Victoria Falls – Travel Guide
Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, is a breathtaking spectacle located on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe. Known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya, or “The Smoke That Thunders,” the falls plunge over 350 feet, creating a mesmerizing mist that can be seen from miles away. The surrounding national parks offer diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes, making it a paradise for nature lovers. Visitors can enjoy activities such as white-water rafting, bungee jumping, and scenic helicopter flights. Victoria Falls is a must-visit destination that promises unforgettable experiences and awe-inspiring views.
All about Victoria Falls
Getting around Victoria Falls
By Taxi
Taxis are available throughout the island, and they are very accessible. Most taxis can be picked up at the airport or the jetty. You can note down your driver’s number in case you need him to drive you to other locations in the future. Although taxis are more expensive than buses, taxis offer the luxury of additional baggage space, which is not allowed in buses. Buses have specific routes, while taxis can let you go off the roads and access more remote locations. Meters are installed in taxis, so there is no problem of visitors being ripped off. Prices are also discussed beforehand. Drivers are friendly and are known to share interesting tips and information about the island.
By Car
Having a rental car is one of the best ways to explore the island. Car rentals are available at the airport or in some hotels. The rental costs can be a little pricey (upward of $50/daily), but having the freedom to explore at your own pace is worth it.
There are only two gas stations on the island – Grand Anse and Baie Sainte-Anne. Cars are of right-hand drive, and they drive on the left. The roads are good and wide. There are very few street signs on the road, but a roadmap is enough to navigate around the small island. Traffic is not too severe either.
By Bicycle
Exploring the island by bicycle is a great adventure. The coastal road, known locally as the Consolation Road (after Anse Consolation that it passes) will give you some beautiful views but there are two particularly challenging climbs, that are tough to walk and drive up let alone cycle. You may need to get off and push at these points.
Cycling the road through the Vallée De Mai can be a fantastic experience. This road can be busy so watch for cars.
Keep in mind that the terrain may be uneven in some places, especially on unpaved trails. Biking uphill, as well as the differences in altitude can also be very challenging. Remember to stay hydrated. Most hotels offer bike rental services. You can also rent bikes at Anse Volbert, Grand Anse and Baie Sainte-Anne. A single bike may cost around SCR 100 per day.
By Bus
Buses are very affordable on the island and are frequented by tourists. Compared to other Seychellen islands, Praslin has a well-laid out road system, which makes most tourist centers accessible by buses. The buses are wide, spacious, and comfortable. They run from around 6:00 AM to 07:00 PM, which makes them ideal for tourists. On weekends and public holidays, there is minimum service. It is important to remember that buses usually do not allow large suitcases and other luggage; hand baggage is allowed.
There are three main routes – Mount Plaisir to Anse Boudin, Anse Consolation to Anse La Blague and Mount Plaisir to Grand Fond. These routes are frequented by tourists and locals. The main routes are as follows:
ROUTE 61: Mount Plaisir to Anse Boudin via Vallée De Ma
ROUTE 62: Mount Plaisir to Zimbabwe via Consolation
ROUTE 63: Mount Plaisir to Anse La Blague via Cote d’Or
Cost:
Around SCR 5 for non-airconditioned buses
Around SCR 10 for air-conditioned buses
The fares are the same, regardless of the drop-off point.
By Boats & Ferries
Private ferries, catamarans and boats are available in Praslin Island. Once you arrive on the island, you can expect to be approached (sometimes aggressively) by boatmen, haggling for rids. The rates are regulated by the government, so you can rest assured that you will not be taken for a ride (when it comes to the prices!). Boat taxis can also be hired at nominal rates. A trip from Anse Volbert to Curieuse costs around $35 – $40 USD. The taxis offer pickup and drop-off at specific intervals, for a fixed fare. A chartered boat is much more expensive, usually around $750 USD. Prices are negotiable. The Cat Cocos catamaran offers three trips between Mahé and Praslin, which cost around $75 for adults and around $35 for children, for a one-way trip. It is advised to book tickets at least one day in advance. We recommend that you take some medication for seasickness if you are prone to symptoms.
Victoria Falls FAQ
How do I get to Victoria Falls?
There are two international airports located at Victoria Falls Town, Zimbabwe, and Livingstone Town, Zambia.
How do I get from the airport to my hotel?
The Victoria Falls International Airport is located 11 miles south of the city itself. The Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport is located 3 miles north of the city across the border with Zambia. If you land in Victoria Falls there are options to take a bus, shuttle, taxi, or rental car to town. A taxi ride will cost between US$30-$40 to get into town, be sure to negotiate.
