Things to do in Victoria Falls
Things to do in Victoria Falls, Victoria Falls (Lozi: Mosi-oa-Tunya, “The Smoke That Thunders”; Tonga: Shungu Namutitima, “Boiling Water”) is a waterfall located on the Zambezi River in southern Africa, hosting numerous unique plant and animal species. It is among the world’s most magnificent waterfalls, spanning 1708 meters in width, situated on the Zambia-Zimbabwe border (5604 feet). The Zambezi River becomes a violent torrent as it traverses a series of magnificent gorges, driven by the immense basalt rock over which the falls cascade. A sheer basalt wall opposite the Falls ascends to an equivalent height, topped by a mist-laden rainforest. A path bordering the forest provides an unparalleled series of vistas of the Falls for anyone courageous enough to endure the heavy rain.
Things To Do In Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe & Zambia
| # | ACTIVITY | IDEAL COUNTRY | BEST SEASON |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Viewing the Victoria Falls | Zimbabwe | Wet Season |
| 2 | White Water Rafting | Both Countries | Dry Season |
| 3 | Abseiling | Both Countries | Dry Season |
| 4 | Tandem Skydiving | Zimbabwe | Wet Season |
| 5 | Bungee Jumping | Both Countries | Dry Season |
| 6 | Watch Moonbows / Luna rainbows | Both Countries | Wet Season |
| 7 | Boiling Pot Hike | Zimbabwe | Dry Season |
| 8 | Flight of Angels | Both Countries | Wet Season |
| 9 | Zambezi Sunset Cruise | Zambia | Dry Season |
| 10 | Swim in Devils Pool | Zambia | Dry Season |
| 11 | Eating Out | Both Countries | All Seasons |
| 12 | Canoeing in the Zambezi | Zambia | Dry Season |
| 13 | Shopping for Souvenirs | Both Countries | All Seasons |
| 14 | Ziplining | Both Countries | Dry Season |
| 15 | Walk with rhinos in Mosi Oa Tunya | Zambia | All Seasons |
| 16 | Canopy tour in the forest | Zimbabwe | All Seasons |
Viewing The Victoria Falls
It is essential that you make time to view the Victoria Falls when you are in Zambia or Zimbabwe because they are a prominent tourist destination that draws a lot of tourists to both countries. One does not get the opportunity to witness the world’s largest sheet of falling water on a daily basis, and experiencing the rumbling force of this phenomenon is a truly remarkable experience, Visit Victoria falls
Whitewater Rafting
Engaging in white water rafting on the Zambezi River is an exciting sport that will challenge your brain in a way that is both positive and sometimes frightening. The rapids on the Zambezi River are placed in the fifth grade of rapids and are considered to be among the most difficult to manage.
While the rapids of the river will test your physical and mental capabilities and bring your adrenaline to unbelievable levels, the more tranquil sections of the river will provide you with breathtaking views of the gorges. If you want to do white water rafting, you have to wait until the dry season months, when the water levels are lower and the safety of participants is almost guaranteed.
Abseiling
You may also get a close-up look at Victoria Falls by abseiling, which is another opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty of the falls. You make your way down the rock face of Victoria Falls and descend to a depth of more than one hundred meters to reach the base of the falls.
When you go abseiling, you will get the opportunity to take in breathtaking views of the river, the waterfalls, and the jungle that surrounds you. It is possible to simply combine this activity with a stroll into the jungle that surrounds Victoria Falls, which takes approximately two hours to complete.
Tandem Skydiving
Tandem Skydiving is the quintessential activity in Victoria Falls that amalgamates the thrill of numerous other experiences. Tandem skydiving offers a 30-minute aerial experience above the falls, ascending to provide a complete 360-degree panoramic view of the entire Victoria Falls vicinity.
Upon reaching an altitude of 10,000 feet, you will leap from the aircraft with a seasoned crew member, experiencing a free fall at velocities of up to 200 km/h. Upon releasing of your parachute, you will glide gently above Zambezi National Park.
Bungee jumping
Bungee jumping is essential for the intrepid during a visit to Victoria Falls. You will plunge 111 meters (364 ft) headfirst into the gorge beneath the Victoria Falls Bridge. Although bungee jumping is exceedingly safe, with over 50,000 participants annually, it remains a harrowing experience that elevates adrenaline to unprecedented levels.
Beginners often execute a conventional headfirst dive, whilst more seasoned individuals attempt various flips, backflips, and inward tucks, with some incorporating a bicycle or kayak.
Boiling Pot Trek
In addition to viewing Victoria Falls from above and the sides, one can also observe the falls at their base. To reach the destination, you must descend the Batoka Gorge, pass beneath the Victoria Falls bridge, then navigate a raft to the vicinity of the falls.
From this location, traverse the rocks to reach the base of the waterfall. The endeavor necessitates a degree of physical fitness and stamina, although it is ultimately rewarding in terms of time and effort expended. Similar to rafting, this activity can only occur during the dry season when water levels are safe for navigation.
Flight Of Angels (Helicopter tour on Victoria Falls)
Your journey commences with departure from the helipad, as the helicopter elevates into the Batoka Sky and veers toward the splendid Victoria Falls. Our seasoned pilot will navigate you through both left and right-hand circuits over the Falls, guaranteeing exceptional viewing, photographing, and filmmaking prospects from all perspectives.
These factors underscore the necessity of including this helicopter ride among the premier activities on your bucket list during your visit to Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.
Zambezi Sunset Cruise
A sunset cruise on the Zambezi is essential during a visit to Victoria Falls. The splendor of the verdant jungle and expansive Zambezi River provides a tranquil experience. In addition to enjoying the scenery, a sunset cruise guarantees sightings of the river’s inhabitants, including hippos, crocodiles, and elephants, among others. Sunset is the period when several animals gather for their final drink of the day.
