Overview
Victoria Falls is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, straddling the border between Botswana, Zimbabwe, and — at its widest reach — touching Zambia. The falls drop roughly 108 metres into the Batoka Gorge along the Zambezi River, producing a roar and spray column visible from kilometres away. The Kololo people named them Mosi-oa-Tunya — "The Smoke That Thunders" — long before Scottish missionary David Livingstone documented them in 1855.
From the Botswana side, the main visitor hub is Kasane, a town situated at the meeting point of four countries: Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Namibia. The falls themselves are most directly accessed from the Zimbabwean town of Victoria Falls or the Zambian town of Livingstone, both a short border crossing from Kasane. Many visitors use Kasane as a base and make day or overnight trips to the falls proper.
The surrounding area is also home to Chobe National Park, one of Africa's premier wildlife destinations, making this corner of Botswana a natural combination of waterfall spectacle and big-game safari. The Chobe River frontage near Kasane is famous for some of Africa's largest elephant herds.
This guide treats the broader Victoria Falls region from a Botswana perspective — particularly Kasane and the Chobe area — while acknowledging that most travelers will cross into Zimbabwe or Zambia to stand at the falls' edge.
Before You Go
Visas
Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Zambia each have their own entry requirements. Many nationalities can enter Botswana visa-free for short stays, but rules change. If you plan to cross borders — which most visitors to this region do — you will need to check entry rules for each country you intend to visit. The KAZA UniVisa (available at some border posts) has historically allowed easier movement between Zimbabwe and Zambia; verify its current availability before travel. Check TravelerPulse's Visas section and the official immigration websites of Botswana (gov.bw), Zimbabwe, and Zambia for current, authoritative requirements.
Health
- Malaria is present in this region. Consult a travel health professional well before departure about prophylaxis.
- Yellow fever vaccination certificates may be required if you are arriving from or transiting through a yellow-fever-endemic country. Verify the current requirement with your doctor and the relevant embassies.
- Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date. Hepatitis A and typhoid cover is commonly recommended for travel in southern Africa.
- Potable water reliability varies; bottled or purified water is safest.
What to Pack
- Lightweight, neutral-coloured clothing for wildlife activities
- Waterproof jacket and a dry bag — the mist from the falls drenches everything, especially at high water
- Sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat
- Comfortable walking shoes with grip
- A spare set of clothes in a waterproof bag if you plan to visit the falls viewpoints during high-flow months
Getting There
By Air
Kasane International Airport (BBK) serves the Botswana side and receives regional flights, typically connecting through Johannesburg (OR Tambo International) or Maun. Carriers and schedules change seasonally — check current routes with your preferred booking platform or travel agent. Alternatively, Victoria Falls Airport (VFA) in Zimbabwe and Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport in Livingstone, Zambia, receive more frequent international connections and may be more convenient depending on your itinerary.
By Road
Kasane is reachable by road from Johannesburg (approximately 1,200 km) via Francistown, though this is a long drive best broken into stages. The road network is generally paved but verify road conditions and seasonal closures locally. Cross-border road travel requires correct vehicle documentation; rental car companies often have specific restrictions on taking vehicles across borders — confirm this before booking.
Border Crossings
The Kazungula Border Post connects Botswana and Zambia and was historically served by a pontoon ferry across the Zambezi; a new bridge opened in 2021, easing transit. The border with Zimbabwe at Kazungula or via the Victoria Falls Bridge (Zimbabwe–Zambia) are other options. Hours, queues, and procedures vary — arrive with patience and all documents in order.
Getting Around
Within Kasane
Kasane is a small town and most lodges, guesthouses, and key services are within a manageable area. Many accommodation providers arrange transfers. Taxis and local minibuses operate, but there is no formal public transit network. Confirm rates before boarding any taxi.
To the Falls
Most visitors join organised day trips or transfers from Kasane lodges to Victoria Falls town (Zimbabwe) or Livingstone (Zambia). Transfer times are roughly 1–2 hours depending on border wait times. Guided tours that include border assistance are widely available and reduce stress for first-time visitors.
Self-Drive and Car Hire
Self-driving is a viable option for experienced southern Africa travelers. Note that 4WD vehicles may be required for some tracks in Chobe National Park. Confirm any cross-border permissions with your rental company before departure.
Boats
River cruises on the Chobe and Zambezi are a major attraction and typically arranged through lodges or local operators. Sunset and game-viewing cruises depart from Kasane waterfront area.
Where to Stay
Accommodation in the Kasane–Victoria Falls region spans a broad range from basic guesthouses to high-end safari lodges. Booking well in advance is strongly advised for the June–October peak safari season.
In Kasane (Botswana side): There are several lodges and guesthouses ranging from budget to upmarket, many with Chobe River frontage. Elephant encounters on the grounds of riverside properties are not unusual — keep a safe distance. Verify current options and rates through a reputable booking platform or travel agent, as properties open, close, and change management.
In Victoria Falls town (Zimbabwe): A wider variety of accommodation exists, from backpacker hostels to five-star hotels. This side has the most direct access to the falls viewpoints. Many operators here also arrange activities across the Zambia border.
In Livingstone (Zambia): Offers accommodation close to the Zambian side of the falls and to activity operators on that bank.
For those seeking deeper immersion in Chobe National Park, there are several licensed camps inside or on the boundary of the park. These tend to be more expensive but offer unparalleled wildlife proximity.
