Victoria Falls - Zambia side or Zimbabwe side?

The Zimbabwean side of the falls is anchored by the town of Victoria Falls, while the Zambian side is centred around Livingstone. Both towns are well-developed tourism hubs with international airports, good infrastructure, and a wide range of hotels and lodges to suit every budget. The iconic Victoria Falls Bridge, located just downstream of the waterfall, links the two countries and makes border crossings relatively quick and easy — especially with a KAZA Univisa.

Many travellers consider the Zimbabwe side the best for viewing the falls, especially during the dry season (August to December) when visibility is clearest. Access is via the entrance to the Victoria Falls Rainforest, where you'll pay your park fee. Facilities include a restaurant, curio shop, and visitor centre. Paved, wheelchair-friendly walkways lead to multiple viewpoints along the edge of the gorge.

During the high water season (February to July), expect to get soaked from the spray. At peak flow (March to June), the thunderous roar and mist are incredible – though visibility can be poor. Watch your step, as the pathways can become slippery.

Zimbabwe's side offers excellent value for money, with a wide range of accommodation from budget to luxury. Popular options include The Kingdom Hotel and Victoria Falls Safari Lodge. It also has easy access to nearby safari destinations like Hwange and Chobe.

Zambia saw a surge in tourism during Zimbabwe's political and economic crisis in the 2000s, resulting in a boom of new infrastructure. Livingstone town has become a popular base, especially for those seeking luxury riverfront lodges upstream from the falls.

Zambia offers more limited views of the falls – especially in the dry season when most of the curtain disappears – but access to Livingstone Island is a major highlight. From here, you can take guided tours, enjoy breakfast or lunch, and (if you're brave enough) swim in Devil's Pool or Angel's Pool, natural rock pools perched at the very edge of the falls. These excursions are only available during low water season (typically mid-August to early January).

During peak high water (March to June), Zambia's viewing areas can become a white-out due to the intense spray. Raincoats are available, but prepare for limited visibility and slippery paths.

It depends on the time of year, your travel plans, and your budget. In general:

• Zimbabwe offers more viewpoints, better year-round visibility, and a wider range of accommodation.
• Zambia shines during the dry season (especially July–October) when you can visit Livingstone Island and Devil's Pool.
• For luxury riverfront stays, Zambia may have the edge.
• For budget-conscious travellers, Zimbabwe usually wins.
• For photography, the Zimbabwe side tends to offer the best angles and wider panoramic views.

If you can, we recommend seeing both sides. With the KAZA Univisa, you can easily cross the border multiple times and make the most of what both countries offer.

Zambia offers a convenient direct flight from Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (KMIA) to Livingstone, which is ideal if you're coming from a Kruger safari. If you land in Zimbabwe or plan to cross the border, get a KAZA Univisa (available to most nationalities), which allows multiple entries into both countries at a reduced cost.

If that's not available, opt for a double-entry visa from your point of arrival – it's more cost-effective than paying for two single-entry visas.

Most major activities – including helicopter flips, sunset cruises, and cultural tours – are available from both sides. However, Livingstone Island and Devil's Pool are only accessible from Zambia.

On the Zimbabwe side, visitors can enjoy more accessible viewpoints of the main falls year-round, along with easy add-on safaris to Hwange or Chobe.

If you're spending 2–3 nights at Victoria Falls, you'll have enough time to explore both sides. Many of our custom itineraries include time in both Zambia and Zimbabwe, making the most of this incredible natural wonder.

Browse our safaris that include Victoria Falls — each one is fully customisable and designed to inspire. Or get in touch and let us create a tailor-made itinerary that suits your travel style, interests and budget.