Discover the hidden wonders of Victoria falls in the off-season – a perfect escape for South Africans 

“South African travellers looking for a unique and crowd-free holiday experience need look no further than Victoria Falls during the quieter months between mid-August and December — that sweet spot between peak tourist season and the rainy summer rush. This off-peak period offers a rare and intimate way to explore one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, just a short flight from home. 

As water levels drop, the Victoria Falls reveal hidden gems like the famous Devil’s Pool, a natural infinity pool at the edge of the falls where adventurous swimmers can take a dip and gaze down over 100 metres into the gorge below. The dry season also brings optimal conditions for world-class white-water rafting in the Batoka Gorge, with Grade IV and V rapids offering the ultimate thrill for adrenaline lovers. 

For those who prefer a gentler adventure, guided hikes and raft trips to the base of the Falls offer stunning views and the chance to swim in calmer pools. Wildlife lovers can also take advantage of excellent game viewing in the neighbouring Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, where animals like giraffe, zebra, buffalo and even white rhino gather at waterholes, while bird lovers have the perfect vantage point to spot over 400 species in the area. 

As the Zambezi River settles into its lower levels, sunset cruises become magical moments with hippos, crocodiles and elephants frequently seen along the riverbanks. 

“The shoulder season offers our guests time and space to connect with Victoria Falls in a more peaceful, meaningful way,” says Laurie Burr, Complex General Manager of The Royal Livingstone Hotel by Anantara and nearby resorts. “It’s a chance to see the Falls as most travellers never do, during nature’s beautiful transitions.” 

The Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Zambia Hotel by Anantara provides South African visitors with a luxurious and serene escape surrounded by the natural beauty of the Zambezi River. New tourism partnerships, including collaborations between Cape Town Tourism and We Are Victoria Falls, are also working to create seamless regional travel experiences. 

Direct daily flights between Victoria Falls and Mbombela (Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport), operated by fastjet Zimbabwe, make this bucket-list destination more accessible than ever for South Africans. 

For more industry related news, click here.