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Getting There & Away

Air Travel

Major Airports

The region has two main international airports serving the falls.

Airports

  • Victoria Falls Airport (VFA) in Zimbabwe.
  • Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport (LVI) in Livingstone, Zambia.
  • Both airports are close to the falls, making transfers straightforward.

Airlines & Routes

Most international travelers connect through major African hubs like Johannesburg (JNB), Nairobi (NBO), or Addis Ababa (ADD). Direct flights from outside Africa are limited.

Common Airlines

  • South African Airways, Airlink, Kenya Airways, Ethiopian Airlines.
  • Fastjet, Proflight Zambia operate regional routes.
  • Check current airline schedules for the latest information.

Price Fluctuations

Prices are highest during peak dry season (June-August) and around major holidays. Book flights well in advance.

Airport Facilities

Both VFA and LVI are small airports with currency exchange, ATMs (can be unreliable), car rental desks, and small shops.

Airport Transfers

Taxis are readily available. Pre-booked transfers from hotels or tour operators offer convenience. Some shuttle services operate.

Flight Booking Resources

Deal Finders

  • Dollar Flight Club for discounted flight alerts.
  • Skyscanner for comparing flight prices.
  • Flexibility with travel dates can yield savings.
  • Booking flights well in advance is recommended.

Car Rental Resources

  • DiscoverCars.com for car rental comparisons.
  • An International Driving Permit (IDP) is necessary.
  • Plan fuel stops carefully, notably in Zimbabwe.
  • Night driving is not recommended due to road conditions and wildlife.

Airport Services

Currency Exchange

Currency exchange services are available at both VFA and LVI.

ATMs

ATMs are available but can be unreliable or run out of cash.

Dining & Shops

Small duty-free shops and cafes are present, offering basic amenities.

Land Transportation

Border Crossings

The Victoria Falls Bridge is the most common border crossing, connecting Zimbabwe and Zambia. It accommodates both pedestrian and vehicular traffic.

Border Procedures

  • Present passports and visas (or apply for KAZA visa on arrival).
  • Expect potential queues, especially during busy periods.
  • Typically open 06:00 to 22:00 daily; confirm current times.

Train & Bus Travel

Overnight passenger trains historically ran between Harare and Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, but service can be unreliable. No direct tourist train service in Zambia.

Bus Options

  • Bus services connect Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe) to Harare/Bulawayo.
  • Livingstone (Zambia) connects to Lusaka via bus.
  • Bus travel is budget-friendly but can be slow and less comfortable.

Self-Driving Considerations

Driving is on the left-hand side in both Zimbabwe and Zambia. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is necessary along with your home country license.

Driving Notes

  • Road conditions vary; major roads may have potholes.
  • Fuel availability can be an issue in Zimbabwe; plan stops.
  • Night driving is not recommended due to hazards.

Road Safety & Rental Cars

Livestock and pedestrians pose hazards on roads. Minibus taxis (combis) are local transport, often overcrowded and not recommended for tourists.

Rental Car Tips

  • Car rental services are available at airports and in towns.
  • Cross-border rental trips require specific documentation and fees.
  • Do not leave valuables visible in your car.

Departure Information

  • Exit Fees: Passenger service charges are usually included in airline ticket prices.
  • Timing: Arrive at the airport at least 2-3 hours before international flights.
  • Allow ample time for transfers from accommodation to the airport.
  • Airport Facilities: Limited shops, cafes, and small duty-free options.
  • Currency: Rely on sufficient local currency or USD for last-minute purchases.
  • No specific exit fees apply when crossing the land border bridge.

River Travel & Departure

River Transportation

The Zambezi River offers unique transportation modes focused on tourism activities, rather than formal ferry services for widespread transit.

Options

  • Tourist boats for sunset cruises and game viewing on the upper Zambezi.
  • Canoeing and kayaking trips on the calmer Upper Zambezi.
  • White-water rafting in the gorge below the falls.

Immigration & Connections

No major seaports or ferry services connect Victoria Falls to other regions. Immigration processes occur at airport or land border crossings.

Connections

  • River cruise operators typically provide transfers to and from accommodations.
  • White-water rafting trips usually include transport to and from launch/take-out points.
  • These connections provide seamless experiences for adventure seekers.

Upper Zambezi

Calm waters upstream permit peaceful cruises and canoeing, offering different wildlife viewing.

Below the Falls

The gorge below the falls is a world-class destination for white-water rafting adventures.

Sunset Cruises

A popular, relaxed way to experience the river's beauty and wildlife at dusk.

Local Transportation

Public Transportation

Victoria Falls and Livingstone do not possess extensive public transit networks for tourists. Do not expect metro systems, trams, or formal public bus routes.

Local Minibus Taxis Combis

  • Used by residents for set routes, often crowded.
  • Generally not recommended for tourist use due to comfort and safety concerns.
  • Charge small cash fares paid directly to the driver.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis constitute the main mode of paid local transportation for tourists, offering convenience and flexibility. They are readily available around hotels and attractions.

Taxi Information

  • Always agree on the fare before starting the journey. Fares are usually quoted in USD.
  • Short rides within town typically cost $5 - $15 USD. Airport transfers: $15 - $40 USD.
  • Ride-sharing apps like Uber or Bolt are not widely available or reliable.

Rental Options

Car Rental

Available at airports and in town. Requires a valid driving license, IDP, passport, and credit card. Driving is on the left.

Motorcycle/Scooter

Less common and not widely advertised for tourists. Not recommended due to varying road conditions and safety concerns.

Bicycle Rentals

No formal sharing programs. Some accommodations offer rentals for within-town use. Not recommended for longer distances.

Walking & Cycling

Victoria Falls and Livingstone town centers are relatively compact and walkable. Paths within Victoria Falls National Park (Zimbabwe side) are excellent for walking along the falls.