Victoria Falls+ is not just a destination—it’s a living, breathing force of nature. Known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya, meaning The Smoke That Thunders, it draws travelers from around the world who come to witness its sheer power, beauty, and the range of adventures that surround it. But one of the most important questions every visitor asks before booking is this: When is the best time to visit Victoria Falls?
The answer depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. From full-throttle white-water rafting in the dry season to mist-shrouded rainforest walks during peak water flow, every month offers something unique. Located along the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, Victoria Falls transforms dramatically throughout the year as the Zambezi River rises and recedes. Choosing the right time to visit can define what you see, what you do, and how deeply you connect with the magic of this place.
In this Best Time to Visit Victoria Falls guide, we offer a local perspective on the best times to visit Victoria Falls—broken down month by month—so you can plan your trip with confidence, clarity, and excitement.
Month-by-Month Quick Guide to Visiting Victoria Falls
Understanding how Victoria Falls changes through the year helps you make the most of your experience. Below is a month-by-month breakdown of what to expect in terms of water levels, weather, and recommended activities.
| Month | Water Levels | Weather | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | High | Hot and rainy | Lush scenery, photography | Mist reduces visibility; rafting closed |
| February | Rising | Humid, frequent showers | Aerial views, dramatic photos | Devil’s Pool closed; limited water activities |
| March | Peak high | Warm and wet | Full waterfall power | Poor visibility due to mist |
| April | Maximum flow | Less rain, still humid | Helicopter rides, thunderous falls | Rafting/swimming not available |
| May | Receding | Dry and cool mornings | Clear views, photography | Falls still strong, less mist |
| June | Moderate | Dry and mild | Game drives, walking tours | Rafting resumes in some sections |
| July | Lower | Cool mornings, warm days | Safaris, river cruises | Excellent visibility, clear skies |
| August | Low | Warm and dry | Devil’s Pool, adventure sports | Best overall month for balance |
| September | Very low | Hot and dry | Devil’s Pool, rafting | Peak safari season |
| October | Lowest | Very hot and dry | Rafting, bungee jumping | Extreme heat, low mist |
| November | Rising | Hot, first rains | Shoulder season, green scenery | Low crowds, variable water levels |
| December | Increasing | Hot and rainy | Lush views, quiet travel | Devil’s Pool may close mid-month |
Dry Season vs Wet Season in Victoria Falls
The experience of visiting Victoria Falls changes dramatically depending on the time of year. Understanding the contrast between the dry and wet seasons can help you choose the perfect window for your trip, based on what you want to see and do.
Dry Season (May to October)
The dry season is the most popular time to visit Victoria Falls for travelers looking for clear skies, active wildlife, and high-adrenaline adventure. As the Zambezi River’s water levels drop, the thick mist that normally rises from the falls begins to clear, allowing for full panoramic views of the gorge and waterfall structure. This is when the famous Devil’s Pool opens on the edge of the falls, offering one of the most exhilarating and photogenic experiences in Africa.
With dry vegetation and shrinking water sources, wildlife sightings also become more frequent—especially on game drives in Zambezi National Park. Mornings are cool, afternoons are comfortably warm, and rain is virtually non-existent. This is the ideal time for walking tours, bungee jumping, white-water rafting, and sunset cruises on the river.
Wet Season (November to April)
The wet season transforms Victoria Falls into a lush, misty wonderland. Heavy rains upstream swell the Zambezi River, resulting in a full, thunderous curtain of water cascading over the gorge. The name Mosi-oa-Tunya, or “The Smoke That Thunders,” becomes unmistakably real as plumes of mist rise high into the sky and can be seen from kilometers away.
Though visibility near the falls can be reduced by spray, the sheer power of the water makes for an unforgettable experience. The rainforest becomes rich and vibrant, birdlife flourishes, and helicopter flights over the falls provide a unique perspective on the flood. While some adventure activities are paused due to high water levels—like rafting and Devil’s Pool—this season is perfect for photography, cultural excursions, and crowd-free visits.
Month-by-Month Breakdown: What to Expect Each Month at Victoria Falls
January
January marks the heart of the rainy season at Victoria Falls. The Zambezi River begins to rise, and the falls start gaining power and volume. Expect hot, humid weather and regular afternoon downpours. The surrounding rainforest is lush and green, making this a stunning time for photography. However, mist from the falls can limit visibility at close-up viewpoints. Adventure activities like white-water rafting and Devil’s Pool are usually closed due to safety concerns, but scenic flights offer fantastic views of the swollen river.
February
February continues the wet season with frequent rains and increasingly dramatic water flow. The falls become louder and more powerful, and the surrounding landscapes are vibrant and alive. While activities near the edge of the gorge remain limited, this is an excellent month for aerial tours, cultural visits, and travelers who prefer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. Expect afternoon showers and warm, overcast days.
March
March brings the falls close to their peak water level. This is when the sheer volume and thunder of Victoria Falls are at their most dramatic. Mist from the cascade can be intense, especially on the Zimbabwe side, making raincoats and waterproof cameras essential. Though rafting remains suspended, this is one of the best months for capturing the raw power of nature, especially from above on a microlight or helicopter flight.
April
In April, the Zambezi River reaches its annual peak, and Victoria Falls becomes a wall of roaring water stretching across the entire width of the gorge. While the volume is breathtaking, visibility from certain viewpoints is limited due to heavy spray. Walking trails near the falls offer a dramatic, mist-filled rainforest atmosphere. Some activities remain restricted, but the sheer power of the falls at this time is unforgettable.
