Zimbabwe or Zambia: The Zambezi River, whose water forms the stunning Victoria Falls, is the border between two countries: Zambia and Zimbabwe. When you travel to Victoria Falls it not only takes you to one of the most breath-taking waterfalls in the world, but also showcases you its natural wonders and ecosystem. Therefore, it is possible to explore the Victoria Falls from two different countries.
Since the decision of the country you travel to can impact your Victoria Falls experience, we round up a few essential facts that will help you to make the right choice.
Zimbabwe or Zambia
If you travel to experience the Victoria Falls at its greatest volume, then Zimbabwe is beyond doubt the better choice. In Zimbabwe, the Falls never dry up even at the height of the dry season in October and November. Therefore, an iconic view of the mighty Falls is guaranteed all year round.
Compared to Zimbabwe, Zambia offers a view from the eastern cataract of the Victoria Falls with more unique viewpoints with less tourists. During the dry season from September to December, the Zambian side of the Falls can be completely dried up which enables a great variety of aquatic activities on the Zambezi River like for example white-water rafting or canoeing.
Zimbabwe or Zambia: Capital cities
Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe and Livingstone in Zambia are the main towns, where most of the Victoria Falls tours start. In the frontier city Victoria Falls you will get a sense of the African cultures and the history that has shaped the town. The town is well-known for its colourful assortment of markets and friendly people.
Crossing the border you will find fascinating culture and history in Livingstone. The town has preserved much of its colonial character, but is a typical African town with a bustling charm.
Zimbabwe or Zambia: National parks
If you want to include a game drive on your Victoria Falls trip, you can easily do that in Hwange National Park. Hwange National Park is the largest National Park in Zimbabwe and is renowned for its wildlife heaven par excellence and you will for sure spot the nameable Big 5.
If you are looking for something closer to home, game activities can also be conducted in or in Mosi-oa Tunya National Park, Zambia. Mosi-oa Tunya National Park boasts a remarkable selection of wildlife exempted from big cats.
Zimbabwe or Zambia: Activities
Most of the thrilling activities that transform your visit to the Victoria Falls into an once-in-a-lifetime experience can be done in Zimbabwe and Zambia such as bungee jumping, white-water rafting, helicopter flights and much more. However, during dry season when the water level on the Zambian side is at its lowest you can take a dip in the world famous Devil’s Pool, a natural pool right before the edge of the upper falls – an unique experience that gets your adrenalin pumping.
Whether you decide to travel to Zimbabwe or Zambia, both countries will offer you once-in-a-lifetime experiences. The main things you need to consider are the time you travel and the activities you want to do while you are there. Now it’s up to you to create your own bucket-list of activities for your Victoria Falls trip.