Victoria Falls National Park
Witness the awe-inspiring 'Smoke That Thunders' at Victoria Falls, one of the world's largest waterfalls, offering thrilling adventures and lush rainf...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak water flow, lush scenery
Victoria Falls National Park
Best Time
Peak water flow, lush scenery
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness the awe-inspiring 'Smoke That Thunders' at Victoria Falls, one of the world's largest waterfalls, offering thrilling adventures and lush rainforest exploration.
"Absolutely breathtaking! Victoria Falls Zambia experience surreal!!! Highly recommend adding this to your TO DO LIST."
poncho is a must! :umbrella:
You'll get soaked by the mist! Bring a waterproof jacket or poncho for the rainforest walk.
Book Devil's Pool early :ticket:
This popular tour sells out fast, especially in peak season. Book your spot well in advance!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Majestic Main Falls
Zimbabwe & Zambia Sides
Witness the sheer power and scale of the world's largest waterfall. Feel the spray and hear the thunderous roar.
Devil's Pool & Angel's Pool
Livingstone Island, Zambia
Dare to swim at the very edge of the falls in a natural rock pool. An adrenaline-pumping, unforgettable experience.
Rainforest Walk
Victoria Falls National Park
Explore lush rainforest trails with stunning viewpoints, diverse flora, and potential wildlife sightings.
Helicopter or Microlight Flight
Above Victoria Falls
Gain a breathtaking aerial perspective of the falls and the Zambezi River. A truly awe-inspiring bird's-eye view.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Pack Smart for the Mist
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
poncho is a must! :umbrella:
You'll get soaked by the mist! Bring a waterproof jacket or poncho for the rainforest walk.
Book Devil's Pool early :ticket:
This popular tour sells out fast, especially in peak season. Book your spot well in advance!
Consider both sides :world_map:
Zimbabwe offers more extensive views, while Zambia provides access to Devil's Pool and closer perspectives.
Wear comfy shoes :athletic_shoe:
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven paths. Good grip is essential for the rainforest trails.
Tips
from all over the internet
poncho is a must! :umbrella:
You'll get soaked by the mist! Bring a waterproof jacket or poncho for the rainforest walk.
Book Devil's Pool early :ticket:
This popular tour sells out fast, especially in peak season. Book your spot well in advance!
Consider both sides :world_map:
Zimbabwe offers more extensive views, while Zambia provides access to Devil's Pool and closer perspectives.
Wear comfy shoes :athletic_shoe:
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven paths. Good grip is essential for the rainforest trails.
Cash for park fees :moneybag:
While cards are accepted, having USD cash can speed up entry, especially on busy days.
Sunset cruise is magic :sunset:
Enjoy stunning views of the Zambezi River and wildlife as the sun goes down. Highly recommended!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently rave about the breathtaking power and scale of Victoria Falls, calling it a 'wonder of the world' and an 'unforgettable experience.' The mist, the roar, and the sheer beauty leave a lasting impression. However, some find the park entrance fees and associated activities to be quite expensive, and restroom facilities can sometimes be neglected.
"Victoria Falls National Park on the Zimbabwe side is absolutely incredible. Everything about it – the views, the power of the falls, the wildlife, the atmosphere – is just breathtaking. It can get a bit crowded, but honestly, it doesn’t take away from how magical the whole place is. Definitely a must-visit."
Georgia Ceriani
"Victoria Falls is so beautiful. There was lots of water over the Falls in July. I recommend going on a helicopter ride over the Falls. It was an incredible experience. The sunset cruise on the Zambezi was great."
Mandy Redman
"Expensive, but absolutely worth it. It's such an experience to see and hear the water. Bring your poncho, because you will need it when you get halfway the falls.
When you want to walk the bridge, just get a bridge pass at immigration and you can cross the bridge. Just make sure you don't cross the Zambian border at the end and you can just walk back to Zim."
Linda Canter
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Victoria Falls can be accessed from both Zimbabwe (Victoria Falls town) and Zambia (Livingstone town). Both have international airports (VFA and LVI respectively). From the airports, taxis or pre-booked shuttles are readily available to reach the park entrances. Many visitors choose to stay in either town and walk or take a short taxi ride to the park.
Yes, you can visit both sides! A visa may be required depending on your nationality for each country. A 'KAZA Uni-Visa' is available for many nationalities, covering both Zambia and Zimbabwe, which can be more cost-effective and convenient if you plan to explore both.
Victoria Falls town is quite walkable, especially to the park entrance. Taxis are plentiful for longer distances or to reach hotels. Many hotels also offer shuttle services. For exploring the Zambezi River, sunset cruises and activity operators often include transfers.
Yes, it's a straightforward process. You can walk across the Victoria Falls Bridge, which connects the two countries, or take a taxi. Ensure you have the necessary visas for both countries if you plan to cross.
While not extensive, local buses may run to the general vicinity of the towns, but for direct access to the park entrances and convenience, taxis or hotel shuttles are the most common and recommended options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Park entrance fees vary for international visitors, typically ranging from US$20-50 for the Zimbabwe side and US$10-20 for the Zambia side. Prices can change, so it's best to check the official park websites or inquire locally.
The park is generally open daily from early morning (around 6:00 AM) to late afternoon (around 6:00 PM). Hours can vary slightly depending on the season, so it's advisable to confirm before your visit.
For the main park entrance, tickets can usually be purchased on arrival. However, for popular activities like Devil's Pool or helicopter rides, advance booking is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your spot.
The standard park entrance fee grants access to the main walking paths and numerous viewpoints on that side of the falls. Separate tickets or tour bookings are required for activities like Devil's Pool, sunset cruises, or aerial tours.
