Best Guide to Visiting Victoria Falls from Zambia
- Esther Mehesz
- Jun 20, 2024
- 4 min read
Updated: May 19
A Misty Afternoon at One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World
When planning our trip through Southern Africa, one thing was certain: we couldn't miss the mighty Victoria Falls. Known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya, or "The Smoke That Thunders," this natural wonder was one of the highlights of our journey. We spent one unforgettable afternoon exploring the Zambian side of Victoria Falls, and I still can’t believe how close we got to the edge of the falls—and how soaked we were by the end of it!
What to Expect When Visiting the Zambian Side of Victoria Falls
First things first: be prepared to get wet. You don’t need to hike down into the gorge or do anything particularly adventurous to experience the spray. Just walking across one of the main pathways, especially near the Knife-Edge Bridge, feels like walking through a powerful mist tunnel. We were laughing the entire time, completely drenched and loving it.
Tip: Bring a rain jacket or rent a poncho at the entrance gate. Your camera and phone will thank you. But if you're fine being wet, you will dry. Just try to hide your phone and camera in certain areas.
Highlights from the Zambia Side
Rainbow magic: Thanks to the constant spray and sun, there were rainbows forming everywhere. It honestly felt like something out of a dream.
Unbeatable views: From the eastern cataract to the main falls, every viewpoint delivered a new perspective of this immense wall of water. Compared to Niagara Falls, Victoria Falls is just on another level.
Victoria Falls Bridge: From certain trails, you can see people bungee jump off this bridge connecting Zambia and Zimbabwe—a thrill just to witness (you can best believe that I will not be bungee jumping anytime soon)!
Walking routes: Inside Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, there are various paths and lookout points. Some are dry, some not so much, but all are beautiful.
Zimbabwe Side vs Zambia Side: Which is Better?
While we only visited the Zambian side of the falls, we spoke with fellow travelers who were also staying at the Radisson Blu Hotel and who visited both. Their verdict? The Zambia side felt more immersive and offered a better choice for close-up views and dramatic spray.
That said, border crossings to Zimbabwe can be done easily with the KAZA Univisa, but delays can occur, especially in high season. If you're short on time, sticking to one side (we vote Zambia!) might be a good idea.
Best Time to Visit Victoria Falls, Zambia Side
The best time to visit Victoria Falls depends on what kind of experience you want:
High-water season (Feb to May): Massive spray, rainbows, thunderous roar. Bring waterproof everything.
Dry season (Aug to Dec): Less mist = clearer views. Easier access to Devil's Pool and Livingstone Island.
Late afternoon or early morning: Best lighting for photos and fewer crowds.
We visited during the high water season, and the sheer power of the falls left us speechless.
A Final Surprise: Aerial View from the Sky
On our flight from Livingstone Airport to Cape Town, South Africa, the pilot casually announced, “If you’re on the right side of the plane, look out now.” Sure enough, from seats C-D-E, we had an unbelievable aerial view of the entire falls.
You can also book a helicopter flight or microlight ride for a more direct flyover, but this was the perfect, unexpected farewell. (And honestly, it felt better than hovering over such a powerful natural wonder in a chopper.)
Extra Tips for Your Visit
Bring waterproof gear (or rent at the entrance) - or if you don't mind being wet, it'll all dry pretty quickly. But don't forget, if you go later in the afternoon, and the sun is going down, it will get chilly in areas that are covered in more shade.
The walk is easy — plan for about a 60-minute walk to fully enjoy the different viewpoints.
Entry fee is paid at the gate, or check with your tour operator if it's included.
Stay nearby in Livingstone town or splurge at the Royal Livingstone Hotel for luxury right next to the falls - or if you're looking for something more convenient, stay at the Radisson Blu in Livingstone, which is about a 15-minute drive, and was an easy transfer.
Combine your visit with sunset cruises, game drives, or even white-water rafting in Batoka Gorge if you’re feeling adventurous.
Final Thoughts
Victoria Falls is more than just a photo op. It’s one of those rare places where nature reminds you just how small you are—and how big the world can feel. Whether you're here for the views, the adrenaline, or just the misty magic of it all, Visiting Victoria Falls, the Zambia side, is an experience you’ll never forget.
A little wet, totally in awe — and fully convinced some places are meant to be experienced, not explained.
Till the next adventure - bye friend!
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