BackDiscover the best time to visit Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World
One of the most iconic sights in Africa, the majestic Victoria Falls is situated on the Zambezi River, spanning the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia. With fluctuating water levels throughout the year, it's essential to research the optimal time to visit Victoria Falls for the activities you wish to do there.
When to Travel to Victoria Falls
One of the most iconic sights in Africa, the majestic Victoria Falls is situated on the Zambezi River, spanning the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia. With fluctuating water levels throughout the year, it's essential to research the optimal time to visit Victoria Falls for the activities you wish to do there.
There are limitless adventure activities at Victoria Falls, including swimming in the famous Devil’s Pool, white water rafting, kayaking, bungee jumping, ziplining, plus safari experiences in the nearby national parks and sunset boat cruises on the upper stretches of the Zambezi River.There are limitless adventure activities at Victoria Falls, including swimming in the famous Devil’s Pool, white water rafting, kayaking, bungee jumping, ziplining, plus safari experiences in the nearby national parks and sunset boat cruises on the upper stretches of the Zambezi River.
Here's our guide on how to plan when to go to Victoria Falls based on what you want to experience there:
Planning for high & low water levels
When planning a visit to Victoria Falls, it is essential to understand the high and low water seasons, as this can significantly impact your decision on when to visit. The water levels of the Zambezi River fluctuate throughout the year, depending on the amount of rainfall. As the rains fall seasonally, the levels of the Zambezi and the flow of Victoria Falls also fluctuate seasonally.
The Zambezi is typically at its lowest in November and early December, so during these months, some sections on the Zambian side dry up almost completely, leaving bare rock exposed. The river levels are usually highest in April or May, when the entire length of Victoria Falls is a thundering wall of falling water.
If there are specific activities or experiences that you want to enjoy during a visit to Victoria Falls, you’ll need to choose the right time of year to travel. As a general rule, activities on the Zambezi River are best when water levels are low; otherwise, the current is too strong, while activities on land or in the air are best when water levels are high, as you’ll be treated to the most spectacular views.
When is the Best Time to Visit Victoria Falls?
December, January, February and March
December to March is the height of the rainy summer season. The weather tends to be hot and humid, with daytime temperatures often exceeding 85°F (29.4 °C). You can expect dramatic thunderstorms in the afternoons and even continuous days of rain.
The water levels of the Zambezi are typically low in December; however, the river steadily swells from January to March as the rainwater flows down from further upstream. Victoria Falls is impressive during these months (particularly from February onwards); however, you won’t be able to visit Livingstone Island or swim in the Devil’s Pool at this time of year (swimming in Devil's Pool is only permitted between mid-August and mid-January when the water levels are low). The rapids at this time of year may be too dangerous for some river-based activities, such as white-water rafting and kayaking.
This is a great time of year to enjoy a sunset boat cruise on the upper stretches of the Zambezi River above Victoria Falls. River cruises are a year-round activity; however, December to March bring spectacular sunsets, which you can enjoy from your boat.
April, May and June
Temperatures during April, May, and June are typically warm and pleasant, averaging 75°F to 90°F (24°C to 32°C) during the day. However, by May and June, they start to feel chilly in the mornings and evenings.
April sees the end of the rainy season and the start of the dry season, which lasts until November. The recent rainfall means that the Zambezi River will have a strong flow and Victoria Falls will be at its most powerful and dramatic. Although this marks the beginning of the dry season, it is actually the height of the high-water season. The white-water rafting season is usually closed due to high water levels, while trips to Livingstone Island are not possible at this time.
The falls are spectacular from both the Zambian and Zimbabwean sides during the high-water season, although visibility from some viewpoints can be limited due to the spray and mist. You will get very wet at most of the views on either side, and we recommend that you wear a rain jacket or take an umbrella.
Although the volume of spray can restrict views of the falls from the ground, the high water season is a fantastic time of year to experience a helicopter flight over Victoria Falls and Batoka Gorge, as you’ll have dramatic views of the thundering falls. You might be lucky enough to see brilliant rainbows created by the spray on sunny days.
July and August
This is peak tourist season at Victoria Falls. It is winter; however, you can expect dry, sunny weather with pleasant daytime temperatures between 70°F and 85°F (20°C and 30°C). The region can get quite chilly at night, dropping to 40°F to 50°F (4 °C to 10°C), so we recommend packing some warm clothing.
The water levels of the Zambezi River begin to drop, and the reduced spray means that you’ll have excellent visibility of Victoria Falls. At this time of year, it is possible to take a two-hour tour to Livingstone Island, located in the middle of the Zambezi River on the edge of Victoria Falls. You can only visit Livingstone Island when the water levels of the Zambezi River are low enough to allow safe access.
September, October and November
Temperatures rise again from September to November, averaging 85°F to 95°F (30 °C to 35 °C) during the day and often exceeding 105°F (40 °C). The weather is typically dry in September and October; however, you may experience a downpour in mid- or late November as summer approaches.
This is the end of the dry season, and the falls are at their lowest level. You’ll still have breathtaking views of Victoria Falls from the Zimbabwean side, but on the Zambian side, the experience can be rather disappointing. The Eastern Cataract in Zambia often becomes exposed due to low water levels.
However, it is possible to visit Livingstone Island at this time of year. From the island, you can swim a short distance upstream and take a dip in the Devil’s Pool, a deep natural pool created by thousands of years of erosion. Swimming here is safe as there’s a rock ledge on the lip of the falls, where the water is only an inch deep (2 centimeters) - this natural barrier allows you to plunge into the deep pool without getting swept over the edge. Swimming in the Devil's Pool is only possible when the water levels of the Zambezi River are low, usually between mid-August and mid-January.
September to October marks the end of the dry season, making it an excellent time for game viewing in Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe, and Chobe National Park, Botswana. Both parks are less than a two-hour drive from Victoria Falls, making them perfect day trip options for those who wish to include a safari experience in their itinerary. The dry weather at this time of year means that the vegetation is sparse, making it easier to spot wildlife than during the wet summer months. Additionally, a lack of water forces animals to congregate around waterholes, making their movements more predictable.
Travel to Victoria Falls with Wayfairer Travel
Let our Travel Specialists at Wayfairer help you plan the perfect vacation to Victoria Falls, no matter where you are or when you’re available. Victoria Falls is on the list of natural wonders of the world for a reason. Enjoy this unforgettable experience, complete with wildlife excursions, premium accommodations, and delicious cuisine, all carefully planned for you by one of our Travel Specialists. If you’re ready for a one-of-a-kind, luxury trip to one of the most beautiful spots in the world, reach out to Wayfairer Travel and take advantage of our experience planning Victoria Falls vacations.
