by We impulsively decided to add Victoria Falls at the end of our African trip, and nothing can truly prepare you for the raw power and beauty called Mosi-oa-Tunya, “The Smoke That Thunders,” by the locals. Straddling the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the world’s largest waterfalls and experiencing it from both countries gave me a fuller picture of its majesty.
We stayed at the historic New Fairmont Hotel & Casino in Zambia, which offered charm, excellent service, and was just minutes from the falls. Did I mention they offer airport pick up? Yes, this is one factor when making our lodging decision! Instead of paying high prices for quick guided tours, we took cabs to explore both sides at our own pace. It was a short 5-minute drive from our hotel. For the Zimbabwe side, your driver drops you near the bridge, and you walk across after clearing customs. Don’t worry, it’s a common route (yes, with baboons!), and a reliable driver, like the one arranged by our hotel, will pick you up when you’re done.
On the Zambian side, we felt the falls up close, wet, wild, and heart pounding thunder. The trails in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park led us through misty jungle paths that opened to stunning viewpoints where water roared past with unstoppable force. Knife-Edge Bridge was a highlight, where we crossed slowly through thick mist that soaked us to the bone. It felt less commercial and more rugged. Looking across the gorge to the thundering curtain of water, I was overwhelmed by the sheer volume and speed of it all. We spent 5 hours exploring, and we could have used 1 more hour there!
Crossing into Zimbabwe, the experience shifted. The view was grander and more panoramic. The park offered well-maintained paths and more structured viewpoints, perfect for taking in the full width of the falls, especially during peak flow. Here, you can see nearly 75% of the falls, and it’s ideal for photography. Each lookout spot reveals another breathtaking angle, from the Devil’s Cataract to Rainbow Falls, where sun and spray often create brilliant arcs of color.
While Zimbabwe provided sweeping vistas and well-developed tourist infrastructure, Zambia gave us an untamed, visceral connection. We were glad we didn’t choose one over the other, each side revealed something the other couldn’t.
Victoria Falls Border Crossing Tips (Zambia ↔ Zimbabwe)
1. Get a KAZA Univisa (if eligible):
This is the easiest and most cost-effective option. The KAZA UniVisa allows you to enter both Zambia and Zimbabwe multiple times for up to 30 days (as long as you stay within these two countries). This Visa will allow you to enter Botswana to safari in Chobe National Park as well.
- Cost: ~$50 USD Per Per Person
- Where to get it: Available at major border crossings, airports in Livingstone (Zambia) and Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe), and sometimes online in advance. Pro Tip– Get it ASAP at the airport to avoid keeping people waiting for you if you take a tour to into Chobe Park in Botswana. Yes, this happened to us! Our whole tour had to wait and lost 1 ½ hour of animal sightings because 1 person that was not prepared, and needed to get a visa!
2. Bring cash (USD):
Visa fees and small purchases are often cash-only. We purchased ours at Livingstone airport and they only accepted cash. U.S. dollars are widely accepted at border posts and in tourist areas on both sides. Bring clean, newer bills for ease of use.
3. Expect basic facilities:
Border offices are functional but can be slow and lack amenities. Bring water, snacks, and patience. Lines can vary from quick to an hour or more depending on traffic and time of day.
4. Be mindful of opening hours:
The main Victoria Falls Bridge border post usually operates from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM, but it’s best to cross early to avoid delays or get stuck on one side.
5. Walk or drive across the bridge:
Many visitors walk across the bridge (about 10 minutes) between Zambia and Zimbabwe. It offers amazing views of the falls and gorge, don’t rush it! If you have luggage or mobility issues, taxis are available, but don’t be afraid to walk if you can. The crossing is very safe and I loved observing the daily life of the locals as we crossed.
6. Have proof of accommodation or departure:
Border agents may ask where you’re staying or for proof of onward travel, have a hotel name or printed itinerary ready. Yes, they asked us!
7. Stay polite and respectful:
Border staff are generally friendly, but politeness goes a long way in smoothing the process. Also, do not take pictures. Guards have a strict policy and will hassle you if they feel you may have captured any photos of them or the border crossings on your phone or camera.
Have you visited Victoria Falls or plan to? I’d love to hear your thoughts or tips—leave a comment below!