If you land in Livingstone Airport there are taxis, shuttles, and rental cars available. However, flying into Zambia’s Harry Mwanga Nkumbula Airport requires 3 different taxis to reach Victoria Falls, one from the airport to the border, one from the border and through customs, then another one over the bridge. The total of the three taxi rides will cost around US$35-$45.
How do I get around the city using public transportation?
Victoria Falls is a small town with many attractions, getting around town is quite easy. The town is well connected to the main roads in the country, as well as the road/rail bridge that links Zambia and Zimbabwe together.
Most lodges and hotels in town will have shuttles they provide for guests to travel to the falls. There is also a free shuttle service that runs hourly, this free service stops at most hotels, and lodges, and takes passengers to the town center.
The Bamba Bus is a hop-on-hop-off tour bus that travels around Victoria Falls. Passengers can explore all the major spots for an affordable price.
Scooter hires are available in town and are a fun way of exploring Victoria Falls. You can rent for a half day or a full day.
There is a free shuttle service that runs in Victoria Falls which runs every hour from most hotels and lodges located in the heart of the city. The shuttles run to a from town, the falls, and other activities.
Should I rent a car in Victoria Falls?
There are options to rent cards at the airport and a few places in the town. Renting a car may not be the best option as the town is small and getting around is easier with many other options. If you plan to travel to other destinations such as Hwange or Bulawayo which are quite a distance from the falls then renting a car is a good idea. Victoria Falls is easily accessible by road from South Africa and Botswana.
Read More
Discover further essential tips for navigating the vibrant city. Learn about must-see attractions, dining hotspots, transportation options, and cultural insights
How do I call/hail a taxi?
There are plenty of taxis in the downtown area and a typical fare is US$5-$10 for anywhere within Victoria Falls.
Can I get around by train in Victoria Falls?
Victoria Falls Steam Train Company offers a luxury train ride that crosses the mighty Zambezi via the Victoria Falls Bridge to Livingstone in Zambia, and vice versa. This beautifully restored steam train is a 1954 Dlass 14A steam locomotive with dining cars, and first class coaches. Passengers can enjoy the bridge run at sunset and enjoy different packages such as “royal tea”, or a Moonlight Dinner Run. Making reservations are essential as well as a 20% nonrefundable deposit.
Is Victoria Falls a walking city?
Walking around Victoria Falls is the easiest option to get around, taking a walk around town is a great option and usually the most popular option. Walking around town allows visitors to experience this culturally and historically rich town and possibly spot some wildlife, such as elephants who pay regular visits to the town center. From both sides of the falls, it is easy to walk from each entry to the respective national parks to the actual passport stamping border crossing in around 10 minutes, it takes another 15 minutes to walk the length of the bridge.
Can I ride a bike in Victoria Falls?
You can ride and rent bicycles available in Victoria Falls. You can hire a bike in the center of town between the information center and Wild Horizons booking office on Park Way, the cost is around US$5 for an hour, $10 for half a day, and $20 for a full day. There are e-bikes that can be hired by the hour ($10 for 1 hour, $20 for 3 hours) or per day ($40). You can pick up an e-bike from one of their locations, or it can be delivered to your hotel/lodge. There are also bike tours in Victoria Falls with an 8-mile circuit around town, starting at The Lookout, the tour takes you into the local township to see and experience the local culture, to the big tree, along the Zambezi River, and down to the Victoria Falls Bridge.
Is Victoria Falls a dangerous city, is there anything I should be aware of?
Victoria Falls is considered a safe destination to visit. Take the necessary precautions when sightseeing, use common sense, and keep your valuables out of sight from pickpockets, especially in crowded areas like markets, and tourist attractions. At night stay in well-lit and populated areas, and use reputable transportation companies instead of taking rides from strangers.
What are some popular areas for shopping?
There are an array of curio shops, arts and crafts, galleries, and little boutiques found in Victoria Falls. There are bustling markets such as Maramba Market which offers a great atmosphere and stalls selling woodwork, masks, and handcrafted sculptures. Elephant’s Walk is a small shopping center located close to the outdoor curio market selling wood carvings, stone sculptures, and good art from very talented artists. The Landela Centre boasts several boutiques, curio shops, and cafes. The Phumula Centre on Park Way is a shopping center with a well-stocked supermarket located behind the booking office. There are some quaint clothing boutiques found here also. Sawanga is the first shopping mall found on the way into Victoria Falls town there are many different stores in the mall as well as restaurants and entertainment.
