Fast Facts

• Width: 1,708 meters
• Maximum Height: 108 meters (Rainbow Falls)
• Lowest Height: 62 meters (Devil’s Cataract)
• Highest Water Flow: ~500 million litres per minute
  (March/April)
• Lowest Water Flow: ~10 million litres per minute (late
  November/early December)
• Greatest Ever Flow: 700 million litres per minute (March
  1958)

Formation of the Falls

About 150 to 200 million years ago, vast quantities of volcanic magma were extruded in the Victoria Falls area. As this magma cooled rapidly into basalt rock, it developed large cracks due to contact with cooler air and water. Later, tectonic shifts and a period of higher rainfall submerged the region beneath a massive lake.

Over time, these faults filled mainly with sand, which hardened into sandstone. Earthquakes and further tectonic activity drained the lake, causing the Zambezi River to shift its course to the Indian Ocean.

Roughly 150,000 years ago, the river encountered a sandstone-filled fault line. Because sandstone erodes faster than basalt, the river carved the first version of Victoria Falls here. Over the next 150,000 years, it eroded through seven major fault lines, creating a series of waterfalls. Today’s Victoria Falls stands on the eighth; erosion is already forming a ninth waterfall near Devil’s Cataract and Cataract Island.

Archaeological finds show early humans lived here as far back as 200,000 years ago, likely witnessing the falls’ earliest transformations.

Victoria Falls vs. Niagara Falls vs. Iguazu Falls

Victoria Falls Bridge

Cecil John Rhodes envisioned a railway from Cape Town to Cairo, with the Zambezi River as a major obstacle. He initiated plans for the first bridge at Victoria Falls, insisting it be close enough for passing trains to feel the spray. Rhodes died in 1902, before the bridge was completed in April 1905.

George Andrew Hobson of Sir Douglas Fox and Partners designed the bridge. Although Sir Ralph Freeman (later the designer of the Sydney Harbour Bridge) contributed to the calculations, he was not the lead designer.

The bridge spans 650 feet across the Batoka Gorge and stands 420 feet above the river at low water. Its iconic backdrop of the falls is best viewed from below the Victoria Falls Hotel. Today, the bridge serves both as a crucial transport link and an adventure hotspot, famous for bungee jumping. The steam trains that once crossed the bridge were nicknamed “shongololos” (“centipedes”) for their undulating appearance.

Tour of the Falls

Most visitors spend only a short time at Victoria Falls, often focused on photos and missing the full experience. The falls are more than a spectacular sight—they sustain a unique rainforest ecosystem, home to rare plants and birds.

For a richer visit, explore beyond the main pathways and viewpoints. This guide is designed for first-time visitors, helping you make the most of your journey. Consider printing it and bringing it with you, protected in a plastic sleeve.

Remember, Victoria Falls is a Protected Nature Reserve. Please stay on designated paths to help preserve the ecosystem. As the saying goes: take only photographs, leave only footprints.

The area remains largely undeveloped, offering views similar to those enjoyed by David Livingstone in 1855. Facilities at the entrance include toilets, information boards, a restaurant, a curio shop, and vending machines—the only spot to purchase drinks. The walk is about two kilometres; there are drinking taps near the entrance and at Livingstone’s Statue, but bring water as it can get hot.

The pathway leads to the best viewpoints, with natural barriers between you and the gorge below. Only Danger Point has a low metal rail for safety. Rocks are slippery from constant spray, so wear suitable footwear and be cautious—tragic accidents have occurred.

The falls’ appearance changes dramatically with the seasons. From mid-December to June, the Zambezi is in flood, the falls are at their most powerful, and visitors get drenched by the spray (bring a raincoat and protect your camera). By September, the water recedes, and by November, only the Main Falls and Devil’s Cataract may still be flowing.

Enjoy this Natural Wonder, and take time to experience its beauty, history, and the vibrant life it supports.

Cell / Mobile Phones & Internet

• Roaming: Roaming services work if enabled with your home provider. Signals are generally strong in town, though occasional power cuts or network overloads may cause disruptions. If you have trouble making calls, try again; services have improved recently.
• Main Networks: Econet and NetOne are the primary mobile providers. Econet usually offers the best coverage.
• Local SIM cards are cost-effective and readily available, offering a more budget-friendly option than roaming, particularly for brief stays.

