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Victoria Falls Travel Guide

Victoria Falls Travel Guide

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Victoria Falls

Travel Guide

Planning your trip to Victoria Falls just got easier with our Victoria Falls Travel Guide. This guide is packed with all the essential information you need for planning your trip to this spectacular natural wonder.

From navigating the area and managing finances to ensuring your safety, we've got you covered. We'll guide you through the best accommodation options, whether you're leaning towards the tranquil Zambian side or the bustling Zimbabwean side.

Plus, we'll share various other practical information to enhance your experience in the Victoria Falls region. With our insights on Victoria Falls Tours, you're set for a journey filled with discovery and awe, making every moment count.

Getting To Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls Travel Guide

Navigating your journey to the majestic Victoria Falls is effortless, thanks to the availability of international airports on both the Zambian and Zimbabwean sides. This section provides a clear guide on How To Get To Victoria Falls by air, alongside other travel methods for those looking for alternative routes.

By Air

Getting to Victoria Falls can begin from several key locations worldwide, directly connecting you to either Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport in Zambia or Victoria Falls Airport in Zimbabwe. Here's a breakdown of the airlines and their routes to help you plan your trip:

Airport

Country

Airlines

Direct Flights From

Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International (LVI)

Zambia

South African Airways, British Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, Proflight Zambia

Johannesburg, Cape Town, Addis Ababa, Nairobi, Lusaka

Victoria Falls Airport (VFA)

Zimbabwe

South African Airways, British Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, Air Namibia, Air Zimbabwe

Johannesburg, Cape Town, Addis Ababa, Nairobi, Windhoek, Harare

Travellers looking to combine their visit to Kruger National Park with Victoria Falls will find the direct Airlink flight from Nelspruit to Livingstone particularly convenient.

Moreover, Kenya Airways offers a unique opportunity with daily flights from Nairobi to Cape Town, stopping alternately at Victoria Falls or Livingstone.

Upon landing at the airport, seamless Victoria Falls Airport Transfers are available to whisk you away to your accommodation, ensuring a smooth start to your adventure.

Other Ways To Get There

Beyond the skies, the land routes to Victoria Falls offer their charm and adventure. Trains, such as the luxurious Rovos Rail from Pretoria to Zimbabwe, provide a romantic and scenic approach to travel. Buses from major Southern African cities offer a practical alternative, connecting you directly to the falls.

  • Train and Bus Routes: Connect from cities like Pretoria, Bulawayo, Lusaka, and even Windhoek for a memorable journey to Victoria Falls.
  • From Botswana: A shared taxi from Kasane provides a swift and scenic hour-long ride to the falls, linking effortlessly with Chobe National Park's natural beauty.

In summary, whether you're flying directly, going on a scenic train journey, or travelling by taxi, Victoria Falls Tours have never been more accessible.

With Falcon Safaris, every aspect of How to Visit Victoria Falls is taken care of, ensuring your adventure starts the moment you decide to explore this magnificent landmark.

The Best Time To Visit

Victoria Falls Travel Guide

Discovering the ideal time for a visit to the world-renowned Victoria Falls requires understanding the seasonal changes that influence the falls' majesty and accessibility.

Deciding When To Visit

The Best Time To Visit Victoria Falls depends on what you wish to experience: the thunderous power of the falls at peak flow or the adventurous activities available when the water is low. Let’s look at the details below:

Rainy Season (November To April)

The rains are ideal for those who want to see Victoria Falls at its most powerful. The falls are the fullest during this period, offering incredible panoramas and the chance to witness lunar rainbows. The heavy mist might limit visibility but enhances the mystique of the falls.

Dry Season (July To November)

The dry periods are best for adventurers looking to experience Victoria Falls Activities like swimming in Devil's Pool and exploring Livingstone Island. Although parts of the falls, especially on the Zambian side, may dry up, the reduced spray improves visibility and photographic opportunities.