What is the language spoken in Victoria Falls?
The official language spoken in Victoria Falls is English, which is widely spoken, especially in the service industry, it is taught in schools and used in government, business, and the media. Many people speak fluent English, especially in hotels and restaurants. We recommend getting a good English/Zimbabwean guidebook and learning the basic questions like please, thank you, and numbers 1-10.
What is the best time to visit Victoria Falls?
The climate in Victoria Falls is subtropical with mild, dry winters from May through August, however the nights are very cold during this time of year. The summers are hot and humid with temperatures reaching over 100 F degrees. The hottest months are September to November. High water season is from February to July when there are spectacular views of the Falls. Low water season is from August to January when activities such as white water rafting, and swimming in Devil’s Pool can be enjoyed. The peak season for safaris is from June to October, combining the falls and a safari is great at this time. The “sweet spot” for a good safari and great views is generally July and August.
What is the currency? Can I pay/tip in US dollars?
The currency of Victoria Falls is the US dollar. You will need to have US dollars on hand when arriving in Zimbabwe. Cash is preferred, there are ATMs found at the airport and locations in the city, tipping is discretionary and appreciated, and cash is usually preferred.
What is the food like?
There are many luxury restaurants and African buffets located in Victoria Falls with opportunities for famous afternoon teas with delightful views of Victoria Falls. Many of the restaurants and dining opportunities can be found at the hotels and lodges in town with options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Visitors can also venture outside of their accommodation including cafes, restaurants, buffets, and dinner and a show. The restaurants dotted around town offer a variety of different foods, some are truly world-class and have wonderful atmospheres. There are some beautiful bespoke dining experiences under the stars, these exclusive dinners are private and very popular.
What is the nightlife like?
Victoria Falls offers a surprisingly vibrant nightlife, once the sun sets the town comes alive with music, dance, and entertainment. There are live bands and DJ sets offered at some of the best bars and clubs the town has to offer. There is pulsating energy in this iconic destination, sip cocktails at sunset, and dance under the stars, there is a wide array of captivating activities and experiences to choose from. There are various outdoor events organized by locals that make the nightlife experience in Victoria Falls unique and memorable. There are various bars, nightclubs, and luxurious lounges to choose from in Victoria Falls. Victoria Falls nightlife represents the cultural diversity of this town fuzing African, European, and other international cultures. Visitors can savor the nightlife’s diverse culinary options ranging from traditional Zimbabwean dishes to international cuisine from Europe, Asia, and the rest of the African continent.
What should I do if I need medical assistance or need to go to the hospital?
In case of an emergency dial 112 for local police, and 114 for an ambulance, or fire.
Hospitals: Victoria Falls Hospital tel.263-83-284-4262
Top Attractions
Victoria Falls
Witness the majestic waterfalls, where the Zambezi River cascades dramatically, creating a stunning display of nature’s power and beauty.
Zambezi National Park
Explore this wildlife-rich park, home to elephants, lions, and diverse bird species, offering excellent opportunities for game viewing and photography.
Devil’s Pool
Experience the thrill of swimming in this natural infinity pool at the edge of the falls, providing breathtaking views and an adrenaline rush.
Livingstone Island
Visit this historic island, offering stunning views of the falls and a chance to learn about the area’s rich history and culture.
Unique Experiences
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Experience the thrill of white-water rafting on the Zambezi River, navigating through exhilarating rapids while surrounded by stunning scenery. This adventure offers an adrenaline rush and a unique perspective of the river’s natural beauty.
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Join a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River, where you can relax and enjoy breathtaking views of the sunset over the water. Spot wildlife along the riverbanks while sipping on refreshing drinks and enjoying the serene atmosphere.
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Take a scenic helicopter flight over Victoria Falls for a bird’s-eye view of this natural wonder. Experience the grandeur of the falls and the surrounding landscapes from above, creating unforgettable memories.
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Embark on a guided walking safari in Zambezi National Park, where you’ll learn about the local ecosystem and wildlife. This immersive experience allows you to connect with nature while spotting animals in their natural habitat.
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Indulge in a traditional Zimbabwean dinner experience, where you’ll savor local dishes and learn about the culture and culinary traditions of the region. Enjoy a delightful evening filled with flavors and stories from the heart of Africa.
What to expect while traveling
