Victoria Falls Safety Guide: Everything Travelers Need to Know in 2024

Planning a trip to Victoria Falls naturally raises questions about safety. Is it safe to visit Zimbabwe and Zambia? What about crime, health risks, wildlife encounters, and adventure activities? This comprehensive 2024 safety guide addresses all your concerns with honest, practical information to help you travel confidently to one of the world's most spectacular natural wonders.

The short answer is yes, Victoria Falls is generally safe for tourists, with millions of visitors enjoying trouble-free trips each year. However, like any travel destination, being informed and taking sensible precautions ensures the best experience. This guide covers everything from political stability and crime to health precautions, wildlife safety, and adventure activity risks.

Political Situation and General Safety

Zimbabwe Side

Victoria Falls town in Zimbabwe has remained stable and safe for tourists even during periods of political uncertainty elsewhere in the country. The tourism industry is vital to the local economy, and there's a strong focus on maintaining safety for visitors.

Current Situation (2024): The political situation in Zimbabwe has stabilized significantly in recent years. Victoria Falls, as a major tourism hub, is largely insulated from political issues that may affect other parts of the country. The town operates normally with good infrastructure, reliable services, and a visible but non-intrusive police presence.

What This Means for Tourists: You can visit Victoria Falls without concern about political instability affecting your trip. Tourism areas are well-protected, and visitors are welcomed warmly. Avoid political discussions and demonstrations (rare in Victoria Falls), and you'll have no issues.

Zambia Side

Livingstone, Zambia (the town on the Zambian side of Victoria Falls) has a long history of political stability. Zambia is considered one of the more stable countries in southern Africa.

Current Situation (2024): Zambia continues to enjoy political stability with peaceful democratic transitions. Livingstone is safe for tourists with good infrastructure and services.

Border Crossing: Moving between Zimbabwe and Zambia is straightforward and safe. The border posts are well-organized, and crossing takes 30-60 minutes depending on queues. Consider the KAZA UniVisa ($50) for multiple entries between the countries.

Safety Rating

Victoria Falls consistently ranks as one of Africa's safest tourist destinations. The town is small, walkable, and has a strong tourism police presence. Violent crime against tourists is rare, and most visitors experience no safety issues whatsoever.

Crime and Personal Safety

Petty Crime

Like any tourist destination, petty crime exists in Victoria Falls, but it's generally limited to opportunistic theft rather than violent crime.

Common Issues:

• Pickpocketing in crowded areas (markets, bus stations)
• Bag snatching (rare but possible)
• Theft from hotel rooms (usually when doors are left unlocked)
• Scams targeting tourists (overcharging, fake guides)

How to Stay Safe:

• Keep valuables in hotel safes
• Don't display expensive jewelry, watches, or electronics
• Use hotel taxis or reputable taxi services rather than unmarked vehicles
• Be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas
• Don't carry large amounts of cash
• Keep passport copies separate from originals
• Use a money belt or hidden pouch for important documents
• Don't leave bags unattended
• Lock hotel room doors and windows

Walking Around Town: Victoria Falls town is generally safe to walk around during the day. The main tourist areas are well-patrolled and busy. However, avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit areas. Use taxis after dark, which are inexpensive and readily available.

Scams to Watch For

Fake Tour Guides: Unlicensed individuals may approach you offering tours or activities at "special prices." Always book through reputable operators like Victoria Falls HQ or your hotel.

Overcharging: Some taxi drivers or vendors may quote inflated prices to tourists. Ask your hotel for standard rates, or book activities in advance with clear pricing.

Currency Exchange: Use official banks or ATMs rather than street money changers who may short-change you or use counterfeit notes.

"Helpful" Strangers: Be wary of overly friendly strangers who offer to help you find hotels, activities, or shops. They often receive commissions and may lead you to overpriced services.

Violent Crime

Violent crime against tourists is rare in Victoria Falls. The town's economy depends on tourism, and there's strong motivation to keep visitors safe. However, sensible precautions apply:

• Don't walk alone at night
• Avoid deserted areas
• Don't resist if confronted by thieves (hand over valuables)
• Stay in well-lit, populated areas
• Trust your instincts—if something feels wrong, leave

Emergency Contacts

Zimbabwe:

• Police: 995 or +263 13 44206
• Ambulance: 994
• Fire: 993
• Tourism Police: +263 13 44530

Zambia:

• Police: 999
• Ambulance: 992
• Fire: 993

Save these numbers in your phone and keep written copies in your luggage.

