Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, straddles the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. Discovered in 1855 by David Livingstone, the falls are known locally as Mosi Oa Tunya, "the smoke that thunders." Whether you're planning your first visit or a return trip, this guide provides essential information to help you make the most of your adventure.
Victoria Falls is neither the tallest nor the widest waterfall in the world, but it holds the record for the largest single sheet waterfall. Spanning approximately one mile, it is twice the height of Niagara Falls.
Getting There
The easiest way to reach Victoria Falls is by flying into either Livingstone Airport in Zambia (LVI) or Victoria Falls Airport in Zimbabwe (VFA). Livingstone Airport is also known as Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport.
- Livingstone Airport: A taxi to the town center or most hotels takes about 10-15 minutes, costing around USD $10.
- Victoria Falls Airport: A taxi to the town center takes about 20-25 minutes, costing around USD $15.
Ultimate Victoria Falls Travel Guide 🇿🇼🌊 | Everything You Need to Know
Alternatively, you can travel by bus from other Southern African cities or take a scenic train ride from Pretoria (South Africa) to Zimbabwe on the luxury Rovos Rail.
Best Time to Visit
The water levels at Victoria Falls fluctuate depending on the season. The rainy season runs from November to April, offering spectacular views with the falls at their fullest capacity. However, the spray can be intense.
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July to November is the dry season, when the falls can be completely dry on the Zambian side. This is the best time for swimming in the Devil’s Pool and visiting Livingstone Island.
Visiting in early January onwards can mean seeing the falls at their fullest capacity, and therefore, at their most spectacular. Some visitors do comment however that the spray from the tumbling waters can be so extreme that they couldn’t really get their cameras out. If you visit in height of the rainy season, the Devil’s Pool will be closed as the water levels are too high and it’s far too dangerous to swim in.
Both Zambia and Zimbabwe require visas for most foreign nationalities. The KAZA visa allows unlimited travel between Zambia and Zimbabwe and a day trip to Chobe National Park in Botswana. It is valid for 30 days and costs $50 USD.
Zambia vs. Zimbabwe
Deciding which side of Victoria Falls to stay on is crucial. Zambia, with Livingstone as its nearest town, offers a unique experience, while Zimbabwe boasts more impressive viewpoints and year-round water flow.
- Zambia: Requires a taxi to visit the falls from hotels, but offers free entry to Mosi Oa Tunya National Park for guests staying at Avani Victoria Falls Resort or the Royal Livingstone Hotel.
- Zimbabwe: Allows walking from Victoria Falls town center to the entrance. The Victoria Falls National Park is well-organized with better viewing opportunities.
Fortunately, it is really simple to travel between Zambia and Zimbabwe if you have the KAZA visa. The easiest way is to walk from one side to the other, including enjoying the bridge crossing on foot as the views are spectacular.
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Activities at Victoria Falls
Beyond seeing the falls, numerous activities enhance your visit:
- Devil’s Pool: Swim to the edge of the falls during the dry season for a thrilling experience. Tours depart from the Livingstone Island Launch Site.
- White Water Rafting: Enjoy an exhilarating ride on the Zambezi River.
- Bungee Jumping: Take a 111m plunge from the Victoria Falls Bridge.
- Helicopter Flight: See the falls from above with a 15-minute flight.
- Chobe National Park Day Trip: Visit Botswana for a game drive and boat cruise.
- Sunset Cruise: Get close to wildlife on the Zambezi River.
- Royal Livingstone Express: Experience a luxurious dinner service on a 1920s steam train.
Aha The David Livingstone Safari Lodge & Spa
Perched by the river, The David Livingstone Safari Lodge & Spa offers a tranquil retreat. Indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment or take in pool views over breakfast at Kalai Restaurant. You'll also enjoy access to an outdoor pool with sun loungers and activities like boat tours. The lodge provides a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable and memorable stay.
Amenities
- Airport transfer
- Bar
- Gym
- Pool
- Spa
- 24/7 front desk
- Daily housekeeping
- Restaurant and bar/lounge
- Full-service spa
- Outdoor pool
- Fitness center
- Steam room
- Hot tub
- Pool bar
- Room service
- Massage/treatment rooms
- Babysitting
- Conference center
Guest Reviews
Travelers have left 592 reviews of Aha The David Livingstone Safari Lodge & Spa to date, with an overall rating of 8.7 (Very good). Guests praise the friendly staff, excellent food, and great location close to the Zambezi River. Some reviews mention issues with mosquitos and a cold swimming pool.
Pros:
- Close to Zambezi
- Super friendly staff, excellent food and great location
- Easy to get to the Victoria Falls
Cons:
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- Swimming pool was freezing cold
- Service is unrivaled
Photos
View a collection of 28 photos showcasing the rooms, amenities, and facilities of Aha The David Livingstone Safari Lodge & Spa to help you visualize your stay.
Other Accommodation Options
If Aha The David Livingstone Safari Lodge & Spa is fully booked or doesn't quite meet your needs, here are some alternative hotels in Livingstone:
- Nkwali Camp: Located just outside the park, south of the Luangwa River, this thatched rondavel-style camp is a favourite of park regulars and is open all year.
- Kaingo Camp: The simple family camp has six thatched chalets, a sleepout bed under the stars and several hides from which to watch game up close.
Essential Information
Here are some frequently asked questions and essential tips for booking your stay:
- Airport Proximity: Aha The David Livingstone Safari Lodge & Spa is 5.3 miles from Livingstone Airport, a 10-minute drive.
- Transportation: Renting a car at the airport costs around $111/day. The lodge offers parking.
- Wi-Fi: Yes, Wi-Fi is available to hotel guests.
- Fitness Center: Yes, there is a fitness center available.
- Check-in/Check-out: Check-in is after 2:00 PM, and check-out is before 11:00 AM.
- Restaurant: Yes, food can be ordered from the restaurant, and there is a bar available.
- Laundry Service: Yes, laundry and ironing facilities are available.
- Accessible Rooms: Yes, accessible rooms are available.
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