This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. Learn more

Skip to main content

Talk to an expert 1-800-242-2434 Lines open now

User menu
Avani Victoria Falls
Avani Victoria Falls
Avani Victoria Falls
Avani Victoria Falls
Avani Victoria Falls
Avani Victoria Falls
Avani Victoria Falls
Avani Victoria Falls
Avani Victoria Falls
Avani Victoria Falls
Avani Victoria Falls
Avani Victoria Falls
Avani Victoria Falls
Avani Victoria Falls
Avani Victoria Falls
Avani Victoria Falls
Avani Victoria Falls
Avani Victoria Falls
Avani Victoria Falls
Avani Victoria Falls

About Avani Victoria Falls

Colourful and vibrant in design, the Avani Victoria Falls is within strolling distance of the Falls themselves.

It’s this location that is the most compelling reason to stay here. Not only is there direct access to the Falls from the hotel’s grounds, but the entry fee is included for guests – so you can visit as many times as you like during your stay.

The hotel’s sprawling grounds come with a further surprise, too, for they fall within Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park. So don’t be surprised to see zebra or antelope grazing as you wander over to breakfast, or giraffe craning above as you explore one of the hotel’s nature trails.

Making the most of the grounds, every room has a view, either from a balcony or direct from its own french windows, the closely cropped grass in vivid contrast to the bold oranges and geometric designs of the interiors.

As for the buildings, their terracotta walls, castellated roofline, narrow windows and reed-covered terraces wouldn’t be out of place in Morocco, exuding a warmth that is offset by cool interiors.

A huge swimming pool plays its part in keeping things cool, too, as do refreshing drinks from the outside bar. With a choice of cafés and restaurants within the complex, and a proper activity centre, it’s a winning combination.

Our view

Avani Victoria Falls Resort is a large hotel, but it has a superb location and for a short stay at the Falls we think it offers good value for money when compared to its nearby sister hotel. A big plus is that entrance to the Falls is within walking distance, and is included for guests staying here.

Lucy Copson

Lucy Copson

Zambia expert

Accommodation

212 bedrooms

Children

Ok for all ages

Open

All year

Activities

Birdwatching

Birdwatching

Boat trip

Boat trip

Canoeing

Canoeing

Cultural excursion

Cultural excursion

Elephant encounter

Elephant encounter

Fishing

Fishing

Helicopter

Helicopter

Kayaking

Kayaking

Microlight

Microlight

White-water rafting

White-water rafting

Traveller reviews of Avani Victoria Falls

234 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.


85%
234 reviews since August 2007
Excellent
92
Good
117
Average
21
Poor
4
Terrible
0
U.fromLuxembourg

Arrived 26 Sep 2024, 2 nights

"Avani Victoria Falls review"

"Busy very touristy resort close to the falls …" Read U.’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Average

Mr MfromUnited Kingdom

Arrived 18 Aug 2024, 3 nights

"Avani Victoria Falls review"

"Great location; free entry to the falls; comfortable rooms …" Read Mr M’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr WfromLincolnshire

Arrived 23 Aug 2024, 2 nights

"Avani Victoria Falls review"

"An amazing, unrivalled location but quite a big, impersonal hotel after the …" Read Mr W’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Good

Baker&RosherfromAus

Arrived 31 May 2024, 3 nights

"Avani Victoria Falls review"

"Staying at the Avani allows you free and unlimited access to the falls …" Read Baker&Rosher’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mrs & Mr CfromVic Aust.

