Experiencing Victoria Falls: A Tale of Two Countries

Victoria Falls, known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya or The Smoke That Thunders, is one of the most awe-inspiring waterfalls in the world. Straddling the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, it is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is often included in lists of the world's greatest natural wonders. Its sheer size and power leave visitors spellbound.

I’m eager to share my firsthand experience of witnessing this natural marvel from both sides, including an unforgettable helicopter ride above the falls and the heart-pounding thrill of swimming at the edge in Devil’s Pool.

Standing at the edge of a 108-meter drop, the sheer force of the falls is staggering. The roar of crashing water is so loud it can be heard from miles away. My adventure began on the Zambian side, where I was welcomed by lush greenery and stunning vantage points. Walking across the Knife-Edge Bridge, I was drenched by the swirling mist, a refreshing preview of the power that lay ahead.

The Zimbabwe Side: Postcard-Perfect Views

If you’re chasing that classic, full-frontal view of Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe is where you want to be. The majority of the falls—about 75%—lie on this side, and the well-maintained trails through Victoria Falls National Park lead to multiple viewpoints that will leave you speechless.

The lush greenery leading to the falls.

One of the most iconic spots is Danger Point, where you can stand on the edge (safely, of course) and feel the raw power of the falls as the spray soaks you to the bone. The sound is deafening, and the mist rising from the gorge creates rainbows that make the entire scene feel surreal.

Dry season (from May to October) offers clearer views, while the wet season (November to April) turns the falls into a raging, misty monster. Either way, the sight is unforgettable.

The Zambia Side: Up Close and Personal

Zambia offers a more immersive, adrenaline-filled experience. The highlight? The Knife-Edge Bridge. Walking across this narrow bridge, you’re surrounded by mist so thick it feels like you’re walking through a cloud. Below, the Zambezi River thunders into the gorge, reminding you just how powerful nature can be.

Living at the edge of Victoria Falls

But the real showstopper on the Zambian side is Devil’s Pool. This natural infinity pool forms right at the edge of the falls, and during the dry season, daring visitors can take a dip—literally inches from a 354-foot drop. Floating there, feeling the rush of water tugging at you while staring down into the abyss, is both terrifying and exhilarating.

Helicopter Ride: A Bird’s Eye View

If standing near the falls isn't thrilling enough, soaring above them in a helicopter might do the trick. Dubbed the "Flight of Angels," this experience offers a jaw-dropping aerial perspective of the Zambezi River as it meanders towards the falls before dramatically plunging into the Batoka Gorge.

Helicopter view encompassing Victoria Falls and surrounding nature.

From above, you truly grasp the scale of Victoria Falls. The sheer width, the billowing mist, the deep gorges—everything is magnified. The 15-minute ride feels far too short, but every second is mesmerizing. If you can splurge on anything during your trip, let it be this.

Which Side is Better?

Honestly, both. Zimbabwe offers better panoramic views, while Zambia gives you those heart-racing, up-close moments. If you can, visit both sides. The border crossing is straightforward, and it’s worth the extra effort to see Victoria Falls in its entirety.

No matter how you experience it—soaked to the skin at Danger Point, floating on the edge at Devil’s Pool, or soaring above in a helicopter—Victoria Falls is a place that sticks with you. It’s not just about the sights; it’s about the sheer, humbling power of nature at its finest.