- Destinations
- Zimbabwe
- Victoria Falls Zimbabwe
Victoria Falls Zimbabwe
Travel to Victoria Falls Zimbabwe
The sight of Victoria Falls in full flow is one of the world’s greatest natural spectacles. A foaming mile of water crashes into a deep gorge to release a tower of spray – Mosi-oa-Tunya in the local language: the Smoke that Thunders.
It’s an iconic destination, easy to get to and rich in experience. Many Botswana and Namibia safaris end with a grand finale at Victoria Falls Zimbabwe; after all, Victoria Falls lies just 70 kilometres from Botswana’s world-famous Chobe River. And the most reliable all-year round views are from the Zimbabwe side of Victoria Falls.
Surrounded by game reserves, Victoria Falls lies at the heart of the southern Africa safari experience; hippos snort from the river upstream from the falls, elephants and buffalo gather at local waterholes and the birdlife is prolific. It is also Africa’s adventure capital, home to the world’s best one-day white-water rafting as well as bungee jumping and elephant-back safaris. You can go on game drives, explore the river by canoe, walk with friendly lion cubs and end the day with a sunset boat cruise. There are local communities to visit and get involved with too.
The Zambezi River is the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia; Victoria Falls is thus ‘shared’ between the two countries. Adventure and safari activities are generally available on both sides of the river and it’s easy to get from one country to the other if you need to. A bridge connects the two sides and if you buy the excellent-value Univisa, you can cross the border as often as you like.
Victoria Falls Zimbabwe is more developed than the Zambian side. The bustling town of Victoria Falls sits near the waterfall and several of its hotels are within strolling distance of the main viewing site. A town accessed by road or air, this is where you’ll find hotel accommodation as well as safari lodges located out of town on private reserves. The views of Victoria Falls from the Zimbabwe side are more varied and extensive, and you’ll see water going over the falls throughout the year. You’ll also spot antelope, monkeys and birds in the local rainforest as you make your way between viewing points.