Arrived 18 Jun 2023, 3 nights

"Avani Victoria Falls review"

"The Avani is looking a bit tired - there was not a restaurant open for dinner …" Read Mrs & Mr C’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Good

FRfromAustralia

Arrived 3 Jun 2023, 1 nights

"Avani Victoria Falls review"

"a lovely hotel …" Read FR’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

AlicefromKansas

Arrived 6 Jun 2023, 2 nights

"Avani Victoria Falls review"

"it was wild to sit by the pool and have zebras bump your lounge chair …" Read Alice’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs SfromUK

Arrived 16 Sep 2022, 1 nights

"Just 5 minutes from the Vic Falls"

"Great location.. impressed that the chef and manager discussed food intolerances …" Read Mr & Mrs S’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr P & Ms CfromUSA

Arrived 11 Jul 2022, 2 nights

"Avani Victoria Falls review"

"Avani has the best location in Livingstone for visiting Victoria Falls …" Read Mr P & Ms C’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Good

Mr JfromEdinburgh

Arrived 30 Jun 2022, 2 nights

"Avani Victoria Falls review"

"This was a fun place to stay. The two main selling points for this hotel is …" Read Mr J’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Good

See all Avani Victoria Falls reviews

Trips visiting Avani Victoria Falls

Just ideas, we'll always tailor-make a trip for you


Map

Hyena Safari

11 days • 4 locations • 2 country
VICTORIA FALLS AIRPORT TO LILONGWE AIRPORT

Mix relaxation and adventure on a safari combining the South Luangwa with Victoria Falls and the beaches of Lake Malawi. These three locations are among the most iconic in southern Africa.

Visiting Livingstone, South Luangwa and 1 other area

US$9,490 - US$11,910 per person

Read more about the Hyena Safari

Avani Victoria Falls: Our full report

The closest hotel to the Victoria Falls, the sprawling Avani is both colourful and informal in style.

It was opened in 2001 as the Zambezi Sun, and now known as the Avani Victoria Falls Resort, it's a sprawling hotel built to an unusual but fun design, and is just a few minutes' walk from one of the seven natural wonders of the world.

The Avani Victoria Falls is adjacent to its sibling hotel, the 5-star Royal Livingstone, which is just a ten-minute walk away. A shuttle also operates between the hotels at regular intervals during the day.

The hotel has a total of 212 rooms, which are comfortable, but not large. Built over two levels, they're either pool or garden facing. The ground floor rooms having a sliding door that opens up directly onto the grounds, while the 1st floor rooms each have a balcony.

With walls painted in funky, geometric designs – a mix of earthy tones and some brighter colours - most of the 208 standard rooms have either either twin or double beds, although there are also rooms with two doubles, which are suitable for families with young children. All have a television, tea and coffee making station, a telephone and an electronic safe. The en-suite bathrooms, with a bathtub, separate shower, toilet and washbasin. Soap, shampoo and moisturiser are also provided.

The four suites are broadly similar to the standard rooms, but have an extension to a separate lounge (with sleeper couch) and an additional bathroom with a shower, toilet and washbasin.

At the centre of the hotel is a huge, curving swimming pool with sun loungers and umbrellas dotted about on the grass. Adjacent to the pool is an al fresco café and bar, with the main restaurant just beyond.

On the sprawling property, just a few minutes from the main hotel complex, is also the Falls Entertainment Centre. Here you'll find an informal a la carte restaurant, a small café, a few craft and souvenir shops, as well as an activity centre – which is also generally a pick up point for many of the activities such as white water rafting etc.

Many of the numerous activities available at the Falls can be booked and paid for prior to your arrival at the hotel, but there is an Activity Desk at the hotel reception where these can be arranged locally and added to your bill to be paid for at the end of your stay.

It's just a 5-10 minute walk from the hotel to the Falls themselves, open between 6.00am and 6.00pm daily. Entrance to the Falls is included for guests staying at Avani, and you can visit as many times as you like! There are also three nature trails on the property – and don't be surprised to come across zebras, giraffe or even impala. They're quite used to people, but do keep a respectful distance as they're still wild animals.

