Victoria Falls: Zambia vs. Zimbabwe – Which Side Is Better?
When it comes to Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the age-old debate continues: Zambia or Zimbabwe? Both sides share this majestic waterfall, but Zambia has steadily risen to offer an unbeatable experience. Let’s dive into why the Zambian side of Victoria Falls might just be the winner.
1. View of the Falls
Zambian Side:
- Close-Up Magic: Zambia offers an up-close, immersive experience of the falls, especially from the Knife-Edge Bridge, where you’ll feel the mist on your face and hear the thunderous roar.
- Livingstone Island: Stand right where Dr. David Livingstone first saw the falls.
- Devil’s Pool: A once-in-a-lifetime thrill — swim at the very edge of the falls during the dry season!
Zimbabwean Side:
- While Zimbabwe offers a panoramic view of the falls, it lacks the intimate encounters that Zambia provides.
Winner: Zambia — for the raw, awe-inspiring, up-close experience.
2. Activities
Zambian Side:
- Bungee Jumping: Take the 111-meter plunge off the Victoria Falls Bridge.
- Microlight Flights: Enjoy spectacular aerial views in an open microlight aircraft.
- River Cruises: Relaxing sunset cruises along the Zambezi River.
- Livingstone Island & Devil’s Pool: Unique experiences exclusive to Zambia.
Zimbabwean Side:
- Zimbabwe also offers river cruises and bungee jumping, but the Devil’s Pool remains uniquely Zambian.
Winner: Zambia — for its unique, adrenaline-packed activities.
3. Accommodation and Accessibility
Zambian Side:
- Hotels Close to the Falls: Zambia boasts luxury stays like Royal Livingstone Hotel and Avani Victoria Falls Resort, both just a stone’s throw away from the falls.
- Accessibility: Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport in Livingstone offers direct flights, making access easy.
- Affordability: Entrance fees to the falls are generally more budget-friendly on the Zambian side.
Zimbabwean Side:
- Zimbabwe has high-end lodges, but many are further from the falls compared to Zambia.
Winner: Zambia — for closer hotels, better access, and affordability.
4. Wildlife and Nature
Zambian Side:
- Explore Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, home to white rhinos, elephants, and giraffes.
- Enjoy walking safaris and intimate wildlife experiences.
Zimbabwean Side:
- Zimbabwe also offers wildlife safaris, but Zambia’s smaller parks allow for quieter and more personal encounters.
Winner: Zambia — for serene and unique wildlife safaris.
5. Crowd Levels
Zambian Side:
- Generally less crowded, even during peak season, ensuring a quieter and more personal experience.
Zimbabwean Side:
- Often more crowded, especially in peak tourist seasons.
Winner: Zambia — for fewer crowds and a more exclusive feel.
Final Verdict: Zambia Takes the Crown 🏆
While both sides offer incredible experiences, Zambia emerges as the clear winner with:
- Thrilling activities like Devil’s Pool and microlight flights.
- Closer accommodations and better accessibility.
- Unique wildlife encounters at Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park.
- Fewer crowds for a more relaxed experience.
If you want adventure, intimacy, and unforgettable memories, Zambia’s side of Victoria Falls is the place to be! 🌍✨
Pro Tip: If you can, visit both sides for the full experience — but Zambia should definitely be your priority!
