A seasonal guide to Victoria Falls
A visit to the iconic Victoria Falls is a fantastic addition to a holiday, combining best with a safari in Zimbabwe, Zambia or Botswana, but easily accessed from further afield too. There are endless activities on offer from bungee jumping and white water rafting to river cruises and scenic helicopter flights. There is so much to do all year round, though with water levels that fluctuate each month, it’s best to plan your visit in advance to get the most out of your stay. Emily has created this month-by-month travel guide to help you choose the ideal season based on water levels, weather, activities and wildlife experiences.
Sindabezi is a private island retreat upstream from Victoria Falls – a brilliant base for exploring the area.
December, January, February
Expect it to be hot at this time of year with temperatures reaching late 30s Celsius during the day and staying warm overnight. The heat is reduced by dramatic thunderstorms, and occasionally continuous rain. The flow over the falls is low in December, and gradually starts to build from January, meaning December is your last chance of the year to swim in Devils Pool before the flow becomes too strong. These months are great for a trip to Livingstone Island too, which is only exposed during low water levels.
The rainforest is a vibrant green in December from the rains, which Emily enjoyed during her visit.
March, April, May
These months mark the end of the rainy season, and temperatures are beginning to drop to the late 20s Celsius during the day. The Falls are at their highest flow, creating a dramatic thundering sound and plenty of spray (which can reduce visibility from the ground, though a walking tour can be fun if you’d like to experience the full force of the water). A scenic helicopter flight offers impressive views at this time of year.
Helicopter flights offer a spectacular bird’s-eye-view of the Falls.
June, July, August
This is the peak of dry season where you can expect warm, sunny days and chillier nights. The water levels are slightly lower, white water rafting becomes possible again, and reduced spray gives walking tours great views. It’s a bustling time of year, making for the perfect opportunity to dive into the town’s local restaurants and markets.
White water rafting is an exhilarating way to experience the Victoria Falls.
September, October, November
These months see lower water levels, at their lowest in November. This period is best for the Boiling Pot hike which takes you down to the lowest viewing point of the falls for a swim, a Zambezi jet boat trip or rafting and camping in the gorge. You can also safely swim in Devil’s Pool. Temperatures are beginning to rise again to mid-30s Celsius during the day, and there’s a chance of rain near the end of November.
The Devil’s Pool is an exhilarating spot for a swim.
What next?
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