Geographics

Location
Livingstone & Victoria Falls, Zambia
Ideal length of stay
A 2-3 night stop at the Falls is usually a good length.
Directions
There are daily flights into Livingstone Airport from Lusaka and from Johannesburg. Then it's around 25 minutes by road to the Zambezi Sun Hotel. Alternatively, transfer overland from Kasane in Botswana, which takes around 1½ - 2 hours.
Accessible by
Fly-and-Transfer

Food & drink

Usual board basis
Bed & Breakfast
Food quality
We didn't stop to eat on our most recent visit to Avani, but the restaurant was bustling and there was a wide array of breakfast dishes – from cereals, yoghurt and pastries through to a 'Full English' – on offer.

Dining is informal here, with a buffet breakfast and dinner available in the 'Theatre of Food' restaurant. Dinners are usually themed and depending on the day of the week, you might expect European, Mexican, Indian or more traditional African fare. The restaurant is open for breakfast from 6:30-10:30am daily and for dinner from 6:30-10:30pm daily.

Lunch can be ordered from an a la carte menu at the Poolside Grill & Bar between 12:30 and 4:30pm daily. However, drinks can be ordered from the bar between 10am and 10:30pm.

Additionally, The Squires Grill in the nearby Falls Entertainment Centre offers an a la carte menu for both lunch and dinner; or if it's just a light snack, coffee or cool drink you're after, then head to The Crocodile Café.
Dining style
Individual Tables
Dining locations
Indoor and Outdoor Dining
Further dining info, including room service
Yes
Drinks included
Drinks are not included.

Special interests

Family holidays
Avani is a bright, cheerful three-star hotel suitable for a good-value stay only 500m from the Victoria Falls during family holidays in Zambia. There’s a kids club here with special children’s activities, and children of all ages are welcome.
See ideas for Family holidays in Zambia

Children

Attitude towards children
Children of all ages are welcome
Equipment
There are family rooms at the hotel, and cots as well as high chairs are available on request. There is also a kid's club – Kamp Kwena – offering a range of programmes and outings with trained child minders. Open 9am-1pm and 2-5pm, to children between the ages of two and 12 on a full or half-day basis. However, children under the age of four must be accompanied by a parent. The hotel also offers babysitting services. Both the kid's club and babysitting are at extra cost.
Generally recommended for children
We would generally recommend the Zambezi Sun for families with children of all ages.
Notes
Be aware that this is a malarial area. The pool is unfenced and there is some wildlife – including baboons, monkeys, giraffes and zebras – on the property. Children need to be under parental supervision at all times.

Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Avani Victoria Falls

Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Avani Victoria Falls have kindly recorded their wildlife sightings and shared them with us. The results are below. Click an animal to see more, and here to see more on our methodology.

Zebra

92% success

Elephant

45% success

Hippo

42% success

White Rhino

21% success

Communications

Communications
The hotel has good communication facilities, including WiFi, which is available to guests at extra cost. There are telephones in each of the rooms.
TV & radio
There are televisions in the rooms, with limited satellite channels.

Sustainability

An energy efficient, community-focused resort

The first thing tourists may notice about Avani Victoria Falls is its location: only ten minutes’ walk to the Victoria Falls. At a closer look, the 212-rooms resort does not only provide access to an exclusive area, but also works to protect it by implementing energy-efficient solutions. For example, the resort has installed an Inncom Environmental Management System, which uses an innovative technique aimed at reducing energy consumption. Additionally, guests can minimize their environmental impact during their stay by taking the emission-free golf carts.

Another proof for Avani Victoria Fall’s sustainable operations is its partnerships with local NGOs which benefit the local community. For example, the resort sources products from the local farmer’s market on a daily basis. Additionally, it works collaboratively with Agribusiness in Sustainable Natureal African Plant Products (ASNAPP) to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change on agriculture, and train farmers to produce quality market-driven products. Moreover, the hotel partnered with Family Hope Foundation for a women empowerment initiative which aims to provide education in a computer lab establishment.

Avani Victoria Falls’s commitment for environmental protection works hand in hand with the high level of service provided, which has been acknowledged and awarded by guests with TripAdvisor’s Ctertificate of Excellence in 2016 and 2017.

