20 Victoria Falls Travel Tips I Wish I Knew Before My First Visit

I'll never forget my first glimpse of Victoria Falls—the thundering water, the rising spray, the sheer power of nature on display. But I'll also never forget the mistakes I made, the money I wasted, and the opportunities I missed because I didn't know what I was doing. After multiple visits and countless conversations with fellow travelers and locals, I've compiled the insider tips I wish someone had shared with me before my first trip.

These aren't your typical "bring sunscreen" tips (though yes, bring sunscreen). These are the real, practical insights that will save you money, help you avoid tourist traps, maximize your experience, and maybe even keep you safe. Whether you're planning your first visit or your fifth, these tips will help you experience Victoria Falls like a seasoned traveler.

1. The Zimbabwean Side Has Better Views (But Visit Both If You Can)

Here's the truth nobody tells you upfront: the Zimbabwean side of Victoria Falls offers far better views than the Zambian side. Zimbabwe has 16 viewpoints along a well-maintained path that takes you along the entire length of the falls. You'll see the full panorama, get those iconic photos, and experience the spray up close.

The Zambian side has fewer viewpoints and shows you less of the falls, but it does offer unique perspectives, including the famous Devil's Pool (seasonal) and closer views of the main falls. If you have time, visit both sides—they complement each other. But if you only have time for one, choose Zimbabwe.

Pro tip: Visit the Zimbabwean side in the afternoon when the light is better for photography. The morning sun is behind the falls, creating harsh backlighting.

2. Book Activities Before You Arrive (But Not Through Your Hotel)

Victoria Falls activities sell out, especially during peak season (June-October). That Helicopter Flight you want? It might be fully booked when you arrive. The Chobe Safari? Same story.

Book major activities in advance through reputable online operators like Victoria Falls HQ. You'll get better prices than booking through your hotel (which adds a commission) and guaranteed availability.

What to book in advance:

• Helicopter or microlight flights
• Chobe Safari
• White water rafting
• Devil's Pool (limited spots)
• Bungee jumping

What you can book on arrival:

• Sunset cruises (usually available)
• Guided falls tours
• Cultural tours

3. Bring US Dollars in Perfect Condition

Zimbabwe uses US dollars, but here's the catch—they're incredibly picky about the condition of bills. Torn, marked, or pre-2009 bills are often rejected. I watched a fellow traveler struggle for 20 minutes trying to pay for lunch because his $20 bill had a small tear.

What you need:

• Clean, crisp US dollar bills
• Newer bills (2009 or later preferred)
• Small denominations ($1, $5, $10, $20)
• No tears, marks, or excessive wear

Where to get them: Request new bills from your bank before departure. Tell them you're traveling to Africa and need pristine notes.

Pro tip: Bring more cash than you think you'll need. ATMs are unreliable and often empty. Credit cards aren't widely accepted outside major hotels.

4. The Spray Will Destroy Your Phone (Seriously)

I learned this the hard way. The spray from Victoria Falls isn't just mist—it's a torrential downpour, especially during high water season (March-June). I watched someone's iPhone die right in front of me after getting soaked at the viewpoints.

Solutions:

• Bring a waterproof phone case or dry bag
• Use a waterproof camera
• Leave expensive electronics at the hotel
• Bring a cheap disposable camera for the falls
• Take photos from drier viewpoints

Reality check: During peak water flow, you WILL get completely soaked. Some viewpoints are like standing under a shower. Embrace it—bring a rain jacket and waterproof bag, and enjoy the experience.

5. The Best Photo Spot Isn't Where Everyone Else Is

Everyone crowds Viewpoint 1 and the main viewpoints, but the best photos come from less obvious spots:

For the classic wide shot: Viewpoint 15 (Danger Point) on the Zimbabwean side offers the most comprehensive view.

For rainbows: Visit in the afternoon when the sun is behind you. The spray creates constant rainbows.

For the bridge: Walk onto the Victoria Falls Bridge (free) for photos of the bridge with the falls in the background.

