Swimming Under Victoria Falls | Swimming Below Victoria Falls

Swimming under or at the edge of Victoria Falls is a premier, safe (with operators) adventure activity, primarily available during the low-water season (August–January). Experiences include swimming in the natural Devil’s Pool on the precipice or taking a boat to the Boiling Pot directly below the 300ft falls.

Swimming below Victoria Falls (in the Boiling Pot) involves taking a guided, 3-hour tour from Livingstone, Zambia, to hike into the Batoka Gorge and swim in natural rock pools beneath the falls. Available from August to early January during low water, this experience features inflatable rafting and, often, a “shower” under the cascades.

Views of Victoria Falls from the base of Batoka Gorge are unparalleled.

An experience that will stay with you forever is swimming in the pools beneath the Falls, with the towering black basalt rock above and the water falling seemingly from nowhere.

Strolling through the picturesque gorge is the first leg of your journey. Big inflatable rafts will carry you across the Boiling Pot, and you’ll emerge directly beneath Victoria Falls. The views from the nearby cascade are breathtaking, and knowledgeable guides will take you there.

There are rock pools just below the waterfall where you can swim and unwind.

Swimming Under Victoria Falls

Key Experiences & Locations

  • Devil’s Pool (Edge): Known as the ultimate infinity pool, this spot is located on the edge of the falls on the Zambia side. Guests sit in the pool, with the water’s current pushing them toward the edge, which is blocked by a rock wall.
  • Boiling Pot (Below): A boat trip and hike into the Batoka Gorge lead to a calmer eddy below the falls, allowing swimming in rock pools right under the spray.
  • Angel’s Pool: Another smaller, slightly safer pool near Livingstone Island accessible when water levels are low.

Practical Information

  • Best Time: Low water season, typically early August to early January, when the current is less severe.
  • Cost: Tours range from US$70 to over $150, including boat transport to Livingstone Island and guides.
  • Requirements: Average fitness is needed for the hike to the river and maneuvering over slippery rocks.
  • Safety: Always go with authorized, licensed tour operators, such as those operating from Livingstone, Zambia.

Things to know Before Swimming Under The Victoria Falls

  • This journey does not necessitate superhuman levels of physical fitness. Paddling to the Falls after walking down the gorge is doable for anyone with a moderate level of fitness. It will take more energy to walk up the gorge, so be careful to drink plenty of water and take it slow. A solid sense of balance is essential because you will be walking on rocks, which can be slippery.
  • Do not worry; it is pure safety. We have gone to great lengths to ensure that this activity is completely risk-free. Along for the ride, you’ll have access to a helmet and life jacket. There is a team of trained medical professionals and air rescue pilots waiting in case the very unexpected happens.
  • At your own discretion, you are welcome to bring a tiny camera or phone. The raft’s operators deny any wrongdoing about the contents of the dry bag. On the excursion, the guides bring their own cameras, and you can buy the images.
  • The package includes mineral water in a bottle, soda, and some small nibbles.
  • Get your sneakers on and wear shorts and a t-shirt; the rocks aren’t a suitable place for sandals or shoes with a hard sole. Please remember to bring your own sunscreen if you tend to have sensitive skin.
  • Think about what you’ll wear after the vacation and pack accordingly.
  • It takes about three hours to complete the exercise (the exact amount of time depends on how steep the gorge is).