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How to Get to Victoria Falls

Air Travel

Major Airports

The region has two main international airports serving the falls.

Airports

  • The Smoke that thunders 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 near 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-arranged transportation from places to stay or tour providers 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, especially in Zimbabwe.
  • Night using a car is not recommended due to street 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 retailers and coffee shops are present, offering basic amenities.

Land Transportation

Border Crossings

The The Smoke that thunders 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 voa).
  • 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 Hauncommon and The Falls on the zambezi river in Zimbabwe, but service can be unreliable. No direct tourist train service in Zambia.

Bus Options

  • Buses provide connections 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 each of Zimbabwe and Zambia. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is necessary along with your home country license.

Driving Notes

  • Road conditions vary; main roads may have holes in the road.
  • Fuel availability could be an issue in Zimbabwe; plan stops.
  • Night it is not recommended to drive recommended due to hazards.

Road Safety & Rental Cars

Livestock and pedestrians pose hazards on roads. Minibus taxis (combis) are local transport, often overcrowded instead of recommended for tourists.

Rental Car Tips

  • Rental car agencies are available at the airport 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 a service fee is usually included in airline how much tickets are.
  • Timing: Arrive at the 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 domestic 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 canoeing trips on the calmer Upper Zambezi.
  • White-water rafting in the gorge lower than the falls.

Immigration & Connections

No major seaports or ferry services connect Victoria Falls to other regions. Immigration processes occur at airport or crossing borders by land.

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 boat trips and canoeing, offering different wildlife viewing.

Below the Falls

The gorge lower than 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 Existingstone do not possess extensive public transit networks for tourists. Do not expect subway 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 most common method of paid local transportation for tourists, offering convenience and flexibility. They are readily available around accommodations and sights.

Taxi Information

  • Always agree on the fare before starting the journey. Fares are usually quoted in USD.
  • Short rides within the town's boundaries 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 within 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 quality and safety concerns.

Bicycle Rentals

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

Walking & Cycling

The Falls on the zambezi river and Livingstone town centers are relatively compact and walkable. Paths within The Falls on the zambezi river National Park (Zimbabwe side) are great for walking along the falls.