Where to Buy:

• Econet: Modern internet café/shop at Sopers Arcade on Park Way (next to Shearwater)
• NetOne: Office at Sawanga Mall along Bulawayo Road

Buying Tips:

• Street vendors (in orange/yellow bibs) sell SIM cards and airtime, but official shops are usually cheaper and handle registration for you. Bring your passport or ID to re- gister your number.

Internet and Telephones

• Wi-Fi: Most accommodations offer free Wi-Fi for guests—verify when booking.
• Mobile Data: 4G and 5G are available via Econet and NetOne. Buy and register a local SIM at network shops. Staff can help set up your data plan; larger data bundles are more cost-ef- fective.
• Landlines: The telephone system is reliable and supports international calls. To call Victoria Falls: dial +263 (country code), 83 (area code), then the local number.
• Internet Providers: Econet, NetOne

Getting Around Victoria Falls

From Victoria Falls Airport to Town

• Airport Transfers: The airport is 22km from town. Standard transfers to any hotel cost ~US$20/person (ask your hotel or operator). Private options available—see visa section for details.
• Car Rental: Available at the airport but generally expensive; assess if you need one.
• Taxi: Taxis meet all flights. Expect US$35 into town (negotiable to US$25). Taxis can carry at least 4 passengers, making them cost-effective for groups.
• No Airport Shuttle: Plan or use taxis—no regular shuttles operate.

From Livingstone Airport (Zambia) to Victoria Falls Town

• Transfer Service: Arranged transfers cost US$32/person and include a smooth border crossing.
• Taxi Option: Three taxis needed: airport to Zambian border (~18km, US$25–$30), bridge crossing (1.5km, US$5), and Zimbabwean border to your hotel (US$5–$10). Prices are per taxi, not per person. Taxis are easy to find, but luggage can be cumbersome.

Local Transport & Activity Access

• Walking: Most places are within walking distance. The town is safe, but it gets very hot, and street vendors may approach you (see the Safety section for dealing with vendors).
• Wildlife: Animals like warthogs, monkeys, baboons, and occasionally elephants may be seen in town; do not approach or feed wildlife. Lions and buffalo are rare but possible on roads to outlying hotels—avoid walking to remote hotels or attractions; use taxis or tours.
• Hotel Shuttles: Many hotels/lodges offer free hourly shuttles to town, other hotels, and the Falls—ask at reception.
• Guided Tours: Book tours of the town and local sites for a comprehensive experience.
• Taxis: Readily available; most trips within town cost US$5–$10.
• Bicycle Hire: Available at Landela Centre. Rates: US$5/hour, US$10/half-day, US$20/full-day. No designated bike trails.

Getting to Activities

• Hotel Pick-Ups: All tour operators offer free transport to/from hotels, lodges, and B&Bs in town for booked activities. Specify your accommodation and wait at the reception.
• Exceptions: Shearwater High Wire/Bungee clients must go to the bridge themselves (except High Wire with Wild Horizons, which includes transfers).
• Out-of-Town Lodges: Some lodges outside Victoria Falls may charge for activity pick-up, but often provide free scheduled transfers into town—plan accordingly.
• Activity Bookings: If booked through a travel agency, your voucher will detail pick-up/drop-
  off times.

This guide provides essential information for staying connected and getting around Victoria Falls, helping make your visit smooth and enjoyable.

Shopping in Victoria Falls: A Quick Guide

Victoria Falls is a charming small town catering mainly to tourists, with a vibrant assortment of curio shops, arts and crafts, galleries, boutiques, and restaurants. Notably, there are no multinational chain stores—shopping here is a truly local experience.

Where to Shop:

• Shopping Centres: The main hubs—Elephants Walk, Landela Centre, Sawanga Mall, and Phumula Centre—are compact but offer a unique mix of curio shops, boutiques, cafes, restaurants, and essential services.
• Curio Markets: Near Elephants Walk, a large outdoor curio market offers impressive wood carvings, stone sculptures, and other art by talented local artists.
• Hotel Shops: Many hotels have their own curio shops, though these tend to be pricier and do not allow bargaining.
• Supermarkets: For daily needs, visit OK Supermarket, OK Mart, or Pick N Pay (all close at 8 pm). The “7 to 11” store serves the low-density lodge area, with specialist butcheries at Pumula Centre and in the industrial area.

