Victoria Falls, Mosi-oa-Tunya or "the smoke that thunders", sits on the border of Zimbabwe and Zambia. The Zambezi drops into a deep gorge, creating the spray and roar that make this World Heritage site so memorable. How it looks on the day depends on the water level, the weather and where you stand.
Choose your base first
Victoria Falls town in Zimbabwe and Livingstone in Zambia are different starting points. Think about your arrival airport, which side of the Falls you want to see and where you're heading next. If you'll cross the border, check the entry rules for your passport first. See visas and border crossings.
Give the viewpoints their own time
Don't squeeze the Falls between an airport transfer and a tightly timed activity. Leave room to stop, take photos and get wet. Pack something to protect your phone or camera from the spray and wear shoes for slippery paths. With young children, think about walking distances, shade and meal times.
Build a day that suits you
A Zambezi sunset cruise, a scenic flight or an afternoon at your lodge each bring something different. You don't need to do everything. Check age rules and accessibility with each operator, and allow for pick-up and travel time.
Treat the Falls as a chapter of your holiday, not a photo stop. It's where our 2027 hosted safari ends, with time to relax before the flight home.
Background: UNESCO World Heritage Centre.
