Victoria Falls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a thundering curtain of water that plunges 107 metres to the gorge below. It is one of the most impressive and humbling natural attractions in Africa. Straddling the Zimbabwe-Zambia border, Victoria Falls is within easy reach of Botswana's Chobe National Park, making it effortless to combine these two world-famous destinations into one unforgettable safari experience. When it comes to Victoria Falls and the best time to visit, there is an optimal time of the year to travel depending on your interests.
Victoria Falls has its seasons, as does every destination. There is no ‘best’ time to visit because each season offers something spectacular & unique to that particular season. That being said, Victoria Falls makes a fantastic year-round destination thanks to its mild winters, hot summers, and enviable location straddling Zambia and Zimbabwe.
To help you plan your trip, here's a month-by-month guide to the best time to visit Victoria Falls, considering water levels, weather, activities, and wildlife experiences.
Remember, Victoria Falls is HOT! One of the hottest places in all of Zimbabwe. So, if you are looking for an escape from the Northern Hemisphere winter, you are coming to the right place.
Victoria Falls Destination Video (short)
High-Water Season (February to July)
'High Water' occurs between February and July, peaking between March and April. During this period, a rise of one metre in the level of the Zambezi river produces a 5 metre increase in the level of the water forced through the gorge.
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February
February brings a combination of rain and heat to the region. While most days are accompanied by rainfall, showers tend to pass quickly, revealing clear blue skies and abundant sunshine. The "Smoke that Thunders" reaches amazing heights during February, and the mist from the falls mingles with the clouds that hover above the rainforest. If you’re looking to witness the raw power of the Zambezi River cascading down the gorge, this month is ideal, however, keep in mind the mist and spray can be so heavy, it might hinder your ability to enjoy a panoramic view. February is also a great time for birdwatching, although wildlife sightings might not be as frequent.
March
March brings more warm weather, accompanied by frequent afternoon thundershowers. Daytime temperatures average 88 degrees, while the summer rains mean that the Zambezi River will be brimming with water, leading to the powerful flow of the falls. Prepare yourself for a captivating display with abundant mist and spray. It’s an incredible sight, although, like February, it can partially obstruct your view. For bird lovers, March continues the excitement with migratory species still found in the national parks and the trees surrounding the falls. In March, the falls will be flowing at full capacity, and you can expect hot, misty and thunderous afternoons.
April
April marks the conclusion of the rainy season, presenting a significant shift in weather conditions as compared to March. The summer rainy season comes to an end in April and the temperature does drop a bit before the mild winter really starts. It’s considerably drier, while daytime temperatures are uncomfortably warm, hovering around 68 degrees. This is one of the best times of the year to enjoy Victoria Falls tours. This is an ideal time to marvel at Victoria Falls as the Zambezi River reaches its peak, resulting in an impressive display, but once again, part of the falls can be obstructed by the powerful spray. To truly appreciate its splendor, a helicopter tour offers the best vantage point.
May
In May, the onset of the dry winter season brings a noticeable change. May is the start of the dry winter season at Vic Falls and the temperature can drop suddenly. Rainfall becomes scarce, and temperatures take a dip, with nighttime lows reaching a brisk 52 degrees. It is advisable to pack warm clothing for the evenings and early mornings during this time. This month boasts delightful weather, characterized by sunshine and clear blue skies. April is a prime time to visit Victoria Falls to avoid the sweltering heat and rainfall, allowing you to relish pleasant, cooler winter conditions.
June
June is the month when water levels begin to noticeably drop. June- August are the winter months in Zimbabwe. So yes, temperatures are not as scorching as during the summer months and it is considerably cooler. In June, Victoria Falls experiences a dry and cool climate with nighttime temperatures that drop below 50 degrees. However, daytime temperatures remain mild, usually reaching the upper 60s. You’ll need to pack warm clothing for nighttime activities, early morning hikes, and game drives. This month is bustling, with numerous visitors at Victoria Falls, thanks to the spectacular views. While the falls are still quite powerful, they have less spray compared to earlier months, thanks to the decreased water level in the Zambezi River, but that means you can enjoy a panoramic vista. The best time for a Victoria Falls holiday combined with a Chobe River safari is the dry winter period from June to August.
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July
July is the heart of winter at Victoria Falls and the coldest month of the year, with nighttime temperatures plummeting to 45 degrees, while daytime temperatures still hover around 68. July is the best time to visit Victoria Falls for the mild daytime weather and good views of the Falls, even though the Zambezi is not as full during this dry season. As with June, pack warm clothing for nighttime and early morning game drives and activities. With the river not at its peak, the mist and spray are reduced compared to earlier months, offering picture-perfect panoramas. July is an excellent time for game viewing in both Zambezi National Park in Zimbabwe and Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park in Zambia.
Low-Water Season (August to January)
‘Low Water’ runs between August and January and is at its lowest between November and early December. This is the time when there is very little spray and visitors are able to fully appreciate the geological formation of Victoria Falls and the full length and breadth of them.
August
It’s still winter in August, another dry month, although the temperatures are increasing with daytime highs hovering around an average of 84 degrees, while nights cool down to about 50 degrees. August is another dry month at Vic Falls but it's slightly warmer than the cooler climate during July. This is one of the busiest times to visit Victoria Falls, although it’s ideal for witnessing the grandeur of the falls and taking part in exhilarating whitewater rafting adventures. Towards the end of August, the renowned Devil’s Pool usually becomes accessible for refreshing dips in the natural infinity pool.
