Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, is an awe-inspiring sight that straddles the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe. Known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya ("The Smoke That Thunders"), this massive waterfall is 1.7 km (1.1 miles) wide and drops 108 meters (354 feet) into the Batoka Gorge, creating a breathtaking spectacle of mist, rainbows, and roaring waters. Victoria Falls is a bucket-list destination for all types of travellers - adventure seeker, nature lover, or a honeymooner looking for a romantic getaway.
However, the age-old debate remains: Which side is better—Zambia or Zimbabwe? Each offers a unique experience, from different viewing angles to thrilling activities. In this guide, we’ll compare both sides, covering the best viewpoints, activities, accommodation options, and when to visit. By the end, you’ll be able to decide which side of the fall you’ll be booking that flight to - or perhaps visit both?
The Zimbabwe Side: The Best Views of the Falls
Zimbabwe is home to about 75% of Victoria Falls, making it the side with the most comprehensive and dramatic views. The town of Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, serves as the gateway and is easily accessible via Victoria Falls International Airport (VFA), which has direct flights from major African cities and some international destinations.
The Zimbabwean side offers well-maintained walking trails through the Victoria Falls National Park, ensuring visitors get multiple vantage points of the falls without obstruction. Even in the dry season, water flows on this side year-round, making it the best choice for those visiting at different times of the year.
What to See & Do
- Explore Victoria Falls National Park: Walk along a network of trails leading to 16 different viewpoints, including the famous Devil’s Cataract, Main Falls, and Danger Point.
- Visit the iconic Victoria Falls Bridge: A historical structure connecting Zambia and Zimbabwe, offering panoramic views and a thrilling bungee jumping experience.
- Take a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River: Spot hippos and crocodiles while enjoying breathtaking African sunsets.
- Game drives in Zambezi National Park: Just minutes from the falls, this park is home to elephants, lions, buffalo, and more.
- Experience The Lookout Café: Perched on the edge of the Batoka Gorge, this restaurant offers amazing views and adrenaline activities like the gorge swing.
Where to Stay
- Luxury: Victoria Falls Hotel (historic charm with an unbeatable view of the falls)
- Mid-Range: Ilala Lodge Hotel (great location and comfort)
- Budget: Shoestrings Backpackers Lodge (affordable and social atmosphere)
Best Time to Visit: Zimbabwe’s side of the falls has year-round water flow, but the best time to visit is between February and June, when the falls are at their fullest. For clearer views and better photography, July to October is ideal.
The Zambia Side: Adventure and Close-Up Experiences
Zambia owns about 25% of Victoria Falls, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for with thrilling adventure activities and unique up-close experiences. The town of Livingstone, Zambia, is the main hub and is serviced by Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport (LVI).
During the dry season (August to December), the Zambian side provides rare opportunities to swim right at the edge of the falls in the legendary Devil’s Pool. Additionally, the Zambia side offers easy access to the Zambezi River, making it a prime spot for white-water rafting and sunset cruises.
What to See & Do
- Swim in Devil’s Pool: A natural infinity pool at the edge of the falls, available in the dry season.
- Walk across the Knife-Edge Bridge: Get soaking wet as you cross this bridge with some of the closest views of the falls.
- Visit Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park: A UNESCO-listed site home to white rhinos, elephants, giraffes, and zebras.
- Take a helicopter or microlight flight: Experience a once-in-a-lifetime aerial view of the falls and surrounding landscapes.
- Go white-water rafting: The Zambezi River is famous for some of the world’s best Grade V rapids.
Where to Stay
- Luxury: Royal Livingstone Hotel by Anantara (stunning location with wildlife roaming freely)
- Mid-Range: Avani Victoria Falls Resort (walking distance to the falls)
- Budget: Jollyboys Backpackers (great atmosphere for budget travelers)
Best Time to Visit: The Zambian side is best visited between June and November, when the water levels drop enough to allow access to Devil’s Pool and other activities like white-water rafting. From April to May, high water levels make certain experiences inaccessible.
Zimbabwe vs. Zambia: Which One is Better?
| Category | Zimbabwe Side | Zambia Side |
|---|---|---|
| Best Views | ✅ Has 75% of the falls & year-round flow | ❌ Fewer viewpoints, dries up in dry season |
| Adventure Activities | ✅ Bungee jumping, gorge swing | ✅ Devil’s Pool, white-water rafting |
| Wildlife & Safari | ✅ Zambezi National Park | ✅ Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park |
| Luxury Lodges | ✅ Victoria Falls Hotel, Ilala Lodge | ✅ Royal Livingstone Hotel, Avani Resort |
| Budget Options | ✅ Better for budget travelers | ✅ Good options in Livingstone |
| Best Time to Visit | ✅ February - June (fullest falls) | ✅ June - November (Devil’s Pool open) |
Both sides offer exceptional experiences, and while Zimbabwe boasts the best panoramic views, Zambia offers thrilling close-up encounters. If you’re an adrenaline junkie, Zambia is perfect, but if you prefer classic views and easy access to the falls, Zimbabwe is your best bet.
But Why Choose When You Can Do Both?
If time allows, the best way to experience Victoria Falls is to visit both sides! The Kazungula Border Post between Zambia and Zimbabwe allows for easy crossings, and a KAZA UniVisa ($50 USD) allows multiple entries into both countries within a 30-day period. This makes it easy to explore the full spectrum of activities and viewpoints from both Zambia and Zimbabwe.
Ultimately, whether you choose Zambia, Zimbabwe, or both, Victoria Falls is an unforgettable destination that deserves a spot on every traveler’s bucket list.
So pack your bags, book your Zimbabwe/Zambia Victoria Falls Experience, grab your rain poncho, and get ready for one of the most breathtaking natural wonders on Earth!
