There’s a reason Victoria Falls is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. And on the Zambian side, you get a front-row seat to some of the most spectacular views of the Victoria Falls. With thrilling activities like microlight flights, white-water rafting, and swims to the edge of the Falls (yes, really), Livingstone offers a wild yet wonderfully accessible add-on to your Zambia or Botswana safari.
The locals call it Mosi-oa-Tunya – the Smoke that Thunders. One look (and listen), and you’ll understand why. The region offers thundering falls, dramatic beauty of the Zambezi River and a bevy of adventurous river & land activities.
Victoria Falls Activities on Zambian side
One of our favourite excursions is to enjoy a champagne breakfast, lunch or high tea on the Livingstone Island tour which lies on the edge of the Falls.
Such as trips to Livingstone Island with an optional swim to the famous Devil’s pool. Not a name of a cocktail bar - though you’ll deserve one afterwards - but a natural rockpool that lets the brave peer right over the edge of the Victoria Falls. (Only possible during the low water period of Sept to December)
To gain an overall impression of the Victoria Falls, we recommend the helicopter ‘Flight of Angels’. For the truly daring, why not try a Microlight flight or bungee jumping? Goosebumps guaranteed — and not just from the wind.
Above the Falls, the Zambezi river is wide and gentle. The perfect place for languorous sunset boat cruises or gentle canoeing trips. Or you can opt to take a thrilling jet boat ride up to Elephant Cafe, for an elephant interaction and lunch.
However below the Victoria Falls, the Zambezi river’s character changes with several magnificent roaring rapids through a 7 km gorge. Here the adventurous can enjoy serious white-water rafting.
And at the end of the day, take a languorous Zambezi sunset cruise and watch and listen to hippos grunting their goodnights as the sky turns gold.
Where to stay in Livingstone?
Your options are simple. You can either stay at one of the various lodges in Livingstone or near to the Falls. Note that only the Avani Victoria Falls resort hotel is near enough to walk to the Falls. The other option is to stay at one of the many riverside lodges upstream from the Falls. Here you enjoy the Zambezi river with sundowner boat cruises and visit the Falls as one of various activities.
Best time to visit Victoria Falls on Zambia side?
Wondering when’s the best time to visit Victoria Falls? June to August typically offers the best mix of strong flow and clear visibility, but each season has its perks — we break it down for you below
Curious about Victoria Falls Zambia versus Zimbabwe?
The Zambian side offers thrilling proximity (such as the Devil’s Pool), while Zimbabwe often boasts broader panoramic views. We help you choose which side works for you. But it is easy to combine both.
Here’s out take:
Victoria Falls vs Livingstone: Zambia or Zimbabwe side?
You’ll never forget the thunder of the Falls before you see them, or the cool mist on your face that feeling of standing on the edge of the world.
Let’s get you there. Start planning with Cedarberg