Zimbabwe vs Zambia: Which Side of Victoria Falls Should You Visit?

One of the most common questions travelers ask when planning a Victoria Falls trip is: "Which side should I visit – Zimbabwe or Zambia?" It's a valid question, as Victoria Falls straddles the border between these two countries, and each side offers a distinctly different experience.

The short answer? If possible, visit both. But if you must choose one, or if you're trying to decide where to base yourself, this comprehensive guide will help you make the right decision for your travel style, budget, and priorities.

Understanding the Geography

Victoria Falls is formed by the Zambezi River, which serves as the natural border between Zimbabwe and Zambia. The falls stretch approximately 1.7 kilometers wide, with roughly two-thirds on the Zimbabwe side and one-third on the Zambia side.

Zimbabwe side (Victoria Falls town):

• Eastern two-thirds of the falls
• More extensive viewing area
• Town of Victoria Falls
• More developed tourism infrastructure

Zambia side (Livingstone):

• Western one-third of the falls
• More intimate viewing experience
• Town of Livingstone
• Access to Livingstone Island and Devils Pool

The two sides are connected by the Victoria Falls Bridge, and crossing between them is relatively straightforward (more on that later).

Viewpoints: Where You Get the Best Views

This is often the deciding factor for many travelers, and it's where Zimbabwe has a clear advantage.

Zimbabwe Side Viewpoints

Zimbabwe offers 16 designated viewpoints along a well-maintained path that runs parallel to the falls. This 2-kilometer walking trail takes you along the entire length of the falls, offering varied perspectives from different angles.

Key viewpoints include:

1. Devil's Cataract: The first section, powerful and dramatic
2. Main Falls: The widest section of the falls
3. Horseshoe Falls: Named for its curved shape
4. Rainbow Falls: Where rainbows are most visible in the spray
5. Eastern Cataract: The final section
6. Danger Point: Spectacular panoramic view (and yes, it's a bit precarious)

Advantages of Zimbabwe viewpoints:

• More comprehensive views: You see approximately 75% of the falls
• Multiple perspectives: 16 different viewpoints offer varied angles
• Better for photography: More opportunities for different shots
• Longer experience: Takes 2-3 hours to walk the full trail
• Face-on views: You're looking directly at the falls from across the gorge

During high water season (February-May): The spray is so intense on the Zimbabwe side that you'll get absolutely drenched, and visibility can be limited. Some visitors find this exhilarating; others find it frustrating for photography. Bring rain gear!

Zambia Side Viewpoints

Zambia offers fewer viewpoints (approximately 5-6) but provides a different perspective that some travelers prefer.

Key viewpoints include:

1. Knife Edge Bridge: A dramatic walkway with views of the Eastern Cataract and Boiling Pot
2. Livingstone Island: Accessible during low water season (September-January)
3. Various lookout points: Along the shorter walking trail

Advantages of Zambia viewpoints:

• More intimate experience: Fewer crowds, more peaceful
• Closer to the falls: You're right at the edge in some spots
• Unique perspectives: Different angles than Zimbabwe
• Access to Livingstone Island: Includes Devils Pool and Angels Pool
• Better during high water: Less spray, better visibility than Zimbabwe

During low water season (August-December): The Zambia side offers access to Livingstone Island, where you can swim in Devils Pool at the very edge of the falls – an experience unavailable on the Zimbabwe side.

The Verdict on Viewpoints

Winner: Zimbabwe – for sheer number and variety of viewpoints. You see more of the falls from more angles, making it the better choice if you can only visit one side.

However: Zambia offers unique experiences (Devils Pool) and can be better during high water season when Zimbabwe's spray is overwhelming.

Activities Available on Each Side

Both sides offer excellent activities, but there are some differences in what's available and where activities are based.

