Victoria Falls
Victoria Falls: The Smoke That Thunders
Few sights on earth match the raw power of Victoria Falls. Here, the mighty Zambezi River plunges into a deep gorge, sending up clouds of spray that can be seen from kilometres away and creating rainbows that hang in the mist. Known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya, “The Smoke That Thunders”, it’s one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World and one of Africa’s greatest adventures. While it sits just beyond South Africa’s borders, it’s an easy and unforgettable trip from home.
A True Natural Wonder
Victoria Falls lies on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. At around 1.7 km wide and up to 108 m high, it’s considered the largest sheet of falling water in the world. During the rainy season, hundreds of millions of litres of water pour over the edge every minute.
The Scottish explorer David Livingstone was the first European to see the falls in 1855 and named them after Queen Victoria. Long before that, local communities knew them as Mosi-oa-Tunya. The falls were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1989.
Two Countries, Two Views
You can see the falls from both Zimbabwe and Zambia, and each side offers something different.
The Zimbabwe side. Based around the town of Victoria Falls, this side has the widest range of viewpoints, with paths through a rainforest kept green by the constant spray. Highlights include Devil’s Cataract, the Main Falls, Horseshoe Falls, Rainbow Falls and Danger Point.
The Zambia side. Based around the town of Livingstone, this side lets you get up close to the edge. Cross the Knife-Edge Bridge for a soaking in the spray, hike down to the Boiling Pot, or visit Livingstone Island. In the low-water months, brave visitors can swim in Devil’s Pool, a natural rock pool right on the lip of the falls.
If you have time, visit both. It’s easy to cross between the two countries over the historic Victoria Falls Bridge.
Things to Do
Walk the rainforest trails. Take in the falls from every angle on the Zimbabwe side. Bring a raincoat, because you will get wet.
Take a sunset cruise on the Zambezi. Relax on the river above the falls and watch for hippos, crocodiles, elephants and birdlife as the sun goes down.
Fly over the falls. A helicopter or microlight flight, known as the “Flight of Angels”, gives you the best view of the full length of the falls and the zigzag gorges below.
Go white-water rafting. The rapids of the Batoka Gorge below the falls are some of the most thrilling in the world, best tackled in the low-water season.
Get your adrenaline pumping. Bungee jump from the Victoria Falls Bridge, try the gorge swing or ride a zip-line across the gorge.
See a lunar rainbow. On full-moon nights during high water, the spray creates a rare rainbow lit by moonlight.
Take a day trip to Chobe. Botswana’s Chobe National Park, famous for its huge elephant herds, is only about an hour and a half away by road.
When to Go
The falls change dramatically through the year, depending on the water level of the Zambezi.
High water (February to May). The falls are at their most powerful, with thundering water and massive clouds of spray. The spray can be so thick that it hides parts of the view, and you’ll be drenched on the trails.
Mid-season (June to August). Many consider this the best time to visit. Water levels are still strong, the spray is lighter, views are clearer and the weather is cool and dry.
Low water (September to January). The falls are at their smallest, and parts of the Zambian side can run almost dry. It’s the best time for white-water rafting and swimming in Devil’s Pool.
Getting There From Durban
By air: Fly from King Shaka International to Johannesburg, then take a connecting flight to Victoria Falls Airport in Zimbabwe or Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport in Livingstone, Zambia. The flight from Johannesburg takes about an hour and a half.
By road: Victoria Falls is roughly 2,000 km from Durban, so driving is best saved for a longer overland adventure through Botswana.
Handy Tips for Your Visit
- Check visa rules before you go. South African passport holders can usually visit Zimbabwe and Zambia for short stays without a visa, but rules can change. If you plan to cross between countries often, ask about the KAZA UniVisa.
- Bring your passport, even for a quick crossing over the bridge.
- Carry US dollars. They’re widely accepted on both sides, especially in Zimbabwe.
- Pack a raincoat or poncho, and a waterproof bag for your phone and camera.
- Wear shoes with good grip, as paths near the falls can be wet and slippery.
- Take malaria precautions. Victoria Falls is in a malaria area, so speak to a doctor or travel clinic before your trip.
- Book activities in advance, especially Devil’s Pool, helicopter flights and rafting, which depend on the season.
- Stay at least three nights to enjoy the falls, the river and a few activities without rushing.
Plan Your Victoria Falls Adventure
Standing in the spray of Victoria Falls, with the roar of the water all around you and a rainbow at your feet, is a moment you’ll never forget. Whether you’re after breathtaking views, heart-racing adventures or peaceful sunsets on the Zambezi, the falls deliver on every level. Pack your passport and your raincoat, and get ready to experience one of the greatest wonders on earth.