VICTORIA FALLS FAQ'S

How do I get to Victoria Falls?

There are two international airports located at Victoria Falls Town, Zimbabwe, and Livingstone Town, Zambia.

How do I get from the airport to my hotel?

The Victoria Falls International Airport is located 11 miles south of the city itself. The Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport is located 3 miles north of the city across the border with Zambia. If you land in Victoria Falls there are options to take a bus, shuttle, taxi, or rental car to town. A taxi ride will cost between US$30-$40 to get into town, be sure to negotiate.

If you land in Livingstone Airport there are taxis, shuttles, and rental cars available. However, flying into Zambia’s Harry Mwanga Nkumbula Airport requires 3 different taxis to reach Victoria Falls, one from the airport to the border, one from the border and through customs, then another one over the bridge. The total of the three taxi rides will cost around US$35-$45.

How do I get around the city using public transportation?

Victoria Falls is a small town with many attractions, getting around town is quite easy. The town is well connected to the main roads in the country, as well as the road/rail bridge that links Zambia and Zimbabwe together.

Most lodges and hotels in town will have shuttles they provide for guests to travel to the falls. There is also a free shuttle service that runs hourly, this free service stops at most hotels, and lodges, and takes passengers to the town center.

The Bamba Bus is a hop-on-hop-off tour bus that travels around Victoria Falls. Passengers can explore all the major spots for an affordable price.

Scooter hires are available in town and are a fun way of exploring Victoria Falls. You can rent for a half day or a full day.

There is a free shuttle service that runs in Victoria Falls which runs every hour from most hotels and lodges located in the heart of the city. The shuttles run to a from town, the falls, and other activities.

Should I rent a car in Victoria Falls?

There are options to rent cards at the airport and a few places in the town. Renting a car may not be the best option as the town is small and getting around is easier with many other options. If you plan to travel to other destinations such as Hwange or Bulawayo which are quite a distance from the falls then renting a car is a good idea. Victoria Falls is easily accessible by road from South Africa and Botswana.

How do I call/hail a taxi?

There are plenty of taxis in the downtown area and a typical fare is US$5-$10 for anywhere within Victoria Falls.

Can I get around by train in Victoria Falls?

Victoria Falls Steam Train Company offers a luxury train ride that crosses the mighty Zambezi via the Victoria Falls Bridge to Livingstone in Zambia, and vice versa. This beautifully restored steam train is a 1954 Dlass 14A steam locomotive with dining cars, and first class coaches. Passengers can enjoy the bridge run at sunset and enjoy different packages usch as “royal tea”, or a Moonlight Dinner Run. Making reservations are essential as well as a 20% nonrefundable deposit.

Is Victoria Falls a walking city?

Walking around Victoria Falls is the easiest option to get around, taking a walk around town is a great option and usually the most popular option. Walking around town allows visitors to experience this culturally and historically rich town and possibly spot some wildlife, such as elephants who pay regular visits to the town center. From both sides of the falls, it is easy to walk from each entry to the respective national parks to the actual passport stamping border crossing in around 10 minutes, it takes another 15 minutes to walk the length of the bridge.

Can I ride a bike in Victoria Falls?

You can ride and rent bicycles available in Victoria Falls. You can hire a bike in the center of town between the information center and Wild Horizons booking office on Park Way, the cost is around US$5 for an hour, $10 for half a day, and $20 for a full day. There are e-bikes that can be hired by the hour ($10 for 1 hour, $20 for 3 hours) or per day ($40). You can pick up an e-bike from one of their locations, or it can be delivered to your hotel/lodge. There are also bike tours in Victoria Falls with an 8-mile circuit around town, starting at The Lookout, the tour takes you into the local township to see and experience the local culture, to the big tree, along the Zambezi River, and down to the Victoria Falls Bridge.

Is Victoria Falls a dangerous city, is there anything I should be aware of?

Victoria Falls is considered a safe destination to visit. Take the necessary precautions when sightseeing, use common sense, and keep your valuables out of sight from pickpockets, especially in crowded areas like markets, and tourist attractions. At night stay in well-lit and populated areas, and use reputable transportation companies instead of taking rides from strangers.

What are some popular areas for shopping?

There are an array of curio shops, arts and crafts, galleries, and little boutiques found in Victoria Falls. There are bustling markets such as Maramba Market which offers a great atmosphere and stalls selling woodwork, masks, and handcrafted sculptures. Elephant’s Walk is a small shopping center located close to the outdoor curio market selling wood carvings, stone sculptures, and good art from very talented artists. The Landela Centre boasts several boutiques, curio shops, and cafes. The Phumula Centre on Park Way is a shopping center with a well-stocked supermarket located behind the booking office. There are some quaint clothing boutiques found here also. Sawanga is the first shopping mall found on the way into Victoria Falls town there are many different stores in the mall as well as restaurants and entertainment.

What is the language spoken in Victoria Falls?

The official language spoken in Victoria Falls is English, which is widely spoken, especially in the service industry, it is taught in schools and used in government, business, and the media. Many people speak fluent English, especially in hotels and restaurants. We recommend getting a good English/Zimbabwean guidebook and learning the basic questions like please, thank you, and numbers 1-10.

What is the best time to visit Victoria Falls?

The climate in Victoria Falls is subtropical with mild, dry winters from May through August, however the nights are very cold during this time of year. The summers are hot and humid with temperatures reaching over 100 F degrees. The hottest months are September to November. High water season is from February to July when there are spectacular views of the Falls. Low water season is from August to January when activities such as white water rafting, and swimming in Devil’s Pool can be enjoyed. The peak season for safaris is from June to October, combining the falls and a safari is great at this time. The “sweet spot” for a good safari and great views is generally July and August.

What is the currency? Can I pay/tip in US dollars?

The currency of Victoria Falls is the US dollar. You will need to have US dollars on hand when arriving in Zimbabwe. Cash is preferred, there are ATMs found at the airport and locations in the city, tipping is discretionary and appreciated, and cash is usually preferred.

What is the food like?

There are many luxury restaurants and African buffets located in Victoria Falls with opportunities for famous afternoon teas with delightful views of Victoria Falls. Many of the restaurants and dining opportunities can be found at the hotels and lodges in town with options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Visitors can also venture outside of their accommodation including cafes, restaurants, buffets, and dinner and a show. The restaurants dotted around town offer a variety of different foods, some are truly world-class and have wonderful atmospheres. There are some beautiful bespoke dining experiences under the stars, these exclusive dinners are private and very popular.

What is the nightlife like?

Victoria Falls offers a surprisingly vibrant nightlife, once the sun sets the town comes alive with music, dance, and entertainment. There are live bands and DJ sets offered at some of the best bars and clubs the town has to offer. There is pulsating energy in this iconic destination, sip cocktails at sunset, and dance under the stars, there is a wide array of captivating activities and experiences to choose from. There are various outdoor events organized by locals that make the nightlife experience in Victoria Falls unique and memorable. There are various bars, nightclubs, and luxurious lounges to choose from in Victoria Falls. Victoria Falls nightlife represents the cultural diversity of this town fuzing African, European, and other international cultures. Visitors can savor the nightlife’s diverse culinary options ranging from traditional Zimbabwean dishes to international cuisine from Europe, Asia, and the rest of the African continent.

What should I do if I need medical assistance or need to go to the hospital?

In case of an emergency dial 112 for local police, and 114 for an ambulance, or fire.

Hospitals: Victoria Falls Hospital tel.263-83-284-4262