Activities on the Zimbabwe Side

Available from Victoria Falls town:

• Walking tour of the falls: Extensive viewpoints
• Victoria Falls Bridge activities: Bungee jumping, bridge swing, zip line
• Helicopter flights: Flight of Angels tours
• Zambezi sunset cruises: Upstream from the falls
• Game drives: Zambezi National Park
• Village tours: Cultural experiences
• Canopy tours: Zip-lining through the forest

Nearby (day trips):

• Chobe National Park: Day trip to Botswana (90 minutes)
• Hwange National Park: Zimbabwe's premier safari destination (2-3 hours)

Activities on the Zambia Side

Available from Livingstone:

• Walking tour of the falls: Fewer viewpoints but unique perspectives
• Livingstone Island: Devils Pool and Angels Pool (seasonal)
• Helicopter flights: Flight of Angels tours
• Zambezi sunset cruises: Upstream from the falls
• White water rafting: Easier access to the river
• Microlight flights: More operators on Zambia side
• Village tours: Cultural experiences
• Mukuni Village: Traditional village visit

Nearby (day trips):

• Chobe National Park: Day trip to Botswana (60 minutes – closer than from Zimbabwe)
• Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park: Walking with rhinos

Activity Comparison

Both sides offer:

• Helicopter flights (same experience, different operators)
• Sunset cruises (similar experiences)
• Cultural tours
• Most adventure activities

Zimbabwe advantages:

• Bridge activities (bungee, swing, zip line) are on Zimbabwe side
• Closer to Hwange National Park
• More activity operators and options

Zambia advantages:

• Devils Pool (exclusive to Zambia, seasonal)
• Slightly closer to Chobe National Park
• Easier access to white water rafting launch point
• Walking with rhinos at Mosi-oa-Tunya

The Verdict on Activities

Winner: Tie – Both sides offer excellent activities. Your choice depends on your priorities:

• Choose Zimbabwe if you want bridge activities or Hwange access
• Choose Zambia if Devils Pool is a must-do or you want easier Chobe access

Visa Requirements and Border Crossing

Visa requirements and costs can significantly impact your decision, especially for budget travelers.

Zimbabwe Visa Requirements

Visa on arrival available for most nationalities:

• Single entry: US$30 (most nationalities)
• Double entry: US$45 (if you plan to cross to Zambia and return)
• Duration: 30-90 days depending on nationality

Visa-free entry: Some nationalities (check current requirements)

Zambia Visa Requirements

Visa on arrival available for most nationalities:

• Single entry: US$50 (most nationalities)
• Double entry: US$80 (if you plan to cross to Zimbabwe and return)
• Duration: 30-90 days depending on nationality

Visa-free entry: Some nationalities (check current requirements)

KAZA UniVisa (Best Option for Visiting Both)

The KAZA UniVisa is a special visa that allows multiple entries to both Zimbabwe and Zambia (and Botswana for day trips).

Cost: US$50 Validity: 30 days Coverage: Multiple entries to Zimbabwe and Zambia, single entry to Botswana Availability: At Victoria Falls and Livingstone airports, and land borders

This is the best option if you plan to:

• Visit both sides of the falls
• Take a day trip to Chobe National Park in Botswana
• Cross the border multiple times

Border Crossing Process

Crossing between Zimbabwe and Zambia is straightforward:

Walking across the Victoria Falls Bridge:

1. Exit Zimbabwe/Zambia at the border post
2. Walk across the bridge (about 10 minutes)
3. Enter Zambia/Zimbabwe at the other border post
4. Pay visa fee if required

Border crossing fee: US$5-10 for pedestrians (varies)

Tips:

• Bring your passport
• Have cash in US dollars for visa fees
• Allow 30-60 minutes for the crossing (can be longer during peak times)
• Keep all receipts and stamps
• Some day tours handle border formalities for you

The Verdict on Visas

Winner: Depends on your nationality and plans

• If you're only visiting one side: Zimbabwe is cheaper (US$30 vs US$50)
• If visiting both sides: Get the KAZA UniVisa (US$50 for both countries)
• If taking a Chobe day trip: KAZA UniVisa is essential (covers all three countries)

Accommodation Options and Costs

Both sides offer accommodation ranging from budget hostels to ultra-luxury lodges, but there are differences in options and pricing.