Things to See & Do
Victoria Falls Viewpoints
The primary viewpoint network is on the Zimbabwean side (Mosi-oa-Tunya/Victoria Falls National Park, managed by Zimbabwe Parks). The Zambian side (Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park) offers a different angle. Admission fees apply at both; verify current fees at the gate or on official park websites. A raincoat or poncho is essential at high water.
Devil's Pool
A natural rock pool at the very lip of the falls on Livingstone Island, Zambia. Accessible only during lower water levels (roughly September to January/early February). Guided tours from the Zambian side are required; book in advance through licensed operators as access is controlled.
Chobe National Park
Located immediately around Kasane, Chobe is renowned for its elephant population — estimated to be among the largest concentrations in Africa — as well as buffalo, lion, leopard, hippo, crocodile, and exceptional birdlife. Game drives (morning and afternoon) and boat-based game viewing along the Chobe River are the primary activities. Entry fees and regulations apply; verify through the Botswana Department of Wildlife and National Parks or your lodge.
Adventure Activities
The Victoria Falls area, primarily coordinated from the Zimbabwean and Zambian sides, is one of Africa's premier adventure-sports destinations:
- White-water rafting on the Zambezi through the Batoka Gorge
- Bungee jumping from the Victoria Falls Bridge (Zimbabwe–Zambia border)
- Zip-lining and gorge swings
- Microlight and helicopter flights over the falls
- Guided walking safaris in the national parks
All activities should be booked through reputable, licensed operators. Ask to see safety certifications.
Sunset Cruises
Evening cruises on the Chobe or Zambezi rivers are widely available from Kasane and from Victoria Falls town. These combine sundowners with wildlife watching — hippos and elephants are commonly spotted from the water.
Food & Drink
Dining options in Kasane are primarily lodge restaurants, a handful of independent restaurants along the main road, and basic local eateries. The range is more limited than in Victoria Falls town or Livingstone, which have established tourism dining scenes with varied cuisine.
Expect to find grilled meats (including game dishes such as kudu or crocodile at some restaurants), fresh tilapia from the Zambezi, and standard southern African staples like pap (maize porridge). Supermarkets in Kasane stock packaged goods. Prices at lodge restaurants are typically higher than standalone eateries.
Alcohol is widely available. South African wines are common. Botswana's own Chibuku (traditional sorghum beer) is found locally. Tap water safety varies — bottled water is the reliable choice. If you are sensitive to dietary choices, communicate these clearly to restaurant staff, as vegetarian and vegan options may be limited in smaller establishments.
Practical Information
Money
Botswana Pula (BWP) is the official currency. ATMs are available in Kasane but can run out of cash or be out of service — withdraw what you need when you can. US dollars are accepted at many tourist-facing businesses, but exchange rates offered privately may not be favourable. Credit cards are accepted at most lodges and larger operators; carry cash for smaller purchases and border fees.
Connectivity
- Mobile coverage exists in Kasane and town areas but is patchy or absent inside national park wilderness areas.
- Local SIM cards are available; bring an unlocked phone. Botswana's main network operators include Mascom and Orange (btc).
- Lodge Wi-Fi is common but speeds vary.
Electricity
Botswana uses Type G plugs (the British three-pin standard) at 230V / 50Hz. Bring a universal adapter. Power outages do occur; lodges typically have backup generators.
Emergency Services
For any emergency, contact your lodge or accommodation staff immediately — they are your fastest route to appropriate help in a remote area. General emergency numbers vary; verify the current national emergency number (police, ambulance) with your accommodation on arrival. Travel insurance with emergency medical evacuation cover is strongly recommended for this region.
Safety
Victoria Falls and Kasane are established tourism areas and are generally considered safe for visitors who exercise standard travel awareness. That said, some practical points:
- Wildlife: Elephants, hippos, and other large animals are genuinely wild and present genuine danger. Never approach wildlife on foot without a qualified guide. Hippos are among Africa's most dangerous animals and often leave the water at night — take heed of local advice near riverbanks after dark.
- Swimming: The Zambezi River carries strong currents and crocodiles. Only swim in designated, supervised locations such as Devil's Pool (guided, in season) or hotel pools.
- Petty theft: Keep valuables secured. Pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas and border crossings. Do not display expensive cameras or jewellery unnecessarily.
- Border crossings: Scams involving unofficial "helpers" at border posts are reported. Use only official channels and staff.
- Road safety: If self-driving after dark, be extremely cautious — animals on roads are a serious hazard throughout the region.
- Register your travel plans with your country's embassy or consular service before departing.
Local Culture & Etiquette
The Kasane area sits within the territory of the Chobe District, home to several communities including the Basubiya and Wayeyi peoples, alongside the broader Tswana majority that gives Botswana its national cultural character. The region's cross-border nature means visitors encounter a genuine blend of Botswana, Zimbabwean, and Zambian cultural influences.
Botswana has one of Africa's stronger records on democratic governance and wildlife conservation, a point of considerable national pride. The country has historically channelled revenue from Chobe's tourism into conservation efforts — visitors contribute directly to this through park fees.
Greet people politely; a warm greeting goes a long way in this part of the world. Dress modestly when visiting local markets or communities away from resort areas. Photography of local people should always be done with consent. Bargaining is not the aggressive process it is in some regions — polite negotiation is appropriate at craft markets, but accept a firm no gracefully.
Be respectful of the cultural and historical significance of the falls to the peoples who have lived alongside the Zambezi for generations, for whom Mosi-oa-Tunya carries deep meaning beyond its status as a tourist attraction.
