To experience Victoria Falls fully, see it three ways: from the ground along the rainforest trail, from the edge in a natural pool, and from the air on a helicopter flight. Each reveals a different side of the Falls, and all three fit comfortably into a two- or three-night stay.
On paper, the facts are impressive. Victoria Falls is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World and the largest sheet of falling water on Earth, around twice the height and 1.5 times the width of Niagara Falls. But numbers can’t capture what it feels like to stand in its presence. The deafening roar. The spray that leaves you delightfully drenched. The sheer scale and force of it all. Only then do you understand why it’s known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya, “the smoke that thunders”.
In August 2026, Jeremy and I travelled to Victoria Falls to experience it for ourselves, and nothing quite prepares you for the encounter. There are plenty of activities offered by your lodge or around the town, but when it comes to the mighty Falls themselves, we’d recommend seeing them from three perspectives: on foot, at the very edge, and from the air.
This guide focuses on the Zimbabwe side, where we stayed on this particular trip, but some similar experiences are available from Zambia too.
As Africa travel specialists, our team at Golilo regularly design unforgettable trips for our guests that include Victoria Falls. Get in touch if you’re interested in weaving this extraordinary natural wonder into your wider Southern African adventure.
On foot: a guided tour of Victoria Falls
A guided walk along the rainforest trail in Victoria Falls National Park is the classic way to see the Falls, and the experience we recommend every guest starts with.
The trail follows the rim of the gorge directly opposite the Falls, linking 16 viewpoints. Led by our knowledgeable guide, Charles, we meandered from the Chain Walk and Main Falls, past Rainbow Falls to Danger Point, and beyond. Each viewpoint brought a fresh wave of wows.
We peered into the dramatic depths of the gorge (and into the aptly named ‘Boiling Pot’ of swirling water), wandered through the lush rainforest, and tried to comprehend that, on average, 65 million litres of water tumble off the edge every minute (and several times more in peak flood). Our brains began to burn just thinking about it, but luckily we had the Falls’ mist in which to cool off.
In August, the water is lower, so we stayed dry for much of the walk and had a clear view. In a few sections, though, the spray was so thick it felt like stepping into a rain cloud, but getting soaked is all part of the fun. During high water, from around February to May, expect the spray to drench you and some viewpoints to disappear into the mist. Our walk took about three hours, but the timing can vary depending on your group and how long you choose to linger.
Our top tip: Book a private early-morning tour, starting at sunrise before the gates officially open. It is priced a little higher than the standard walking tour, but it’s well worth it. Victoria Falls is a world-famous attraction and gets busy in peak season. Going first means you have the viewpoints to yourselves, can take your time at each one, and can capture beautiful photos without waiting for the crowds to move. It feels like a real privilege. You may miss the rainbows that appear later in the day, but you’ll see them beautifully from the edge of the Falls or from the air. Ask your lodge to arrange it for you.
What to bring: Good non-slip walking shoes, clothes you don’t mind getting wet, and sunscreen. Your guide will have ponchos, but you’re welcome to bring your own rain jacket. The standard walking tour is included at the lodges we book for our guests, although the park entry fee is sometimes extra. There’s no need to carry cash or worry about payment. Your lodge will arrange everything, and you can settle any extras at checkout. Your guide will also help with tickets at the park entrance.
Shopping at the car park: The car park is lined with vendors selling everything from football shirts to traditional crafts, and many are rather lively, persuasive salespeople. Some vendors accept cards, but if you’d like to take home a souvenir, it’s worth bringing a little cash just in case.
At the edge: a daring swim on the lip of the Falls
On our excursion, we took a short boat ride to an island at the top of the Falls. As the spray drew closer, our hearts leapt as we realised just how close we were to the point where the earth disappears and the Zambezi tumbles down into what seems like an abyss below. It was a real goosebump moment.
On the island, we made our way to a natural rock pool for the famous swim. I am prone to vertigo and was admittedly a little nervous. Somehow, though, once we were there, the nerves melted away. We waded into the refreshing pool and swam towards the edge, where a thick rope helped steady us. Then we smiled for the camera, with the rumble of the Falls in our ears and the most spectacular rainbows overhead. For the more adventurous, it’s an unforgettable way to experience the Falls.
Good to know: This is a seasonal activity. Swims at the edge are only possible when the water is low enough, and the dates shift slightly from year to year. It is a guided experience, and age limits apply. More than one operator offers these experiences, each with its own style, season, and access point. Chat to us and we’ll recommend and book the best option for your travel dates and group.
What to bring: Your swimsuit under clothes that are easy to slip off, shoes that can get wet, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and your passport (if you’ll be crossing the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia to reach the pool). Most importantly, bring your camera.
From the air: a helicopter flight over the Falls
Only from the air can you take in the full width of the curtain of water, the plume of spray, and the zigzagging gorges carved downstream. It’s a thrilling experience and one we highly recommend.
The classic route is known as the Flight of the Angels, after David Livingstone’s famous description of the Falls: “Scenes so lovely must have been gazed upon by angels in their flight.” Shorter flights of around 15 minutes circle the Falls, while longer options of about 22 minutes continue over the Batoka Gorge.
We arrange flights through the lodge you’re staying at, which works with a trusted local helicopter company.
What to bring: Your camera, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Images compliments of Bushtracks Africa
Where should you stay at Victoria Falls?
The right lodge depends on how you want to balance being close to the Falls and the bustle of the surrounding town against a quieter, more remote experience. We partner with a handful of luxury lodges in the area, and we’ll help you choose the one that suits you best.
On this trip, we stayed in the Malachite Luxury Tented Suites at Victoria Falls River Lodge, set on the banks of the Zambezi just upstream of the Falls. Each of the eight stylish tented suites opens onto a private deck with a plunge pool, daybed, and outdoor bath. Our days unfolded between the pool, sunset river cruises, and long meals on the deck, while crocodiles and hippos went about their business on the banks below.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Victoria Falls? Victoria Falls is spectacular all year, but the experience changes with the water levels. From February to May, the Falls are in full flood, with the most dramatic spray, peaking around April. In the second half of the year, the water is lower and the views are clearer. Towards the end of the year, parts of the rock face can run dry, particularly on the Zambian side.
When can you swim at the edge of Victoria Falls? Swims at the edge are only possible when the water is low enough, usually from around the middle of the year until December or January. Exact dates shift each year with the rains, and more than one operator runs these experiences. Chat to us before finalising your trip and we’ll recommend and arrange the best one for your dates and group.
Can children swim at the edge or fly in a helicopter? Minimum ages for swims at the edge vary by operator, ranging from around six to twelve years old, so we’ll advise on the best option for your family. Helicopter flights generally have no minimum age, although children must fly with an adult, and very young children can often travel on a parent’s lap. Policies vary, so we check the details for your family when booking.
How many days do you need at Victoria Falls? We recommend two to three nights. That’s enough time for the rainforest walk, a swim at the edge (in season), a helicopter flight, and a sunset cruise on the Zambezi (another must), without feeling rushed. Victoria Falls pairs beautifully with a wider Southern African safari.
Planning your visit to Victoria Falls
Victoria Falls is where luxury meets adventure. It’s also an easy addition to a wider Southern African safari, and two or three nights gives you time to enjoy all three experiences.
If you’d like to see the Falls for yourself, book a complimentary consultation and we’ll help you plan the perfect stay.
About the author
Tracy-Lynn is Golilo’s Marketing Director. She lives in beautiful Cape Town and often travels with the team on site visits across Africa.