For aerial shots: Obviously, take a Helicopter Flight or Microlight Flight.

Pro tip: The lunar rainbow (visible during full moon) is spectacular but requires special permission and timing. Ask your hotel about moonlight tours.

6. Skip the Overpriced Hotel Restaurants

Hotel restaurants in Victoria Falls charge tourist prices for mediocre food. Venture into town for better food at half the price.

Best local spots:

• The Boma (touristy but fun cultural experience)
• Mama Africa (authentic local cuisine)
• Lookout Café (great views, good food)
• Three Monkeys (pizza and casual dining)
• In Da Belly (local favorite)

Budget tip: Supermarkets like Spar and OK Mart have good selections for self-catering. Buy snacks, drinks, and breakfast items to save money.

What to try: Sadza (maize porridge), game meat (kudu, impala), bream fish, and local vegetables.

7. Sunset Cruises Are Worth It (But Choose Wisely)

A Sunset Cruise on the Zambezi River is essential, but not all cruises are equal.

What to look for:

• Smaller boats (more intimate, better wildlife viewing)
• Upper deck access (better views and photos)
• Unlimited drinks (some limit you)
• Departure time (earlier is better for wildlife)

Insider tip: Sit on the right side of the boat when heading upstream. You'll pass closer to the Zimbabwean bank where most wildlife congregates.

Skip: Dinner cruises unless you want a romantic experience. The food is mediocre, and you'll miss the best sunset light while eating.

8. Devil's Pool Is Overrated (But Do It Anyway)

Devil's Pool—swimming at the edge of Victoria Falls—is expensive ($120-150), crowded, and honestly a bit overhyped. The photos look more dramatic than the experience feels.

But here's why you should still do it: It's a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Where else can you swim at the edge of one of the world's largest waterfalls? The bragging rights alone are worth it.

Important:

• Only available August-December (low water season)
• Book early—limited spots
• Must be comfortable in water
• Follow guide instructions precisely
• The current is stronger than it looks

Alternative: If Devil's Pool is sold out or too expensive, the Zambian side offers closer views of the main falls for a fraction of the price.

9. Chobe Safari Is Better Than Hwange for Day Trips

If you only have one day for a safari, choose Chobe over Hwange.

Why Chobe wins:

• Closer to Victoria Falls (1 hour vs. 2 hours)
• Higher wildlife density
• Includes river cruise (two experiences in one)
• Better elephant viewing (120,000 elephants!)
• More reliable sightings

When to choose Hwange:

• You have 2+ days for overnight safari
• You want fewer crowds
• You're specifically interested in predators
• You prefer a more authentic bush experience

Budget option: Zambezi National Park Game Drive is just 6km from town and costs half the price of Chobe. Wildlife viewing is good, especially during dry season.

10. White Water Rafting Is Harder Than It Looks

White Water Rafting on the Zambezi is incredible—Class V rapids, stunning gorge scenery, and an adrenaline rush like no other. But it's also physically demanding in ways nobody mentions.

What they don't tell you:

• The hike down into the gorge is steep and strenuous (400+ steps)
• The hike back up is brutal (same steps, but exhausted)
• You'll probably fall out of the raft at least once
• Rapids have names like "The Devil's Toilet Bowl" for a reason
• You'll be sore the next day

Requirements:

• Moderate to good fitness
• Comfortable swimming
• No serious back or neck problems
• Not pregnant
• Age restrictions apply (usually 15+)

Pro tip: Go in the morning when you're fresh. Afternoon trips mean hiking out in the heat when you're already exhausted.

11. The KAZA UniVisa Is Worth It (If You're Crossing Borders)

The KAZA UniVisa ($50) allows unlimited entries to Zimbabwe and Zambia for 30 days, plus access to Botswana. If you're doing any of these activities, get it:

• Chobe Safari (crosses into Botswana)
• Visiting both sides of the falls
• Multiple river cruises (some depart from Zambia)
• Any multi-day itinerary

Without KAZA: You'll pay $30 for Zimbabwe visa + $50 for Zambia visa + $50 for Botswana visa = $130 total, and you can't re-enter without paying again.