An evening boat tour on the Zambezi is an excellent means to relax following a day of exhilarating activities. The 2-hour trip offers sightings of elephants, hippos, monkeys, and other bird species. Additionally, you will witness the warm African sun descend beyond the horizon at dusk.
Swimming In Devil's Pool
Situated on the boundary between Zambia and Zimbabwe, amidst the roaring waters and swirling mist of Victoria Falls, sits a natural marvel: Devil’s Pool.
This renowned location combines exhilarating adventure with breathtaking scenery. The exhilaration of sitting in a tranquil pool above the precipice of the world’s tallest waterfall is complemented by stunning vistas of flourishing nature from all directions. Join us as we explore the exhilaration of visiting Devil’s Pool at Victoria Falls and guide you through the transformative experience of swimming at the precipice.
Best Time to Visit Victoria Falls
January signifies the peak of the rainy season at Victoria Falls. The Zambezi River commences its ascent, as the falls begin to accumulate strength and magnitude. Anticipate elevated temperatures, high humidity, and frequent afternoon rain. The adjacent rainforest is verdant, rendering this an opportune moment for shooting. Nevertheless, mist from the falls may obstruct views from proximate sites. Adventure activities like as white-water rafting and Devil’s Pool are typically suspended due to safety considerations; however, sightseeing flights provide exceptional views of the swollen river.
February perpetuates the wet season with recurrent precipitation and progressively intense water flow. The cascades intensify in volume and force, while the adjacent landscapes are vivid and dynamic. Although activities within the gorge’s perimeter are restricted, this month is ideal for aerial excursions, cultural explorations, and tourists who favor cooler climates and reduced crowds. Anticipate midday precipitation and mild, cloudy conditions.
March approaches the waterfalls’ peak water level. This is when the magnitude and roar of Victoria Falls are at their most striking. The mist from the waterfall can be severe, particularly on the Zimbabwean side, necessitating the use of raincoats and waterproof cameras. Although rafting is currently halted, this month offers an exceptional opportunity to witness the unadulterated force of nature, particularly from an aerial perspective via microlight or helicopter flight.
In April, the Zambezi River attains its annual zenith, and Victoria Falls transforms into a cascade of thundering water across the full breadth of the gorge. Although the volume is awe-inspiring, vision from specific vantage points is restricted due to substantial spray. Trails adjacent to the falls provide a striking, mist-laden jungle ambiance. Certain activities are limited, although the immense force of the falls at this period remains indelible.
May marks the beginning of the dry season. Rain diminishes significantly, and water levels begin their decline. As the fog disappears, vistas become more attainable and photographic conditions enhance. This is a best month for watching the falls at a stable yet more pronounced flow. Sunset cruises and several rafting segments are commencing their reopening. May signifies the reemergence of clearer sky and colder evenings.
June provides great circumstances for sightseeing and adventure. The dry season is fully established, and the mist surrounding the falls has diminished considerably, rendering this an excellent month for panoramic vistas and photography. Characterized by chilly mornings and arid, bright afternoons, this month is optimal for game drives in the adjacent Zambezi National Park. Rafting activities recommence in the river’s lower sections, and guided walking excursions near the falls are particularly pleasurable in the cool atmosphere.
July is regarded as one of the best months to visit Victoria Falls. Water levels are moderate—sufficiently low to provide good vistas of the falls while yet high enough to convey their force. The climate is temperate and arid, ideal for strolling, hiking, and extended safaris. July, characterized by a reduced mosquito population and moderate precipitation, is an ideal option for both novice travelers and families. Sunset cruises on the Zambezi River are particularly enchanting at this season.
August is preferred by people seeking to experience both the waterfalls and adventure activities. The climate is temperate and arid, wildlife observations are prevalent, and the fog has largely dissipated, facilitating unobstructed vistas. This marks the commencement of the Devil’s Pool season, during which water levels recede sufficiently to permit swimming at the precipice of the falls under supervised supervision. The current period is ideal for rafting, safaris, and engaging in outdoor activities without the hindrance of excessive heat or precipitation.
September is an optimal month for visiting Victoria Falls. Water levels are diminished, resulting in reduced thunderousness of the falls while enhancing their visibility. This is the optimal season for Devil’s Pool, comprehensive rafting excursions, and guided treks down the gorge. Wildlife congregates near waterholes, rendering game drives exceptionally fruitful. Anticipate warm to hot days with minimal precipitation and optimal lighting conditions for sunrise and sunset photography.
October is the warmest and driest month in Victoria Falls, with daytime temperatures frequently surpassing 35°C (95°F). The Zambezi River is at its nadir, providing optimal conditions for exhilarating activities like as white-water rafting, bungee jumping, and Devil’s Pool. Although the waterfalls are less voluminous, the revealed rock formations and striking cliff edges provide a fresh viewpoint. Wildlife observations are at their zenith, particularly in proximity to aquatic habitats within the adjacent parks.
November signifies the shift from the arid to the rainy season. The initial rains commence, causing the Zambezi to ascend once more. The terrain rapidly becomes verdant, and temperatures persist in their warmth. While certain adventurous activities may continue at the beginning of the month, Devil’s Pool is likely to close later owing to increasing water levels. November is regarded as a shoulder season, characterized by reduced crowds and diminished prices, rendering it an astute option for adaptable visitors.
By December, the rainy season had fully resumed, delivering intense afternoon downpours and a verdant, thriving landscape surrounding the falls. Water levels are rising, but mist has not yet attained maximum density, resulting in satisfactory visibility at the beginning of the month. This is a less busy travel season, providing increased lodge availability and reduced costs. Cultural excursions, aerial sightseeing, and leisurely sunset cruises continue to be favored despite the inclement weather.