Discover Victoria Falls: A traveler's guide to sustainable choices

Victoria Falls presents a peaceful calm that seems almost unreal, unlike the busy crowds and long wait times typically found at Niagara Falls. Without large groups of tourists, you can immerse yourself more fully in the experience. Even though Victoria Falls is considered one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, it receives significantly fewer visitors than Niagara Falls in North America, allowing it to retain a more serene atmosphere.

Before delving into the ethical practices around visiting Victoria Falls, it's important to understand some basics that largely determine the quality of your experience.

Seasonality and Water Levels
Visiting Victoria Falls at different times of the year can yield vastly different experiences, not just in temperatures but crucially in water levels. The dry season from June to December sees water levels gradually recede, with the lowest levels in November revealing more rock formations but drying up the Zambian side. This makes for ideal white-water rafting when flows are less intense and allows access to Devil's Pool. 

While most may obstruct views, the sheer volume of water creates a mesmerizing spectacle. During this period, lush vegetation surrounds the falls in full bloom. Understanding these seasonal variations is key to planning the optimal Victoria Falls visit.

January: Water begins returning to the Zambian side as levels rise, but the Zimbabwe side still carries more. Bathing in Devil's Pools may still be possible in early-mid January.

February: Water levels continue increasing, with both sides expected to have water flowing. Bathing in Devil's Pools is suspended by this time.

March-May: Peak water levels make for scenic flights with huge plumes of spray. However, bathing in Devil's Pools is not recommended during these months.

June-August: Water gradually recedes, with Devil's Pools potentially reopening for bathing from mid-August. Nights are cool during this shoulder season.

September-November: Lowest water levels, so the Zimbabwe side is best to view the falls. December sees similar conditions. These months are prime for bathing in Devil's Pool with clear views of the cliffs.

December: As for November, low water levels mean the best views are from Zimbabwe with the Zambian side potentially drying up in parts. Devil's Pool is accessible.

The ideal length of a Victoria Falls visit depends on individual interests and how much exploration you wish to do. To gain a well-rounded experience taking in both sides of the border, we recommend a minimum stay of two to three nights.

This amount of time allows for exploring multiple vantage points of the falls from both Zimbabwe and Zambia. It also provides opportunities to partake in memorable activities like sunset boat rides, island picnics, and observing the surrounding wildlife. For those seeking adventure, two to three nights leaves enough flexibility to fit in thrills like bungee jumping or white-water rafting. With a short stop, you won't fully experience everything Victoria Falls has to offer. allocating two to three days ensures an appropriately paced visit.

We recommend starting your visit on the Zambian side to immerse yourself up close in the power and majesty of Victoria Falls. Take in the views while traversing the Knife-Edge Bridge. Enjoy adrenaline-pumping activities like helicopter flights for aerial views from above. Once you've soaked in the breathtaking sights and sounds, cross over to the Zimbabwean side. There, the falls unfold more panoramically amidst lush rainforest surroundings, allowing a different perspective to appreciate Victoria Falls' full scope. Beginning on the Zambia side offers the most visceral introduction before gaining a wider vantage point in Zimbabwe - a meaningful itinerary to experience the natural wonder from multiple angles.