Health and Medical Safety

Malaria

Victoria Falls is in a malaria zone, with risk present year-round but highest during the wet season (November-April).

Prevention:

• Consult your doctor about malaria prophylaxis before travel
• Use insect repellent containing DEET (30-50%)
• Wear long sleeves and pants at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active
• Sleep under mosquito nets (most accommodations provide these)
• Use air conditioning or fans when possible
• Avoid perfumes and scented lotions that attract mosquitoes

Symptoms: If you develop fever, chills, headache, or flu-like symptoms during or after your trip, seek medical attention immediately and mention you've been in a malaria area.

Reality Check: While malaria risk exists, many visitors take prophylaxis and use repellent without issues. Don't let malaria fear prevent you from visiting—just take sensible precautions.

Yellow Fever

Yellow fever vaccination requirements depend on your travel history:

Required if: You're arriving from or have transited through a yellow fever endemic country within the previous 6 days. This includes many African and South American countries.

Not required if: You're arriving directly from countries without yellow fever risk (Europe, North America, Australia, Asia, etc.).

Recommendation: Even if not required, consider vaccination if you're traveling to multiple African countries, as it provides 10 years of protection and simplifies border crossings.

Other Health Considerations

Water: Don't drink tap water. Stick to bottled water, which is widely available and inexpensive. Use bottled water for brushing teeth as well.

Food Safety:

• Eat at established restaurants and hotels
• Avoid street food unless it's freshly cooked and hot
• Peel fruits yourself
• Avoid raw vegetables that may have been washed in tap water
• Be cautious with ice in drinks

Sun Exposure: The African sun is intense. Use high SPF sunscreen (50+), wear hats and sunglasses, and stay hydrated. Heat exhaustion and sunburn are common tourist ailments.

Traveler's Diarrhea: Common worldwide. Bring anti-diarrheal medication, stay hydrated, and seek medical attention if symptoms are severe or persist.

HIV/AIDS: Southern Africa has high HIV prevalence. Avoid situations involving blood exposure, and practice safe sex if engaging in intimate activities.

Medical Facilities

Victoria Falls has basic medical facilities adequate for minor issues:

Zimbabwe Side:

• Victoria Falls Surgery (private clinic)
• Victoria Falls Hospital (public, basic facilities)

Zambia Side:

• SES Hospital Livingstone (private, better equipped)

For Serious Issues: Serious medical emergencies may require evacuation to Johannesburg, South Africa (2-hour flight). This is why comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is essential.

Travel Insurance

Absolutely Essential: Don't visit Victoria Falls without comprehensive travel insurance that covers:

• Medical treatment and hospitalization
• Medical evacuation
• Adventure activities (many policies exclude these by default)
• Trip cancellation and interruption
• Lost or stolen belongings

Verify your policy specifically covers activities like White Water Rafting, Bungee Jumping, Helicopter Flights, and other adventure activities you plan to do.

Medications and Prescriptions

Bring Sufficient Supplies: Bring all prescription medications in original containers with prescriptions. Pharmacies in Victoria Falls have limited stock.

Basic Medical Kit:

• Pain relievers (ibuprofen, acetaminophen)
• Anti-diarrheal medication
• Antihistamines
• Antiseptic cream
• Band-aids and bandages
• Rehydration salts
• Any personal prescription medications
• Malaria prophylaxis
• Insect repellent
• Sunscreen

Wildlife Safety

Victoria Falls offers incredible wildlife encounters, but wild animals are unpredictable and potentially dangerous. Follow these guidelines:

On Safari and Game Drives

Rules:

• Never exit your vehicle unless your guide says it's safe
• Keep windows and doors closed when near dangerous animals
• Don't make sudden movements or loud noises
• Follow your guide's instructions immediately
• Don't feed animals
• Keep a safe distance (your guide will manage this)

Dangerous Animals:

• Elephants: Unpredictable, especially mothers with calves. Never get between an elephant and its calf.
• Lions and Leopards: Rare to see but potentially dangerous. Stay in vehicles.
• Buffalo: Considered one of Africa's most dangerous animals. Very aggressive when threatened.
• Hippos: Responsible for more human deaths in Africa than any other large animal. Give them wide berth, especially on land.
• Crocodiles: Present in all Zambezi waters. Never swim in the river (except designated areas like Devil's Pool with guides).

