How to Visit Victoria Falls from Nigeria

Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, is an impressive destination on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe. Locally known as Mosi-oa-Tunya, meaning “The Smoke That Thunders”, this stunning waterfall offers more than just a beautiful sight. It is also a hotspot for adventure sports, cultural experiences, and wildlife safaris. 

For Nigerians, Victoria Falls is an exciting and reachable location in Southern Africa. It provides a unique chance to enjoy a mix of nature, culture, and thrilling activities. In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about traveling from Nigeria to Victoria Falls, including visa applications, flight options, entry requirements, costs, safety tips, and the best experiences that make this place a must-visit. 

Why Nigerians Should Visit Victoria Falls 

• Natural Wonder: Experience the world’s largest waterfall, with over 500 million liters of water falling every minute during peak season.
• Adventure Sports: Enjoy activities like white-water rafting and bungee jumping in Africa’s adrenaline capital.
• Safari Access: Close to Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe and Chobe National Park in Botswana.
• Cultural Experience: Meet local tribes, sample Southern African cuisine, and shop for handmade crafts.
• Proximity and Accessibility: It’s easier to get to from Nigeria than distant spots like Niagara or Iguazu Falls. 

Visa Requirements for Nigerians 

Since Victoria Falls is located in both Zambia and Zimbabwe, different visa options are available depending on whether you stay in one country or both. 

Zimbabwe Tourist Visa 

• Type: Single entry.
• Fee: $50 (≈ ₦75,000).
• Processing: Visa on Arrival for Nigerians at Victoria Falls International Airport. 

Zambia Tourist Visa 

• Type: Single entry.
• Fee: $50 (≈ ₦75,000).
• Processing: Visa on Arrival available at Harry Mwanga Nkumbula Airport in Livingstone. 

KAZA Univisa (Highly Recommended) 

• What It Is: A special visa that covers both Zambia and Zimbabwe and is also valid for day trips into Botswana. 
• Cost: $50 (≈ ₦75,000).
• Validity: 30 days, multiple entries.
• Best Option For Nigerians: This is ideal if you want to see the falls from both sides. 

Required Documents: 

• Nigerian passport (valid for 6+ months).
• Return ticket.
• Hotel booking or host information.
• Yellow Fever vaccination card. 

Flights from Nigeria to Victoria Falls 

There are no direct flights from Lagos or Abuja to Victoria Falls, but you can connect through Johannesburg, Addis Ababa, or Nairobi. 

Best Routes: 

1. Lagos/Abuja → Johannesburg → Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe) or Livingstone (Zambia).

• Airlines: South African Airways, Air Peace (to Johannesburg), followed by local flights to Victoria Falls or Livingstone.
• Duration: Approximately 10–14 hours total.
• Cost: $750–$1,200 (≈ ₦1,125,000–₦1,800,000) round trip. 

2. Lagos/Abuja → Addis Ababa → Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe). 

• Airlines: Ethiopian Airlines.
• Duration: Approximately 12–15 hours.
• Cost: $800–$1,100 (≈ ₦1,200,000–₦1,650,000). 

3. Lagos → Nairobi → Livingstone (Zambia). 

• Airlines: Kenya Airways with a local connection.
• Duration: Approximately 13–15 hours.
• Cost: $850–$1,300 (≈ ₦1,275,000–₦1,950,000). 

Booking Tips: 

• Compare prices on Travelstart or Skyscanner.
• Book at least eight weeks in advance for lower prices.
• Flying into Livingstone (Zambia) can often be cheaper than Zimbabwe. 

Best Time to Visit Victoria Falls 

• February to May: Peak water flow, with the most stunning spray and sound. (But mist may block views.)
• June to August: Good water levels and visibility, with cooler temperatures.
• September to January: Reduced water levels, more suited for adventure sports like swimming in Devil’s Pool. 

For Nigerians, the best months to travel are June to August, which coincide with summer holidays and lower costs. 

Accommodation Options 

1. Zimbabwe Side (Victoria Falls Town) 

• Budget: Shoestrings Backpackers Lodge $25/night (≈ ₦37,500).
• Mid-range: Victoria Falls Rainbow Hotel $120/night (≈ ₦180,000).
• Luxury: Victoria Falls Hotel $400 to $600/night (≈ ₦600,000–₦900,000).

