Zimbabwe & Zambia: Guided Tour of the Falls from Both Sides

Zimbabwe & Zambia: Guided Tour of the Falls from Both Sides

Victoria Falls is one of those natural wonders that keeps you gazing in awe. While many travelers stick to just one side, the guided tour exploring both the Zimbabwean and Zambian viewpoints truly offers a complete picture of this incredible spectacle.

This tour, offered by Cuckoo Safaris, scores highly with a stellar 4.8 out of 5 from 184 reviews, reflecting its popularity and the genuine value it provides. For $63 per person, you get more than just a quick glimpse—you get a carefully curated experience that combines breathtaking scenery, expert guidance, and cultural insights.

What we love about this experience? First, the chance to see the falls from both sides, which reveals totally different perspectives. Second, the guides—like Martha and Shelton—are praised for their knowledge, friendly attitude, and ability to navigate border crossings smoothly. Third, the optional but highly recommended guided tours of the falls themselves mean you’re not just sightseeing, but truly learning about the history, geology, and wildlife of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

A potential consideration? The entrance fees add up—$20 for Zambia and $50 for Zimbabwe—so factor these costs into your budget. Also, during high spray or flood season, expect to get wet—raincoats are provided, but bringing an extra change of clothes might make your day more comfortable.

This tour works best for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free way to experience Victoria Falls from both sides without the stress of border crossings or planning multiple excursions. If you’re a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or simply seeking the most iconic views combined with storytelling, this tour will suit you perfectly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Dual-Side Experience: See Victoria Falls from both Zimbabwe and Zambia for a complete perspective.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Martha and Shelton enhance the experience with local insights and helpful assistance.
• Border Crossings Made Easy: Guides handle border procedures, making crossings smooth and stress-free.
• Breathtaking Views & Rainforest Walks: Multiple lookout points and rainforest trails bring you close to the roaring water and spray.
• Authentic Cultural Touch: Visit a local market for souvenirs, adding a cultural element to your adventure.
• Value for Money: For around $63, the tour includes guiding, hotel pickup/dropoff, bottled water, and raincoats—making it a practical and immersive option.

A Full Breakdown of the Tour Experience

Starting with Convenience: Hotel Pickup & Transport

From the moment your day begins, the organization is clear. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, which is a huge plus—no need to worry about taxis or navigating unfamiliar transport. The minibus used by Cuckoo Safaris appears well-maintained, and reviews highlight courteous drivers like Simon who help make border crossings and transfers seamless.

Once onboard, the journey out to the falls takes about an hour, giving you time to get familiar with the area and ask your guides questions about local culture or geology. The group sizes seem manageable, which means you’ll get a more personalized experience, and guides like Martha and Shelton are often praised for their friendliness and helpfulness.

Exploring the Zimbabwean Side

The Zimbabwean side is where you’ll encounter some of the most iconic views of Victoria Falls. The trails are designed for strolling at a relaxed pace, with plenty of lookout points to take in the impressive width and volume of the waterfall. As you walk rainforests trails, you’ll feel the thunderous roar of the water and get splashed by mist—so the raincoats provided are a sensible addition, especially during flood season.

Guides like Shelton, as mentioned in reviews, are excellent at pointing out rare birds, flowers, and wildlife along the trail. They also share stories about the falls’ geology, making the experience educational and engaging. One reviewer loved how Shelton was able to spot wildlife and even showed pictures of birds from his bird book, adding a layer of interest for nature enthusiasts.

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Crossing the Border into Zambia

The border crossing is surprisingly straightforward when guided by experienced guides such as Martha and Sheltoe. Reviewers consistently mention how guides handle border procedures, helping with paperwork and navigating queues, which can otherwise feel intimidating or time-consuming.

The Zambian side offers a different perspective—the views are often closer to the falls, and you might find the spray more intense. Some travelers noted that the Zambia side feels more immersive, with trails that bring you nearer to the waterfalls. Martha, in particular, is praised for her patience and detailed explanations, making every viewpoint meaningful.

Guided Tour of the Falls

Once across, you’ll be led through the Zambian viewpoint, where the landscape and perspectives differ notably from Zimbabwe. The guides often take photos for you and ensure you don’t miss any key sights. Many reviews highlight how knowledgeable they’ve been—some guides even offer to take professional-quality pictures, capturing your memories perfectly.

