A 3-day Victoria Falls tour in Zambia
Victoria Falls is one of southern Africa’s most magnificent natural sights. In Zambia, it has a local name, Mosi-oa-Tunya, which means “The Smoke That Thunders” because the river drops into the gorge, creating an enormous curtain of spray. A three-day tour allows you to visit the Zambian side, relax on the riverbanks and enjoy various optional activities.
As with all natural sights in nature, Victoria Falls has its seasonal features. For instance, water levels determine how muchrt of the sight you can see, how wet the trails are, and whether you can take part in some activitiot.
Why Visit Victoria Falls from Zambia?
Victoria Falls sits on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe. On the Zambian side, Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park is the main highlight. Here, you can walk to viewpoints near the Eastern Cataract and, when possible, visit the impressive Knife-Edge Bridge.
Most visitors stay in the Zambian town of Livingstone. You’ll find everything from guesthouses to luxury lodges, along with tour operators, restaurants, and good transport links. The town is also named after the Scottish explorer David Livingstone, who saw the falls in 1855.
Visiting from Zambia is a great choice if you want to see the falls and also enjoy river activities, wildlife, or a quieter stay by the Zambezi. Some viewpoints and activities depend on the season, and you’ll need the right travel documents to cross into Zimbabwe.
Victoria Falls Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Livingstone and See the Falls
On arrival in Livingstone, settle in and make sure that everything is sorted out for your visit. If you arrive in town early enough, spend the afternoon viewing the falls from the Zambian side.
Within Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, clearly marked footpaths access many viewpoints. Water flow and visibility vary greatly throughout the year. When water levels are higher, there will be a lot of spray, so bring waterproof attire; at other times, parts of the rock faces and the gorge are exposed.
Be sure to allow enough time to walk at a leisurely pace, take in the viewpoints, and appreciate the scale of the area. The falls are not one narrow waterfall, but many waterfalls stretching along a wide part of the river. The river then flows into a deep, narrow gorge.
In the evening, have dinner in Livingstone or at your lodge. Depending on your plans for a sunset activity, do an assessment on what is happening and whether it matches your plans.
Day 2: Zambezi River or Adventure Activity
On the second day, explore the broader region around your lodge. Popular choices include a Zambezi River cruise, where you can see the riverbanks and also view birds and wildlife. Wildlife sightings are not always guaranteed, and you should observe them from a distance.
Other options may include nature walks, museum visits, cultural tours, fishing, rafting, and other adventure experiences, depending on the flow and weather conditions of the Zambezi River. Not all activities suit everyone; some have restrictions on age, fitness, and equipment.
If you want a more relaxed day, you could stay at your lodge or take a walking tour to learn more about the area and its history.
Day 3: Wildlife, History, or the Falls
For the third and final day of your visit, decide on an activity that complements the previous two. Consider a guided tour of Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park to learn more about the region’s wildlife and river life. Animals you might see in the park include elephants, giraffes, zebras, and white rhinos, but it depends on the season and your luck.
Alternatively, make another trip to the falls or take in some of Livingstone’s history. If you want to visit the falls from the Zimbabwean side, plan your transportation in advance. Before you leave for further travel, make sure your next transportation is arranged in good time.
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
- Pro & post accommodation
- 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
What is the Best Time for Visiting the Falls?
Because water levels in the Zambezi River fluctuate annually with seasonal precipitation across its vast watershed, the Victoria Falls may look very different in different seasons.
High water period: Powerful flow and considerable spray. Viewpoints may be wet or partially covered by mist, and some water activities may be unavailable.
Low water period: More rock outcrops and areas of the gorge become visible from the Zambian side; some activities may become available when conditions allow.
Shoulder periods: Conditions may vary from week to week. These periods may offer an optimal combination of visible cascades and acceptable spray, but they don’t guarantee a specific view.
Instead of sticking to a fixed calendar, check the recent water level to see whether it's favorable for visiting the falls. Don’t forget that views can differ from viewpoint to viewpoint, even on the same day.
Low water period: More rock outcrops and areas of the gorge become visible from the Zambian side; some activities may become available when conditions allow.
Shoulder periods: Conditions may vary from week to week. These periods may offer an optimal combination of visible cascades and acceptable spray, but they don’t guarantee a specific view.
Instead of sticking to a fixed calendar, check the recent water level to see whether it's favorable for visiting the falls. Don’t forget that views can differ from viewpoint to viewpoint, even on the same day.
Packing List For Victoria Falls Tour
- Walking shoes with great traction
- Clothing that is lightweight and quick-drying
- Waterproof jacket when the spraying period is on
- Waterproof bag or cover for electronic devices
- Sun protection like a hat, sunscreen and sunglasses
- Water to drink
- Repellent for bugs when outdoors
- Phone or camera, but keep it safe from water.
Transportation
Livingstone is the primary center for the Zambian side of the waterfalls. Depending on where you stay, Wilds of Africa Company will arrange a taxi, hotel shuttle, or touring car to take you to the park and other places of interest. Discuss the mode and cost of transport before making any arrangements.
How to Utilize Three Days Well
Wilds of Africa experts will help you to plan your three-day Victoria Falls tour so you leave breathing room for changes. One activity each day is enough, since the waterfalls, river, and weather may affect your plans, and it will be easier to adapt if you have some spare time.
Combine excursions and relaxation time as well, since the river noise, gorge lighting, and wildlife are part of the overall experience.
Top Tours & Activities at Victoria Falls
The falls are the main event, but the activities are world-class.
Viewing the Falls
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Guided Walking Tour: Highly recommended. A guide provides fascinating geological and historical context.
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Helicopter Flight ("Flight of the Angels"): An unforgettable aerial perspective that truly shows the scale of the falls. A must-do.
Adventure Activities
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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.
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Bungee Jumping & Bridge Swing: Leap 111 meters from the historic Victoria Falls Bridge, which connects Zimbabwe and Zambia.
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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.
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Zambezi Canoeing: A more peaceful way to experience the upper Zambezi above the falls.
Wildlife & Nature
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Sunset Cruise on the Zambezi: A relaxing and popular activity. Enjoy drinks and snacks while spotting hippos, crocodiles, and elephants on the riverbanks.
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Game Drive: Visit the Zambezi National Park (Zimbabwe) or Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park (Zambia) to see rhinos, elephants, and other wildlife.
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Lion Encounter / Elephant Back Safari: Ethical questions surround some of these; research operators carefully if this interests you.
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.