Which airport in Zambia is closest to Victoria Falls?

Victoria Falls Airport (Zimbabwe) and Livingstone Airport (Zambia) are the closest to the Falls themselves. But, you can also fly into Kasane Airport (Botswana), and take an hour long road transfer into Victoria Falls town (this road transfer does involve a border crossing). This is an important initial decision.



The closest airport in Zambia to Victoria Falls is the Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport (LVI), located in the town of Livingstone. It is situated just 12 to 15 kilometers (about 7–9 miles) from the entrance of the falls, making it a quick 15–20 minute drive for travelers. While the Victoria Falls Airport (VFA) in Zimbabwe is also nearby (about 22 km away), the Livingstone airport is the primary gateway for those staying on the Zambian side to view the Eastern Cataract of the falls. In 2026, this airport remains a bustling hub for regional flights from Johannesburg, Nairobi, and Lusaka. For 2026 visitors, flying into LVI is the most efficient way to access the "Mosi-oa-Tunya" (The Smoke That Thunders) without having to deal with an immediate international border crossing upon landing, especially if your lodge or campsite is located along the banks of the Zambian side of the Zambezi River.

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The Zimbabwean side of Victoria Falls has 75% more viewing points, and gives an overall better perspective of the falls. In all seasons it is a great view, but if you are travelling at the end of Dry season then the Zimbabwean side is the side to pick since Zambia's views are particularly minimal.

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How to Get to Victoria Falls
  1. Plane. The Victoria Falls International Airport (VFA) is 11 miles south of the city and the Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport (LVI) is located three miles north of the city across the border with Zambia. ...
  2. Train. There is an overnight train between Bulawayo and Victoria Falls. ...
  3. Car. ...
  4. Bus.


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The border between Zambia and Zimbabwe is located at the Victoria Falls Bridge border crossing, approximately 10 km south of Livingstone (15 minutes by taxi). Your hotel can arrange a taxi, and the driver will usually usher you through immigration, helping with any paperwork.

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To make the most of your time here, you will want to visit for at least two days. Even if your time is limited, you can make your trip to the falls an exciting memory that will last a lifetime. To enjoy Victoria Falls to the fullest, plan for three or four days.

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In recent years, Zambia has entrenched itself as one of the safest and most stable countries in sub-Saharan Africa, whereas Zimbabwe has become synonymous with tyrannical rule and economic mismanagement. Despite this, both sides of Victoria Falls are popular with tourists and as safe to visit as anywhere in the region.

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Victoria Falls is generally a safe place to visit and is separate from Zimbabwe in a political sense, due to the country relying on it for its tourism. Social and political unrest is therefore kept at bay, roads are maintained, cash is usually accessible (check with us first), and the town is kept clean.

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It is possible to swim in the rock pools right underneath the waterfalls at certain times of the year ('low water'). This is an unforgettable adventure right in the heart of one of the most beautiful places on earth!

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If you are only visiting Zambia then you do not need to get a visa or the KAZA UNIVISA. If you are entering Zimbabwe multiple times during your journey it may be a less expensive option to obtain the KAZA UNIVISA.

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Both sides have their advantages. In general, the views of the falls are better from the Zimbabwe side, especially during the low water season. But low water season is also the best time to visit Livingstone Island and Devil's Pool or Angel's Pool, which you can only do on the Zambian side.

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