2. Zambia Side (Livingstone) 

• Budget: Jollyboys Backpackers $20/night (≈ ₦30,000).
• Mid-range: Protea Hotel by Marriott $100 to $150/night (≈ ₦150,000–₦225,000).
• Luxury: Royal Livingstone Hotel $500+/night (≈ ₦750,000+).

Both sides also have Airbnbs starting at $40/night (≈ ₦60,000). 

Top Activities at Victoria Falls 

1. Viewing the Falls

• Zimbabwe Side: Provides 75% of viewpoints, ideal for photography. Entry fee: $30 (≈ ₦45,000).
• Zambia Side: Smaller area but features Knife-Edge Bridge and access to Devil’s Pool. Entry fee: $20 (≈ ₦30,000). 

2. Devil’s Pool (Zambia)

A natural pool at the edge of the falls.

• Open: September to December.
• Cost: $100 to $120 (≈ ₦150,000–₦180,000). 

3. White-Water Rafting (Zambezi River)

Considered among the best rafting experiences globally. 

• Cost: $120 to $150 (≈ ₦180,000–₦225,000). 

4. Bungee Jumping (Victoria Falls Bridge)

111 meters of pure excitement. 

• Cost: $120 (≈ ₦180,000). 

5. Helicopter Flight (Flight of Angels)

Flights lasting 15 to 30 minutes over the falls. 

• Cost: $150 to $250 (≈ ₦225,000–₦375,000). 

6. Sunset Cruise (Zambezi River)

Boat ride with snacks, drinks, and wildlife viewing. 

• Cost: $50 (≈ ₦75,000). 

7. Safari Extensions

• Hwange National Park (Zimbabwe): 1–2 day safaris starting at $150/day (≈ ₦225,000).
• Chobe National Park (Botswana): Day trips from $200 (≈ ₦300,000). 

Food & Dining 

Local Dishes to Try: 

• Sadza (Zimbabwe): A cornmeal dish served with meat and relish.
• Nshima (Zambia): Similar to sadza, often paired with beans or fish.
• Biltong: Spiced, dried meat snack.
• Fresh Zambezi Fish: Local specialties include tiger fish and bream. 

Costs: 

• Budget meals: $5 to $10 (≈ ₦7,500–₦15,000).
• Mid-range restaurants: $20 to $40 (≈ ₦30,000–₦60,000).
• Fine dining: $50 to $80 (≈ ₦75,000–₦120,000).

Transportation Around Victoria Falls 

1. Walking: Both towns, Victoria Falls and Livingstone, are easy to walk around.
2. Taxis: $5 to $10 (≈ ₦7,500–₦15,000) per ride. 
3. Car Hire: $50 to $70/day (≈ ₦75,000–₦105,000).
4. Cross-Border Shuttle: $10 to $20 (≈ ₦15,000–₦30,000). 

Health & Safety 

• Yellow Fever Certificate: This is required for Nigerians.
• Malaria Risk: Use repellent and consider prophylaxis.
• Safety: Both sides in Zambia and Zimbabwe are safe for tourists.
• Travel Insurance: Highly recommended, especially for adventure activities.

Currency & Money Matters 

• Zimbabwe Side: USD is used widely. The Zimbabwean dollar is unstable.
• Zambia Side: The Zambian Kwacha is the official currency, but USD is accepted in tourist areas.
• ATMs: Available, but charges apply for Nigerian cards. It’s best to carry some cash. 

Sample Budget for a 7-Day Trip 

• Visa: $50 (≈ ₦75,000).
• Flights: $750 to $1,200 (≈ ₦1,125,000–₦1,800,000).
• Accommodation: $250 to $700 (≈ ₦375,000–₦1,050,000).
• Food: $150 to $300 (≈ ₦225,000–₦450,000).
• Activities: $300 to $800 (≈ ₦450,000–₦1,200,000).
• Transport: $100 to $200 (≈ ₦150,000–₦300,000). 

Total Estimated Cost: ₦2,400,000 to ₦5,000,000 for one week. 

For Nigerians, traveling to Victoria Falls is a bucket-list experience filled with stunning landscapes, exciting adventures, and cultural insights. With proper planning covering visas, flights, budgets, and activities, you can enjoy one of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders without overspending. 

Whether you are looking for the thrill of bungee jumping, enjoying a sunset cruise on the Zambezi, or simply admiring the endless spray of water, Victoria Falls will create memories you’ll cherish forever.