Plan your visit
Plan your Visit
Maximize your time at the falls with our planning guide. Learn when to go, what to pack, and how to navigate the viewpoints.
Getting there
Taxis are plentiful but unmetered. Always agree on the fare first.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Walk: Walking from hotels in Victoria Falls town to the park entrance, or walking across the Victoria Falls Bridge to the Zambian side. | 15-30 mins | Free | A highly scenic walk; carrying a passport is required to access the bridge. |
| Car: Taking a local taxi from your hotel in Livingstone or Victoria Falls town directly to the park gates. | 10-20 mins | $5 - $15 USD | Taxis are plentiful but unmetered; always agree on the fare with the driver before departing. |
| Tour: Booking a guided walking tour which includes hotel pickup, a knowledgeable local guide, and drop-off. | 2-3 hours | $40 - $80 USD | Provides excellent geological and historical context; usually excludes the park entry fee. |
When to go
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
QuietModerateBusyPeak
April to June is best for peak water flow. You will see massive spray, but some viewpoints may be obscured by mist. August to December is the dry season. This is the only time Devil's Pool is open. Park gates open daily from 06:00 to 18:00.
What to bring
Your ticks are saved in this browser only.
Approximately 75% of the viewpoints are located on the Zimbabwe side.
This side maintains a consistent year-round water flow.
How the day runs
Step-by-step guides for exploring the falls.
Focus on the Zimbabwe side for the most consistent water flow and numerous viewpoints.
- Arrive early
Enter the Victoria Falls National Park gate to beat the heat.
- Devil's Cataract
Walk to the lowest falls for morning rainbows. Spend 20 minutes here.
- Main Falls
Prepare to get completely soaked by the 93-meter curtain of water.
- Danger Point
Tread carefully on the slippery rocks for views down the gorge.
- Exit and relax
Leave the park and return to your hotel or head to town.
See both the Zimbabwe and Zambia sides. A KAZA Univisa and valid passport are required.
- Zimbabwe Side
Explore the Main Falls and Danger Point in Victoria Falls National Park.
- Border Crossing
Walk across the Victoria Falls Bridge. Have your passport ready.
- Knife-Edge Bridge
Enter Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park in Zambia and cross the suspended footbridge.
- Boiling Pot Viewpoint
Take the steep 1-hour trail down to the bottom of the gorge.
- Return
Walk back across the bridge to Zimbabwe or catch a taxi.
Practical Advice
Always carry a lightweight waterproof jacket or poncho. The spray is intense, especially from February to July. Keep electronics safe in a waterproof bag. Wear non-slip walking shoes because the trails get very wet and uneven.
Do not feed or touch wild animals like baboons and monkeys. Swimming in the river is forbidden except on strictly guided activities. Bring a valid passport if you plan to cross the bridge. See our Packing Guide guide for more details.
Easiest way to do it
Victoria Falls Zimbabwe and Zambia Expert Guided Tour
4 h to 5 h 5.0 (64)
- Pick up and drop off
- Bottled water
- Air-conditioned vehicle
From$80per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
How long does it take to walk the falls?
Walking the main trails on the Zimbabwe side takes about 2 to 3 hours. The Zambia side takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Add extra time if hiking down to the Boiling Pot.
Can I walk from my hotel to the park?
Yes, if you stay in Victoria Falls town. Walking takes 15 to 30 minutes. It is a scenic route. Taxis take 10 to 20 minutes from Livingstone.
Is tap water safe to drink?
Local tap water is not recommended for drinking. Bring a reusable water bottle and fill it with purified water.