Seasonal Guide to Victoria Falls

Season

Months

Water Levels

Weather

Activities

Safari Season

Spring

Sep-Oct

Lower to Lowest

Hot and dry

White-water rafting, Swimming in Devil's Pool, Visiting Livingstone Island

High/Peak

Summer

Nov - Apr

Rising to High

Hot and rainy

Spectacular views, Lunar rainbows, White-water rafting (Dec-Jan), Swimming in Devil's Pool (Dec-Jan)

Low/Green

Autumn/Fall

May - Jun

High

Warm and dry

Spectacular views, Heaviest water flow, Lunar rainbows

High/Peak

Winter

Jul - Aug

High to Lower

Warm and dry

Spectacular views (Jul), White-water rafting (Aug), Swimming in Devil's Pool (Aug), Visiting Livingstone Island (Aug)

High/Peak

Tips For Visiting Victoria Falls

  • During the peak water flow, the sheer volume can make some viewpoints and paths inaccessible, while the spray can make photography challenging.
  • The lower water levels in the dry season reveal more of the rock face and allow for unique experiences such as swimming in the Devil's Pool.

To sum it up, the Best Time to Visit Victoria Falls varies based on personal preferences for adventure and natural spectacle.

We at Falcon Safaris ensure that regardless of when you choose to visit, your journey will be filled with memorable experiences, guided by our Victoria Falls Tour Packages tailored to showcase the falls' majesty in any season.

Entry Visas For Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls Travel Guide

When planning your Victoria Falls Tours, figuring out your visa shouldn't be a headache. Here's a concise Victoria Falls Guide to understanding your visa options and ensuring a smooth entry.

Your Visa Choices Explained

  • Single Entry Visa: This gets you into either Zambia or Zimbabwe and will cost between $30 to $50, based on your home country.
  • KAZA Visa (UniVisa): Ideal for those who want the freedom to explore both Zambia and Zimbabwe and even include a day trip to Chobe National Park in Botswana. It's a great deal at $50, offering unlimited crossings for 30 days.

Where To Get Your KAZA Visa?

The KAZA Visa can be acquired upon arrival at key entry points including Victoria Falls Airport, Livingstone Airport, Harare Airport, Lusaka Airport, or at the Kazungula land border with Botswana.

It's advisable to carry USD 50 in cash to ensure a hassle-free process, although many ports also accept card payments.

Who's Eligible For A KAZA Visa?

This visa is open to travellers from roughly 65 countries, including the US, UK, Australia, Canada, and most EU nations, making it a versatile option for many.

Easy Planning Tip

Armed with the right visa info, your trip to one of the world's most stunning natural wonders is going to be smooth sailing. The KAZA Visa ensures you can enjoy your Victoria Falls Tours to the fullest. This bit of Victoria Falls Facts is not just practical but can significantly enhance your experience, letting you focus on the adventure ahead.

Zambia Or Zimbabwe Side Of The Victoria Falls?

Victoria Falls Travel Guide

With visa details in hand, the next big question for your Victoria Falls Tours comes up: Will you venture from Zambia or Zimbabwe? Each side offers distinct, breathtaking experiences of this natural wonder, but selecting one as your entry point is essential.

Zambia: A Closer Look At Nature's Splendor

Choosing Zambia as your base means staying near Livingstone, a town steeped in history and named after the renowned explorer David Livingstone.

The Victoria Falls Travel Guide from Zambia reveals that the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, located just 10km from Livingstone, provides a serene and less crowded environment to experience the falls. Let’s highlight the pros and cons of visiting Victoria Falls from Zambia:

Pros
  • Fewer visitors, offering a more intimate experience.
  • Entry to the park is economical at about $20, allowing for a budget-friendly exploration.
  • Various hiking paths within the park present the falls from multiple angles, including the unique perspective from the bottom.
  • Livingstone is a delightful town for dining and accommodation, complemented by a stable currency environment.
Cons
  • Views of the falls are more limited, with only a quarter visible from Zambia.
  • Reliance on taxis for trips to the falls might add extra logistics to your day.

Zimbabwe: Unmatched Views And Easy Access

Opting for Zimbabwe positions you within walking distance from Victoria Falls town to the national park entrance. The Victoria Falls Travel Guide from Zimbabwe emphasizes the structured approach to tourism here, with better-organized facilities and the most impressive views of the Falls. The pros of travelling to Victoria Falls from Zimbabwe are:

  • Proximity to the falls allows for easy and frequent visits.
  • Year-round flow of the falls ensures a spectacular sight any season.
  • The park houses 75% of the falls, providing a grander scale of views.
  • Clearly marked hiking routes and scenic points enhance the exploration experience.
  • Amenities like restaurants and toilets enhance the visitor experience.

