Victoria Falls landscape

    Zimbabwe

    Victoria Falls

    "Mosi Oa Tunya", or "The Smoke That Thunders", Victoria Falls are as magnificent on the 10th visit as they are on the 1st, and their thundering roar makes everything else seem strangely quiet once you leave them behind. As the mighty Zambezi flows over a chasm of 1 mile wide, and 110 metres high, to violently crash on the rocks below, the resultant spray is sent tens of metres up into the air, before it lands back down in a continuous rainfall. The water then rushes through an opening of only 50 metres, as the Zambezi races further along, over churning rapids and through the deep Batoka Gorge.

    Explore Victoria Falls

    Things to See & Do

    Highlights and experiences in Victoria Falls

    Victoria Falls highlight

    Remember to take wet weather gear, even on the driest of days! Victoria Falls can be viewed from walkways running parallel with the rock face over which the mighty Zambezi Rivers flows in thousands of litres of water per second. The narrow gorge into which the water cascades causes spray to be thrown up high into the air, and creates a perpetual rainfall which feeds the rain forest situated all along the walkways. Guided tours of the Falls can be arranged on which you can learn more about the history and geology of the area.

    Victoria Falls highlight

    When David Livingstone first saw Victoria Falls, his opinion was that they are so beautiful, that angels must choose to fly above them to enjoy the views. 150 years on, we mere mortals are able to join these angels while taking a helicopter flight above the Falls and the Botaka Gorge. This is the best way to understand that remarkable geology of the land which has resulted in the Falls, and you are able to see far into the distance, over 4 countries, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana and Namibia.

    Victoria Falls highlight

    Bring together a railway bridge, an enormous waterfall, a 110 meter high canyon, and some mad Africans, and what you find is one of the world famous bungy jumps and gorge swings. While it takes a huge amount of courage to make it to the edge of the bridge, or cliff, the local instructors will be more than willing to assist you with the final leap! Hanging upside down with Victoria Falls in your sight is probably not one of the views Livingstone would have considered.

    Victoria Falls highlight

    The Zambezi River is home to countless crocodiles and heaps of hippos, and is the drinking hole of numerous wild animals, including elephants, giraffe, kudu, zebra and many more. It is often in the evening that many of these creatures make their way down for a sundowner, and you can enjoy your very own while relaxing on one of the Zambezi river boats. A Zambezi sunset is a highlight of any African safari, with the waters of the river being the perfect canvas for the sun to paint its vivid red, orange and yellow reflections.

    Victoria Falls highlight

    With some of the roughest white water tackled by tourists anywhere in the world, the Zambezi rafting guides have etched their names into world folklore with their skills, strength, and daring in taking on the Zambezi's rapids everyday. With many grade 5's, and even a grade 6 (for guides only), a full day of rafting is one of the most exhilirating experiences available. And seeing crocs lazing on the rocks as you tumble past just adds to the thrills!

    Victoria Falls highlight

    The towns of Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe) and Livingstone (Zambia) each offer the opportunity to engage with some of the locals on guided visits to some of the surrounding villages. Spend some time at a local school and gain insights into the lifestyle and cultures of the area.

    Best Time to Visit Victoria Falls

    Month-by-month travel guide with weather, highlights, and expert recommendations.

    Compare with other destinations

    Victoria Falls in May

    Weather

    May brings cooler, dry weather with average temperatures around 21°C. The days are sunny and clear.

    Highlights

    The Victoria Falls are still very full, though water levels are slowly receding. Wildlife viewing in the national parks improves as vegetation thins.

    Best Areas

    Both sides of the Falls offer fantastic views. Game drives and walking safaris in Zambezi National Park become increasingly rewarding.

    Pros

    Perfect weather for all activities, with comfortable temperatures and clear skies. Excellent for photography of the Falls with less spray.

    Cons

    Water levels in the Falls are starting to drop, though they remain impressive.