See more great sustainability projects in Zambia

Health & safety

Malarial protection recommended
Yes
Medical care
The nearest doctor is in Livingstone, about 25 minutes drive away.
Dangerous animals
Moderate Risk
Security measures
The hotel grounds are surrounded by an electric fence and there is a gate guard on duty at all times.
Fire safety

Activities

  • Birdwatching

    Birdwatching

  • Boat trip

    Boat trip

  • Canoeing

    Canoeing

  • Cultural excursion

    Cultural excursion

  • Elephant encounter

    Elephant encounter

  • Fishing

    Fishing

  • Helicopter

    Helicopter

  • Kayaking

    Kayaking

  • Microlight

    Microlight

  • White-water rafting

    White-water rafting

Extras

Disabled access
In Place
Laundry facilities
A full laundry service is available, at extra charge.
Money
There is a safe in each room. MasterCard and Visa credit cards are accepted.

Plan and book your trip with Expert Africa

All of our trips are tailor-made, so we'll always adapt them to suit you.
Talk to an Expert and let us plan and arrange your perfect trip.


Talk to an Expert

Call or email us now!
We’ll match you with the Specialist in our team who is best suited to help you. Then together we can start planning your trip.

Set up your itinerary

Based on our experience and your ideas, your specialist will create a detailed, costed itinerary. We’ll refine it together, until we have a trip that you’re perfectly happy with.

Prepare for your trip

The same Specialist will make the seamless arrangements for your trip, send you detailed travel documents, and be available to answer any questions before you depart.

Travel with peace of mind

After you set off, you’ll be cared for by our partners in Africa, most of whom have worked with Expert Africa for decades. And if you ever need us urgently, we’re available 24/7.

When you return

We love to learn about your trip, and so will always be grateful if you’ve the time to give feedback to your Specialist when you return.

Avani Victoria Falls's location

Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Avani Victoria Falls.


Excursions from Avani Victoria Falls

Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Avani Victoria Falls. Talk to us: these are usually best arranged before you go.


African Queen Sunset Cruise

African Queen Sunset Cruise

Two hours

A leisurely two and a half hour cruise on the tranquil Zambezi River, along the banks of the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, offers opportunities to see wildlife such as hippos, crocodiles, giraffe, antelope and elephants. Enjoy the evening light and sunset whilst enjoying drinks and canapes on the luxurious African Queen, a triple deck 70-foot catamaran.

More about African Queen Sunset Cruise
Chobe Day Trip

Chobe Day Trip

Full day - typically around 11 hours

For a top safari experience while visiting the Victoria Falls, don’t miss a day trip to Botswana’s Chobe National Park. Easily reachable from Livingstone, Zambia or Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, Chobe boasts some of the best wildlife densities in southern Africa, with exceptional numbers of elephant drawn by the permanent waters of the Chobe River.

More about Chobe Day Trip
100% (1 reviews)
Fishing on the Zambezi River

Fishing on the Zambezi River

Three hours or Seven hours

Many people head to Livingstone not just to see the Victoria Falls, but also to relax after an international flight or a busy safari, and a perfect way to do this is with a fishing trip on the calmer sections of the Zambezi River above the falls, drifting with the current, casting your line, and keeping an eye out for wildlife on the banks.

More about Fishing
80% (1 reviews)
Guided tour of Victoria Falls

Guided tour of Victoria Falls

Two hours - AM & PM departures

One of the seven Natural Wonders of the World, the mighty Victoria Falls has to be seen to be believed. Why not take an expertly guided trip to learn about the history, geology, flora and fauna of one of Africa's most spectacular sites?

More about Tour of the Falls
100% (5 reviews)
Helicopter Flight - Zambia

Helicopter Flight - Zambia

12 or 25 minute flights

Witnessing the power of the Victoria Falls from the ground is a stunning sight, but to see the world’s largest waterfall from the air is a very different experience! A helicopter flight over the Falls is truly incredible, and a worthy addition to your time in Livingstone.

