Victoria Falls: Private Zambian and Zimbabwean Sides Tour

If you’re dreaming of Victoria Falls, but want to experience its grandeur from both the Zambian and Zimbabwean perspectives, this private tour offers a fantastic way to do just that. For $125 per person, you’ll get a personalized, in-depth look at this iconic natural wonder with knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and the chance to tick off multiple highlights in a single day.

What really makes this experience shine? We love the intimacy of a private guided tour, the variety of viewpoints offered, and the opportunity to explore the lush rainforest surrounding the falls. Plus, crossing the border adds a touch of adventure. On the downside, you’ll need to be prepared for the park fees, which aren’t included, and possibly some early mornings depending on the schedule. This tour suits travelers who value authentic, well-guided experiences and want a thorough exploration without the crowds.

Key Points

• Comprehensive access to both the Zambian and Zimbabwean sides of Victoria Falls.
• Expert guides enhance the experience with local knowledge and safety tips.
• Stunning viewpoints like the Knife Edge Bridge and Viewpoint 1 offer perfect photo ops.
• Exclusive access to Devil’s Pool (if included) provides a unique, adrenaline-pumping experience.
• All-around value for the price, considering transport, guided walks, and included bottled water.
• Border crossing assistance simplifies the process between two countries.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring both Sides of Victoria Falls

This tour truly stands out because it combines the best of both worlds—the Zambian side within Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park and the Zimbabwean side at Victoria Falls National Park. You start early in Zambia, where the sounds of crashing water grow louder as you approach the main falls. The landscape is breathtaking, with the sheer force of the water creating a constant spray of mist that will leave your face and clothes damp—and that’s part of the fun.

The highlight here is walking along the Knife Edge Bridge, a suspended structure that offers one of the most dramatic views of the falls. From this vantage point, you can see the Main Falls and Eastern Cataract in all their thunderous glory. It’s an exhilarating moment, especially when you feel the fine spray of water on your face and realize just how powerful nature can be.

Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park: The Zambian Side

Our guides, such as John (who’s been leading tours here for over a decade), make a big difference. They not only point out the best viewpoints but also share interesting tidbits about the geology and local flora and fauna. The scenery here is varied—from lush rainforest to expansive views over the falls. Many reviews mention how helpful and friendly guides like John make the experience more engaging and informative.

Tip: Be sure to wear comfortable shoes; the paths can be uneven and you’ll be walking quite a bit. The tour typically lasts a few hours, giving ample time to visit multiple viewpoints and soak in the sounds and sights.

Crossing into Zimbabwe

The border crossing from Zambia to Zimbabwe is straightforward, with your guide handling formalities. Expect a short wait, but it’s well worth it. Once in Zimbabwe’s Victoria Falls National Park, you’ll notice a slightly different perspective of the falls—more accessible viewing points and broader vistas. Here, visitors often comment on how different the scenery looks from the Zimbabwean side, providing a fuller picture of this natural wonder.

Victoria Falls National Park Highlights

The Zimbabwean side grants access to the iconic Viewpoint 1, a photo magnet offering panoramic views. From here, you’ll feel the full magnitude of the falls, with the spray and roar so intense you can almost feel it reverberate through your chest. The rainforest surrounding the falls is lush and teeming with native flora and birdlife, making the walk both scenic and educational.

Many reviewers appreciated the guided rainforest walk, where guides shared insights about the ecosystem and highlighted animals like various bird species and butterflies. This walk adds a peaceful contrast to the roaring falls and offers chances for close-up wildlife encounters.

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Devil’s Pool and Other Highlights

If included in your package or as an optional add-on, the Devil’s Pool is a truly unique experience. Perched right at the edge of the falls during the dry season, it provides a natural infinity pool with a heart-stopping view. Several visitors have exclaimed about how surreal it is to swim so close to the edge, with guides ensuring safety and sharing tales of how the pool forms naturally.

While the tour description doesn’t specify Devil’s Pool access, reviews from similar experiences mention it as a highlight, so it’s worth asking your provider about availability.

Practical Details and Value

The total cost of $125 per person covers private transportation, guided walks, bottled water, and border crossing assistance. It’s a good value considering the personal attention and extensive access to viewpoints—especially compared to group tours that can be crowded and less flexible.

Park fees are additional: On the Zambian side, you’ll pay around $20, and in Zimbabwe, approximately $50. These are paid directly by the traveler, so budgeting around $70 extra is wise.

Transport is comfortable, and the guide handles the logistics, which simplifies the experience—no need to worry about navigation or formalities. The tour is designed for those who are physically able to walk and climb stairs, so some stamina is necessary.

What to Bring

• Comfortable shoes for uneven paths
• Hat and sunscreen for protection
• Camera for capturing the views
• Water to stay hydrated
• Rain-resistant clothing if you want to avoid getting soaked from the spray

Important Considerations

• Visa requirements: Ensure you have the necessary visas for Zambia and Zimbabwe.
• Weather conditions: The tour proceeds unless weather makes it unsafe.
• Physical ability: Be prepared for walking and some stairs.
• Littering, smoking, and alcohol are not permitted, preserving the environment and safety.

Who is this tour ideal for?

This experience is perfect for travelers wanting a personalized, in-depth exploration of Victoria Falls without the hassle of navigating border crossings alone. It suits those who appreciate guided insights and stunning panoramic views—ideal for photography lovers and nature enthusiasts. If you’re up for a bit of walking and want to see both sides of the falls in one day, this tour offers great value and authentic access.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a balanced, well-structured tour that delivers both breathtaking scenery and expert guidance, this private Victoria Falls experience ticks all the boxes. The combination of the Zambian and Zimbabwean sides, along with the rainforest walk, provides a comprehensive look at this awe-inspiring site.

The guides’ local knowledge and friendly attitude elevate what might otherwise be just a sightseeing trip into a memorable adventure. Plus, with the option to include Devil’s Pool or explore multiple viewpoints, it’s flexible enough to suit different interests.

While the park fees add to the cost, they are reasonable and reflect the quality and maintenance of these protected areas. This tour is especially suited for those seeking a more intimate, less crowded experience, with plenty of photo opportunities and insightful commentary.

Overall, for just $125, you get a thoughtfully curated, personalized tour that offers incredible value—making it a must-do for anyone eager to really see and understand Victoria Falls.

FAQ

Do I need a visa to do this tour? Yes, you should ensure you have the necessary visas for both Zambia and Zimbabwe before the trip.

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour includes private transport, making it easy to move between the parks and border crossing.

How long does the tour last? The exact duration isn’t specified, but guided tours typically last a few hours, allowing ample time to explore multiple viewpoints and enjoy the rainforest walk.

Are park fees included? No, the park fees ($20 for Zambia and $50 for Zimbabwe) are paid directly by travelers.

Can I visit Devil’s Pool on this tour? It depends on availability and your guide’s arrangements; it’s a popular extra, so check with your provider.

Is the tour suitable for children? It’s designed for guests who can walk and climb stairs comfortably, so consider physical ability before booking.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, hat, sunscreen, camera, water, and rain gear if you want protection from spray.

Is the tour weather-dependent? The tour proceeds unless weather conditions are unsafe, so check the forecast and dress appropriately.

Can I cancel this tour? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

In summary, this private tour of Victoria Falls gives you a thorough, personalized experience with access to the most stunning viewpoints and expert guidance. It’s a fantastic way to see both countries’ sides of this natural wonder, all while enjoying the comfort of private transport and tailored commentary. If you’re seeking an authentic, well-organized adventure that respects your pace and interests, this tour could very well be the highlight of your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: