Comprehensive Visitor's Guide to Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, is a spectacular destination located on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe. Known locally as “Mosi-oa-Tunya” or “The Smoke that Thunders,” this awe-inspiring waterfall offers a multitude of activities and experiences for travelers. This Comprehensive Visitor’s Guide to Victoria Falls will help you make the most of your visit to Victoria Falls.

Comprehensive Visitor’s Guide to Victoria Falls Overview

Victoria Falls is the largest curtain of falling water in the world, spanning over 1.7 kilometers wide and plunging 108 meters into the Zambezi Gorge. The falls are fed by the Zambezi River, which forms the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. The area surrounding Victoria Falls is rich in wildlife, cultural heritage, and adventure opportunities.

Best Time to Visit Victoria Falls

The best time to visit Victoria Falls depends on the type of experience you are seeking:

High Water Season (February to May): During this period, the falls are at their most powerful, creating a stunning spectacle with vast amounts of spray and mist. This is the best time for viewing the full majesty of the falls, but be prepared to get wet from the spray.
Low Water Season (September to December): The water levels are lower, revealing the rock formations and the Devil’s Pool, a natural infinity pool at the edge of the falls. This is the best time for activities such as swimming in the Devil’s Pool and white water rafting.

Victoria Falls Entry Points

Victoria Falls can be accessed from both Zambia and Zimbabwe, each offering unique perspectives and experiences:

Zambia (Livingstone): The town of Livingstone is the gateway to the Zambian side of the falls. The entrance to the Victoria Falls World Heritage National Monument is located here, providing access to viewpoints, trails, and activities like the Devil’s Pool.
Zimbabwe (Victoria Falls Town): The town of Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe offers access to the Victoria Falls National Park. The viewpoints on this side provide panoramic views of the Main Falls, the Devil’s Cataract, and the Rainbow Falls.

Top Activities

Guided Tour of Victoria Falls: Explore the falls with an experienced guide who can provide insights into the history, geology, and ecology of the area. Both sides of the falls offer guided tours with multiple viewpoints.
Devil’s Pool Swim: Available only on the Zambian side during the dry season, this thrilling activity allows you to swim right up to the edge of the falls in a natural infinity pool.
Helicopter Flight (Flight of Angels): Get a bird’s eye view of the falls and the surrounding landscape with a helicopter tour. This aerial perspective showcases the scale and beauty of the falls.
White Water Rafting: The Zambezi River below the falls offers some of the best white water rafting in the world. Experience the thrill of navigating Class III to Class V rapids with experienced guides.
Sunset Cruise on the Zambezi River: Enjoy a relaxing cruise along the Zambezi River, spotting wildlife and watching the sunset over the water. Refreshments and snacks are typically provided.
Bungee Jumping: For adrenaline junkies, bungee jumping off the 111-meter-high Victoria Falls Bridge is an unforgettable experience. The bridge connects Zambia and Zimbabwe and offers stunning views of the gorge.
Livingstone Island Tour: Visit the island where David Livingstone first viewed the falls. The tour includes a chance to swim in the Devil’s Pool during the dry season and learn about the island’s history.
Microlight Flight: Experience the falls from an open-air microlight aircraft, providing an intimate and exhilarating flight over the falls and the surrounding area.
Victoria Falls Bridge Tour: Explore the engineering marvel of the Victoria Falls Bridge with a guided tour. Learn about its history and construction while enjoying breathtaking views.
Canoeing Safari: Paddle along the upper Zambezi River on a canoeing safari. Spot wildlife such as elephants, hippos, and crocodiles while navigating the calm waters.

Accommodations in Victoria Falls

Comprehensive Visitor's Guide to Victoria Falls

Both Zambia and Zimbabwe offer a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences:

Luxury Lodges and Hotels: Enjoy top-notch amenities and stunning views of the falls and the Zambezi River at properties like the Royal Livingstone Hotel (Zambia) and the Victoria Falls Hotel (Zimbabwe).
Mid-Range Options: Comfortable and affordable lodges, hotels, and guesthouses are available in both Livingstone and Victoria Falls Town. Options include Avani Victoria Falls Resort (Zambia) and Ilala Lodge (Zimbabwe).
Budget Accommodations: For budget travelers, there are hostels, campsites, and budget hotels that provide basic amenities and a convenient base for exploring the falls.

