Victoria Falls from Botswana: How to Visit This Natural Wonder from Chobe
Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, is an awe-inspiring sight that you shouldn’t miss when visiting Chobe National Park in Botswana. Located just a short distance from Chobe, it’s easy to combine a Chobe safari with a trip to Victoria Falls. This guide provides everything you need to know to plan a smooth, hassle-free tripfrom Botswana to this breathtaking wonder.
Why Visit Victoria Falls from Chobe?
Proximity: The falls are only 80 kilometers (50 miles) from Kasane, the gateway town to Chobe National Park.
Seamless Journey: You can visit as a day trip or choose to stay overnight in Victoria Falls Town (Zimbabwe) or Livingstone (Zambia).
Perfect Add-On: After an incredible safari in Chobe, experiencing the powerful waterfalls and adventure activities nearby adds a spectacular finale to your trip.
How to Get There: Transportation Options
1. Guided Day Tours
The most popular and convenient option. Tour operators in Kasane offer seamless day trips, including:
Border assistance (crossing into Zimbabwe or Zambia)
Guided Victoria Falls tour
Lunch and local sightseeing
Travel time: ~1.5 hours (one way) by road.
2. Self-Drive Option
If you’re on a self-drive safari, you can drive from Kasane to Victoria Falls via the Kazungula Border Post. Ensure:
Your vehicle documentation is in order.
You have proper insurance for crossing borders.
Tip: Border queues can be long during peak times, so start early.
3. Private Transfers
Ideal for those seeking a stress-free and flexible schedule. Private transfer services provide:
Comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles
Personalized schedules to fit your plans
4. Flights
If you prefer flying, there are daily flights from Kasane Airport to Victoria Falls Airport (Zimbabwe) or Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport (Zambia). This is ideal for tight itineraries.
Visa & Border Requirements
Kazungula Border Crossing:
Open from 6 AM to 8 PM.
You’ll need a valid passport (with at least 6 months validity).
Visa on arrival is available for many nationalities in Zimbabwe and Zambia.
Visa Options:
Single-entry visa: If you plan only to visit one side of the falls.
KAZA UNIVISA: Recommended if you want to visit both Zimbabwe and Zambia. This visa allows multiple entries between the two countries and is valid for 30 days.
Cost of KAZA UNIVISA: ~USD 50 (check current rates before traveling).
Best Time to Visit Victoria Falls
February to May (Post-Rainy Season): The falls are at their fullest, offering the most dramatic views and thundering water.
June to August: Water levels drop slightly, making for excellent photography and clearer views.
September to December: The dry season offers unique opportunities like swimming in Devil’s Pool (Zambian side) when water levels are low.
Top Experiences at Victoria Falls
🌿 Guided Tour of the Falls
Walk along the rainforest trails with multiple viewpoints of the falls. Learn about the history, geology, and mythssurrounding this natural wonder.
🚁 Helicopter Flight (“Flight of Angels”)
For a bird’s-eye view of Victoria Falls, take a helicopter flight to witness the falls' full grandeur and the winding Zambezi River.
🌊 Sunset Cruise on the Zambezi River
Enjoy a relaxing cruise upstream of the falls, with stunning sunset views and opportunities to spot hippos, crocodiles, and elephants.
💦 Adventure Activities
For adrenaline seekers:
White-water rafting on the Zambezi
Bungee jumping from the Victoria Falls Bridge
Swimming in Devil’s Pool (seasonal)
🏞 Cultural Experiences
Visit nearby villages for an authentic cultural exchange, traditional performances, and local cuisine tasting.
What to Pack for Your Victoria Falls Trip
Passport and visas (double-check requirements)
Waterproof jacket (you will get soaked from the spray)
Comfortable walking shoes
Camera with waterproof protection
Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
Light, breathable clothing (especially in warmer months)
Final Travel Tips
Start early for day trips to avoid queues at the border.
Carry USD for visas, park fees, and small purchases.
Check border regulations and COVID-19 requirements (if applicable).
Confirm if your travel insurance covers activities like rafting and bungee jumping.
Conclusion
Combining a Chobe safari with a trip to Victoria Falls is the perfect way to experience the best of Botswana and Zimbabwe/Zambia. The journey from Chobe to Victoria Falls is simple, with various travel options to suit every preference and budget.