Shopping Tips:

• Bargaining is a common practice in markets and with street vendors. Opening prices are often high; negotiate respectfully, and pay what feels fair for the craftsmanship.
• Bartering: Some traders accept bartering for items like T-shirts, caps, or shoes—consider bringing a few from home.
• Shipping: Use reputable vendors and request proof of recent shipments. Alternatively, ship
  with trusted carriers like DHL or FedEx.

Price Guide:

• Copper bangle: $2–$5
• Small hippo carving: $5–$10
• Hand-sized carving: $20–$50
• Large or artist-signed items: Up to several thousand dollars

Speciality Shops to Visit:

• Larry Norton Art Gallery (Victoria Falls Hotel): World-class wildlife art and prints.
• Stone Dynamics Gallery (Victoria Falls Hotel): Premium stone carvings, ships worldwide.
• Prime Art Gallery (Elephants Walk Centre): Stone carvings and paintings by top Zimbabwean artists.
• Victoria Falls Guide Online Gift Shop: Unique souvenirs, ships worldwide.
• Tammy Walker Gallery (Livingstone Way): Artistic photographic prints.

Final Advice: Always trust your instincts—don’t let yourself be overcharged, but be fair to the artist. If arranging shipping, verify the vendor’s reputation or use recommended services. Enjoy exploring the unique shopping experiences that Victoria Falls has to offer!

Going Out for Food (Top 5 Dinner & Lunch Choices)

Victoria Falls offers a diverse selection of restaurants, cafés, and dining experiences to suit every palate and budget. If you’re staying more than a couple of days, it’s worth exploring beyond your hotel’s restaurant.

Light Meals & Café-Style Spots:

• Bridge Café (Victoria Falls Bridge)
• Brook’s Café (Elephant’s Walk Mall)
• Lookout Café (Wild Horizons high wire)
• Marula Café (Livingstone Way)
• Rainforest Restaurant (Victoria Falls entrance gate)
• River Brewing Co (Elephant’s Walk Mall)
• Shoestrings Café and Takeaway (Shoestrings Backpackers)

Family Restaurants – À la carte:

• 3 Monkeys Restaurant (Livingstone Way)
• Kasibi Restaurant (Elephant Hills Hotel)
• Makuwa-Kuwa Restaurant (Victoria Falls Safari Lodge)
• Mama Africa Restaurant (Landela Centre)

Formal Dining – À la carte:

• Cassia Restaurant (Ilala Lodge)
• The Livingstone Room (Victoria Falls Hotel)

Family Restaurants – Buffet:

• Amulonga Restaurant (A Zambezi River Lodge)
• Jungle Junction (Victoria Falls Hotel)
• Samukele Restaurant (Elephant Hills Hotel)
• Simujinga Restaurant (Rainbow Hotel)
• The Boma Restaurant (Victoria Falls Safari Lodge)

Takeaway Options:

• Chicken Inn / Pizza Inn / Creamy Inn (Town Centre)
• Haefelis (Swiss bakery, Town Centre)
• Little Monkey (Town Centre)
• Nando’s Chicken (Sawanga Mall)

Top 5 Dinner Choices:

1. Cassia Restaurant – Ilala Lodge: À la carte menu, live piano, and the distant sounds of the
   falls.
2. Jungle Junction – Victoria Falls Hotel: Superb buffet dinner with traditional entertainment.
3. Makuwa-Kuwa Restaurant – Safari Lodge: Award-winning dining overlooking a floodlit waterhole.
4. Malachite Dinner Cruise: Double-deck boat with sunset drinks and a four-course dinner on the Zambezi River.
5. Marula Café: Centrally located, family-friendly, with a delicious dinner menu

Top 5 Lunch Choices:

1. Brook’s Cafe: Perfect for breakfast, lunch, and curio shopping.
2. Dusty Road: Traditional Zimbabwean cuisine in the oldest township.
3. Lookout Café: Dramatic views of the gorges and Zambezi River.
4. Marula Café: Popular for its tasty light food menu.
5. Three Monkeys: Unique setting in a restored 1935 railway carriage, excellent food, and cocktails.

