Exploring Majestic Victoria Falls from Zimbabwe and Zambia

Overview

As part of our trip to Zimbabwe, we toured the majestic Victoria Falls (locally known as Mosi-Oa-Tunya or “the Smoke that Thunders’), a World Heritage Site, from both the Zimbabwe and Zambia sides. While Victoria Falls isn’t the highest or widest waterfall, it is considered the largest in the world when measuring both height and width to create the largest sheet of falling water. Leaving from the very nice Victoria Falls Zimbabwe hotel, the Wallow Lodge, we started on the Zimbabwe side. Although it was raining, we had our trusty ponchos provided by the tour guide that protected us from the worst of the rain. 

Zimbabwe Side

After getting a briefing about Victoria Falls, we commenced our trek, stopping by the statue of David Livingstone, the first European explorer to see the Victoria Falls and the Zambezi River. We followed the paved pathway to each of the lookout stops for different views of the Victoria Falls. While it was still raining, adding in the mist from the falls provided an almost ‘otherworldly” view of the waterfall. 

Zambia Side

After exploring the Zimbabwe side, we moved to the Zambia side of Victoria Falls. The rain had let up a bit so we didn’t need the ponchos, which made for a more comfortable hike. There was a paved walkway (great with all the rain – it would have been a muddy trek otherwise).

From the Zimbabwe side, we had better views of the Zambezi river and just how tall the Falls are. We could also see the top of the Falls before the drop. 

Summary

While both sides provide breathtaking views, if you only have time for one side, we recommend the Zimbabwe side for viewing the sheer size and scope of the Victoria Falls, but in our view the Zambia side had nicer views. If possible, do see both.

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Here’s an excellent private tour that encompasses both Zimbabwe and Zambia sides from Get Your Guide that we would recommend.