While cell service can be spotty within the park itself, you can generally use your phone for photos and navigation. Some visitors have reported issues with their phones not working inside the park, so it's wise to be prepared for potential connectivity problems.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The most popular way is to walk the rainforest paths on either the Zimbabwe or Zambia side, offering incredible views and the chance to get close to the mist. For a truly unique perspective, consider a helicopter or microlight flight.
Lightweight, quick-drying clothing is best due to the heavy mist. A waterproof jacket or poncho is essential. Comfortable walking shoes with good grip are a must for the slippery paths.
Devil's Pool is considered safe when visited with a licensed guide. Guides ensure you stay within the natural rock barrier and assist you. There have been no reported fatalities on organized tours.
While the falls are the main attraction, the surrounding rainforest and national parks offer opportunities to see baboons, monkeys, various bird species, and sometimes even rhinos or elephants, especially on game drives.
Most visitors spend at least 2-3 hours exploring the main falls viewpoints. If you plan to do activities like Devil's Pool, a sunset cruise, or a helicopter ride, you could easily spend a full day or even two.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are usually cafes or small restaurants located near the park entrances or within the visitor areas on both the Zimbabwe and Zambia sides, offering snacks and light meals. However, options can be limited and pricier.
Victoria Falls town (Zimbabwe) and Livingstone town (Zambia) offer a range of dining options, from casual eateries and pubs to fine dining restaurants, often featuring local and international cuisine. Many hotels also have excellent restaurants.
Generally, bringing your own snacks and water is permitted, which can be a cost-effective option. However, be mindful of waste and dispose of it properly. Check specific park regulations upon entry.
Most restaurants in the towns are accustomed to catering to various dietary needs. It's advisable to inform your server about your preferences, and you'll likely find suitable vegetarian or vegan dishes.
Dining prices can vary significantly. Casual meals might cost US$10-20 per person, while more upscale restaurants can range from US$30-50 or more. Eating inside the park cafes tends to be slightly more expensive than in town.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for photography. Midday sun can be harsh, but the mist itself can create dramatic, ethereal shots.
A waterproof camera or a good quality waterproof phone case is essential. Lens cloths are also vital for wiping away spray. Consider a rain cover for your DSLR or mirrorless camera.
Drone usage is generally restricted or prohibited within national parks and over natural heritage sites like Victoria Falls due to safety and conservation concerns. Always check local regulations before flying.
On the Zimbabwe side, the 'Knife-Edge Bridge' offers dramatic close-ups. On the Zambia side, viewpoints near Livingstone Island provide unique angles. The helicopter tours offer unparalleled aerial photo opportunities.
Yes, but it's crucial to have a waterproof phone or camera. Guides often assist with taking photos for visitors, ensuring your device stays safe while you capture the incredible experience.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Activities like sunset cruises on the Zambezi River are a hit with families, offering a relaxed way to see wildlife. While Devil's Pool is generally for older children and adults due to safety considerations, other activities like the Big Tree walk or visiting the Livingstone Museum in Zambia can be engaging for younger visitors. Consider a helicopter ride for a memorable family experience, though it's a significant expense.
💰 Budget Travelers
Opt for accommodation in hostels or guesthouses in Victoria Falls town or Livingstone. Pack your own snacks and water to save on food costs within the park. Consider walking or using local transport where feasible. While activities like Devil's Pool or helicopter rides are costly, prioritize one 'splurge' activity if your budget allows.
❤️ Couples & Honeymooners
For the adventurous, a guided tour to Devil's Pool offers a unique shared thrill. Consider a stay at one of the luxury lodges or hotels offering stunning views and fine dining for a truly memorable honeymoon or romantic getaway.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Thrill of Devil's Pool
Access to Devil's Pool is via a guided tour from Livingstone Island. The tour includes a boat trip across the Zambezi, a walk on the island, and then the opportunity to swim in Devil's Pool or the nearby Angel's Pool. It's important to note that this is a guided activity with a strong safety record, and booking in advance is essential due to limited spots. The cost is typically around $125 USD per person.
While the idea of swimming at the edge of one of the world's largest waterfalls is daunting, the guides' expertise and the natural formation of the pool make it a surprisingly secure adventure for thrill-seekers. It's a bucket-list item for many, offering a unique perspective and bragging rights for those brave enough to take the plunge.
Exploring the Rainforest Trails
As you wander through the rainforest, you'll be enveloped in a fine mist, so wearing waterproof gear is highly recommended. The dense vegetation creates a unique microclimate, and you might spot various bird species, monkeys, and baboons along the way. The sound of the falls is ever-present, a constant, powerful reminder of the natural wonder you're experiencing.
Key viewpoints include the 'Knife-Edge Bridge' on the Zimbabwe side, offering dramatic, close-up views, and various platforms that allow you to feel the full force of the spray. On the Zambian side, viewpoints near Livingstone Island provide a different, yet equally impressive, perspective. These trails are generally easy to navigate, making them accessible for most visitors.
Aerial Perspectives: Flights Over the Falls
Several operators offer these flights, with durations typically ranging from 15 to 30 minutes. The 'Flight of Angels' is a popular helicopter tour that provides incredible photo opportunities. Microlight flights offer a more open-air, exhilarating experience. While these activities come at a higher cost, many visitors find them to be a worthwhile splurge for the unique vantage point they provide.
These flights are not just about seeing the falls; they also offer a chance to spot wildlife along the Zambezi River, such as hippos and crocodiles, from a unique aerial perspective. It's a fantastic way to grasp the sheer magnitude of Victoria Falls and its surrounding environment.


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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit