Plizio Visual Lab
Victoria Falls
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
River
Victoria Falls, locally known as Mosi-oa-Tunya ('The Smoke That Thunders'), is one of the world's most spectacular natural wonders. Located on the Zambezi River at the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, it is neither the highest nor the widest waterfall in the world, but its combined dimensions make it the largest curtain of falling water on Earth. With a width of 1,708 meters and a drop of 108 meters, the sheer volume of water creates a mist that can be seen from over 30 kilometers away. This constant spray sustains a unique rainforest ecosystem on the cliffs opposite the falls. Geologically, the river plunges into a narrow basalt fissure, which marks the start of a series of zigzagging gorges downstream. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1989, the falls are a major international tourist destination and hold deep spiritual significance for the local Tonga and Lozi peoples.
- Location: Zambia
- Top sights: Zambezi river view point · The log · Baobab trees road
- Nearby: Livingstone (8 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 26 | 25 | 25 | 23 | 21 | 19 | 18 | 21 | 25 | 29 | 28 | 26 |
| Rain mm | 131 | 125 | 92 | 33 | 3 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 12 | 64 | 137 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Access to the Victoria Falls is usually gained via the town of Livingstone in Zambia, from where taxis or shuttle buses regularly transport visitors directly to the main park entrance.
Best season
The most spectacular water volume is seen from March to May, while the months from September to December offer clearer views of the rock formations during the lower water levels.
Terrain & paths
Well-maintained pathways lead along the edge to various viewpoints, though they can often be quite slippery and wet due to the constant mist and spray generated by the falls.
What to bring
A waterproof rain poncho and protective covers for cameras are essential, as are non-slip shoes for the often wet paths along the spectacular viewpoints overlooking the falling water.
Parking
Secure parking lots are available directly at the main entrance of the national park, where visitors can leave their vehicles for a small fee while they explore the waterfall area.
Safety
Visitors should remain on the marked paths and respect all barriers, as the cliffs are very steep and the rocks near the water's edge can be extremely slippery and dangerous.
Time needed
A standard tour of the falls usually takes about two to three hours, although participating in additional local activities can easily fill an entire day for most travelers.
Geography
Facts
- The falls were first described by David Livingstone in 1855, who named them after Queen Victoria.
- The maximum flow rate during the wet season can exceed 12,000 cubic meters per second.
- A rare 'lunar rainbow' (moonbow) can often be seen in the mist during full moons.
- The 'Devil's Pool' is a famous natural rock pool located on the very edge of the Zambia side.
- Victoria Falls is roughly twice the height of Niagara Falls in North America.
- The water from the falls exits through a narrow channel into a deep pool called the Boiling Pot.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Victoria Falls (6)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
When are the falls best seen?
Between February and May, after the rainy season.
Is a rain poncho necessary?
Yes, you will get completely wet from the spray.
How is the entry fee?
There is a fee for park access.
Is it stroller-friendly?
Some paths are accessible but steep.
Are there many tourists?
Yes, it is one of the most popular African destinations.
Victoria Falls: where is it located?
Victoria Falls is located in Zambia.
Victoria Falls: what is there to see?
Highlights include Zambezi river view point, The log, Baobab trees road.
Victoria Falls: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Aug.
Victoria Falls: why is it worth visiting?
Victoria Falls, locally known as Mosi-oa-Tunya ('The Smoke That Thunders'), is one of the world's most spectacular natural wonders.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Africa
More places in Zambia →
Nearby cities
Nakonde
Nakonde is a critical border town in Muchinga Province, facilitating heavy trade with Tanzania.
Mpika
Mpika is a major transit town in Muchinga Province, located at the junction of two great highways.
Chinsali
Chinsali is the provincial capital of Muchinga Province and an important historical site in Zambia's independence struggle.
Isoka
Isoka is a district and town in Muchinga Province, historically serving as an administrative post.
Shiwang'andu
Shiwang'andu is known for the historic English-style manor house built by Sir Stewart Gore-Browne.
Mafinga
A town situated in the mountainous Muchinga province, near the border with Malawi.
Nyika Plateau
A unique high-altitude plateau featuring rolling grasslands and extraordinary montane flora and fauna.
Victoria Falls
Victoria Falls is Zimbabwe's premier tourism destination, located on the Zambezi River next to the world-famous waterfall of the same name.
History & landmarks
North Luangwa National Park
A wild and remote sanctuary accessible only through guided walking safaris, home to Zambia's only black rhino population.
Livingstone Statue
A statue of David Livingstone on the Zimbabwean side of Victoria Falls, looking out over the gorge.
Harry Mwaanga Nkumbula Airport
The international airport in Livingstone that serves as a gateway to the famous Victoria Falls.
Kazungula Bridge
A major bridge over the Zambezi linking Botswana and Zambia.
More places
Blue Lagoon National Park
An important habitat for sitatunga antelopes.
Kafue Irrigation Zone
Large-scale area for cereal cultivation.
Lubwa Mission
A mission established in 1905 by David Kaunda, father of Zambia's first president.
Mwenzo Mission
An early Free Church of Scotland mission located near the border with Tanzania.
🗺️
Mukuni Village
A historic village of the Leya people, established before the arrival of European explorers.
Old Drift Settlement
The first European settlement near the Victoria Falls, mostly abandoned due to malaria.
Maramba Fort
An early colonial police outpost in Livingstone, playing a role in the establishment of Northern Rhodesia.
Livingstone Railway Station
A historic railway station that played a vital role in Northern Rhodesia's early transport network.