No matter your taste or budget, Victoria Falls has something to offer. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and culinary delights!

Nightlife & Entertainment

Victoria Falls has a handful of unique nightlife spots for those looking to unwind after a day of adventure.

Shoestrings Backpackers Lodge:

A lively hotspot close to the town centre, popular among young travellers. Features a bar open until midnight, a casual restaurant, a pool table, satellite TV, and regular live entertainment (drummers, musicians, fire jugglers). Guests are encouraged to join in, and jam sessions often continue into the night.

The River Brewing Co:

Located in Elephant’s Walk Mall, this venue combines industrial charm with excellent craft beer and occasional live performances by local and visiting artists. It’s a great place to enjoy the local music scene while sampling unique brews.

While Victoria Falls may not have a sprawling nightlife scene, these venues offer a fun and friendly atmosphere for evening entertainment.

Victoria Falls Calendar (Events & Seasons)

Month-by-Month Guide

• January: Peak of the rainy season; heavy rainfall, lush vegetation, peak bird activity. (Avg Temp: 18–30°C; Rain: 14 days)
• February: Hot, rainy, high river, dense bush, waterbuck breeding. (Avg Temp: 18–29°C; Rain: 10 days)
• March: Rainy season ending, river at peak, rafting often closed. (Avg Temp: 17–30°C; Rain: 7 days)
• April: End of rains; falls at highest flow; peak wildlife conditions. (Avg Temp: 14–29°C; Rain: 2 days)
• May: Warm days, cooler nights, best fishing month. (Avg Temp: 10–27°C; Rain: 1 day)
• June: Dry, warm days, chilly nights, and fall leaves still full. (Avg Temp: 6–25°C; Rain: 0 days)
• July: Mid-winter, dry, elephant migration, raptor breeding. (Avg Temp: 6–25°C; Rain: 0 days)
• August: Dry, warm, windy; elephants on the Zambian side. (Avg Temp: 8–28°C; Rain: 0 days)
• September: Spring, hot days, great rafting, migrant birds arrive. (Avg Temp: 13–32°C; Rain: 1 day)
• October: Hottest month, excellent rafting, and bird displays. (Avg Temp: 17–33°C; Rain: 4 days)
• November: Start of rains, impala calving, insect surge. (Avg Temp: 18–32°C; Rain: 8 days)
• December: Humid, rains return, wildebeest breeding. (Avg Temp: 18–30°C; Rain: 13 days)

Notes:

• Best Game Viewing: June–October (dry months)
• Best Falls Viewing: March–May (highest water flow, but heavy spray)
• Best Rafting: August–December (low-water months)

Accommodation

Victoria Falls offers a wide variety of accommodation to suit every budget. For a quick-reference table and detailed reviews, visit our Accommodation Page. Each establishment has its own dedicated page, with user reviews and a detailed map. Find special offers and discounts online, or contact us to reserve your stay.

Activities & Other Attractions

While many travellers decide on activities after arriving, pre-booking offers several advantages:

• Save Time: Avoid on-site confusion and queues.
• Set Prices: No price advantage for walk-ins; online booking often matches or beats local rates.
• Guaranteed Availability: Secure your spot for popular activities.
• Group Minimums: Ensure your activity runs as planned.
• Package Deals: Combine activities for savings.
• Convenient Payment: Pay in advance, avoid carrying cash.
• Expert Advice: Get personalised recommendations.

Tips for Booking:

1. Book packages for savings.
2. Activities in Zambia tend to be pricier than in Zimbabwe.
3. Pre-book for popular experiences.
4. Work with knowledgeable agents for the best itinerary.
5. Use local expertise for efficient scheduling.
6. Plan for early starts—request packed breakfasts if needed.

Types of Activities:

• Adrenaline & Adventure: Bungee jumping, white-water rafting, Devil’s Pool swim.
• Wildlife & Safari: Game viewing in Chobe National Park (Botswana), walking and horseback safaris in Zambezi National Park (Zimbabwe).
• Guided & Scenic Tours: Falls tours, Zambezi River cruises, helicopter flights, steam train rides.
• Culture: Boma dinner, village and township tours, art experiences.
• Specialised: Fishing expeditions, close-up elephant encounters.

Once booked, your operator will collect you from your hotel and return you after the activity.

Tips for Booking:

1. Book packages for savings.
2. Activities in Zambia tend to be pricier than in Zimbabwe.
3. Pre-book for popular experiences.
4. Work with knowledgeable agents for the best itinerary.
5. Use local expertise for efficient scheduling.
6. Plan for early starts—request packed breakfasts if needed.

Additional Local Recommendations:

• Curio Market: Behind Elephant’s Walk, unique local crafts
• Game Viewing: Buffalo Bar at Safari Lodge, waterhole views
• Golf: Elephant Hills Hotel’s scenic Gary Player-designed course
• Jafuta Heritage Centre: Cultural artefacts and bone readings
• Larry Norton Art Gallery: Wildlife masterpieces, discount voucher
• Mapopoma Bar: Panoramic views at Elephant Hills Hotel
• Rainbow Hotel Pool Bar: Bar built into the swimming pool
• Savannah Wood: Solid wood furniture from recycled teak
• Stone Dynamics Gallery: World-class stone sculptures
• The Big Tree: Ancient baobab, historic landmark
• High Tea: Stanley Terrace, Victoria Falls Hotel
• Vulture Feeding: Daily at Safari Lodge, free display

These experiences offer a diverse taste of local culture, art, history, and natural beauty—perfect for making your visit to Victoria Falls truly memorable.

Zimbabwe vs Zambia: Which Side is Best?

When planning a visit to Victoria Falls, travellers often wonder: Should I visit from Zimbabwe or Zambia? The Zambezi River forms the border between these two countries, and you can view the Falls from either side. Your choice will influence your experience and costs. Here’s a summary to help you decide:

Zimbabwe: Pros & Cons

Pros:

• 75% of the waterfall views, with 16 viewpoints through a lush rainforest.
• Rainforests exist year-round due to constant rainfall.
• The Falls never completely dry up—even during the dry season (Oct–Nov).
• Accommodation and activities are generally more affordable, thanks to lower government taxes.
• Most activities are available here, except for microlight flights, Devil’s Pool swim, and Livingstone Island tour (exclusive to Zambia).
• Better game viewing opportunities due to well-preserved National Park areas.
• The town of Victoria Falls is less than 1 km from the Falls, making access easy and convenient.
• The town is smaller and more walkable than Livingstone, Zambia.

Cons:

• Zimbabwean visas tend to be more expensive and required by more nationalities.

Zambia: Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Unique perspective of the Falls (25% of the view) and the ability to look down the length of the waterfall at sunset.
• Livingstone Island tours, Devil’s Pool, and microlight flights are exclusive highlights available only in Zambia.
• Visa fees are lower, and fewer nationalities require them.

Cons:

• Only 25% of the Falls are visible; during the dry season, the Zambian side may dry up en- tirely, leaving just a rock face.
• Accommodation and activities are generally more expensive due to higher taxes.
• Development along the Zambezi River is less regulated than in Zimbabwe.
• The town of Livingstone is about 10 km from the Falls, so extra transport costs may apply.
• A hydroelectric station can suddenly dry up the Zambian falls section when water levels are low.

Summary

If you have time and budget, visit both countries for the full experience: each side offers a unique perspective. If you can only visit one, Zimbabwe provides a more complete and reliable view of Victoria Falls, better game viewing, and easier access. Zambia is best for exclusive adventure activities and unique angles, but be aware of seasonal water levels. Overall, Zimbabwe ensures the most spectacular views; Zambia specialises in adventure activities, but the main waterfall view is limited, especially during the dry season.

Travel Information

Important Contact Numbers – Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

To call a telephone number in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, from abroad:

• International Access Code (00 or +)
• Zimbabwe Country Code (263)
• Area Code (13 or 83)
• Local Number

All numbers below exclude international and local dialling codes.