May
May signals the start of the dry season. Rainfall drops sharply, and water levels begin to recede. As mist starts to clear, viewpoints become more accessible and photography improves. This is one of the best months to see the falls at strong but more visible flow. Activities like sunset cruises and some rafting sections begin reopening. May also marks the return of clearer skies and cooler evenings.
June
June offers ideal conditions for both sightseeing and adventure. The dry season is now firmly underway, and the mist around the falls has decreased significantly, making this a great month for panoramic views and photography. With cooler mornings and dry, sunny days, it’s also one of the best months for game drives in nearby Zambezi National Park. Rafting operations resume in the lower stretches of the river, and guided walking tours around the falls are especially enjoyable in the crisp air.
July
July is considered one of the peak months to visit Victoria Falls. Water levels are moderate—low enough to offer clear views of the falls and high enough to still appreciate their power. The weather is cool and dry, perfect for walking, hiking, and full-day safaris. With fewer mosquitoes and minimal rainfall, July is an excellent choice for both first-time visitors and families. Sunset cruises on the Zambezi River are especially magical this time of year.
August
August is a favorite for travelers who want to experience both the falls and adventure activities. The weather is warm and dry, wildlife sightings are frequent, and the mist has mostly cleared, allowing uninterrupted views. This is also the beginning of the Devil’s Pool season, when water levels drop low enough to allow swimming at the edge of the falls under guided supervision. It’s a great time for rafting, safaris, and spending more time outdoors without extreme heat or rain.
September
September is one of the best all-round months for visiting Victoria Falls. Water levels are low, which means the falls are less thunderous but highly visible. This is prime time for Devil’s Pool, full-length rafting trips, and guided hikes along the gorge. Wildlife concentrates around waterholes, making game drives incredibly rewarding. Expect warm to hot days with virtually no rain, and excellent light conditions for sunrise and sunset photography.
October
October is the hottest and driest month of the year in Victoria Falls, with daytime temperatures often exceeding 35°C (95°F). The Zambezi River is at its lowest, offering ideal conditions for adrenaline activities like white-water rafting, bungee jumping, and Devil’s Pool. While the falls themselves are less full, the exposed rock formations and dramatic cliff edges give a new perspective. Wildlife sightings continue to peak, especially near water sources in the surrounding parks.
November
November marks the transition from the dry to the wet season. Early rains begin to fall, and the Zambezi starts to rise once again. The landscape quickly turns green, and temperatures remain warm. Though some adventure activities may still run early in the month, Devil’s Pool may close toward the end due to rising water levels. November is considered a shoulder season, offering fewer crowds and lower prices, making it a smart choice for flexible travelers.
December
By December, the rainy season has returned in full, bringing heavy afternoon showers and a vibrant, lush environment around the falls. Water levels begin climbing, but mist hasn’t yet reached peak levels, so visibility is still decent early in the month. This is a quieter travel period, offering more availability in lodges and lower rates. Cultural tours, scenic flights, and relaxed sunset cruises remain popular even with the wet conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Time to Visit Victoria Falls
When is the Best Time to Visit Victoria Falls at full flow?
The best time to see Victoria Falls at its most powerful is from March to early May, when the Zambezi River is at its peak water level. The falls stretch wide and roar with incredible force during this period. However, the heavy mist may obscure full visibility at some viewpoints.
When is the best time to visit Victoria Falls for activities?
The dry season, from June to October, is ideal for most activities. This is when Devil’s Pool opens, white-water rafting is in full swing, and safari conditions are excellent. Visibility is at its best, and weather conditions are generally dry and comfortable.
Can you visit Victoria Falls all year round?
Yes, Victoria Falls is open and accessible year-round, but the experience changes with the seasons. Some months are better for viewing the falls, while others are better for adventure, wildlife, or photography. It all depends on your interests and expectations.
Is Victoria Falls better in the dry or wet season
Both seasons offer different advantages. The wet season (November to April) shows the falls at full volume, surrounded by lush green scenery. The dry season (May to October) offers better visibility, easier access to trails, and more activities like rafting, bungee jumping, and swimming in Devil’s Pool.
When is the best time to visit Devil’s Pool?
Devil’s Pool is open from around mid-August to early January, when water levels are low enough to allow safe swimming. Guided tours to the pool operate from Livingstone Island on the Zambia side of the falls
Is Victoria Falls safe to visit during the rainy season?
Yes, Victoria Falls remains safe to visit during the rainy season. However, some outdoor activities may be limited due to high water levels or slippery conditions. Mist from the falls can also reduce visibility near viewpoints, especially in March and April.
What is the hottest month in Victoria Falls?
October is the hottest month, with daytime temperatures regularly exceeding 35°C (95°F). It’s a great time for adventure activities, but travelers should prepare for the heat by staying hydrated and wearing appropriate sun protection.
Plan Your Perfect Victoria Falls Experience
No matter when you choose to visit, Victoria Falls delivers a powerful, unforgettable journey shaped by water, wildlife, and wonder. Whether you’re drawn to the thunderous mist of peak season, the thrilling adventures of the dry months, or the serenity of the shoulder seasons, there’s no wrong time to experience Africa’s most iconic waterfall.
Here, we don’t just show you the best of Victoria Falls — we help you live it. From insider tips and curated guides to personalized tours and local recommendations, our platform is your trusted companion for planning the ultimate trip.
Start your adventure today — explore our activities, book your experience, or talk to our local experts who know Victoria Falls like home.
