The Best Things to Do in Victoria Falls (From Someone Who Lived in

The roar hits you before you see it — a deep, thundering rumble that makes the air vibrate. Then comes the spray, drifting over you like warm mist. This is Victoria Falls, Africa’s most famous waterfall, and it’s every bit as dramatic as the hype suggests.

Known locally as Vic Falls, this is a place that combines jaw-dropping natural beauty with high-octane adventure, wildlife encounters, and genuine Zimbabwean warmth. If you’re wondering where Victoria Falls is, it straddles the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia, making it easy to hop between the two countries for completely different perspectives.

I’ve been here four times (and I lived in Zimbabwe for six years), and every visit still feels different. From lazy Zambezi sunsets to heart-in-your-mouth adrenaline drops, Vic Falls is a playground of experiences.

Here’s my pick of the best things to do, beyond just standing in awe of the waterfall.

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Victoria falls Zimbabwe — Victoria Falls

See the Falls from Every Angle

On the Zimbabwe side, a network of rainforest trails winds between viewpoints. One moment you’re looking across a broad curtain of water, the next you’re peering into a narrow chasm with spray curling up like steam. Entry here is US $50 for international visitors (half price for kids aged 6–12), and you’ll get a day pass to wander at your own pace.

Hop over to the Zambian side for Knife-Edge Bridge, where the spray can be so thick it feels like walking through a warm rainstorm. It’s a shorter stretch to explore but puts you right in the middle of the action. Entry is US $20 for international visitors (again, kids are half price)

When to go:

High-water season (Feb–May): The falls are at full force — spectacular but very wet.
Low-water season (Sept–Dec): The spray is lighter, the rocks more visible, and you can see right into the gorge.

Insider tip: Both fees are single-entry, so once you leave you’ll have to pay again. Wear quick-dry clothes and pack a waterproof pouch for your camera or phone — you will get drenched.

Victoria Falls Dry Season - Things to do in Victoria Falls — Victoria Falls Dry Season

Sunset Cruise on the Zambezi River

I’ve done this three times, and I’d happily go again tomorrow. Picture gliding past hippos snorting in the shallows, elephants on the bank, and the sky shifting from gold to fire-orange. As the sun dips, the river glows like molten copper.

There are different styles of cruise — from luxury decks with linen-covered tables and endless canapés to relaxed boats where it’s just you, a cold drink, and the view. Either way, it’s one of the most peaceful things to do in Victoria Falls.

🤩 Recommended: Dinner Cruise on the Zambezi River

Take the ‘Flight of Angels’ by Helicopter

Nothing gives you a sense of scale like seeing Victoria Falls Africa from above. From the air, you see the Zambezi spread wide, then plunge in one massive sheet before winding away in the zig-zagging Batoka Gorge.

It’s over in about 15 minutes, but it’s pure magic — especially in high-water season when the spray rises hundreds of metres into the air.

Tip: Sit on the left-hand side for the best initial view of the falls, and wear dark clothes to avoid reflections in your photos.

🤩 Recommended: : Scenic Helicopter Flight Over Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls Bridge Adventure

This century-old bridge connects Zimbabwe and Zambia and offers views so dramatic you might forget to breathe. Walk across for panoramic gorge views, sign up for a guided historical tour, or — if you’re feeling brave — zip line from one side to the other.

Fun fact: When it opened in 1905, it was the highest bridge in the world. Cecil Rhodes wanted it close enough to the falls that passing trains would be sprayed.

Pro Tip: Remember to take your passport with you

Bridge between Zimbabwe and Zambia — The bridge between Zimbabwe and Zambia

High Tea at the Victoria Falls Hotel

Step back into colonial-era elegance at this iconic hotel. I’ve been twice, and both times I lingered far too long over scones, delicate sandwiches, and cakes piled high on tiered stands. The terrace overlooks manicured lawns, with the Victoria Falls Bridge framed perfectly in the distance. You may even be lucky and see a few warthogs. They love the sprinklers.

Tip: Even if you’re not staying here, book in advance — high tea is popular with day-trippers and locals alike.

Bungee Jump Over the Zambezi

At 111 metres, this is one of the highest bungee jumps in the world. The countdown is intense, and the moment your feet leave the platform, the rush of air and the sight of the river rushing towards you is unforgettable.

Not keen to throw yourself off a bridge? It’s still fun to watch the daredevils take the plunge.

🤩 Recommended: Victoria Falls Bridge Bungee Jump

White-Water Rafting in Batoka Gorge

If you’re here in low-water season (usually August–December), you can tackle some of the biggest commercially run rapids in the world. It’s a full-day trip, starting with a steep hike down into the gorge — and an even steeper one back up at the end.

You’ll get wet, you’ll get tired, and you’ll have stories to tell for years.

Note: This is a serious adventure. You need to be reasonably fit and comfortable in water.

Gorge Swing or Zip Line Across the Zambezi

The gorge swing isn’t just a drop — it’s a free fall into a massive arc, with the Zambezi roaring far below. The zip line is less intense but still a huge adrenaline rush, and you can even do it tandem.

Either way, the views are unbeatable.

🤩 Recommended: Zip Line from the Victoria Falls Bridge

Explore Livingstone, Zambia

Cross the bridge and you’re in a town with a different vibe. Livingstone has great craft markets, cafés, and the excellent Livingstone Museum, which delves into the explorer’s life and the region’s history.

Tip: If you’re crossing for the day, go early — there can be queues at immigration, especially in peak season.

Lunar Rainbow Tour

On certain full-moon nights, the spray from Vic Falls creates a rainbow that shimmers silver in the dark. It’s rare, surreal, and something most visitors never get to see.

Tours run only when the moon is at the right angle, so check dates before you travel.

