By Kim Barnett
Livingstone Island Photo by Tony Barnett Productions
I dare you – in fact, I double dare you – ask anyone that has lived for a significant amount of time near the Victoria Falls when their favourite time of year is. I would put money on the fact that they didn’t say during the cooler months of June, July and August, despite the fact that these are the peak times for tourist arrivals. So, what is it that people living near the Victoria Falls know that international travel agents might not?
Let’s start by unequivocally stating that the Victoria Falls is majestic regardless of what day, month, year or decade (or likely millennia but I can’t personally vouch for this) that you choose to visit. Relishing in the child-like glee of being drenched to the skin by the warm spray during ‘high water’ season is a thrill that never tires. The spray can be so thick that if the wind changes, it can almost be a struggle to catch your breath. The multitude of rainbows are intoxicating as Mother Nature seems to sprinkle vibrant arches of colour everywhere you look. At this time of year, it’s easy to think ‘how could the Victoria Falls ever be better than this’?
Hear me out. High water season offers a magical, immersive experience. You are quite literally enveloped by the spray of the Victoria Falls whether you are walking across the historic Victoria Falls Bridge or within the park on the Zimbabwean or Zambian side. In fact, the spray can be so high, it can be witnessed from up to 30 km away! Shearwater Victoria Falls Bungee even opens later in the morning so a bit of the spray has a change to evaporate as the day warms.
Despite this magic, low water season is when the real show unfolds, especially for those with an intrepid streak: introducing, the Adventure Season. This period, typically spanning from late August to December, is marked by reduced water levels, offering visitors a diverse, thrilling experience. Delve into the geographical and seasonal dynamics of the Zambezi River, with the multitude of adventures that are often only possible during this unique time.
The Victoria Falls, one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders of the world, owes its existence to the complex geological activity associated with the Great Rift Valley. This colossal waterfall was formed when the Zambezi River encountered a series of basalt cracks and faults associated with the rifting process. Over millions of years, as the African continent slowly pulled apart, these fissures widened and deepened. The river, finding its path altered by these geological shifts, cascaded over the edge of one such fault line, giving birth to the thunderous splendour known today as the Victoria Falls.
Originating from a seemingly insignificant gurgling spring in north-western Zambia, the Zambezi River builds into Africa’s fourth-longest river, flowing onwards through Angola, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique before emptying into the Indian Ocean. The river’s flow varies significantly with the seasons, influenced primarily by rainfall in its upper catchment area in Angola. These rains dictate the dramatic fluctuations seen at the Victoria Falls every year, ranging from the thunderous flow at the tail end of the rainy season to a more subdued but clearer view during the dry season.
The receding waters reveal the magnificent cliff faces and intricate geological formations of the falls. Visitors have the unique opportunity to witness the detailed rock formations and ancient basalt columns usually hidden under the roaring waters. This season provides a rare glimpse into the geological history and artistic beauty sculpted over millions of years. And this is when the real fun happens! Check out below for some of the top reasons why low water season at the Victoria Falls is without a doubt, Adventure Season!
World-Class White-Water Rafting
Regarded as the world’s best one-day white-water rafting trip, the Zambezi River below the Victoria Falls offers adrenaline-packed adventures, especially prominent during the low water season. The reduced water levels expose more rapids, increasing the intensity and excitement of the rafting experience. Rapids with names like “The Terminator,” “Oblivion,” and “The Devil’s Toilet Bowl” hint at the thrilling experience awaiting adventurers. Wild Horizons and Shearwater run trips from the Zimbabwean side whereas Safari Par Excellence run from the Zambian side, though each tackle the same Zambezi River. While one-day rafting trips depart most days in low water, ensure that you book in advance for a multi-day rafting experience that will have you sleeping on the white, squeaky-sand beaches of the Batoka Gorge by night.
Credit social media for turning what was once just an enigmatic swimming hole enjoyed by fearless locals and a few opportunistic fishermen to now being an international tourist phenomenon. Today, Devil’s Pool is undoubtably a highlight when visiting the Victoria Falls yet oftentimes people don’t realise it is only accessible when the Zambezi River is at its lowest.