Zimbabwe Side (Victoria Falls Town)

Accommodation range:

• Budget: US$15-40 per night (hostels, backpackers)
• Mid-range: US$80-200 per night (hotels, guesthouses)
• Luxury: US$300-800+ per night (lodges, resorts)

Popular options:

• Budget: Victoria Falls Backpackers, Shoestrings
• Mid-range: N1 Hotel, Ilala Lodge, Victoria Falls Safari Lodge
• Luxury: Victoria Falls Hotel, Elephant Camp, Stanley & Livingstone

Advantages:

• More accommodation options overall
• Better budget options
• More mid-range choices
• Iconic properties like Victoria Falls Hotel
• Closer to the falls entrance (many hotels within walking distance)

Zambia Side (Livingstone)

Accommodation range:

• Budget: US$20-50 per night (hostels, backpackers)
• Mid-range: US$100-250 per night (hotels, lodges)
• Luxury: US$400-1000+ per night (luxury lodges)

Popular options:

• Budget: Jollyboys Backpackers, Fawlty Towers
• Mid-range: Avani Victoria Falls Resort, Protea Hotel
• Luxury: Royal Livingstone Hotel, Tongabezi Lodge, Sanctuary Sussi & Chuma

Advantages:

• Excellent luxury options (Royal Livingstone is spectacular)
• More intimate, boutique properties
• Often better value in luxury category
• More "authentic" African feel (less touristy)

The Verdict on Accommodation

Winner: Zimbabwe for budget and mid-range – More options and generally better value

Winner: Zambia for luxury – Some of the best luxury lodges are on the Zambia side, and they often offer better value than Zimbabwe's top-end properties

Overall Costs: Which Side is Cheaper?

Budget is a major consideration for many travelers. Here's how the costs compare:

Zimbabwe Side Costs

Pros:

• Cheaper visa (US$30 vs US$50)
• More budget accommodation options
• Competitive activity pricing
• More restaurants and dining options at various price points

Cons:

• Falls entrance fee: US$30-50 (for foreigners)
• Some activities slightly more expensive
• More touristy (can mean higher prices)

Zambia Side Costs

Pros:

• Falls entrance fee: US$20 (cheaper than Zimbabwe)
• Some activities slightly cheaper
• Less touristy (can mean better local prices)

Cons:

• More expensive visa (US$50 vs US$30)
• Fewer budget accommodation options
• Generally slightly higher prices for mid-range options

Cost Comparison Example (Per Person)

3-night budget trip:

• Zimbabwe: Visa ($30) + Accommodation ($90) + Falls entry ($30) + Activities ($200) = ~$350
• Zambia: Visa ($50) + Accommodation ($120) + Falls entry ($20) + Activities ($200) = ~$390

3-night mid-range trip:

• Zimbabwe: Visa ($30) + Accommodation ($450) + Falls entry ($30) + Activities ($400) = ~$910
• Zambia: Visa ($50) + Accommodation ($600) + Falls entry ($20) + Activities ($400) = ~$1,070

The Verdict on Costs

Winner: Zimbabwe – Slightly cheaper overall, especially for budget and mid-range travelers. The cheaper visa and more budget accommodation options give it an edge.

Town Atmosphere and Infrastructure

The towns themselves have different characters, which might influence your decision.

Victoria Falls Town (Zimbabwe)

Character:

• More developed and touristy
• Purpose-built for tourism
• Compact and walkable
• More commercial

Advantages:

• Everything is close together
• Easy to walk to falls and activities
• More restaurants and bars
• Better nightlife
• More shops and services
• Feels safer for tourists

Disadvantages:

• Can feel artificial or overly touristy
• Less "authentic" African experience
• More crowded
• More aggressive touts and vendors

Livingstone (Zambia)

Character:

• More authentic African town
• Existed before tourism boom
• More spread out
• Less commercialized

Advantages:

• More authentic local experience
• Less touristy feel
• Friendly, laid-back atmosphere
• Interesting local markets
• More cultural experiences

Disadvantages:

• More spread out (need transport)
• Fewer restaurants and bars
• Less developed infrastructure
• Can feel less organized

The Verdict on Town Atmosphere

Winner: Depends on preference

• Choose Zimbabwe if you want convenience, walkability, and more tourist infrastructure
• Choose Zambia if you want a more authentic, less touristy experience

Safety Considerations

Both destinations are generally safe for tourists, but there are differences.

Zimbabwe Side

Safety level: Generally very safe for tourists

Considerations:

• Tourist areas are well-policed
• Petty theft can occur (watch belongings)
• Touts can be persistent but harmless
• Political situation has been stable in recent years
• Tourism is crucial to local economy, so tourists are protected

Zambia Side

Safety level: Generally very safe for tourists

Considerations:

• Livingstone is spread out, so use taxis at night
• Petty theft can occur (watch belongings)
• Generally feels very safe
• Stable political situation
• Friendly local population

The Verdict on Safety

Winner: Tie – Both sides are safe for tourists. Use common sense precautions on both sides: don't flash valuables, use reputable taxis, stay in tourist areas at night.

