The Scale of Victoria Falls
When you first approach Victoria Falls, nothing quite prepares you for the sheer volume of water thundering over the edge. At 1,708 meters wide and 108 meters high, it's officially classified as the world's largest sheet of falling water. During peak flow season (February to May), around 500 million liters crash over the cliff every minute. That's enough water to fill an Olympic swimming pool every three seconds.
The local Kololo people called it Mosi-oa-Tunya– "The Smoke That Thunders" – and once you're there, you'll understand why. The spray rockets over 400 meters into the air, sometimes reaching twice that height, creating a massive cloud visible from 50 kilometers away. It's this combination of width, height, and volume that sets Victoria Falls apart from other famous waterfalls worldwide.
Popular Trips to Victoria Falls
The tours below showcase just some of what is possible. Use these itineraries as starting points, or to draw inspiration. Then get in touch, and let our expert team help craft the perfect itinerary for you.
Zambia vs Zimbabwe
Which Side Should You Choose?
The eternal question for first-time visitors is whether to experience Victoria Falls from Zambia or Zimbabwe. The answer depends on what you're after: Zimbabwe gives you the classic postcard views, while Zambia offers the raw, up-close drama.
Zimbabwe claims about 75% of the falls frontage, including the famous Main Falls and Devil's Cataract. This means you get those sweeping panoramic views that make for perfect photos. The viewpoints here are well-positioned for capturing the entire 1,708-meter width of the falls, and crucially, this side flows year-round. Victoria Falls town is also just a short walk from the park entrance, making logistics much easier.
Zambia delivers an entirely different experience. The viewpoints here, especially the famous Knife-Edge Bridge, put you right in the thick of the action. You'll feel the thunder of the water and get completely soaked in spray. This is also your only option for Devil's Pool, that natural infinity pool right on the edge of the falls that's accessible from September to December.
Sunset Cruises on the Mighty Zambezi
Picture this: you're gliding along the Zambezi with a G&T in hand as elephants wade into the river just meters away. Sunset cruises are one of our favourite ways to end a day at Victoria Falls. These 2-3 hour journeys offer front-row seats to some of Africa's best wildlife viewing, all from the comfort of a luxury vessel.
You'll drift past pods of hippos grunting in the shallows and spot crocodiles basking on muddy banks. The wildlife here is incredibly relaxed around boats, so you often get remarkably close encounters.
As the sun dips toward the horizon, the river turns golden and the spray from the falls creates ethereal rainbows in the distance.
Victoria Falls FAQs
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When is the best time to visit Victoria Falls?
March to May offers the most spectacular experience with the falls at peak flow (up to 500 million liters per minute), while August to October provides clearer views with less spray and access to Devil's Pool.
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Which side of Victoria Falls should I visit - Zimbabwe or Zambia?
The Zimbabwe side offers panoramic views of 75% of the falls from 16 viewpoints with year-round water flow, while the Zambian side provides closer, more immersive views and unique experiences like Devil's Pool access.
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How do I access both sides of Victoria Falls?
You can cross between Zimbabwe and Zambia via the Victoria Falls Bridge, which involves a 20-minute walk between border posts and requires the appropriate visa or KAZA UniVisa.
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How many days should I spend at Victoria Falls?
A minimum of 2 nights allows you to experience both sides and key activities, while 3-4 days provides optimal time to fully explore the falls and enjoy various adventure activities.
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What adventure activities are available at Victoria Falls?
Popular activities include helicopter flights, white-water rafting on Class 4/5 rapids, bungee jumping from Victoria Falls Bridge, Devil's Pool swimming (September-December), and Zambezi River sunset cruises.
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When can I visit Devil's Pool at Victoria Falls?
Devil's Pool on the Zambian side is only accessible during low-water months from mid-August to late December when water levels are safe for swimming at the falls' edge.
Popular Trips to Victoria Falls
The tours below showcase just some of what is possible. Use these itineraries as starting points, or to draw inspiration. Then get in touch, and let our expert team help craft the perfect itinerary for you.
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