Cross-Border Exploration - Experience The Best Of Both Worlds

With Falcon Safaris, enjoying the full Victoria Falls Travel experience across Zambia and Zimbabwe is effortless.

  • A simple journey across the Victoria Falls Bridge with just your passport and a double/multiple entry visa—available at border control—opens up the wonders of both sides.
  • Our guides or transfer agents will facilitate this process, making day trips across the border a breeze.

In short, it doesn’t matter whether you're based in Zambia wanting a glimpse of Zimbabwe's panoramic views, or vice versa, the beauty of Victoria Falls is accessible in all its glory.

Getting Around And Travelling Between Zambia And Zimbabwe

As we know now, travelling between Zambia and Zimbabwe on your Victoria Falls Tour is straightforward, thanks to the KAZA visa. Our team ensures you can effortlessly enjoy the spectacular views and experiences from both sides.

Crossing the Victoria Falls Bridge not only connects you from one country to the other but also offers stunning vistas of the waterfall.

The walk across takes about 25 minutes, with dedicated pedestrian paths ensuring your safety away from cargo traffic. Moreover, we assist with taxis and vans for easy transfers to your lodging or the border.

  • Winter Opening Times: 6:30 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Summer Opening Times: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM

You can be assured that every aspect of your Victoria Falls Tour is taken care of with our assistance, making your exploration of this natural wonder worry-free and full of discovery.

Where To Stay In Victoria Falls – Zimbabwe Vs Zambia?

Victoria Falls Travel Guide

Deciding where to stay when visiting Victoria Falls is a key part of your trip's planning process.

Referring to our Victoria Falls Travel Guide, you'll find that both Livingstone and Victoria Falls Town offer a gateway to the same stunning waterfall, similar activities, and enriching experiences.

Accommodation Options In Zimbabwe

Victoria Falls town, known for its cleanliness and vibrancy, offers a quaint village feel amidst nature. It's a bit pricier here, but the variety of experiences and accessibility to the falls make it worth it.

Advantages Of Staying In Victoria Falls Zimbabwe
  • Immediate access to the falls, with 75% of it located on this side.
  • Walkability to major attractions enhances the experience. You can easily get around on foot.
  • A bustling area around the river, offering a plethora of dining and leisure options.
  • Quality accommodation that puts you in the heart of the action.
  • A vibrant community, though it comes with the presence of more vendors.
Potential Drawbacks Of Victoria Falls Accommodation, Zimbabwe
  • Higher costs for food and accommodation.
  • Luxury river lodges come with a high price tag, with less wildlife unless you stay at one.

Staying In Zambia

Livingstone presents a more laid-back, spread-out town experience, located a short distance from the falls. It’s enveloped by a national park, offering a unique blend of relaxation and wild encounters.

Advantages Of Staying In Zambia
  • More budget-friendly across food, drinks, and lodging.
  • Lodges along the river offer an affordable stay within a national park ambience.
  • An immersive natural environment, with wildlife encounters as part of the daily experience.
  • The laid-back vibe of Livingstone is ideal for those seeking a relaxed retreat.
Potential Drawbacks Of Victoria Falls Accommodation, Zambia:
  • The town is 8 kilometres from the falls, offering fewer Victoria Falls Activities.
  • Dining and nightlife options are more limited.

Making Your Choice

With our Victoria Falls Accommodation choices, you get the chance to experience the full magnificence of the falls, no matter which side you choose.

We often recommend spending a day exploring your base side and then taking a day trip across the border to enjoy the best of both worlds.

This way you won't miss out on any aspect of Victoria Falls, making your visit a comprehensive adventure.

Other Practical Information

Understanding the aspects of safety, money, and health is crucial for an enriching experience at Victoria Falls. Here, we look into some essential Tips for Visiting Victoria Falls.

Safety

Both Livingstone in Zambia and Victoria Falls town in Zimbabwe boast low crime rates, offering tourists a relaxed and secure environment.

