When to Go to Victoria Falls

When to Go to Victoria Falls

By Vihann Van Wyk

Safari Travel Planner

Safari Enquiry

Copy Link Share on LinkedIn Share on Facebook Share on Twitter

Copied to clipboard!

Planning the best time to visit Victoria Falls can significantly enhance your holiday experience. Here’s a detailed guide to help you choose the ideal time based on weather, water levels, and overall conditions:

High Water Season (February to May)

Overview: The high water season is when Victoria Falls is at its most dramatic, with the Zambezi River in full flow, creating a spectacular sight with immense spray and thunderous noise. This is the best time to see the falls in all their glory.

Weather:

• Temperature: Daytime temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), while nighttime temperatures are mild, averaging around 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F).
• Rainfall: This period sees the tail end of the rainy season, with occasional showers continuing into March and April, tapering off by May.

Water Levels and Sightseeing:

• Water Volume: The falls are at their fullest, with the massive volume of water creating a breathtaking view. The spray from the falls can be seen from miles away.
• Visibility: While the volume of water is impressive, the dense spray can sometimes obscure the view of the falls themselves. Raincoats are recommended.

Pros:

• The falls are at their most powerful and spectacular.
• Ideal for photography with the dramatic spray and rainbows.

Cons:

• Dense spray can obstruct views and make photography challenging.
• Some activities, like swimming in the Devil’s Pool, may be unavailable due to high water levels.

Low Water Season (September to December)

Overview: The low water season offers a different perspective of Victoria Falls, with reduced water flow revealing the full geological structure of the falls and offering excellent visibility. This is the best time for activities such as white-water rafting and swimming in the Devil’s Pool.

Weather:

• Temperature: Daytime temperatures range from 28°C to 35°C (82°F to 95°F), with warm nights averaging around 18°C to 24°C (64°F to 75°F).
• Rainfall: This period is dry, with little to no rainfall, resulting in clear skies and sunny days.

Water Levels and Sightseeing:

• Water Volume: The water flow is significantly reduced, particularly from October to December, providing excellent visibility of the rock formations and the gorge.
• Visibility: With less spray, visitors can enjoy clear views of the falls and take part in activities like guided walks along the edge of the falls.

Pros:

• Clear visibility of the falls and geological features.
• Ideal conditions for adventure activities like rafting and Devil’s Pool swims.

Cons:

• The falls may appear less dramatic compared to the high water season.
• Higher temperatures can be intense for some visitors.

Shoulder Seasons (June to August and January)

Overview: The shoulder seasons offer a balance between high and low water conditions, providing a more moderate experience with good visibility and moderate water flow. These periods can be ideal for those looking to avoid the extremes of high or low water seasons.

Weather:

• Temperature: Daytime temperatures range from 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F), with cooler evenings around 10°C to 18°C (50°F to 64°F).
• Rainfall: These periods are mostly dry, with June to August being the coolest months, and January experiencing the beginning of the rainy season.

Water Levels and Sightseeing:

• Water Volume: Moderate water flow allows for good visibility while still showcasing the power of the falls.
• Visibility: These periods provide a good balance, with less spray than the high season but more water than the low season, making for ideal viewing conditions.

Pros:

• Moderate temperatures and pleasant weather conditions.
• Balanced water flow for excellent viewing and photography opportunities.

Cons:

• Water levels may not be as dramatic as during the peak seasons.

Key Considerations for Each Month:

January to April (High Water Season):

• January: Start of the high water season; increasing water flow.
• February to April: Peak high water; dramatic views with dense spray.