VICTORIA FALLS ZIMBABWE: PHOTOS & EVERYTHING TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING THE FALLS

Victoria Falls National Park harbors what is considered to be the largest waterfall in the world—Victoria Falls. Victoria Falls is not the widest or tallest Falls in the world (the tallest is Angel Falls in Venezuela), but when dimensions and flow power are considered, it is credited to be the largest in the world. The impressive gorge that is covered with water is one mile long and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Located on the Zambezi River, one of the largest rivers in Africa, Victoria Falls stands between Zimbabwe and Zambia, right at the border—and is shared by these two countries. You can visit the falls from either country by yourself or by taking a guided tour. For other places to see in Victoria Falls Town see this ultimate guide.

Locally, Victoria Falls is known as the “Smoke that thunders”. Gallons of water bit the sides of the rocks and bounce back in the form of a white cloud-like blanket covering the gorge—this is not your average mist. Prepare to get slightly wet from the showers coming from the bouncing water. 

The name Victoria Falls was given by David Livingstone, the Scottish explorer who, in the 1800s, stumbled upon the falls while preaching Christianity in Africa. He named the falls after Queen Victoria of England. 

Be advised that animals are found in the trails of the national park. As you walk in the park following the trail that leads to different viewing points, be prepared to encounter baboons, impalas, and other harmless animals. 

Overall, this is why Victoria Falls is so special, you can walk around looking at the magnitude of the waterfalls, and at the same time appreciate wild animals—you are truly lost in the wild and it's brilliant.  

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Common tourist questions about Victoria Falls Zimbabwe - FAQ

What is the best month to visit Victoria Falls?

April to July: Best time to visit Victoria Falls because these months come just after the rainy season, as a result, the gorge is completely covered by water that is flowing dramatically and constantly pouring down in abundance—giving an unbelievable spectacle. Normal high temperature during these months is around 81°F (27°C).

August to December: Low water levels (waterfalls not dramatic and almost dried out by November. The Zambia side is usually completely dried up in these dry months—people just go to Victoria Falls on the Zimbabwe side). August to December, however, are the best rafting months due to calm water in the Zambezi River. Also, this is the best time to visit Devil's Pool and the best time to see animals and birds. Temperature can reach up to 93°F (34°C) during these summer months. 

January to March: Heavy rains, a lot of water pouring it might be hard to view the falls close by. Most water activities and tours are closed. 

In the summer, the Victoria Falls National Park's opening hours are between 6 am and 6 pm; in the winter the park opens at 6:30 am and closes at 6 pm.

Which country has the best view of Victoria Falls?

Zimbabwe has the best view of Victoria Falls. When the summer season is in full swing, the falls on the Zambia side are usually dry and tourists just visit the Zimbabwe side. 

Is it safe to visit Victoria Falls Zimbabwe?

It is safe to travel to Zimbabwe. Politically, it is calm and rested. You just have to be aware of your surroundings and watch out for pickpocketers and other people lingering around you. This problem, however, is found in many countries, not just Zimbabwe. Keep your valuables, like expensive cameras out of sight and only take them out when you are taking a picture. 

Check the travel warnings set by your government. In the United States, you can find it here. The Victoria Falls town is quite small and tourists usually walk from their hotels to the falls, but others take a combi/taxi that is reasonably priced and accepts US dollars. It is also safe to walk around Victoria Falls Town, visiting shops and restaurants. 

With regards to wild animals, the ones you meet as you walk to the falls are harmless— baboons are many. Locals say sometimes, but rarely, you will see an elephant or a herd walking in the streets freely. When this happens, the game police will usually redirect them elsewhere.  

Where in Zimbabwe is Victoria Falls?

In a small town of Victoria Falls, you will find Victoria Falls National Park—right on the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia. 

Has anyone died at Devil's Pool Victoria Falls?

No reports indicate that anyone has died at the Devil's Pool. Livingstone Island Tours is the only tour operator to Devils Pool and they are well trusted and popular. 

Do you need malaria pills for Victoria Falls Zimbabwe? 

Absolutely! Victoria Falls and the rest of Zimbabwe have a malaria problem. Mosquitoes can be a nuisance especially in the evenings and when you are sitting outside. You must see your doctor before your trip to Zimbabwe and get a prescription for malaria tablets. You are usually advised to start taking them a few days before leaving so read the instructions carefully. 

Also, before leaving, buy a mosquito repellent. Read the labels carefully as some have one ingredient that is not allowed at the airport because it is considered combustible. Remember to pack what's allowed in the checked bag as they are usually over 100 ml and not allowed in the cabin. 

While in Zimbabwe, sleep under a mosquito net and spray your room and yourself with mosquito repellent. Most hotels will provide a net, if they do not, buy yourself one, they are sold locally in the shops. You can also buy mosquito repellents and coils from the local shops if you forgot to bring them with you. 

What are the vaccination requirements for Zimbabwe?

Vaccination requirements change due to issues faced at that specific period. If you are traveling from countries with a high risk of yellow fever, you will need to have a Yellow Fever Card that shows you were vaccinated. As a personal choice, some people get typhoid, cholera, and hepatitis vaccinations—but others choose not to get these vaccinations if they are not a requirement. Check the official CDC website for current vaccination requirements. 

Do I need a visa to visit Victoria Falls Zimbabwe? Can I get a visa on arrival in Zimbabwe?

Zimbabwe has three visa categories depending on where you are coming from. Category A countries’ citizens do not need a visa; Category B countries’ citizens can obtain a visa on arrival; Category C countries’ citizens must apply for a visa before arrival. 

People from the United States, United Kingdom, and many countries found in Category B require a visa to enter Victoria Falls and the rest of Zimbabwe. You can choose to apply for a visa in advance (by getting an E-visa online at least 3 weeks before travel—it takes about 6 days to be issued) or simply purchase one at the port of entry when you arrive in Zimbabwe. Many tourists get the visa when they arrive at the airport or the land border. 

If you are planning to enter Zambia as well to see Victoria Falls from that side, you should mention this to the immigration officer and get a KAZA visa (a multiple entry visa that will allow you to cross the Zimbabwe-Zambia border freely whenever you want)—this will work out cheaper than purchasing a single entry visa every time you leave Zimbabwe and want to re-enter. The KAZA visa can also be purchased from Zambian entry ports. Be advised that you must have United States dollars in cash for the visa purchase at the port of entry in Zimbabwe. 

For citizens of countries in Category A, you do not need a visa. Many African countries are in this category. 

Check which Zimbabwe visa category your country of citizenship is listed on before making travel arrangements. 

Money issues in Zimbabwe?

The ATMs/cashpoints have no money—you must bring with you cash, in US dollars, to pay for taxis, souvenirs, and food in most restaurants. Some shops around Victoria Falls Town and the ticket office and restaurant at Victoria Falls National Park take card payments. However, the payment network does sometimes come offline and when this happens you will not be allowed to purchase if you don't have cash. It can take hours for the card payment network to be fixed—always have some cash on you. 

If you are planning to take guided tours and don't want to have too much cash on you, book and pay online in advance. Companies like Viator and Get Your Guide have so many guided tours around Victoria Falls and Livingstone, Zambia.

How much does it cost to enter Victoria Falls Zimbabwe side?

Check this website page for current entrance fees to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe and Zambia. Citizens of SADC countries pay a reduced fee. Try to have some cash to pay the entrance fee—even though they accept card payments, as stated above, the payment network is sometimes offline.