Practical Information

Visas: Check the visa requirements for Zambia and Zimbabwe before your trip. Some nationalities may require visas for both countries, and there are also options for dual visas that allow access to both sides of the falls.
Currency: The Zambian Kwacha (ZMW) and the Zimbabwean Dollar (ZWL) are the official currencies. However, US Dollars (USD) are widely accepted in both countries, especially in tourist areas.
Health and Safety: Ensure you have travel insurance and take necessary health precautions, such as malaria prophylaxis. Drink bottled water and be cautious of wildlife, especially near the river.
Local Culture: Respect local customs and traditions. Engage with local communities through cultural tours and support local artisans by purchasing handmade crafts.

Comprehensive Visitor’s Guide to Victoria Falls Conclusion

Victoria Falls is a destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural experiences. Whether you are seeking heart-pounding thrills or serene moments of awe, Victoria Falls has something for everyone. At Nextgen Safaris Africa, we are committed to helping you create unforgettable memories at this iconic destination. Plan your visit with us and discover why Victoria Falls is truly one of the world’s greatest natural treasures.

For more information and to book your adventure, visit our website Nextgen Safaris Africa.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:

All visitors to Africa must have a valid passport with at least 4 consecutive blanks pages. The Government of Tanzania has rolled out an online Visa application portal accessible on internet. Any applicable visa and/or relevant documentation are the responsibility of the traveler. For further information on Visa requirements visitors are advised to contact their nearest Respective Embassy or Consulate.

LANGUAGE: English

TIME: GMT +3

CLIMATE: South Africa climate is predominantly tropical. The long rains are from mid-March to late May and the short rains from November to January. The hottest months are from October to February and the coolest months are June to August.

VOLTAGE: 220 Volts/AC50Hz. Sockets are UK style, 3 pin square plugs. Power is from the National Grid in the city/major towns and generator with inverter back up in the Safari Lodges and Camps.

CURRENCY: Foreign currency must be changed at the Bank, Bureau de Change, and Hotel/Safari lodge/Camp/Resort. Major Credit Cards, Master card, Visa, American Express, are usually accepted throughout the country. Where credit cards are accepted, the payment will normally be recorded in US$ regardless of the card’s default currency. However, US$ older than 2009 are only accepted

CLOTHING: Dress is mainly informal and should be comfortable as well as practical. Something warm should be brought along for early morning and evenings. Safari clothes are available from hotels/lodges/camps.

BAGGAGE: Where possible, travel light. Baggage space on safari is limited to medium suitcase or soft bag per person plus reasonable amount of hand luggage. There is 15 Kilogram per person limit on all flights to the wildlife sanctuaries. Excess luggage must be stored in your arrival hotel.

WATER: You will find many different of opinion of what is safe and what is not. We recommend for peace of mind, to drink local Bottled Mineral water. It is important to drink plenty of water especially during the hotter months. We would recommend that guests drink at least 2 to 3 litres of water per day to limit the effects of dehydration.

HEALTH: South Africa is a safe and secure destination; however, it is a good idea to take a few precautions. Kindly consult your GP or local doctor at least 6 weeks before you travel, with regards:

Malaria prophylactics. East Africa is a known malaria area and preventive measures are essential. You are advised to take one of the recommended anti-malarial drugs. Be sure to wear long sleeved shorts and trousers after sunset and spray the exposed parts of your body with a mosquito repellent spray. The hotels provide mosquito repellent sachets as part of the room’s amenities in all our locations.

Remember to protect yourself from direct sun rays with sunscreen cream or safari hat.

DIETARY REQUIREMENTS: For those guests with specific dietary requirement, please ensure Imbasa is notified prior to travel so that the respective Hotels and Lodges are informed

GRATUITIES: As a guideline and dependent on how happy you are, we would suggest the following:

The General Hotel/Lodge/Camp Staff – Approximately U$ 10.00 per person per day

Driver Guides – Approximately US$ 15.00 to US$ 20.00 per person per day

PHOTOGRAPHY: Please be careful when photographing public buildings, airports, bridges, the national flag and people in uniform. Ensure that you have sought permission before photographing local people and their villages. If in doubt, please check with your guide.

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