A Seasonal Guide to Livingstone
The changing seasons bring unique views of Victoria Falls and varying activities, all tied to the shifting water levels of the Zambezi River.
From the roaring, thunderous Falls during the High Water season to the clearer, more exposed rock formations in the Dry Season, each period offers its own magic. In our view, there is no single "best time to visit" – every season is spectacular in its own right! That said, your experience may differ depending on what you wish to do, see, and explore. Whether you're after adrenaline-pumping adventures or serene wildlife moments, seasonal factors can play a role in shaping your trip.
If you're unsure when to come or want specific recommendations, feel free to reach out to us for advice tailored to your ideal experience!
High Water Season
Months : Late January, February, March, April, May
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As the seasonal rains arrive, the Zambezi River and its tributaries begin to rise, and Victoria Falls roars to life once again. By late February to March, visitors can witness the Falls in their full, majestic power. The tremendous noise and swirling mist give rise to its Tonga name, “The Smoke That Thunders.”
During this period, the sheer volume of water creates massive spray, often obscuring parts of the Falls from view, but this is also when visitors can truly experience the awe-inspiring Zambezi shower—a full sensory immersion in the mist and spray!
While this is prime viewing time, the high water levels mean that certain water-based activities like white water rafting and swimming in the Devil’s Pool may be suspended for safety reasons. Nonetheless, the spectacle of Victoria Falls during the high-water season is unforgettable, offering a dramatic encounter with one of nature’s greatest wonders.
Whilst it is not the widest waterfall or the highest waterfall, with all dimensions taken into account, including the flow rate, Victoria Falls is considered to be the biggest curtain of falling water in the world surpassing the magnificent Niagara Falls and Iguacu Falls. The Victoria Falls are 1700m wide and are made up of five different “falls.” The height of this chasm varies from 70 m (233ft) to 108m (360ft).
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At this time of year, warm sunny days in Africa can quickly transform into dramatic dark skies, with the breathtaking electric thunderstorms that the continent is known for. When packing for your visit to Victoria Falls, be sure to include quick-drying clothes to handle the sudden weather changes. A water bag for your camera is essential to protect your gear from the mist and spray of the falls. While raincoats are available for hire at Victoria Falls, we suggest embracing the experience fully and getting wet—it's all part of the adventure!
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While exploring Victoria Falls on foot is a must, the bird's-eye view during this season is truly unmatched. Helicopter or microlight flights provide breathtaking panoramas of the Falls, the Zambezi River, and the vast surrounding landscapes. From above, the full scale of the roaring waters and lush greenery comes to life, offering a view that no ground perspective can capture. And, if you're lucky, you may even get "kissed by an angel"—a gentle mist from the mighty Falls—adding a magical touch to your aerial adventure!
Time your visit to catch a ‘Moonbow’ - when the moon is full, the sky is clear and Victoria Falls are at their peak flow, huge rainbows appear through the mist at night. The light of the moon is refracted through the spray that rises up from the base of the Victoria Falls. This unique event is visible the day before, the day of and the day after the full moon.
Mid Water Season
Months : Late May, June, July, August, Early September
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Winter has arrived in the region, and visitors may be surprised by how quickly temperatures can drop in the evenings. As the cooler months settle in, the water flow at Victoria Falls begins to recede, marking the approach of the Low Water season. However, this time of year brings its own charm, with warm, sunny days and cool evenings that create a pleasant climate for exploration.
This season offers fantastic wildlife viewing opportunities, as animals gather around the remaining water sources. Most activities are still available, including the popular Zambian Horseback Safaris, which reopen for the season. These safaris allow visitors to experience the beauty of the Zambezi River region and its wildlife from a unique perspective, making it a wonderful time to visit Livingstone.
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Guests are always surprised just how cold it gets here on the Zambezi at night and in the early hours of the morning - especially if you taking part in River activities.
Packing for a winter safari requires a balance of practicality and comfort. Layered clothing, warm jackets, jumpers, thick socks and warm accessories will be absolutely essential!
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This is an exceptional time to see Victoria Falls and hunt for rainbows in the mid-water flow - a favourite time for visiting photographers!
