3 Day Victoria Falls Tour Zambia

A tour to Victoria Falls is a trip of a lifetime. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you plan your Victoria Falls tour, covering both the Zimbabwean and Zambian sides.

Overview: The Mighty Victoria Falls

Known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya (“The Smoke That Thunders”), Victoria Falls is the largest waterfall in the world based on its combined width of 1,708 meters (5,604 ft) and height of 108 meters (354 ft). It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.

The falls are situated on the Zambezi River, which forms the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia. You can visit from both countries, and each offers a unique perspective.

Which Side to Visit? Zimbabwe vs. Zambia

This is the most common question. The ideal trip includes both sides, but if you have to choose, here’s a breakdown:

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

• Best for: The classic, panoramic view. About 75% of the waterfall face is visible from the Zimbabwean side. 

• The Main Attraction: Victoria Falls National Park offers a spectacular 2-km walking trail with 16 different viewpoints facing the Eastern Cataract, Main Falls, Rainbow Falls, and the iconic Devil’s Cataract. You get drenched, but it’s part of the fun! 

• The Town: The town of Victoria Falls is a well-established tourist hub with a wide range of hotels, restaurants, shops, and tour operators. It’s very walkable. 

• • Verdict: If it’s your first time and your primary goal is to see the falls in all their glory, Zimbabwe is the winner.

Livingstone, Zambia

• Best for: Adventure and a closer, more immersive experience.

   

• The Main Attraction: Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park offers a shorter trail but gets you incredibly close to the Boiling Pot (the base of the falls) and allows you to walk along the knife-edge of the waterfall on Livingstone Island (seasonal) and even swim in the Devil’s Pool on the very edge of the cliff.

   

• The Town: Livingstone is a larger, more spread-out town with a colonial feel. It has excellent lodges and is often considered slightly more upmarket. 

• • Verdict: If you are an adrenaline junkie or want a more intimate, “in-the-mist” experience, Zambia is fantastic.

Most tourists get a Kaza Uni-Visa upon entry (available at major border posts for specific nationalities). This allows for multiple crossings between Zimbabwe and Zambia for day trips, making it easy to experience both sides.

Best Time to Visit

The experience changes dramatically with the seasons.

• High Water Season (February to July):

  • Peak Flow: April-May is the absolute peak. The volume of water is staggering, and the spray is so immense it can be difficult to see the base of the falls—but the “smoke” is an incredible spectacle.

  • What to expect: You will get soaked on the viewpoints. Raincoats are essential. Some activities like Devil’s Pool may be closed due to strong currents.

• Low Water Season (August to January):

  • Best Viewing: September to December offers the best visibility of the rock face and gorges as the water level recedes.

  • Best for Adventure: This is the prime time for white-water rafting, Devil’s Pool/Livingstone Island tours, and seeing the dramatic cliffs.

• Shoulder Season (January): A good balance, with still-impressive flow but less spray.

Top Tours & Activities at Victoria Falls

The falls are the main event, but the activities are world-class.

Viewing the Falls

• Guided Walking Tour: Highly recommended. A guide provides fascinating geological and historical context.

• Helicopter Flight (“Flight of the Angels”): An unforgettable aerial perspective that truly shows the scale of the falls. A must-do.

Adventure Activities

• White-Water Rafting: The Zambezi below the falls has some of the best commercial rafting in the world (Grade 3-5 rapids). Primarily done from the Zambian side.

• Bungee Jumping & Bridge Swing: Leap 111 meters from the historic Victoria Falls Bridge, which connects Zimbabwe and Zambia.

• Devil’s Pool / Livingstone Island Tour (Zambia side): A seasonal activity (approx. August to January) where you can swim in a natural infinity pool on the very edge of the falls.

• Zambezi Canoeing: A more peaceful way to experience the upper Zambezi above the falls.

Wildlife & Nature

• Sunset Cruise on the Zambezi: A relaxing and popular activity. Enjoy drinks and snacks while spotting hippos, crocodiles, and elephants on the riverbanks.

• Game Drive: Visit the Zambezi National Park (Zimbabwe) or Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park (Zambia) to see rhinos, elephants, and other wildlife.

• Lion Encounter / Elephant Back Safari: Ethical questions surround some of these; research operators carefully if this interests you.