More about Helicopter Flight
100% (7 reviews)
Historical Bridge Tour

Historical Bridge Tour

Two hours - AM & PM departures

A feat of engineering the Victoria Falls Bridge was built in 1905 as part of Cecil Rhodes' vision to link the Cape to Cairo. With an expert guide and the appropriate safety equipment you'll not only discover the wonders of this Victorian marvel but also gain a unique perspective of the Victoria Falls themselves.

More about Bridge Tour
Livingstone Island & Devil's Pool

Livingstone Island & Devil's Pool

Three hours

Victoria Falls is one of the world's natural wonders, and a huge attraction for many visitors to southern Africa. We're often asked if the waterfall is best viewed from the Zambian or Zimbabwean side, but we think the best way to experience the full majesty of the falls is from the middle with a visit to Livingstone Island.

More about Livingstone Island
96% (9 reviews)
Rhino Walk

Rhino Walk

Around four hours - mornings only

Spend an unforgettable morning on a walking safari tracking Mosi-oa-Tunya’s small population of white rhino, with a strong chance of being able to approach these endangered creatures on foot.

More about Rhino Walk
95% (4 reviews)
Royal Livingstone Express

Royal Livingstone Express

Four hours approx.

The Royal Livingstone Express is a lovingly restored steam train. Guests steam along the original Rhodesian railway line onto the stunning Victoria Falls Bridge. From here guests can marvel at the falls and the Batoka Gorge before enjoying 5-courses of fine dining.

More about Royal Livingstone Express
87% (3 reviews)
The Elephant Café

The Elephant Café

Approximately four hours

Visiting The Elephant Café is a great combination of a magical elephant encounter and fine dining. Spend time getting to know the elephants, some of them rescued from the wild many years ago, and others born into the herd. Then sit down and enjoy a delicious meal overlooking the Zambezi.

More about The Elephant Café
80% (2 reviews)

Other lodges in Livingstone & Victoria Falls

Alternative places to stay in this same area.


Royal Livingstone Hotel

Royal Livingstone Hotel

Conveniently located just a short walk from the Zambia. side of the Victoria Falls, the colonial-style Royal Livingstone has beautiful grounds and small but quite luxurious rooms.


94% (89 reviews)
Tongabezi

Tongabezi

Secluded on the banks of the Zambezi, less than 20km from the Victoria Falls, Tongabezi is one of the most exclusive lodges in Zambia.


94% (65 reviews)
Waterberry Zambezi Lodge

Waterberry Lodge

Offering great value for money and within easy reach of the Victoria Falls, Waterberry is a small, family-friendly lodge on the banks of the Zambezi River.


98% (62 reviews)
Islands of Siankaba

Islands of Siankaba

In a lovely location on the Zambezi upriver of the Victoria Falls, Islands of Siankaba provides a tranquil setting to relax at the start or end of a safari to Botswana or Zambia.


96% (54 reviews)
Toka Leya Camp

Toka Leya Camp

The new Toka Leya Camp stands beside the Zambezi inside Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park – so wildlife often passes through. It's a comfortable tented camp which has great service and includes a range of activities.


89% (23 reviews)
The River Club

The River Club

The River Club, near Zambia's town of Livingstone and the Victoria Falls, overlooks the Zambezi River.


93% (18 reviews)
Sindabezi

Sindabezi

Sindabezi, near Zambia's town of Livingstone and the Victoria Falls, is an island in the middle of the Zambezi River


98% (16 reviews)
Thorntree River Lodge

Thorntree River Lodge

Rebuilt in 2017, Thorntree River Lodge is one of the best riverside lodges in Livingstone, with a strong sense of the environment and straightforward access to the Falls.