With KAZA: $50 total for unlimited entries.

Where to get it: Available at Victoria Falls Airport or border posts. Bring passport photos and cash.

12. Monkeys and Baboons Are Thieves (Seriously)

The monkeys and baboons in Victoria Falls are bold, clever, and will steal anything not secured. I watched a baboon open a hotel room door, walk in, and steal an entire bag of groceries.

Protect yourself:

• Keep hotel doors and windows closed
• Don't leave food visible
• Don't feed them (it makes them aggressive)
• Keep bags zipped and secured
• Don't try to pet or photograph them up close

If confronted: Don't run. Back away slowly. Don't make eye contact. Don't show food.

Reality check: They're wild animals, not cute photo opportunities. Baboons especially can be aggressive and have sharp teeth.

13. Helicopter Flights Are Better Than Microlights (Usually)

Both Helicopter Flights and Microlight Flights offer spectacular aerial views, but they're different experiences.

Helicopters:

• Enclosed cabin (better for nervous flyers)
• Smoother ride
• Better for photography (no wind)
• Can accommodate more people
• Slightly more expensive

Microlights:

• Open-air experience (more thrilling)
• More intimate and personal
• Better for adventure seekers
• Windier (harder for photos)
• Weight restrictions stricter

My recommendation: Helicopter for first-timers and photographers. Microlight for adventure seekers and repeat visitors.

Pro tip: Book the first flight of the day (6:30-7:00 AM) for the best light and calmest conditions. You'll also see more wildlife.

14. Don't Skip the Guided Falls Tour

I almost skipped the Guided Falls Tour, thinking I could just walk around myself. Big mistake. The guides provide context, history, and point out things you'd never notice alone.

What you'll learn:

• Geology and formation of the falls
• Local legends and history
• Best photo spots
• Wildlife and plants in the rainforest
• Safety tips

Cost: $30-50 including park entry fees

Duration: 2-3 hours

Pro tip: Go in the afternoon for better light. Morning tours are crowded with day-trippers.

15. Tipping Is Expected (Here's How Much)

Tipping culture in Victoria Falls is strong, and service staff rely on tips. Here's what's expected:

Safari guides: $10-20 per person per day
River cruise staff: $5-10 per person
Restaurant servers: 10-15% of bill
Hotel porters: $1-2 per bag
Taxi drivers: Round up or add $1-2
Activity guides: $5-10 per person

Pro tip: Bring small bills ($1, $5) specifically for tipping. Change is hard to come by.

16. The Best Time to Visit Depends on What You Want

Everyone asks "when's the best time to visit?" but the answer depends on your priorities:

For maximum water flow: March-May (prepare to get soaked)
For Devil's Pool: August-December (only time it's open)
For wildlife viewing: June-October (dry season)
For photography: June-August (clear skies, good light)
For fewer crowds: November-February (wet season)
For best weather: May-August (dry and pleasant)
For budget travel: November-March (low season deals)

My recommendation: May-June offers the best balance—impressive water flow, good weather, all activities available, and fewer crowds than peak season.

17. Border Crossings Take Longer Than Expected

If you're doing activities that cross borders (like Chobe Safari), factor in border crossing time.

Typical crossing time: 30-60 minutes each way
Peak times: Longer waits (mornings and weekends)
What you need: Passport, visa fees in cash, patience

Pro tip: Let your tour operator handle the logistics. They know the process and can expedite things.

Common delays:

• Long queues
• Computer systems down
• Missing paperwork
• Incorrect visa fees

18. Craft Market Prices Are Negotiable (Start at 50%)

The craft markets near the falls entrance sell beautiful wood carvings, textiles, and souvenirs, but prices are inflated for tourists.

