Victoria Falls isn’t just one of the world’s most spectacular waterfalls—it’s the beating heart of southern Africa. Surrounded by untamed wilderness, vibrant culture, and endless opportunities for adventure, this region offers so much more than just a waterfall. Whether you’re crossing Africa on a grand overland trip or planning a two-week getaway, Victoria Falls is the kind of destination that makes your journey unforgettable.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from the natural wonder itself to travel tips, seasonal highlights, and border-crossing hacks.

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Where Is Victoria Falls?

Straddling the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, Victoria Falls—known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya—sits on the Zambezi River in the heart of southern Africa. This mighty waterfall lies at a crossroads where four countries nearly meet: Zambia, Zimbabwe, Namibia, and Botswana. And yes—you can visit all four in a single week!

You’ll need to decide whether to stay on the Zambian or Zimbabwean side, but don’t worry—you can cross the bridge between them for a day trip with ease.

What Does “Mosi-oa-Tunya” Mean?

The name Mosi-oa-Tunya translates to “The Smoke That Thunders”—a poetic and accurate description of what you’ll experience. This name comes from the Lozi people, indigenous to the region. Even earlier, the Tonga tribes referred to the falls as Shungu na Mutitima, which also means “Smoke That Thunders.”

Scottish explorer David Livingstone, the first European to lay eyes on the falls, also recorded the name Chongwe, meaning “Place of the Rainbow”—a nod to the constant spray creating vibrant rainbows over the gorge.

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How Big Is Victoria Falls?

While it’s not the tallest or widest waterfall in the world, Victoria Falls holds the title of the largest sheet of falling water on Earth. During peak flow, more water tumbles over its cliffs than anywhere else on the planet.

  • Height: Up to 108 meters (354 feet)

  • Width: 1,700 meters (5,577 feet)

  • Flow Rate: At its peak in April/May, over 6.5 million liters per second plunge over the edge. That’s 566 billion liters a day!

In contrast, during the dry season (around November), the Zambezi slows to just 400,000 liters per second.

Victoria Falls Is Actually Five Waterfalls

During peak season, Victoria Falls looks like one endless curtain of water. But when the river runs low, you can clearly see that the falls are made up of five distinct sections:

Devil’s Cataract (Zimbabwe) – 70 meters

The first waterfall you’ll see from the Zimbabwean side, this narrow and dramatic drop is often overlooked—but it’s a powerful sight on its own.

Main Falls (Zimbabwe) – 93 meters

The heart of Mosi-oa-Tunya. At full flow, the water crashes with such force that most of it turns to mist before it hits the ground. The thunderous roar is audible from 10 kilometers away, and the spray will absolutely drench you.

Horseshoe Falls (Zimbabwe) – 95 meters

True to their name, these falls arc in a wide curve. They’re often the first to dry up as the river drops, revealing the black basalt walls behind them.

Rainbow Falls (Zambia/Zimbabwe) – 108 meters

The highest section of Victoria Falls. Rainbows are almost always visible here, and during full moons, you can even see a lunar rainbow—a rare, magical sight.

Eastern Cataract (Zambia) – 101 meters

This part of the falls is a beast during rainy season, sending mist soaring into the sky. But by late dry season (October to December), it can completely dry up, and visitors can even walk along the top of the cliff where water once raged.

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Flying to Victoria Falls

Two international airports serve the region: Victoria Falls Airport in Zimbabwe and Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport in Zambia. Both offer direct flights from major African hubs like Johannesburg, Cape Town, Nairobi, and Addis Ababa.

Kenya Airways is a smart choice, offering daily flights between Nairobi and Cape Town that stop alternately in Victoria Falls or Livingstone.

Getting There Overland

Victoria Falls lies in the center of the Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area (KAZA), one of the world’s largest protected ecosystems. Spanning over 500,000 square kilometers—larger than Spain—it offers pristine wilderness, incredible wildlife, and few roads.

Road trips through Botswana, Namibia, or Zambia often include a stop at the falls. It’s a welcome chance to rest, recharge, and enjoy real beds and hot showers after long, bumpy rides through the bush.

 

Border Tips: Get the KAZA Univisa

If you want to explore both sides of the falls—and maybe even sneak into Botswana—you’ll need a visa. The best option? The KAZA Univisa.

This single visa allows unlimited entry into Zambia and Zimbabwe for 30 days, plus a day trip to Botswana. It’s available to citizens of over 65 countries (including the US, EU, Canada, Australia, Russia, Japan, and more).

  • Type: Visa on arrival

  • Cost: $50 USD

  • Validity: 30 days

  • Where to get it: Major airports and land borders in Zambia and Zimbabwe

Just remember: if you visit Botswana for more than a day, you’ll need a new visa to re-enter.

When to Visit Victoria Falls

Best Time for Waterfalls: April to July

This is peak flow season, right after the rains. The falls are loud, misty, and incredibly powerful—bring waterproof gear!

Best Weather: May to September

These dry winter months offer the most pleasant climate, with cool nights and warm days (18–28°C). It’s also high season, so expect more tourists and higher prices.

Best Deals: December to March

This is rainy season, when the Zambezi is slowly refilling. While some parts of the falls may be quieter, it’s a great time to avoid the crowds and score discounts.

Avoid: Late October to early December

This is the hottest and driest period. Temperatures can soar past 40°C, and much of the waterfall may have dried up.

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More Than Just a Waterfall

Victoria Falls offers more than just awe-inspiring views. Go white-water rafting, zip-line over the gorge, explore the nearby national parks, or relax on a sunset river cruise surrounded by elephants and hippos.

Whatever kind of traveler you are—adventurer, nature lover, or cultural explorer—Victoria Falls delivers.

Ready to hear the Smoke That Thunders? Pack your camera, your passport, and your sense of wonder—Victoria Falls is calling.