Game Drive in Zambezi National Park

Just minutes from the Victoria Falls location in Zimbabwe, this park offers a real safari experience without the long transfers. Early mornings are perfect for spotting elephants heading to the river, buffalo herds, and the occasional lion or leopard.

Why I love it: It’s so close you can easily do a morning drive and still have the afternoon free for something else.

🤩 Recommended: Zambezi National Park Game Drive in a Small Group

Chobe National Park Day Trip (Botswana)

I’ve visited Chobe many times, and it’s always worth it. You’ll likely see huge elephant herds (sometimes swimming across the river), hippos, crocs, and a staggering variety of birdlife.

Most tours combine a morning game drive with an afternoon boat cruise — and it’s the cruise that really makes it. Being on the water brings you eye-to-eye with elephants as they wade in to drink.

Tip: Bring your passport and make sure you have the right visa before booking.

🤩 Recommended: Chobe National Park Day Trip with Lunch

Shop the Local Curio Markets

The markets are full of life — stallholders calling out greetings, the smell of wood shavings, and rows of hand-carved animals, masks, and bold batik fabrics. Shona stone sculptures are a Zimbabwean specialty and make beautiful souvenirs.

Haggling is expected, but be fair. A friendly attitude will get you better prices than hard bargain

Vulture Conservation Experience at Victoria Falls Safari Lodge

On my last visit, I stayed at the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge and joined their daily vulture feeding. It’s an incredible sight — dozens of vultures circling overhead, then diving down in a flurry of wings.

It’s also a sobering reminder of how threatened these birds are, and how important they are in keeping the ecosystem healthy.

Vultures at At Victoria Falls Safari Lodge — At Victoria Falls Safari Lodge

Dinner at The Boma

On my last trip, I spent an evening at The Boma and it was one of the most memorable nights in Vic Falls. It’s part of Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, so it was just a short wander from my room — but the atmosphere transported me straight into the heart of Zimbabwean tradition.

From the moment you arrive, it’s all about fun. You’re wrapped in a bright chitenge cloth, your face gets painted (which I definitely wasn’t expecting), and before you know it, you’re standing in front of a buffet table piled high with local favourites. There were rich stews, game meats sizzling on the grill, fresh salads, and of course, steaming bowls of sadza.

Then came the mopane worm challenge — a rite of passage in these parts. I wasn’t going to do it at first, but the drumming, the laughter, and a bit of peer pressure worked their magic. Yes, I ate one. And yes, I proudly accepted my certificate.

By the end of the night, everyone was up drumming, dancing, and laughing together. It was the perfect mix of food, culture, and pure fun.

🤩 Recommended: Boma Dinner and Drum Show

Where to Stay in Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls might be small, but it packs in some seriously memorable places to stay — from luxury lodges with Zambezi views to budget-friendly guesthouses just a stroll from town.

Victoria Falls Safari Lodge – Where I stayed on my last visit. Elevated above the bush with sweeping views, it’s famous for its watering hole (often visited by elephants) and daily vulture feeding programme. Sundowners here are hard to beat.
The Victoria Falls Hotel – The grande dame of Zimbabwe hotels. I have also stayed here and the views are amazing. Colonial-era charm, manicured lawns, and a terrace with that iconic bridge view. Perfect if you want history and elegance rolled into one.
Batonka Guest Lodge – A peaceful mid-range option with big rooms, lush gardens, and a great pool for lazy afternoons.
Shoestrings Backpackers – If you’re on a budget, this is the lively, social spot with a pool, bar, and plenty of tours on offer.

Insider tip: Many hotels offer free shuttles into town and to the falls — handy in the heat and for avoiding taxi negotiations.

Victoria Falls Safari Lodge Hotel pool — Victoria Falls Safari Lodge Hotel swimming pool

Practical Tips for Visiting Victoria Falls

Currency

The currency situation changes constantly. US dollars are widely accepted and the easiest to use. You may also see ZWL (Zimbabwean dollar) and occasionally South African rand or Botswana pula.
Bring small denominations — change is often a challenge.
ATMs can be unreliable, and card machines sometimes don’t work, so carry enough cash for your stay.

Visas & Borders

If you’re visiting both sides of the falls or planning a Chobe day trip, get a KAZA UniVisa on arrival. It covers Zimbabwe and Zambia for 30 days and allows multiple crossings.

Victoria Falls Location

The falls sit on the Zambezi River, forming the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia. The Zimbabwean side is home to the town of Victoria Falls, while Livingstone lies across the bridge in Zambia.

Best Time to Visit

High-water season (Feb–May): Immense spray and drama, but prepare to get drenched.
Low-water season (Sept–Dec): Clearer views, rafting possible, and Devil’s Pool open on the Zambian side.
Shoulder seasons (June–Aug and Jan) offer a good balance.

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket and quick-dry clothes.
Comfortable walking shoes.
Waterproof pouch for electronics.
Binoculars for game drives and river cruises.

FAQs

Where is Victoria Falls?
Victoria Falls is located in southern Africa, on the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia. The closest towns are Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe and Livingstone in Zambia.

Which side of Victoria Falls is better?
The Zimbabwe side has more viewpoints and flows year-round. Zambia offers closer, more dramatic angles during high water.

Can you swim in the falls?
Only in Devil’s Pool, a natural rock pool on the Zambian side, and only in low-water season with a licensed guide.

How long should you stay?
Three nights gives you time to see the falls from both sides, enjoy a cruise, and fit in a day trip or two. Four or five nights lets you slow the pace and savour it all.

Even after four visits, Victoria Falls still gives me goosebumps. The waterfall might lure you in, but it’s the combination of raw nature, friendly locals, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences that makes this place unforgettable.