Best Time to Visit Victoria Falls in Zambia or Zimbabwe

Best Time to Visit Victoria Falls: Zambia vs Zimbabwe Travel Guide

Victoria Falls, known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya or “The Smoke That Thunders,” is one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders in Africa. Straddling the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, the falls are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Whether you’re drawn to the thunderous spray, the adventure activities, or the wildlife, knowing the best time to visit Victoria Falls can dramatically shape your experience.

Because the falls are fed by the mighty Zambezi River, their appearance and accessibility vary significantly throughout the year. From peak flow months that create a soaking mist to drier periods that reveal the rocky gorge below, each season offers something different for travelers.

Understanding the Seasons at Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls experiences three main visitor seasons tied to the Zambezi River’s water levels:

• High Water Season: February to May
• Shoulder Season: June to August
• Low Water Season: September to January

Let’s take a closer look at what makes each period special, starting with the months of peak water flow and misty magic.

High Water Season (February to May) – For Maximum Power and Spectacle

During the late rainy season and shortly after, Victoria Falls is at its most dramatic. Water thunders over the full 1.7 km width of the gorge, creating an intense spectacle of spray, sound, and energy. The falls can discharge up to 500 million liters per minute during peak flood levels.

This is the time when you’ll witness the falls at their fullest—thundering sheets of water plunging into the Batoka Gorge, and mist rising so high it can be seen from 50 km away. Rainbows are frequent, and the power of the falls is unforgettable.

Pros of Visiting in High Water Season:

• Unmatched volume and power of the falls
• Ideal for photography with misty rainbows
• Great time for viewing the falls from helicopter or microlight flights

Things to Consider:

• The mist can obscure views at ground level—expect to get soaked!
• Devil’s Pool and Livingstone Island are usually closed for safety
• Some hiking trails near the gorge may be slippery

If you’re traveling for the sheer majesty and power of Victoria Falls, this is the best time to go. Be sure to wear waterproof gear and protect your camera equipment.

Shoulder Season (June to August) – For Clearer Views and Balanced Activities

As the Zambezi River begins to recede after the rains, the falls remain strong but with less mist and better visibility. This period is perfect for travelers who want to see the full curtain of water without the soaking spray that dominates earlier months.

The weather is dry and cool, making it excellent for walking tours and game drives in nearby parks like Mosi-oa-Tunya and Zambezi National Park. Many trails open up, and the views from both Zimbabwe and Zambia become easier to photograph.

Pros of Visiting in Shoulder Season:

• Improved visibility for photos and sightseeing
• Comfortable daytime temperatures for outdoor activities
• Still enough water flow to impress first-time visitors

Things to Consider:

• Devil’s Pool usually remains closed until later in the year
• Zambia’s side of the falls may begin to dry up earlier than Zimbabwe’s

For those seeking a balance of views, adventure, and accessibility, the shoulder season is often considered the best all-around time to visit Victoria Falls.

Explore Related Blogs:

• Victoria Falls Safari: What to Expect on Both Sides
• Best Time for Microlight Flights Over Victoria Falls
• Devil’s Pool: How and When to Swim at the Edge of the Falls
• Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park Travel Guide
• Top Adventure Activities in Victoria Falls

Low Water Season (September to January) – For Adventure and Hidden Landscapes

As the Zambezi River continues to drop toward its annual low, usually in October and November, the falls shift from thunderous to tranquil. While the volume of water is dramatically reduced, this season offers its own rewards—clear views of the rock formations, the underlying geology of the gorge, and unique adventure opportunities.

It’s during this season that the famed Devil’s Pool on the edge of the falls reopens, along with Livingstone Island tours. You can also enjoy better river visibility for white-water rafting, with the Zambezi offering some of the most thrilling rapids in the world.

Pros of Visiting in Low Water Season:

• Safely swim in Devil’s Pool and access Livingstone Island
• Unobstructed views of the gorge and rock walls
• Ideal time for white-water rafting and canyon hikes

Things to Consider:

• The Zambian side of the falls may dry up almost completely
• The falls’ power and noise are reduced compared to high-water months
• Daytime temperatures can be quite hot (30°C+), especially in October

If you’re interested in unique perspectives, intimate views, and adrenaline-pumping activities, this is the best time to explore Victoria Falls off the beaten path.

Zambia vs. Zimbabwe: Which Side Is Best?

One of the most common questions travelers ask is: Should I visit the Zambian or Zimbabwean side of Victoria Falls? The answer depends largely on the time of year and what kind of experience you want.

Zimbabwe Side:

• Offers 75% of the falls’ full frontal view
• Open year-round, even during dry season
• Best photo spots, especially at Devil’s Cataract and Main Falls

Zambia Side:

• More intimate viewpoints (Knife-Edge Bridge, Boiling Pot)
• Close-up access to Devil’s Pool and Livingstone Island (in low-water months)
• Great for adventure activities and shorter walks

To get the full experience, many visitors choose to cross the border and explore both sides. The KAZA UniVisa allows easy access between Zimbabwe and Zambia for eligible nationalities.

Planning Activities by Season

Your visit to Victoria Falls can be enhanced by planning the right activities at the right time:

Activity	Best Season
Helicopter Flights	February to May (high mist, wide falls)
Devil’s Pool Swim	Late August to December (low water)
White-water Rafting	August to December
Sunset Cruises & Wildlife Safaris	June to October (dry season)
Walking Tours of the Falls	June to August (cool, clearer views)

Explore Related Blogs:

• How to Cross Between Zambia and Zimbabwe at Victoria Falls
• Top 5 Lodges with Falls Views on the Zimbabwe Side
• Devil’s Pool Swim: What You Need to Know Before You Go
• Zambezi River Rafting: High vs. Low Water Trips
• Visiting Victoria Falls as Part of a Southern Africa Safari

No matter when you go, Victoria Falls is an unforgettable destination—a place where nature’s power and beauty come together in a display that is both humbling and exhilarating. The key is to match your travel goals with the rhythm of the river to make the most of your visit.