Low Water Season
Months : September, October, November, December, Early Jan
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Victoria Falls will be at her lowest water flow at this time of the year and it is a good idea to visit both Zambian and Zimbabwean viewing points to see water flowing over at various points. Although you will not witness Victoria Falls in her full splendour at this time, this is prime time for wildlife viewing as herds of elephant descend upon the river. Livingstone, Victoria Falls & Kasane enjoy daily herd sightings on the roads and our National Parks during this season. White water rafting is also at its peak for adventure enthusiasts and the Devils Pool at the edge of Livingstone Island is open for a midday cool-down! Zambian Horseback Safaris is operational during these months!
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Packing for summer in Zambia involves preparing for hot and often humid conditions - lightweight cottons that keep the sun away during the day - and mosquitoes away at night will be essential. Hats, sandals and swimwear will be your daily staple in our sizzling Summer months!
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Welcome to the DRY season! As we head into September and October, the temperatures rise, and by October, you’ll feel the sizzling sun at its peak. This is the prime time for wildlife viewing along the Zambezi River and on day trips to Chobe National Park, where animals gather around water sources. As November rolls in, the weather is unpredictable—it could remain hot and dry, or we might celebrate the arrival of the first rains!
Our horse safari operation Zambian Horseback Safaris in the Simalaha Wildlife Conservancy is operational at this time - and a MUST for experienced horse riders.
The year in pictures!
As November rolls in, the weather is unpredictable - it could remain hot and dry, or, we might celebrate the arrival of the first rains and THOSE skies! Zambian Horseback Safaris
The Victoria Falls is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Whilst it is not the widest waterfall or the highest waterfall, with all dimensions taken into account, including the flow rate, Victoria Falls is considered to be the biggest curtain of falling water in the world surpassing the magnificent Niagara Falls and Iguacu Falls. The Victoria Falls are 1700m wide and are made up of five different “falls.” The height of this chasm varies from 70 m (233ft) to 108m (360ft).
With the rains, the Simalaha flats rise into flood - which means it’s time for us to pack up at Zambian Horseback Safaris until the rains subside.
The flow of Victoria Falls reaches its peak around March and April, with a staggering 540 million cubic meters of water cascading over the edge every minute. This creates one of nature’s most awe-inspiring spectacles, as massive clouds of spray and vibrant rainbows can be seen from miles away. Prepare to get soaked, as there's no avoiding the intense mist that fills the air. However, embracing the spray is part of the thrill, and spending a few hours at the Falls during this season is an exhilarating experience you won’t soon forget.
We all look forward to Rainy Season! Ok, not everyone…
Time your visit to catch a ‘Moonbow’ - when the moon is full, the sky is clear and Victoria Falls are at their peak flow, huge rainbows appear through the mist at night. The light of the moon is refracted through the spray that rises up from the base of the Victoria Falls. This unique event is visible the day before, the day of and the day after the full moon.
The Knife Edge Bridge (Zambia) offers a stunning view of the eastern cataract of Victoria Falls. More often than not, the bridge is where you’ll spot a circular rainbow!
A welcome sight on a chilly Winter morning for guests going out on an early boating adventure! We offer visitors the opportunity to experience a Sunrise, Sunset or Picnic Lunch Cruise with us here at Chundukwa River Lodge.
Every year, the Zambezi River water levels drop during the Dry Season or “Low Water” Season. We experience the hottest temps of the year before the Rains arrive (approx Nov/Dec) and the River gradually rises once again.
Bordered between Livingstone Town, farm lands and the Zambezi River, lies the wildlife area of Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park – Zambia’s smallest National Park. In addition to the migratory elephants, wildlife including white rhinos, giraffe, buffalo, waterbuck, impala, wildebeest, zebra, bushbuck, warthogs, monkeys, baboons, hippos and crocodiles are resident in the park year round.
See the endangered White Rhino living in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park with Livingstone Walking Safaris, an opportunity available all year round.
Fall asleep gazing at open African skies in the safety & comfort of the open Star Bed at Zambian Horseback Safaris.
With high temperatures in mid-Summer, the best way to cool off is a nice, cool swim! Our dogs will show you how it’s done.
Thousands of thirsty elephants gather around the Zambezi River during the height of the Dry Season. For some, this season is considered the best time to visit Zambia. Walking safari bush camps in and around South Luangwa are open for six months per year during this time, making it ideal for a Zambian Safari Circuit.