Picture this: we stand before a massive wall of water, 1.7 kilometers wide and dropping 108 meters into a roaring gorge. This is Victoria Falls, also known as Mosi-oa-Tunya, "the mist that thunders."
Located between Zambia and Zimbabwe, it's one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, and no matter how many photos we've seen, nothing compares to the moment we feel the mist on our faces.
Where the Falls Are
The falls are split between two countries. On the Zambian side, they are part of Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park. On the Zimbabwean side, they sit inside Victoria Falls National Park. Both sides have their charms: Zimbabwe gives us panoramic views of the entire curtain of water, while Zambia brings us closer to the rushing torrents and even allows us to swim in the daring Devil's Pool right on the edge.
Entry Fees and Opening Hours
Visiting the parks requires an entry ticket. On the Zimbabwe side, it costs about $30 per person for international visitors, while the Zambian side is slightly cheaper at $20 per person. Children under 12 usually pay half price, and locals get discounted rates. Both parks are open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, giving us the flexibility to see the falls in golden morning light or under colorful sunsets.
Best Time to Visit
The falls change dramatically with the seasons. From February to May, after the rainy season, the Zambezi River is at its fullest. The roar is deafening, and clouds of mist rise so high they can be seen from miles away. Between June and August, the water level drops, giving us clearer views for photography.
By September and October, water levels are lowest, revealing the rocky gorge, but this is when adventurous visitors can try the famous Devil's Pool. November to January brings rising waters again, offering a balance between flow and visibility.
How to Get There
We have several easy ways to reach the falls:
- By Air: The two nearest airports are Victoria Falls International Airport (Zimbabwe) and Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport in Livingstone (Zambia). Both receive flights from Johannesburg, Cape Town, Nairobi, and Addis Ababa. From the airport, it's a 20–30 minute drive to the falls.
- By Road: Long-distance buses connect from Lusaka (Zambia) or Bulawayo (Zimbabwe), but flights are faster and more comfortable.
- By Train: For a nostalgic experience, we can take a scenic train journey from Bulawayo to Victoria Falls Town in Zimbabwe.
Ways to Explore the Falls
Once we're here, there are many ways to enjoy the falls:
- Walking Trails: Zimbabwe offers 16 viewpoints along a 2-kilometer trail. Zambia has shorter trails but brings us close to gorges and spray.
- Helicopter Ride: Known as the "Flight of Angels," this costs around $150–200 per person and shows us the falls from above—a perspective we'll never forget.
- Sunset Cruise: On the Zambezi River, just above the falls, we can take boat trips costing $50–70 per person, offering calm waters, wildlife views, and unforgettable sunsets.
- White-water Rafting: For thrill-seekers, rafting trips on the Zambezi below the falls are among the best in the world. Prices range from $120–150 per person.
Useful Travel Tips
To make our trip smooth and enjoyable, here are some handy tips:
- Clothing: A lightweight raincoat or poncho is essential; the spray can drench us within seconds.
- Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring slippery trails.
- Visa: If we want to see both sides, a KAZA Univisa allows multiple entries between Zambia and Zimbabwe for $50, valid for 30 days.
- Safety: Always stay on marked paths and avoid leaning too close to the edge of cliffs.
Unforgettable Journey Awaits
Lykkers, standing before Victoria Falls or Mosi-oa-Tunya is like stepping into another world. We hear the thunder, feel the mist, and see rainbows dancing in the air. It's more than a trip—it's a reminder of nature's raw power and beauty. From the panoramic views on the Zimbabwean side to the close-up adventures in Zambia, each moment leaves us in awe.
So, shall we start planning together? Let's cross the bridge, walk the trails, and let the mist and thunder create memories that will last a lifetime.
Victoria Falls, Zambia & Zimbabwe | 4K HD Travel Video
Video by World Adventure Explorers