Recommendations for Different Traveler Types

Budget Backpackers

Recommendation: Zimbabwe

• Cheaper visa
• More budget accommodation
• Walkable town (save on transport)
• More budget dining options
• Better backpacker social scene

Mid-Range Travelers

Recommendation: Zimbabwe or both

• Better value accommodation
• More options at this price point
• But consider visiting both sides (KAZA visa)

Luxury Travelers

Recommendation: Zambia (or both)

• Exceptional luxury lodges
• Royal Livingstone Hotel is spectacular
• More exclusive, intimate experiences
• But visit both sides for complete experience

Families

Recommendation: Zimbabwe

• More family-friendly infrastructure
• Easier logistics (walkable town)
• More accommodation options
• Better range of activities for different ages

Adventure Seekers

Recommendation: Both

• Zimbabwe for bridge activities
• Zambia for Devils Pool
• Both offer rafting, helicopter flights, etc.
• Get KAZA visa and experience everything

First-Time Africa Visitors

Recommendation: Zimbabwe

• More developed infrastructure
• Easier to navigate
• Feels more organized
• Less overwhelming

Photographers

Recommendation: Zimbabwe (with Zambia visit)

• More viewpoints = more photo opportunities
• But visit Zambia during high water for different perspectives
• Consider both for comprehensive coverage

The Ultimate Recommendation: Visit Both

If your schedule and budget allow, visit both sides. Here's why:

You'll experience:

• All viewpoints and perspectives of the falls
• Unique activities on each side (Devils Pool, bridge activities)
• Different atmospheres and cultures
• Complete understanding of Victoria Falls

How to do it:

1. Get the KAZA UniVisa (US$50) for multiple entries
2. Base yourself on one side (Zimbabwe for convenience, Zambia for luxury)
3. Take a day trip to the other side (easy border crossing)
4. Consider 2-3 nights on each side if you have time

Sample itinerary:

• Day 1-2: Zimbabwe side (falls viewpoints, helicopter flight, sunset cruise)
• Day 3: Cross to Zambia, explore Zambia side viewpoints
• Day 4: Devils Pool (if season allows) or Chobe day trip
• Day 5: White water rafting, return to Zimbabwe

Final Decision Framework

Still can't decide? Answer these questions:

1. How long are you staying?

• 2-3 days: Choose one side (Zimbabwe for viewpoints)
• 4+ days: Visit both sides

2. What's your budget?

• Tight budget: Zimbabwe
• Moderate budget: Either, or both with KAZA visa
• Luxury budget: Zambia for accommodation, but visit both

3. What's your priority?

• Best falls views: Zimbabwe
• Devils Pool: Zambia (seasonal)
• Bridge activities: Zimbabwe
• Authentic experience: Zambia
• Convenience: Zimbabwe

4. What season are you visiting?

• High water (Feb-May): Zambia has better visibility
• Low water (Aug-Dec): Zimbabwe shows more of the falls, Zambia has Devils Pool

5. Are you doing a Chobe day trip?

• Yes: Zambia is slightly closer, but both work
• Get KAZA visa either way

Final Thoughts

The Zimbabwe vs Zambia debate doesn't have a definitive answer because both sides offer exceptional experiences. Zimbabwe provides more comprehensive views and better infrastructure, while Zambia offers unique experiences like Devils Pool and a more authentic atmosphere.

For most first-time visitors, Zimbabwe is the safer choice – you'll see more of the falls, have more accommodation options, and find the logistics easier. But if you have the time and budget, visiting both sides provides the complete Victoria Falls experience.

Remember: Victoria Falls is the attraction, not the country. The falls don't care about borders, and neither should you. Whether you choose Zimbabwe, Zambia, or both, you're in for one of the most spectacular natural experiences on Earth.

The real question isn't which side is better – it's how soon you can book your trip to experience this wonder of the world for yourself. Start planning, get your visa sorted, and prepare to be amazed by the power and beauty of Victoria Falls, regardless of which side you're standing on.