Medical & Emergency:

• The Health Bridge Medical Centre: 83 2846634 / 5; Cell: 712950929; Email:
  admin@thehealthbridge.org
• Ambulance: 10177 or 1022
• Victoria Falls Pharmacy: 83 2844403; Address: Shop 3 Phumula Centre, Park Way

Law Enforcement & Safety:

• Customs & Immigration (Victoria Falls Bridge): 83 2845876 or 83 2844235
• Police Emergency/Enquiries: 83 2842206
• C.I.D: 83 2844201

Transport:

• Victoria Falls International Airport: 83 2841576, 83 2844255, 83 2844428, 83 2844554

Parks & Tourism:

• Victoria Falls National Park Entrance Gate: 83 2842204
• Zambezi National Park Entrance Gate: 83 2842294 or 83 2844566

Tip: When dialling from outside Zimbabwe, add +263 and the relevant area code before the local
number.

Entry Requirements & Import Allocations

Entry into Zimbabwe

• Visa: Some nationalities require an entry visa. Check the Zimbabwe Visa webpage for details.
• Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry.
• Return Ticket: You must have a return ticket or sufficient funds to purchase one.
• Blank Passport Pages: Ensure you have enough blank pages for entry visas (one full page per visa).

Bringing a Vehicle into Zimbabwe (Holiday Purposes)

• Vehicle Registration:
  
  • Bring the original or a police-certified copy of the vehicle registration book
  • If the vehicle is not registered in your name, carry a certified letter of permission.

• Taxes and Fees (Payable at the Border):
  
  • Carbon Tax (valid for 30 days, based on engine size):
    
    • Below 1500cc: US$6
    • 1501–2000cc: US$11
    • 2001–3000cc: US$15
    • 3001cc and above: US$30
• • Third-Party Insurance: Approx. US$30 for one month
  • Temporary Import Permit (T.I.P): No charge
  • Commercial Vehicle Guarantee (C.V.G): About US$120 for hire vehicles
  • Road Access Fee: US$10 per light vehicle, per entry

• Vehicle Equipment Requirements:
  
  • Reflective Tape: Two white round tapes (front), two 6-inch red tapes (rear)
  • Safety Equipment: Two red warning triangles, SAZ-approved fire extinguisher

Tips:

1. Carry documentation: driver’s licence, T.I.P, and Zimbabwe insurance documents.
2. Pay all border charges in US dollars cash (other currencies may get poor exchange rates).

Import Allocations – Zimbabwe Travel Guidelines

These allocations are guidelines only; actual allowances may vary depending on customs officials and circumstances.

• Wine: Reasonable quantity for personal consumption
• Beer: Up to 5 litres
• Spirits: Reasonable quantity for personal consumption
• Meat: Up to 25 kg
• Cash: Up to US$5,000

For the most current information, visit the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) website.

Zimbabwe Entry Visa

Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to visit Zimbabwe. See below for more details:

Visa Categories

• Category A – No Visa Required:
  
  • Entry allowed without visa fees. Fill out the Immigration Declaration Form (online or on arrival).

• Category B – Visa on Arrival or Pre-Application:
  
  • Obtain a visa at land borders or airports, or pre-apply online for instant approval. Pay online or on arrival (cash/card).
  • Visa Types: Single Entry, Double Entry, Multiple Entry, KAZA Univisa

• Category C – Visa Required Before Travel:
  
  • Secure a visa before travel via online application. Approval is not instant; you will be
    notified.

To check your visa category and costs, visit the Zimbabwe Visa website.

Passport Requirements for All Visitors

• Valid for at least six months from the date of entry
• At least two blank pages
• Proof of return ticket or funds
• Adequate funds for your stay

Visa Types

• Single Entry: One entry within 1 month, cannot be reused after exit
• Double Entry: Two entries within 1 month, expires after both entries are used.
• Multiple Entry: Unlimited entries within 1 month (extendable)
• KAZA Univisa: Multiple entries between Zimbabwe and Zambia, including day trips to Botswana (overnight in Botswana requires a new visa)

Note: Children of all ages, including infants, must pay the full visa fee.

Travel Tips

1. Fill out your visa application and declaration form online before arrival.
2. Sit near the front of your flight for quicker immigration.
3. Book a private airport transfer for faster departure.

Crossing from Zambia (via Livingstone)

• Consider a double-entry Zambian visa if required.
• Check both Zambia and Zimbabwe visa info pages for details.

Border Post Hours

• Victoria Falls Bridge border post: Opens 06h00 – Closes 22h00
• Kazungula border post: Opens 06h00 – Closes 20h00

Helpful Links

Maps

Explore Victoria Falls

Important Contact Numbers

All numbers exclude international and local dialling codes. To call from outside Zimbabwe: use +263, then area code (13 or 83), then the number.

Medical & Emergency

• Health Bridge Medical Centre: 83 2846634 / 5
• Cell: 712950929
• Email: admin@thehealthbridge.org
• Ambulance: 10177 or 1022
• Victoria Falls Pharmacy: 83 2844403
• Address: Shop 3 Phumula Centre, Park Way

Law Enforcement & Safety

• Customs & Immigration (Bridge): 83 2845876 / 83 2844235
• Police Emergency: 83 2842206
• C.I.D: 83 2844201

Transport

• Victoria Falls Int. Airport: 83 2841576, 83 2844255, 83 2844428, 83 2844554

Parks & Tourism

• Victoria Falls National Park: 83 2842204
• Zambezi National Park: 83 2842294 / 83 2844566

Tip: When dialling from outside Zimbabwe, add +263 and the area code before the number

National Park Hours

Victoria Falls National Park: Open 06h00–18h00 (all year)

Zambezi National Park:

• Summer: 06h00–18h00
• Winter: 06h30–18h00

Entrance Fees (2026)

Proof of nationality required. Children under 12 pay half price.

Victoria Falls & Rainforest Viewing

• International: US$50
• Regional: US$30
• Local Citizens: US$7
• Local Residents: US$10

Nighttime Viewing (Victoria Falls)

• International: US$100
• Regional: US$70

Zambezi National Park Entry

• International: US$15
• Regional: US$12
• Local: US$5

Vehicle & Trailer Fees (Zambezi NP)

• Vehicles (International/Regional): US$10
• Vehicles (Local): US$5
• Trailers (International/Regional): US$5
• Trailers (Local): US$5

Currency & Payments

• US dollars (US$) are the best currency to carry, and all prices are in US$
• Credit/debit cards are widely accepted at large establishments (VISA best, then Mastercard; AMEX/Diners not accepted)
• Carry some cash; small change is often given in sweets or small items.
• Do not exchange for local currency (ZIG). International visitors should pay in US$
• South African Rand, Pounds, and Pula may be accepted at poor rates.
• Pay for accommodation/activities in advance to avoid cash/fees.

Health & Safety

Medical Services:

• Health Bridge Medical Centre: 24hr care, resident doctor, minor surgery, overnight wards
• Pharmacies are well-stocked, but bring your personal prescriptions.
• Emergency evacuation available (MARS)

Health Advice:

• Malaria: Significant risk (Dec–May). Take prophylaxis before arrival; use repellent and nets.
• Water: Drink only bottled water
• Sun: Wear a wide-brim hat & sunscreen
• Bilharzia: Avoid swimming in slow/stagnant water

General Safety:

• Secure valuables in the hotel
• Carry minimal cash
• Street vendors are persistent but not dangerous—be polite but firm.
• Avoid walking at night in residential/small areas due to wildlife—use taxis.
• Book tours/accommodation through reputable companies
• Be cautious when shipping purchases.
• Tourism Police (yellow bibs) available for assistance

Weather Overview

• Winter (May–Mid-Aug): Mild, dry; 25–27°C (highs), 7–10°C (lows)
• Summer (Mid-Aug–Apr): Hot, wet (Nov–Apr); 32–34°C (highs), 15–19°C (lows)
• See detailed weather info and calendar on the Victoria Falls Weather website.

Fuel, Electronics & Electricity

Fuel:

• Several garages (Puma, Zuva, Total, Glow, Engen) in the town centre
• Pay in US$ cash (cards usually not accepted)
• ZAR is accepted, but at poor rates

Electricity:

• 220–240 volts (UK standard)
• Square 3-pin (UK) plugs.
• Most hotels provide international sockets/plug adaptors.

Stay informed and prepared for a safe, enjoyable visit to Victoria Falls!