Beyond the falls themselves, the town is one of Africa’s great adventure and safari hubs.
- Victoria Falls Rainforest — Follow the trail through spray-fed forest to viewpoints facing the main falls and the Devil’s Cataract.
- Zambezi sunset cruise — Drift above the falls watching hippos, crocodiles, elephants and birdlife as the sun goes down.
- Victoria Falls Bridge — The historic 1905 bridge between Zimbabwe and Zambia, famous for bungee jumping and bridge tours.
- White-water rafting — Tackle the powerful rapids of the Batoka Gorge below the falls, best when water levels are lower.
- Scenic helicopter flights — See the full width of the falls and the zigzag gorges from the air.
- Zambezi National Park — Game drives along the river upstream of town, with elephants, buffalo and antelope.
- The Big Tree — A huge, ancient baobab near the river, a well-known local landmark.
The rainy season runs from about November to March, with hot, humid weather and afternoon storms. The Zambezi’s flow builds after the rains and usually peaks from around March to May, when the falls are at their most thunderous and the spray can obscure views and soak visitors.
For a balance of good views and impressive water, June to August is excellent, with dry, mild weather. From September to December the water drops, revealing the rock face; this is the hottest time but the best for rafting and seeing the gorge. Wildlife viewing is generally best in the dry months.
Victoria Falls International Airport lies south of the town, roughly a 20 to 30-minute drive from the centre and the falls. Its modern terminal handles regional and some international flights.
Most hotels and lodges offer airport transfers, and many include them in bookings; shuttle operators and taxis are also available. Arranging your transfer in advance is recommended, especially for evening arrivals.
Victoria Falls is small, and most places are a short drive from the falls.
- Town centre — Walking distance to the falls, shops and activity operators; ideal for first-time visitors.
- Riverside upstream — Lodges along the Zambezi with wildlife and sunset views; suits couples and nature lovers.
- Elephant Hills area — Hotels on higher ground with views of the spray; good for families.
- Zambezi National Park — Lodges within or near the park for a safari atmosphere.
- Money: US dollars are widely accepted; bring small notes, as change can be limited.
- Getting wet: Bring a waterproof jacket and a dry bag for cameras and phones during high water.
- Wildlife: Elephants and other animals roam the town edges, so avoid walking after dark.
- Health: Malaria is present, so seek medical advice before travel and use repellent.
- Two countries: The falls are shared with Zambia; visiting the Zambian side involves a border crossing, so carry your passport.
Frequently asked questions
Which airport serves Victoria Falls?
The town is served by Victoria Falls International Airport (VFA), south of the town.
How do I get from the airport to the town?
Hotel transfers, shuttles and taxis are available. The drive takes roughly 20 to 30 minutes.
What currency is used in Victoria Falls?
US dollars are widely used, alongside Zimbabwe’s currency, the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG). Carry small notes.
Do I need a visa to visit Zimbabwe?
Entry requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Check RwandAir’s travel requirements tool or the official government website before travelling.
When is the best time to visit Victoria Falls?
February to May shows the falls in full flood, June to August offers a good balance, and the later dry season is best for rafting.
Should I see the falls from Zimbabwe or Zambia?
The Zimbabwean side offers the most extensive panoramic views of the main falls, while the Zambian side gives closer views of the eastern cataract. Many visitors see both.
Updated:
