At The Classic Safari Company, we are bespoke travel specialists, providing the best African safari tours and holidays. Contact us and begin your journey now.

1. Zambia Or Zimbabwe – Which Is The
Right Way To See Victoria Falls?
Deciding between Zambia and Zimbabwe for a visit to Victoria Falls via an African
safari company, also known as Mosi-oa-Tunya or 'The Smoke that Thunders,' is a
common question. This majestic waterfall, nearly twice the height of Niagara Falls, is
truly awe-inspiring. Located on the border of the two countries, Victoria Falls offers
breathtaking views and a memorable experience. So, which side is the better choice to
visit? Let's explore the options.
Firstly, it's important to note that crossing the border at the Falls is straightforward.
Regardless of the side you choose to stay on, it's highly recommended to take a day
trip to the opposite side to fully immerse yourself in the experience.
From a geographical perspective, the majority of the Falls lies on the Zimbabwean side.
Zimbabwe's Victoria Falls National Park provides a comprehensive selection of
viewpoints, including the impressive Devil's Cataract, Main Falls, Horseshoe Falls, and
Rainbow Falls. The park, surrounded by falling spray, creates a true rainforest teeming
with life. Meandering through its paths offers a serene way to appreciate the stunning
vistas.
On the Zambian side, while it doesn't generate a rainforest year-round, it does offer a
more up-close and personal experience. Some paths skirt the edge of the falls, and
crossing the Knife-Edge Bridge involves a heart-racing walk along the precipice,
approximately 100 meters above the gorge. Be prepared to get drenched when the falls
are in full flow!
As for activities, both sides offer popular options such as scenic flights, white water
rafting, scenic boat cruising, and wildlife watching. However, if you wish to take a dip
in the exhilarating Devil's Pool or visit Livingstone Island, located at the precipice of
the Falls in the middle of the river, you'll need to be on the Zambian side. Fortunately,
these activities can still be comfortably done in a day trip from Zimbabwe.
For those seeking an African safari company experience, there are excellent
options nearby. In Zimbabwe, you can enjoy day trips to Hwange National Park, while
just across the border in Botswana, Chobe National Park awaits. These can easily be
included as part of your bespoke travel itinerary.
When planning a longer African safari company itinerary, both sides of Victoria Falls
work well due to good travel connections. You can easily combine your visit with other
fantastic African safari company destinations, such as Hwange and Mana Pools in
Zimbabwe, Kafue and Lower Zambezi in Zambia, Chobe National Park in Botswana,
or Kruger National Park in South Africa.
Seasonality does have an impact on the Falls. Water flows year-round on the
Zimbabwean side, with high water levels (February-May) offering a spectacular spray
experience on both sides. However, during the drier months when water levels are low

2. (October/November), the Zambian side may dry up completely. Keep in mind that
certain activities, like swimming in Devil's Pool or rafting, are only possible when
water levels are low. Therefore, timing your visit accordingly is advisable if these
activities are important to you.
In terms of nearby towns, Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe is a lively tourist destination
located just 2km from the Falls. It offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and curio
markets within a compact area, making it easy and safe to explore on foot. Livingstone,
on the other hand, is around 10 km away from the Falls, larger, and more industrial.
Despite this, it maintains a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. The Livingstone
Museum, housing an impressive collection of ethnography and natural history, as well
as David Livingstone memorabilia, is worth a visit. Both towns have internationally
recognized airports that provide good connectivity.
When it comes to accommodation, both sides offer lovely options. In Zimbabwe, you
can choose from colonial-style hotels to luxurious riverside African safari company
lodges. Top picks include Matetsi River Lodge in Matetsi Game Reserve, Batonka
Guest Lodge in Victoria Falls, Ilala Lodge (the closest hotel to the Falls), and The
Victoria Falls Hotel, an Edwardian-style five-star hotel with old-world glamour. In
Zambia, consider The Royal Livingstone in the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, The
River Club, a colonial-style country club, and Tongabezi, a heavenly riverside hideout.
To summarize, both the Zambian and Zimbabwean sides of Victoria Falls offer
incredible experiences. It is highly recommended to visit both sides, even if you choose
to stay on one. While Zimbabwe provides the most comprehensive selection of
viewpoints and a rainforest environment, Zambia offers a more immersive and up-
close encounter. Consider your preferences and the activities you wish to partake in
when making your decision. Ultimately, sitting by the Zambezi River, sipping a G&T,
and watching elephants at sunset, you will be content with whichever side you choose.
If you're interested in visiting Victoria Falls and exploring the surrounding wilderness
regions, we are a small African safari company specializing in small group African
safari company tours and bespoke travel. Contact us to discuss your plans and create
a memorable itinerary!