100% (7 reviews)
David Livingstone Safari Lodge

David Livingstone Lodge

The four-star David Livingstone Safari Lodge is in a lovely spot on the edge of the Zambezi River in Zambia, close to the Victoria Falls.


86% (7 reviews)
Tangala House

Tangala House

Tangala House, the family home near Zambia's town of Livingstone and the Victoria Falls


No reviews yet
Sussi & Chuma

Sussi & Chuma

Sussi & Chuma combines a luxurious, laid-back camp with a good location on the Zambezi River, with quick access to the Victoria Falls.


No reviews yet

When to go to Livingstone & Victoria Falls

Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Avani Victoria Falls in Livingstone & Victoria Falls


Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Livingstone & Victoria Falls in January

At the peak of Livingstone's green season, expect heavy rainfall for a few hours most days with sunny spells in between. Temperatures remain high, reaching over 30°C/86°F with high humidity.

The landscape around Victoria Falls is lush and green, offering spectacular views of the falls at their fullest. However, the abundance of water disperses wildlife in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, making game viewing challenging.

The high water levels in the Zambezi River limit some activities like whitewater rafting and visits to Devil's Pool. On the bright side, this is an excellent time for birdwatching in the park, with many migratory species present.

The Livingstone Museum provides a great indoor activity option during rainy periods.

  • Hot and humid with frequent rainfall
  • Victoria Falls at high water level, misty views
  • Lush green landscape, great for photography
  • Wildlife dispersed, game viewing challenging
  • Low tourist numbers, cheaper accommodation

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in January

Livingstone & Victoria Falls in February

February remains in the heart of the green season in Livingstone. Dramatic thunderstorms deliver a few hours of rain most days, interspersed with clear sunny skies.

Victoria Falls is at its most powerful, creating an impressive spectacle of mist and rainbows. The high water levels in the Zambezi River allow for thrilling boat trips, offering unique perspectives of the falls and surrounding landscapes.

While game viewing in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park is limited due to thick vegetation, you might spot animals with newborns. The Livingstone Museum and local markets provide cultural experiences during rainy periods. This is also an excellent time to enjoy spa treatments and relaxation at riverside retreats, taking in the lush, green scenery.

  • Peak of green season, hot and humid days
  • Victoria Falls impressive but views obscured
  • Birdwatching excellent with migratory species
  • Most adventure activities unavailable
  • Quiet tourist season, best hotel deals

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in February

Livingstone & Victoria Falls in March

March is the last month of Livingstone's green season, with heavy downpours still occurring most days. Water levels at Victoria Falls and the Zambezi River are at their highest, creating a magnificent, thunderous display. While this limits some activities like whitewater rafting and visits to Devil's Pool, it's an excellent time for scenic flights over the falls.

In Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, wildlife viewing remains challenging due to thick vegetation, but patient observers might be rewarded with sightings of predators taking advantage of vulnerable young animals. The Livingstone Museum offers insights into local history and culture on rainy days.

As the season transitions, some adventure activities begin to resume, and the lush landscape provides stunning backdrops for photography.

  • Rains begin to subside, still hot and humid
  • Victoria Falls at its most powerful
  • Landscape lush and green, photogenic
  • Wildlife with young, but viewing difficult
  • Fewer tourists, great for budget travellers

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in March

Livingstone & Victoria Falls in April

As Livingstone transitions from intense downpours to lighter, sporadic showers, April marks a shift in tourist activities. Victoria Falls remains impressive, though water levels start to decrease slightly. This is the first month when it's possible to visit Livingstone Island, offering unique views of the falls.

In Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, as the landscape begins to dry, wildlife viewing gradually improves. Adventure activities like whitewater rafting on the Zambezi River start to become available again.

The Livingstone Museum and local craft markets provide cultural experiences, while the town's restaurants and bars offer a taste of local cuisine and nightlife. This is also an excellent time for relaxing spa treatments and golf, with pleasant temperatures and decreasing humidity.

