Victoria Falls in Low Water: Rafting, Devil’s Pool and the Gorge

This was a big year on the Zambezi. The river ran well above last year's levels through the first half of 2026, and at peak flow in April and May the falls' entire 1.7 kilometre width thundered at capacity, with a spray column visible from fifty kilometres away. Those who stood at the viewpoints then were drenched, deafened and could see almost nothing clearly. It was magnificent.

Now comes the other Victoria Falls. The river is falling steadily, and August opens the low water season, when the curtain thins and the geology of the gorge reveals itself. This is when the falls become an adventure rather than a spectacle. White water rafting resumes its full run of rapids from August, Devil's Pool on Livingstone Island reopens from mid August as currents ease, and the exposed channels of the upper river become superb territory for birdlife and game viewing from the water.

Two falls, two seasons. If you want the thunder, with helicopter flights and sunset cruises, book for next April. If you want to get into the river rather than simply look at it, the months ahead are exactly right.