In Town and Around Accommodation

Monkeys and Baboons: Common in Victoria Falls town. They're bold and will steal food. Don't feed them, keep food secured, and don't leave doors or windows open.

Warthogs: Common and generally harmless but can be aggressive if cornered or protecting young. Give them space.

Elephants: Occasionally wander into town, especially during dry season. If you encounter an elephant:

• Stay calm and quiet
• Back away slowly
• Don't run
• Put a vehicle or building between you and the elephant
• Alert hotel staff or authorities

During Activities

Elephant Interaction: Follow handler instructions precisely. These are trained elephants, but they're still wild animals.

Lion Encounter: Follow guide instructions exactly. Don't make sudden movements or run.

Sunset Cruise: Stay seated when near hippos. Don't lean over the sides or put hands in the water.

Devil's Pool: Follow guide instructions precisely. The current is strong, and the consequences of mistakes are severe.

Snake Safety

Snakes are present but rarely seen. If you encounter a snake:

• Stop moving
• Back away slowly
• Don't try to catch or kill it
• Alert staff if it's near accommodation

Most snakes are non-venomous and will avoid humans. Wear closed shoes when walking in natural areas.

Adventure Activity Safety

Victoria Falls is famous for adrenaline activities. While these carry inherent risks, safety standards are generally high, and serious accidents are rare.

General Adventure Safety

Choose Reputable Operators: Book through established companies with good safety records. Victoria Falls HQ works only with reputable, licensed operators.

Follow Instructions: Listen carefully to safety briefings and follow guide instructions precisely.

Know Your Limits: Don't attempt activities beyond your fitness level or comfort zone. It's okay to say no.

Check Equipment: Ensure harnesses, helmets, and other safety gear are in good condition and properly fitted.

Disclose Medical Conditions: Inform operators of any medical conditions, injuries, or medications that might affect your participation.

Specific Activity Safety

White Water Rafting:

• Requires moderate fitness for the steep gorge hikes
• Wear provided safety gear (helmet, life jacket)
• Listen to paddle commands
• Know how to assume the safety position if you fall out
• Risk: Bruises, minor injuries common; serious injuries rare

Bungee Jumping:

• Weight limits: typically 40-140kg
• Not suitable for pregnant women or people with heart conditions, back problems, or high blood pressure
• Equipment is regularly inspected and replaced
• Risk: Very safe statistically; follow all instructions

Gorge Swing:

• Similar restrictions to bungee jumping
• Some find it more intense than bungee
• Risk: Very safe with proper equipment and procedures

Helicopter Flight / Microlight Flight:

• Weather-dependent (flights canceled in poor conditions)
• Weight restrictions apply
• Operators have excellent safety records
• Risk: Very safe; weather cancellations are precautionary

Devil's Pool:

• Only operates when water levels are safe (August-December)
• Must be comfortable in water
• Follow guide instructions precisely
• Current is strong; stay in designated areas
• Risk: Safe when operated properly; dangerous if rules aren't followed

Zipline:

• Suitable for most fitness levels
• Weight restrictions apply
• Harness and helmet provided
• Risk: Very safe; minor injuries rare

What to Do If Something Goes Wrong

• Alert your guide or operator immediately
• Seek medical attention for any injury
• Document the incident (photos, witness statements)
• Contact your travel insurance provider
• Report serious incidents to your embassy

Border Crossing Safety

Crossing between Zimbabwe and Zambia is straightforward and safe, but follow these tips:

Documentation:

• Carry your passport at all times
• Have visa fees ready in cash (US dollars)
• Keep copies of important documents separate from originals

Process:

• Use official border posts only (Victoria Falls Bridge or Kazungula)
• Be patient—queues can be long
• Don't accept "help" from unofficial individuals
• Keep belongings with you at all times
• Don't photograph border facilities

Scams:

• Some individuals pose as officials and demand "fees"—only pay at official windows
• Verify visa costs before paying
• Get receipts for all payments

Women Travelers

Victoria Falls is generally safe for women travelers, including solo female travelers. However, take extra precautions:

Safety Tips:

• Dress modestly (covering shoulders and knees) to avoid unwanted attention
• Don't walk alone at night
• Use hotel taxis rather than walking
• Be firm but polite if approached by unwanted attention
• Join group activities to meet other travelers
• Trust your instincts
• Keep hotel staff informed of your plans

Cultural Considerations:

• Women may receive more attention than in Western countries
• Polite but firm refusals are usually respected
• Avoid excessive alcohol consumption in public
• Be cautious about accepting drinks from strangers

LGBTQ+ Travelers

Legal Status: Homosexuality is illegal in both Zimbabwe and Zambia, though laws are rarely enforced against tourists.

Practical Reality: Victoria Falls is a tourist town with international visitors, and staff at hotels and tour operators are professional. However, public displays of affection between same-sex couples should be avoided.

Recommendations:

• Be discreet
• Book accommodation at international hotels or lodges
• Avoid discussing sexual orientation with locals
• Research LGBTQ+-friendly operators if concerned

Money and Financial Safety

Currency:

• Zimbabwe uses US dollars (bring clean, newer bills—damaged or old bills may be rejected)
• Zambia uses Zambian Kwacha, but US dollars are widely accepted

ATMs:

• Available but often unreliable or empty
• Bring sufficient cash rather than relying on ATMs
• Use ATMs inside banks during business hours when possible

Credit Cards:

• Accepted at major hotels and some restaurants
• Not widely accepted for activities or smaller vendors
• Carry cash for most transactions

Safety:

• Use hotel safes for excess cash and valuables
• Carry only what you need for the day
• Use a money belt or hidden pouch
• Don't flash large amounts of cash
• Count change carefully

Transportation Safety

Taxis:

• Use hotel taxis or reputable companies
• Agree on price before departure
• Don't share taxis with strangers
• Keep doors locked and windows mostly closed

Rental Cars:

• Roads are generally good in Victoria Falls area
• Drive on the left
• Watch for wildlife on roads, especially at dawn and dusk
• Don't drive at night if possible
• Keep doors locked and valuables out of sight

Walking:

• Safe during daylight in tourist areas
• Use sidewalks where available
• Be aware of traffic (drivers may not yield to pedestrians)
• Don't walk at night

Accommodation Safety

Choosing Accommodation:

• Read recent reviews
• Choose accommodations with security measures (guards, fences, safes)
• Verify location is in a safe area

At Your Accommodation:

• Use room safes for valuables
• Lock doors and windows, even when present
• Don't open doors to unexpected visitors
• Keep balcony doors locked (monkeys!)
• Report any security concerns to management

COVID-19 and Health Protocols (2024)

Current Situation: COVID-19 restrictions have largely been lifted in both Zimbabwe and Zambia as of 2024. However, situations can change.

Recommendations:

• Check current entry requirements before travel
• Bring masks for crowded spaces if desired
• Hand sanitizer is useful regardless of COVID
• Travel insurance should cover COVID-related issues

Final Safety Tips

Before You Go:

• Register with your embassy
• Share itinerary with family/friends
• Make copies of important documents
• Research your destination
• Get comprehensive travel insurance
• Consult your doctor about vaccinations and malaria prophylaxis

While There:

• Stay aware of your surroundings
• Trust your instincts
• Keep emergency contacts handy
• Stay in touch with family/friends
• Follow local laws and customs
• Respect wildlife and nature
• Listen to guides and experts

Common Sense:

• Don't do anything you wouldn't do at home
• If it seems too good to be true, it probably is
• When in doubt, ask hotel staff or reputable tour operators
• Better safe than sorry—err on the side of caution

The Bottom Line

Victoria Falls is a safe destination for tourists who take sensible precautions. Millions of visitors enjoy trouble-free trips each year, experiencing incredible wildlife, breathtaking scenery, and thrilling adventures. The risks are manageable with awareness, preparation, and common sense.

Don't let safety concerns prevent you from experiencing one of the world's most spectacular natural wonders. With proper preparation and sensible behavior, you'll have an amazing, safe adventure at Victoria Falls.

Ready to plan your safe and unforgettable Victoria Falls adventure? Explore all available activities and book with confidence through reputable operators who prioritize your safety and experience!