Straddling the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe, the majestic Victoria Falls is the largest curtain of water in the world. Set in the Mosi Oa Tunya National Park, the Unesco-listed Victoria Falls is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World and a highlight for any African holiday. Known as ‘Mosi Oa Tunya’ by Tsonga locals – meaning ‘The Smoke that Thunders’, the falls feature the thunderous cascading waters of the mighty Zambezi River plummeting into the Zambezi Gorge over a series of cliffs. Thrill-seekers can look forward to taking the leap and bungee jumping off the Victoria Falls Bridge, or plunging into the Devil’s Pool, a natural infinity pool on the edge of the falls. Take a scenic flight for a bird’s eye view, enjoy a horseriding safari, a river cruise or a thrilling white water rafting adventure on the rapids of the Zambezi. Other highlights include the game-rich shores of Lake Kariba and the historic town of Livingstone.
Tourist Information
Language – English
Currency – Zambian Kwacha (ZMW). The Zimbabwean dollar is no longer in use; however, on both sides of the falls payment is accepted in US dollars and South African Rand.
Visa – required for some countries.
Airports – Victoria Falls Airport (VFA) on the Zimbabwean side, and Livingston Airport (LVI) on the Zambian side.
Climate – Winter (May to August) is mild and dry, with daytime temperatures usually in the mid-20s. Summer (September to April) is hot with temperatures mostly into the 30s. The rainy season is from November to April.
Best time to visit – Avoid November and December, as this is the height of the dry season and the falls can dry up (sometimes completely from the Zambian side). The volume of water going over the falls peaks in March/April, but this also means the volume of spray at the falls is also at its highest, and this can make viewing and photography difficult.
Must visit – Zimbabwe — elephant back safaris, game viewing. Zambia — Livingston Island tour (seasonal), Chobe day trip, Zambezi river cruise.
Journeys
The Best of Southern Africa |
African Safari & Victoria Falls |
Extravagant Southern Africa |