September
September ushers in a wave of warmth, officially marking the arrival of spring in the Southern Hemisphere with daytime temperatures soaring up 91 degrees although nights are pleasantly cool at around 59 degrees. September is officially the start of spring but still falls under the dry season. Rainfall is a rarity during this time, and it also brings a great opportunity to visit Victoria Falls which remains resplendent on both sides of the border while activities like wildlife viewing and whitewater rafting are in their prime. September is one of the best times to visit Victoria Falls.
October
Known as the “Heatwave Season,” daytime temperatures rise to an average of 93 degrees Fahrenheit in October and it’s not uncommon for the mercury to rise above 104. October is the hottest month of the year. The region experiences an extended dry spell, leading to a decline in the Zambezi River’s water levels. After no rain for the past few months the Zambezi starts to run very low just before November. In some years, the falls on the Zambia side may even completely dry up by the month’s end. However, as the dry season reaches its climax, October becomes optimal for observing wildlife at the Zambezi National Park in Zimbabwe and the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park in Zambia.
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November
A refreshing change arrives as summer showers make their appearance, providing respite from the intense heat that persisted throughout October, although the weather is still sweltering. The Green Season usually kicks off in November with the first spring rains, but it takes time for the water that has fallen in the Angolan Highlands to make its way down to the series of massive gorges of the Falls. The Zambezi River reaches its lowest point, causing Victoria Falls on the Zambian side to potentially dry up entirely but the falls in Zimbabwe continue to flow uninterrupted throughout the year. It’s not an ideal time to witness the falls in their full majestic glory, but whitewater rafting can be ideal with the low water level creating more challenging rapids.
December
December brings a subtle drop in temperature but it’s still scorching with average daytime temperatures reaching 88 degrees. December may be slightly cooler but it's still warm and is the second wettest month of the year, so afternoon thunderstorms occur daily. This is the second wettest month of the year after January, bringing afternoon thundershowers on most days. With all the rainfall the vegetation starts to come to life. The river still runs low, diminishing the grandeur of the falls, and again, the Zambian side may be dried up completely. With the rain, vegetation flourishes, transforming landscapes into a lush green paradise so it’s not the best time for wildlife viewing, other than birds with many migratory species here while residents boast colorful plumages.
Summer (October to April) and Winter (May to September/October)
Summer runs from October to April, during which time it gets quite hot - up to around 30°C. Evening and night temperatures drop to approximately 14°C. Winter is from May to September/October.
The summer months are generally hotter and the short afternoon thunderstorms often make way for magnificent sunsets. The winter months are characterised by long sunny days with cold nights where warm clothes will be needed.
Swimming isn't really recommended at this time of year, unless cold water temperatures are your thing! The Zambezi River's waters are high in the month of April meaning white water rafting isn't normally possible at this time. The dry winters often result in sparse vegetation which makes game viewing a treat in the Victoria Falls area.
Activities and Interests
If you are an adrenaline junkie, looking for a thrilling adventure, taking to the mighty Zambezi river, or even to the ultimate natural rock pool, right on the edge; the time is during the low season.
It is the perfect opportunity to view the falls, with less of the heavy downfall of water and if you are keen to check out the geological features of the physical falls, now is your time. There is still plenty of water, gushing from the Falls, but not at the same kind of level as during the high season.
The water level in the gorge drops and the Zambezi River's conditions are ideal for white water rafting and has earned a reputation as one of the wildest in the world.
This is your perfect opportunity to take a dip on top of the Falls, in the appropriately named Devil’s Pool, Africa’s ultimate infinity pool. This natural rock pool is nestled right on the top of the falls. Definitely one for the bucket list. This awesome attraction is only open during the low season, between mid-August to mid-January, so don’t miss the opportunity. This is also the time of year to take to the mighty and iconic Zambezi river for white water rafting.
Game viewing sights coming thick and fast as wildlife congregates in their huge numbers to watering holes, due to the low levels of water in other areas.
Combining Seasons
If you are looking for a good combination of the seasons, this time could be your alternative. June-August is the main winter period, which is considerably cooler than the rest of the year. This is where you can expect medium to high waters; a good balance between the two seasons.
The water levels sit comfortably between high and low, allowing for most water activities to take place; while the Falls themselves are topped up, but the bottom of the falls is also visible.
Wildlife Viewing
Wildlife is most scattered February to May. August and September is probably the best time to see wildlife as it’s a lot drier so the animals are more concentrated around watering holes.
Seasonal Weather Changes
While the falls flow year-round, the seasonal weather changes in the surrounding catchment area means that Victoria Falls undergoes dramatic changes throughout the year.
Additional Tips
- Victoria Falls is a year-round destination, but nature is always unpredictable.
- Water levels fluctuate depending on seasonal rainfall, and the timing of the rains can vary from year to year.
- Some activities, such as white-water rafting and Devil's Pool, may open or close earlier or later than expected.
The majestic Victoria Falls, straddling the Zimbabwe-Zambia border, is within easy reach of Botswana's Chobe National Park, making it effortless to combine these two world-famous destinations into one unforgettable safari experience.
Combine three of Southern Africa's top destinations-Victoria Falls, Cape Town, and Kruger National Park-on this expertly crafted flexible 12-day adventure. This mid-range itinerary can be fully customised to suit your needs: adjust the order of destinations, extend or shorten your stay at each location, and select accommodations to match your budget or wishlist.
Whatever you are looking for in your African adventure, it is most likely Victoria Falls offers it!
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