The Victoria Falls are one of the natural wonders of the world, known as the Mosi-oa-Tunya, or "smoke that thunders" in the local language.
It is an apt name, something you will learn when the thundering roar surrounds you as the sparkling Zambezi River pours great cascades of white water over the lip of the falls. Walking along little paths to view this phenomenon of nature, you see trumpeter hornbills in dripping trees, darting out to fly across the water. Vervet monkeys and baboons chatter and a rainbow forms across the spray when the sun comes out.
It is possible to visit the falls from both the Zambian and Zimbabwean side. Our specialists can discuss the options with you and decide which is best for your stay, but often this comes down to the water levels at different times of year.
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Start thinking about your experience. These itineraries are simply suggestions for how you could enjoy some of the same experiences as our specialists. They're just for inspiration, because your trip will be created around your particular tastes.
View All Tours in ZambiaRecommended excursions at Victoria Falls
To make the most of Victoria Falls, you should consider one of the various activities that will enable you to see it at its best.
Walking
The main option is to walk along the footpaths to visit the various viewpoints to see the falls from different perspectives. This is possible from both the Zambian and Zimbabwean side, and entrance fees are payable locally.
Sightseeing flights
For a different perspective, there are plenty of other options. These include helicopter flights to enjoy an aerial perspective of the water and snaking canyon beyond, or a microlight flight to feel the air and spray on your face.
River-based activities
Adrenaline junkies will enjoy white-water rafting on the rapids beneath the falls. For those wanting a more leisurely option, many of the lodges on the Zambian side are based on the Zambezi River and offer relaxing sunset or sunrise boat trips to enjoy the birdlife and tranquillity upstream of the falls.
Recommended accommodation at Victoria Falls
How Victoria Falls compares with other waterfalls
How Victoria Falls compares to two of the world's other great waterfalls: Niagara on the Canadian/US border and Iguazú on the Brazil/Argentina border.
Victoria Falls, Africa
Height in metres: 108 m
Width in metres: 1,700 m
Average annual flow rate: 1,088 m3
Niagara Falls, North America
Height in metres: 51 m
Width in metres: 1,203 m
Average annual flow rate: 2,407 m3
Half the water approaching Niagara is diverted for hydroelectric power.
Iguazú Falls, South America
Height in metres: 64-82 m
Width in metres: 2,700 m
Average annual flow rate: 1,746 m3
Further reading
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