  • Transition month, rains becoming less frequent
  • Victoria Falls spectacular but misty
  • Adventure activities slowly resuming
  • Wildlife viewing improving as bush thins
  • Moderate tourist numbers, good value stays

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in April

Livingstone & Victoria Falls in May

May typically marks the start of Livingstone's dry season. While there's a chance of an odd shower, most days are clear and sunny. As winter approaches, temperatures start to drop, with highs around 26°C/79°F.

Victoria Falls remains impressive, but water levels decrease, improving visibility. This is an excellent time for activities like whitewater rafting on the Zambezi River and visiting Devil's Pool.

In Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, game viewing improves as vegetation thins out. Walking safaris become more feasible, offering close encounters with wildlife. Cultural experiences at Livingstone and Mukuni villages are enjoyable in the mild weather. Adventure activities like bungee jumping and gorge swinging at Victoria Falls are in full swing.

  • Start of dry season, clearer and cooler
  • Victoria Falls views improving
  • White water rafting season begins
  • Game viewing getting better in national park
  • Tourist numbers increasing, book in advance

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in May

Livingstone & Victoria Falls in June

Livingstone sees virtually no rainfall in June, with a strong chance of sunny days throughout. The humidity drops dramatically, and temperatures fall to around 10°C/50°F at night but still warm to 25°C/77°F during the day.

Victoria Falls offers clearer views as mist decreases, making it ideal for photography. This is a prime time for activities like whitewater rafting, bungee jumping, and visiting Devil's Pool. In Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, the thinning vegetation significantly improves game viewing and walking safaris.

Sunset cruises on the Zambezi River are particularly beautiful this time of year. Early morning and late evening activities may require warm clothing.

  • Cool dry days, chilly nights
  • Victoria Falls views excellent
  • Prime time for white water rafting
  • Wildlife viewing good in Mosi-oa-Tunya park
  • High season begins, busier and pricier

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in June

Livingstone & Victoria Falls in July

As the dry season continues in Livingstone, vegetation dies back and water becomes scarcer. This results in excellent game viewing in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, with wildlife clustering around remaining water sources.

July is the first month of winter, and while daytime temperatures are in the 20s Celsius / 70s Fahrenheit, nights can be cold. Victoria Falls offers clear views with reduced mist, ideal for photography and activities like the 'Flight of Angels' helicopter rides. This is peak season for whitewater rafting, bungee jumping, and gorge swinging.

Cultural tours to Livingstone and Mukuni villages provide warm daytime activities. Sunset cruises on the Zambezi River offer spectacular views and wildlife sightings. Remember to pack warm clothes for early morning and evening activities.

  • Cool and dry, perfect weather
  • Victoria Falls views at their best
  • Ideal for all outdoor and water activities
  • Excellent game viewing opportunities
  • Peak tourist season, book well in advance

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in July

Livingstone & Victoria Falls in August

By August, Livingstone's landscape is dry, and wildlife in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park congregates around remaining water sources, providing excellent game viewing opportunities. With virtually no chance of rain, sunny days are almost guaranteed.

The flow over Victoria Falls is reducing, so views are clear, not misty; there are often perfect conditions for activities like whitewater rafting and visits to Devil's Pool. This is an ideal time for walking safaris in the national park. Cultural experiences at local villages are enjoyable in the mild daytime temperatures. Adventure activities like bungee jumping and gorge swinging at the falls are popular.

Sunset cruises on the Zambezi River offer stunning views and wildlife sightings. Early morning and evening activities can be chilly, so warm clothing is recommended.

  • Warm days, cool nights, very dry
  • Low water levels, great for Devil's Pool
  • White water rafting at its most thrilling
  • Wildlife concentrated near water sources
  • Very busy, highest prices for accommodation

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in August

Livingstone & Victoria Falls in September

September is one of the most popular times to visit Livingstone. Rain is almost unheard of, humidity is low, and temperatures are starting to climb. The flow over Victoria Falls can be greatly reduced and so offers clear views with minimal mist, perfect for photography and activities like the 'Flight of Angels' helicopter rides.