The Devil’s Pool, or its ever-so-slightly more chilled counterpart, The Angel’s Pool, are both naturally forming rock pools on the precipice of the Victoria Falls off Livingstone Island. This small patch of land, only legally accessible from Zambia, was where the explorer David Livingstone first witnessed the grandeur of the waterfall and named it after his reigning monarch. Tours to Livingstone Island include a scenic boat transfer to and from the Zambian bank and offer a historical perspective, retracing the steps of Dr. Livingstone, before being offered delicious local delicacies and, from midday onwards, a welcomed gin and tonic. Spaces are limited and strictly enforced, so book your spot on Livingstone Island long before arrival to avoid disappointment.
For white-water kayaking enthusiasts, the Zambezi River becomes a thrilling playground of high-volume, warm-water rapids during Adventure Season. Local villagers are hired to transport the vibrantly coloured kayaks along the steep paths, catering to international adventurers. However, before you enter his watery lair, be sure to pick up a locally crafted carving of Nyami-Nyami, the revered Tonga river god, as a unique memento of your journey.
The Zambezi River has emerged as the premier spot for refining playboating skills, thanks to its stationary waves that create perfect conditions for practicing and mastering techniques and tricks in a dynamic yet manageable setting. Coupled with warm weather, cheap beer, and outstanding backpackers’ lodges like Jollyboys Backpackers in Zambia and Shoestrings Backpackers in Zimbabwe, it offers the perfect escape from the European winter. International freestyle kayakers can spend a few weeks—or even months—enjoying this idyllic setting.
The annual weather patterns and seasonal water flow not only affects activities at the falls but also impacts wildlife behaviours in the surrounding national parks such as Zambezi National Park (Zimbabwe), Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park (Zambia), Chobe National Park (Botswana) and the myriad of parks in Namibia’s Zambezi Region.
Traditionally, safari-goers opt for the cooler, dry months of June, July and August which is peak safari season. However, the dry, hot landscape at the beginning of the Adventure Season, in September, October and early November enhances wildlife viewing opportunities as animals congregate around the sparse water sources, offering unobstructed views and exceptional photography opportunities. Although not a universal opinion, November is my personal favourite safari month, just as the first rains arrive and the landscape appears to change almost overnight. This is when there are less tourists about, and the air is almost palpable with the anticipation of rain.
If I were to challenge you with another question, it would be this: ask someone who has lived in Southern Africa to name their most memorable scent of the region. Chances are, most will answer ‘petrichor’—the pleasant, earthy aroma released when rain falls on dry soil. This term originates from the Greek words “petra,” meaning stone, and “ichor,” the fluid believed to flow in the veins of the gods. To me, petrichor signals renewal, marking the earth’s awakening to a new season. Just days after the first rainfall, a fresh green veil begins to cover the landscape. You’ll notice a renewed spring in the step of everyone, from villagers to city bankers in suits, and the herds of impala now ready to drop their young.
Beyond the thrills and adventures, the low water season in the Victoria Falls area is an excellent time for relaxation. Fewer crowds provide a more laid-back experience, ideal for enjoying the natural beauty and tranquility. Visitors can indulge in leisurely days spent by the pool, enjoying cocktails, or reading a good book with the backdrop of one of Africa’s most iconic landscapes.
Tucked away along the Zambezi River, both the Zambian and Zimbabwean sides boast unique lodges. Upstream from the Victoria Falls Chundukwa River Lodge invites you to take part in an extraordinary horse safari. Tintswalo Siankaba and Sindabezi Island in Zambia, as well as Chundu Island in Zimbabwe offer tranquil island escapes, perfect for even the busiest executives to unwind and relax. In Zimbabwe, the Star Suite at Old Drift Lodge invites guests to spend luxurious nights under the stars. Downstream, perched on the edge of the Batoka Gorge, the newly rebuilt Taita Falcon Lodge boasts breathtaking views over the Zambezi River—a sight so stunning it must be seen to be believed. These destinations offer more than just a place to stay—they promise unforgettable experiences that might just tempt you to extend your trip by another day.
Victoria Falls’ Adventure Season offers a unique blend of excitement and relaxation, making it a must-visit time for those looking to explore this natural wonder from a different perspective. Whether it’s rafting down fierce rapids, swimming on the edge of a waterfall, or simply enjoying the serenity, the Adventure Season at the Victoria Falls promises unforgettable experiences for all types of travellers.