You might want to wear waterproof gear or bring an extra towel, especially if you plan to get up close—many travelers confirm that the spray can soak you entirely, even with raincoats. This adds a fun element, but it’s good to be prepared.

Visiting a Local Market

The tour isn’t just about the falls—they also include a stop at a local market where you can browse souvenirs, crafts, and mementos. Travelers appreciate this opportunity to purchase authentic gifts directly from vendors, making the experience more personal and memorable. It’s a nice break from the walking and a chance to connect with local culture.

End of the Day & Return

After a full day of sightseeing, the comfortable ride back to your hotel is a welcome reward. The trip, which usually lasts around 8 hours, includes plenty of time at each viewpoint, border crossings, and the market, making it a balanced mix of sightseeing and cultural exposure.

The Value of This Tour

For $63, this experience offers exceptional value, especially considering the inclusion of hotel transfers, bottled water, raincoats, and expert guides. When you think about the entrance fees—$50 for Zimbabwe and $20 for Zambia—it becomes clear that almost the entire cost goes toward a well-organized, guided experience that minimizes hassle.

Reviewers frequently mention how the guides make the day seamless, from explaining the history and geology to helping with border procedures. Many also rave about the quality of storytelling and how guides like Martha, Shelton, Delphister, and Prudence go above and beyond to ensure everyone has a memorable time.

Timing & Best Season

Most reviews suggest that visiting between April and July offers the most spectacular views, as the falls are at their fullest. During September, the falls are still breathtaking, but some reviewers note that the water volume can be lower, and spray less intense. Still, even during drier months, the vistas are spectacular, and the guides help you make the most of your visit.

Considerations for Visitors

Expect to do some walking on trails, which are generally well-maintained, but comfortable shoes are recommended. During high water season, prepare for getting wet—raincoats are provided, but an extra change of clothes could make your day more comfortable. Border crossings can be busy, so patience and an experienced guide are key to a smooth process.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect if you’re short on time but want a comprehensive look at Victoria Falls from both sides. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate guided storytelling, wildlife spotting, and cultural insights. The inclusion of a local market makes it appealing for those looking to take home authentic souvenirs.

It’s also well-suited for those who prefer hassle-free border crossings and organized transportation—especially valuable if you’re unfamiliar with the area or concerned about border procedures. Given the positive reviews, even travelers with limited mobility seem to find this manageable, as the guides adapt to different walking paces.

If you’re after a truly memorable, educational, and visually stunning day at one of the world’s most famous waterfalls, this tour covers all bases.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a visa for Zimbabwe and Zambia?
Yes, travelers typically need visas depending on nationality. Many benefit from the KAZA UniVisa, valid for both countries for up to 30 days, which can be obtained on arrival at key points.

Are border crossings difficult?
No, with experienced guides like Martha and Shelton, border crossings are handled smoothly. They assist with paperwork and help you navigate queues, making the process less stressful.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring your passport and visa if required. Waterproof gear is provided, but extra clothes, socks, or a towel are recommended if you want to dry off later. Sunscreen, hat, and comfortable shoes are also advisable.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience lasts about 8 hours, including hotel pickup, sightseeing, border crossings, and the market visit. It’s a full but comfortably paced day.

Is it worth paying the entrance fees?
Definitely. The guided tour is rated highly for its value, and the fees give you access to the viewpoints, guided commentary, and extra perks like transportation and photos.

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

Final Thoughts

If you’re eager to see Victoria Falls from both the Zimbabwean and Zambian sides without the stress of planning border crossings or managing logistics, this guided tour from Cuckoo Safaris is a fantastic choice. It combines stunning scenery, expert guides, cultural insights, and great value, making it ideal for travelers who want a well-rounded, hassle-free experience.

While it’s not a private tour—so you’ll share the day with others—the reviews highlight how attentive guides make everyone feel special. Expect a day filled with awe-inspiring views, fascinating stories, and a touch of local culture, all wrapped in seamless organization.

This experience suits those who love nature, are curious about local customs, or simply want the most iconic views of Victoria Falls with knowledgeable support every step of the way. It’s a day that promises memories that will stay with you long after you leave.

You can check availability for your dates here: