Victoria Falls is one of the world’s most famous natural wonders and for good reason. Africa’s mighty Zambezi River encounters a 300-foot drop on its way to the Indian Ocean, creating the spectacular Victoria Falls. Between 550,000 and 5 million cubic meters of water flow over the Falls every minute, depending on the time of year. It is the largest falling curtain of water in the world!
Victoria Falls was once most practical to visit on a southern African safari, however with today’s flight connections the area is relatively easy to get to from many of Africa’s tourism hotspots. It’s a ‘must see’ for many African travelers – both for the Falls themselves, as well as the many surrounding sights and activities.
Victoria Falls has a sub-tropical climate with the months from May to August offering mild, dry winter weather with chilly mornings and evenings while the months from September to mid-November see dry and hot summer weather. The rainy season runs from mid-November till around April – typically featuring high humidity along with short showers or dramatic afternoon thunderstorms bringing welcome relief from hot summer days.
Visits to the Falls vary dramatically from season to season. Water levels in the river vary greatly depending on the rainfall upriver. Many of the activities offered in the area are water level and season dependent, while views on the Zimbabwe and Zambia sides of the Falls are quite different, so it’s imperative to plan your trip with one of our expert Journey Specialists.
Water levels are very high from January to June, with the flow of the Zambezi River generally peaking in April. Views of the Falls can be obscured by towering clouds of mist driven by the huge amount of water cascading over the abyss, though you can still find nice views from the side and being immersed in the impressive spray can be fun. A visit to the Falls this time of year requires a poncho (usually provided by your guide) and the high level of moisture makes photography difficult to impossible. Aerial flights can be fantastic, as the impressive spray from the Falls can be seen more than 40 miles away! Birding is excellent this time of year as well.
July and August are considered peak season at the Falls. Lower water levels make for less spray and very good visibility. The temperatures are generally pleasant, and lucky visitors have a good chance of seeing one of the famous Falls rainbows! Because it is peak season, it’s necessary to book well in advance.
September through November usually marks the Zambezi’s lowest flow of the year, making for less dramatic views of the Falls.
Countless activities are available in the Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe and Livingstone, Zambia area, but one that tops many traveler’s lists is a visit to either the Devil’s Pool or the Angel’s Pool right on the edge of the Falls.
A visit to one of the pools involves swimming to the edge of Victoria Falls in an adrenaline-pumping swimming hole on the Zambian side of the Falls. It’s is perfect for our most adventurous travelers and makes for a one-of-a-kind Instagram post! In addition to taking the plunge into the Devil’s Pool, you will enjoy breakfast, lunch or high tea on Livingstone Island. A visit to the Devil’s or Angel’s Pool commences from the Zambia side of the Falls and requires a separate visa which can be obtained on arrival if you are staying on the Zimbabwe side.
The pools are seasonal – Devil’s Pool is open during the drier months, usually mid-August to late December when the river water levels are low. Angel’s Pool is usually open while Livingstone Island is still open but Devil’s Pool is closed. Livingstone Island is typically closed from the end of March to mid-June. These date ranges are approximate and depend on the Zambezi River water levels so be sure to work with your Journey Specialist if a visit to one of the pools is on your wish list!
Winter’s dry season (May – August/Sept) is best for spectacular views of the Falls as the water levels drop. This is the best time of year for white water rafting and a good time for wildlife viewing nearby. It’s also the best time of year to try to see a ‘moonbow’ (lunar rainbow) at the Falls.
Walking tours of the Falls vary dramatically by season with high flow months soaking and thrilling visitors with copious spray and winter months exciting photographers with beautiful light and clarity.
Many of the other activities in the area such as sunrise and sundowner river cruises, the gorge swing, bungee jumping, scenic flights and cultural activities can be done any time of year. Talk with your Journey Specialist about specifics.
Contact one of our Journey Specialists. They will recommend the best time to visit the Falls in conjunction with your other planned safari destinations and activities. You can also subscribe to our newsletter below for more safari information and inspiration.
Photos courtesy AAC Livingstone Club member Ken T., AAC Marketing Director Beth McCabe, AAC Senior Journey Specialist Diana Garcia-Hernandez, AAC Journey Specialist Nell Pollak, AAC Livingstone Club member Melody F. and AAC Senior Journey Specialist Angie Voigt