Negotiation tips:

• Start at 50% of asking price
• Be friendly but firm
• Walk away if price doesn't drop (they'll often call you back)
• Buy multiple items for better deals
• Compare prices at different stalls
• Don't show too much interest initially

Fair prices:

• Small carvings: $5-10
• Medium carvings: $15-30
• Large carvings: $40-80
• Textiles: $10-25
• Jewelry: $5-15

Pro tip: The markets in town (near the bus station) have lower prices than those near the falls entrance.

19. Adventure Activities Are Safer Than They Look

Victoria Falls is famous for adrenaline activities like Bungee Jumping, Gorge Swing, and White Water Rafting. They look terrifying, but safety standards are high.

Reality check:

• Serious accidents are extremely rare
• Equipment is regularly inspected and replaced
• Operators are experienced and professional
• Safety briefings are thorough
• You can say no at any time

What to verify:

• Operator is licensed and insured
• Equipment looks well-maintained
• Staff are professional
• Safety briefing is comprehensive
• You feel comfortable

Pro tip: Book through reputable operators like Victoria Falls HQ who vet their partners.

20. Three Days Is the Perfect Amount of Time

Too many people try to "do" Victoria Falls in one day. Don't make that mistake. Three days is the sweet spot:

Day 1: Arrive, Guided Falls Tour, Sunset Cruise

Day 2: Chobe Safari or adventure activity

Day 3: Helicopter Flight, shopping, departure

Why three days:

• Enough time to see the falls properly
• Do one major safari
• Experience one adventure activity
• Have a river cruise
• Not feel rushed
• Allow for weather delays or changes

If you only have two days: Skip the adventure activity and focus on falls + safari + cruise.

If you have four+ days: Add overnight safari to Hwange, visit Zambian side, do multiple adventure activities, or simply relax.

Bonus Tips

Malaria prophylaxis: Take it seriously. Victoria Falls is in a malaria zone.

Travel insurance: Essential, especially if doing adventure activities. Verify it covers activities like bungee jumping and rafting.

Electricity: Zimbabwe uses UK-style plugs (Type D and G). Bring adapters.

Internet: WiFi is available at most hotels but can be slow. Buy a local SIM card for better connectivity.

Safety: Victoria Falls is generally safe, but don't walk alone at night and keep valuables secured.

Respect local customs: Dress modestly, ask before photographing people, and be culturally sensitive.

Stay hydrated: The climate is warm and dry. Carry water, especially during activities.

Sunscreen: The African sun is intense. Use high SPF and reapply frequently.

What I'd Do Differently

Looking back at my first Victoria Falls trip, here's what I'd change:

I'd book activities in advance instead of scrambling on arrival and missing out on my first-choice times.

I'd bring more small bills for tips and small purchases instead of constantly asking for change.

I'd spend less time in my hotel and more time exploring town and talking to locals.

I'd do the helicopter flight first to get the full perspective before seeing the falls from ground level.

I'd pack a better camera instead of relying on my phone (which got soaked).

I'd stay an extra day because three days felt rushed and I wanted more time.

I'd visit during shoulder season (May or September) instead of peak season to avoid crowds.

I'd eat more local food instead of sticking to hotel restaurants.

The Bottom Line

Victoria Falls is one of those rare destinations that exceeds expectations. The falls are more spectacular than photos suggest, the wildlife is incredible, the activities are world-class, and the people are welcoming. But like any destination, knowing the insider tips makes the difference between a good trip and an unforgettable one.

Don't make the mistakes I made. Book activities in advance, bring pristine US dollars, protect your electronics from spray, venture beyond hotel restaurants, and give yourself enough time to truly experience this natural wonder.

Most importantly, be present. Put down your phone occasionally, stop worrying about the perfect photo, and simply experience the thundering power of Victoria Falls. That's what you'll remember years later—not the photos, but the feeling of standing before one of nature's greatest spectacles.

Ready to plan your Victoria Falls adventure with insider knowledge? Explore all available activities and book your unforgettable trip today!