Skip to content

The Guide to the Best Time to Visit Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls, where the mighty Zambezi River plunges into a deep chasm, is an awe-inspiring spectacle at any time of the year. However, the experience varies dramatically depending on the season. If you’re wondering when the best time to visit Victoria Falls is, here’s a detailed guide to help you plan your trip.

The flow of the Zambezi River and Victoria Falls follows an annual rhythm of ebbs and surges, influenced by the rainfall over their vast catchment area that spans Zambia and extends into Angola.

Victoria Falls. Image by Dating Jungle

Understanding the Seasons

The region typically experiences summer rains from December to March. The pattern of these rains is unpredictable, varying in distribution, frequency, and timing each year. They usually manifest as late-afternoon thunderstorms, bringing intense downpours.

This concentrated rainfall, confined mostly within this period, revitalises temporary rivers and injects a large volume of water into the Upper Zambezi River. This causes extensive flooding in the Barotse floodplains and Caprivi swamps upstream of Victoria Falls, leading to a significant increase in the water volume cascading over the falls. However, these floodwaters take time to filter downstream.

High Water and Low Water Periods

The best time to visit Victoria Falls depends on what you want to experience.

  • High Water (April–June): The Zambezi usually peaks in April. During this period, the waterfall is at its most powerful, but the copious spray can obscure the view. Some activities, such as white-water rafting, may be temporarily suspended due to the high water levels.
  • Low Water (July–December): The falls progressively reveal more of their rock face, but the Devil’s Cataract and Main Falls still carry an impressive volume of water. Comparing the force of Victoria Falls in full flood with the exposed, bare rock gorge at low water offers a fascinating contrast.

Best Time for Wildlife Safari

The dry season (May to November) is recommended for traditional wildlife safari viewing, as animals tend to congregate around water sources. The rainy season ushers in the ‘green’ or ’emerald’ season, offering abundant birdlife and stunning photographic opportunities. Although spotting game may require a bit more patience, the lush landscape more than compensates for this.

By understanding the seasonal changes at Victoria Falls, you can choose the best time to visit based on your personal preferences and interests. Whether you crave the exhilaration of viewing the falls in full flood or the thrill of a dry-season safari, Victoria Falls promises an unforgettable adventure.