  • Livingstone's vibrant daily life presents a wonderful opportunity to experience Zambian culture in a town that's both clean and colourful.
  • While Victoria Falls town is more tourist-oriented, it's essential to be mindful of touts, especially near the bridge area.
  • Remember, wildlife, including elephants and baboons, roam freely, so keep a safe distance, especially if you're carrying food.

Money

The cost of living and Victoria Falls Tourism activities tends to be lower in Zambia compared to Zimbabwe.

While planning your Victoria Falls Tour, consider both the flight costs and daily expenses. In Zambia, the Kwacha and US dollars are accepted, and currency exchange is accessible at key locations.

Credit card usage is widespread in major hotels and tourist spots, making transactions convenient.

Health

As the Victoria Falls region is a malaria zone, health precautions are vital for a worry-free experience.

  • Malaria prophylaxis is recommended, with Malarone being a popular choice for its minimal side effects.
  • High-DEET insect repellent is essential for protection against mosquitoes and tsetse flies, the latter known for spreading sleeping sickness.
  • You can wear long sleeves and lighter shade clothing in the evening to avoid insect bites.
  • Also, stick to bottled water for drinking to avoid any health issues, as the tap water, while treated, may not suit everyone.
  • Lastly, we would always suggest you take pre-trip consultations with your doctor for suitable medications as per individual concerns.

Hope, with these insights from our Victoria Falls Travel Guide, you're ready for a safe, enjoyable, and informed adventure to one of Africa's most stunning natural wonders.

Visiting Victoria Falls – Should You Visit The Zambia Or Zimbabwe Side?

Victoria Falls Travel Guide

Still, confused about deciding between the Zambian or Zimbabwean side of Victoria Falls? Well, it's like choosing between two equally tempting dishes.

Both sides serve up their unique flavours of adventure and beauty, making it a delightful dilemma.

If you're swinging between the serene Zambian stays or the vibrant vibes of Zimbabwe, why not taste both? With our efficient Victoria Falls Travel Guide, planning is a piece of cake.

And hey, if hopping between countries sounds like your kind of trip, Falcon Safaris is here to make it happen. Explore the best Victoria Falls Tours and let the journey unfold. Ready for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure? Let's chat!

Frequently Asked Questions

We Think You’ll Love

Three to four days are typically sufficient to explore the wonders of Victoria Falls. This duration allows you to enjoy the Victoria Falls Tours thoroughly, including both sides of the falls, various activities, and some relaxation.

While it's possible to explore Victoria Falls on your own, having a tour guide can enrich your experience. Guides offer insights and Tips for Visiting Victoria Falls and can navigate you through the best spots efficiently.

The best way to see Victoria Falls is by combining viewpoints from both Zambia and Zimbabwe. This approach ensures you don't miss out on any Victoria Falls Facts and perspectives that make this natural wonder so unique.

Choosing between Zambia or Zimbabwe for visiting Victoria Falls depends on what you wish to experience. However, the Victoria Falls Travel Guide from Zimbabwe suggests Zimbabwe offers more panoramic views of the falls.

The Best Time to Visit Victoria Falls is from February to May, right after the rainy season when the falls are at their most spectacular, showcasing their majestic power and beauty.

Deciding between Victoria Falls or Livingstone depends on your preferences. Livingstone offers a more laid-back experience closer to nature, as highlighted in our Victoria Falls Travel Guide from Zambia.

Yes, it's generally safe to walk around Victoria Falls. Both the Zambian and Zimbabwean sides have established paths for tourists, but always stay informed on Victoria Falls Tour Packages for guided safety tips.

The closest town to Victoria Falls on the Zimbabwe side is the town of Victoria Falls itself, offering easy access and a variety of accommodations and activities.

The easiest way to Get to Victoria Falls is by flying into either Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport in Zambia or Victoria Falls Airport in Zimbabwe, depending on where you're staying. This is a crucial How to Get to Victoria Falls tip.

For Victoria Falls, you can fly into Victoria Falls Airport (Zimbabwe) or Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport (Zambia), based on your accommodation and Victoria Fall Tour plans.

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