Victoria Falls Travel Planning Guide
Planning a trip to Victoria Falls? This comprehensive guide covers everything from getting there and visa requirements to the best time to visit and what to pack.
Getting There
By Air:
- Victoria Falls Airport (VFA) receives direct flights from Johannesburg (SAA, Airlink, Fastjet), Addis Ababa (Ethiopian Airlines), Nairobi (Kenya Airways), and several regional hubs
- Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport (LVI) in Livingstone, Zambia, is 20 km from Vic Falls town and sometimes offers cheaper flights
- Flight time from Johannesburg: approximately 2 hours
By Road:
- From Bulawayo: 440 km, approximately 5–6 hours on a good tar road
- From Harare: 870 km, approximately 10 hours (many travellers break the journey in Bulawayo)
- From Kasane (Botswana): 80 km, approximately 1.5 hours including the Kazungula border
By Rail:
- A scenic (if slow) overnight train runs from Bulawayo to Victoria Falls
Visa Requirements
- KAZA UniVisa — A combined visa for Zimbabwe and Zambia, available on arrival for many nationalities. Currently $50. Allows unlimited crossings between the two countries for 30 days
- Single-entry Zimbabwe visa — Available on arrival for most nationalities; $30–55 depending on nationality
- Check current requirements before travel as visa policies change
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Months | Falls | Weather | Wildlife |
|--------|--------|-------|---------|----------|
| High water | Feb–Jul | Maximum flow; spray obscures some views | Warm to cool; rain easing | Good |
| Peak tourist | Jun–Oct | Decreasing flow; better visibility | Cool and dry | Excellent |
| Low water | Sep–Dec | Minimum flow; gorge exposed | Hot and dry | Best |
| Green season | Nov–Feb | Building; rain begins | Hot and wet | Good; lush scenery |
What to Pack
Essentials:
- Lightweight, breathable clothing in neutral colours
- Waterproof jacket or poncho (essential for the Falls in high water)
- Comfortable walking shoes with grip
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+), hat, and sunglasses
- Insect repellent (DEET-based)
- Camera with waterproof protection
- US dollars in small denominations ($1, $5, $10)
Safari additions:
- Warm layers for early morning game drives (especially June–August)
- Binoculars
- Neutral-coloured clothing (no bright whites or blues)
Money & Currency
- US Dollar (USD) is the primary currency in Victoria Falls
- ATMs are available but not always reliable; bring cash
- Most hotels, restaurants, and activity operators accept card payments
- Small denominations are essential for tips and market purchases
- South African Rand (ZAR) is widely accepted
Health & Safety
- Malaria: Victoria Falls is in a malaria zone. Take prophylaxis and use repellent
- Yellow fever: Certificate required if arriving from a yellow fever country
- Water: Drink bottled or filtered water
- General safety: Victoria Falls town is safe for tourists; normal precautions apply
How Many Days?
- 2 days: See the Falls, do one big activity, enjoy a sunset cruise
- 3–4 days: Add a Chobe day trip, township tour, and more activities
- 5+ days: Combine with Hwange safari or Livingstone/Zambia side