This is prime time for whitewater rafting on the Zambezi River and visiting Devil's Pool. In Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, game viewing is at its best as wildlife clusters around scarce water sources. Walking safaris offer excellent opportunities to see animals up close.

Adventure activities like bungee jumping and gorge swinging are in full swing. Sunset cruises on the Zambezi are particularly beautiful this time of year.

  • Hot days, warm nights, very dry
  • Low water at the Falls, best for rock swimming
  • Excellent for all adventure activities
  • Peak time for wildlife viewing
  • Still high season, busy and expensive

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in September

Livingstone & Victoria Falls in October

As the dry season peaks in Livingstone, the landscape is brown and barren. Victoria Falls is at its lowest flow, revealing the full extent of the rocky gorge. This is the best time for whitewater rafting on the Zambezi River and swimming in Devil's Pool.

In Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, game viewing reaches its peak as animals concentrate around remaining water sources. However, temperatures can be uncomfortably hot, reaching over 40°C/104°F in the daytime. This makes walking safaris challenging, especially without shade.

Cultural experiences at local villages are best enjoyed in the cooler mornings or evenings. Adventure activities like bungee jumping and gorge swinging continue, but the heat can be intense. Sunset cruises on the Zambezi offer a cooler alternative and excellent wildlife viewing.

  • Very hot days and nights
  • Lowest water levels at Victoria Falls
  • Best month for white water rafting
  • Wildlife viewing excellent as water scarce
  • Tourist numbers start to decrease

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in October

Livingstone & Victoria Falls in November

November typically marks the end of the dry season in Livingstone. While the timing of the first rains is uncertain, temperatures remain high and humidity builds.

Victoria Falls is at its lowest flow, offering unique views of the rocky gorge. This is the last chance for activities like swimming in Devil's Pool before water levels rise. In Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, wildlife viewing can still be excellent early in the month, but animals start to disperse as soon as the rains arrive.

Adventure activities like bungee jumping and gorge swinging continue, weather permitting. As the month progresses, the landscape begins to transform with the first rains, bringing a burst of green growth.

  • Hot and humid, occasional rain showers
  • Water levels at Victoria Falls increasing
  • Some adventure activities become limited
  • Wildlife starts to disperse with early rains
  • Shoulder season, fewer tourists

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in November

Livingstone & Victoria Falls in December

December marks the start of Livingstone's green season, with heavy thunderstorms most days interspersed by sunny spells. Victoria Falls begins to slowly increase in volume, offering a mix of clear views and building mist.
Water-based activities on the Zambezi River, like whitewater rafting, may be suspended as water levels rise.

In Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, the arrival of rain disperses wildlife, making game viewing more challenging. However, this is an excellent time for birdwatching as migratory species arrive.

The Livingstone Museum provides a great indoor activity option during rainy periods. Cultural experiences at local villages offer insights into seasonal traditions. Despite the rain, adventure activities like bungee jumping and gorge swinging continue when weather permits. The landscape transforms into a lush, green paradise.

  • Green season begins, hot and humid
  • Victoria Falls gaining water volume
  • Many adventure activities unavailable
  • Wildlife dispersed, viewing more challenging
  • Low season, quiet with cheaper rates

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in December

Inspire me

Looking for inspiration on where to travel next?

Visit our trip chooser to explore your options and find inspiration for your perfect African adventure

Inspire me

Login to Expert Africa

Login or create an account below.

Forgotten your details?

Enter your email address and we'll send you a link to re-set your password.

Create wish-lists, send enquiries, make and manage your safari bookings, and more...

It's free & quick to set up

Benefits from creating an account.

  • Save your wish-list
  • Send us an enquiry
  • Pay online and manage your trip
  • Subscribe to our newsletter
  • Give us feedback on your trip
  • Enhanced features

Need some help? Talk to our team
Africa