through September — dry season with lower water levels, making it easier to see the rock formations behind the falls.
Month by month
Heavy rains swell the falls, creating a dramatic spray visible from miles away.
Peak of the rainy season; the falls are at their most powerful and misty.
Rains start to ease, but the falls remain powerful and loud.
Transition to dry season; the spray lessens, revealing more of the rock face.
Dry season begins, offering clearer views and the start of Devil's Pool access.
Cooler, drier weather with excellent visibility of the falls and surrounding landscapes.
Prime time for game viewing as animals gather near water sources.
Continued dry and cool conditions, ideal for outdoor activities and safaris.
Warm and dry; the falls are at their lowest, but game viewing is excellent.
Hot and dry; water levels are low, revealing the full rock face of the falls.
First rains begin to fall; the landscape starts to green again.
Rainy season returns, increasing the water flow and mist over the falls.
Highlights
- ✦Victoria Falls Bridge — Built in 1905, offering bungee jumping and panoramic views of the Zambezi River.
- ✦Victoria Falls Hotel — Edwardian-style hotel with a famous afternoon tea in the Livingstone Room.
- ✦Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park — Offers walking safaris to see wildlife like elephants and giraffes near the falls.
- ✦Devil's Pool — Natural rock pool on the edge of the falls, accessible during low-water months for a unique swim.
- ✦Elephant Walk Shopping and Artist Village — Local artists' studios and unique crafts.
Hidden gems
Practical tips
- ·Book bungee jumping and Devil's Pool experiences in advance, especially during peak seasons.
- ·Zimbabwe uses the US dollar, but it's wise to carry small denominations as change can be an issue.
- ·Consider guided tours for the best access to some parts of the falls and surrounding areas.
- ·Avoid crossing the border at night; the area is poorly lit and can be confusing.
Budget estimate
$150–250 USD / day (mid-range)
