As the waters of the Zambezi River tumble off the rim of Victoria Falls, you can feel a tangible buzz of awe in the misty air. Dropping more than 300 feet along a mile-wide rim into a black gorge, Victoria Falls are twice the sight of Niagara and much more rewarding because it’s so hard to get here.
What is it?: One of the world’s largest and most spectacular waterfalls, straddling the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia, known locally as “The Smoke That Thunders.”
Popularity: Very popular – A major tourist draw in Southern Africa, especially for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
Best Time to Visit: April to June for peak water flow and dramatic spray; August to October for clearer views of the rock face and better wildlife spotting.
Known For: Waterfalls, bungee jumping, whitewater rafting, helicopter rides, walking safaris, wildlife watching, sunset cruises, adrenaline sports, natural pools.
Duration of Visit: 2-4 hours, or half-day if including adventure activities.
Accessibility: Some viewpoints wheelchair-accessible; uneven and wet paths near rainforest sections.
Suitability For: Adventure seekers, photographers, nature lovers, couples, families.
- Location: Border of Zimbabwe and Zambia
- Nearest Towns: Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe • Livingstone, Zambia
- Entrance Fees: ~$30 USD (Zimbabwe side), ~$20 USD (Zambia side)
- Opening Hours: ~6:00 AM – 6:00 PM (varies seasonally)
- Website: Zimbabwe Parks
- Map Links: Google Maps | Apple Maps
- Coordinates (for GPS): -17.9243, 25.8565
Victoria Falls is one of the world’s largest and most awe-inspiring waterfalls, straddling the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia. Known locally as “The Smoke That Thunders,” the falls send up mist that can be seen for miles as water plunges into the deep Batoka Gorge. The nearby towns of Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe) and Livingstone (Zambia) serve as gateways, offering lodges, markets, and adventure activities. Visitors can walk along rain-soaked trails with panoramic views or take boat cruises on the Zambezi River. For thrill-seekers, bungee jumping, white-water rafting, and swimming in Devil’s Pool bring adrenaline to the experience. Victoria Falls is both a natural wonder and an adventure hub.
If simply staring at this natural wonder doesn’t quench your thirst, there is a healthy adventure tourism scene around the falls. You can bungee off the bridge between Zambia and Zimbabwe or try to survive the river’s rapids, which rank among the most challenging on the planet. They don’t call this area the adrenalin capital of southern Africa for nothing. On the other hand, sipping a gin and tonic from the balcony of your lodge overlooking the thundering falls isn’t such a bad way to spend an afternoon either.