3-Day Victoria Falls Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Livingstone Town Tour

Upon your arrival in Livingstone, the vibrant and welcoming city that serves as the gateway to Victoria Falls, you will be greeted by your friendly and knowledgeable tour guide. After checking into your hotel, you will embark on a fascinating tour of Livingstone town, where you will learn about its rich history and culture.

As you stroll through the town, you will visit the Livingstone Museum, the oldest museum in Zambia, which houses an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits detailing the history of the area and its people. You will also have the opportunity to explore the bustling markets, where you can purchase locally made crafts and souvenirs to take home as a memento of your trip.

Day 2: Victoria Falls Tour and Sunset Cruise

The highlight of your 3 day Victoria Falls tour will undoubtedly be your visit to the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls. As you approach the falls, you will be greeted by the roar of the water and the mist that rises high into the sky, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that will leave you in awe.

You will have the chance to explore the falls from both the Zambian and Zimbabwean sides, offering you a unique perspective on this natural wonder. As you walk along the trails, you will marvel at the sheer power and beauty of the falls, which span over a mile wide and plunge more than 300 feet into the Zambezi River below.

In the afternoon, you will embark on a relaxing sunset cruise along the Zambezi River. As you sip on a refreshing cocktail and enjoy the stunning views of the African sunset, you may even spot some of the local wildlife, such as hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species.

Day 3: Adventure Activities and Departure

On your final day in Zambia, you will have the opportunity to participate in a variety of thrilling adventure activities, such as bungee jumping, zip-lining, or white-water rafting on the Zambezi River. Alternatively, you may choose to visit one of the nearby national parks, where you can go on a game drive or a guided nature walk to observe the diverse wildlife that calls this region home.

After an action-packed day, you will bid farewell to Zambia and return home with memories that will last a lifetime.

Tour Cost Included

• Park fees
• All activities
• All accommodation as per itinerary
• A professional driver/guide
• All transportation
• All Taxes/VAT
• Roundtrip airport transfer
• Meals
  (As specified in the day-by-day section)

Tour Cost Excluded

• International flights
• Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
  Tips
• (Tipping guideline US$10.00 pp per day)
• Personal items
  (Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
• Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
• Some meals
  (As specified in the day-by-day section)
• Drinks

Practical Information for Victoria Falls Tour

• Currency: Zimbabwe uses US Dollars widely (cards are also accepted). Zambia uses Zambian Kwacha. It’s best to have some small USD bills for tips and vendors.

• Visa: Check requirements for your nationality. The Kaza Uni-Visa ($50) is highly recommended if you plan to visit both sides.

• Health: A yellow fever vaccination certificate may be required if traveling from a yellow fever zone. Malaria is present; consult your doctor for prophylaxis.

• What to Pack: Raincoat/poncho, waterproof bag for electronics, sturdy shoes, swimsuit, sunscreen, hat, and binoculars for wildlife viewing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Victoria Falls Tour

• What is the best time of year to visit Victoria Falls?   The best time to visit Victoria Falls is during the dry season, which runs from June to October. During this time, the water levels are lower, allowing for better visibility of the falls and a more comfortable experience for visitors. However, the falls are also impressive during the rainy season (November to April), when the water levels are higher and the mist creates a dramatic effect.

• How do I get to Victoria Falls?    The closest airport to Victoria Falls is Livingstone International Airport (LVI), which is served by several international airlines. From the airport, it is a short drive to the town of Livingstone and the entrance to the falls. Alternatively, you can also fly into Victoria Falls International Airport (VFA) in Zimbabwe, which is just a short drive across the border to the Zambian side of the falls.

• What should I pack for my Victoria Falls tour?   When packing for your Victoria Falls tour, be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes, lightweight clothing, sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, sunglasses, and a waterproof jacket or poncho to protect against the mist from the falls. If you plan on participating in any adventure activities, you may also need to bring appropriate gear, such as a swimsuit and water shoes.

• Is it safe to visit Victoria Falls?   Victoria Falls is generally considered a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any international travel, it is always important to exercise caution and follow common-sense safety precautions, such as avoiding walking alone at night and keeping your valuables secure.

• How long should I spend at Victoria Falls?    While a 3 day Victoria Falls tour in Zambia provides a comprehensive and unforgettable experience, you may choose to extend your stay to explore the surrounding area further. Many visitors also combine their visit to Victoria Falls with a safari in one of Zambia’s renowned national parks, such as South Luangwa or Lower Zambezi.