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Getting from Johannesburg to Victoria Falls

Without a doubt, Victoria Falls is one of the most amazing sights in the world. They are twice as tall as Niagara Falls and several times longer. If you are already in Johannesburg, make sure to also plan to visit the falls.

The closest cities to the falls are Livingstone in Zambia and Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe. So before you make any travel arrangements, you need to choose from which side you’ll be visiting the falls. Two thirds of the fall lies within Zambian territory, but the main viewing areas lie on the Zimbabwean side.

You also need to consider the cost of visa to entry either or both countries. This depends on your nationality and whether you choose a single entry or a multiple entry visa.

Flights from Johannesburg to Victoria Falls

You can fly from Johannesburg into Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe) on either British Airlines or South African Airlines. The cheaper return flight is the one from British Airlines (US$487 per person). A one way flight starts at US$253 per person on British Airlines.

The same airlines fly between Johannesburg and Livingston (Zambia), as well, and the prices are similar (US$480 RT per person on either airline). A one way flight starts at US$253 per person on British Airlines.

Trains from Johannesburg to Victoria Falls

There are trains from Johannesburg to Victoria Falls. You’ll cross the border either at Messina-Beitbridge or Bulawayo.

Buses from Johannesburg to Victoria Falls

There are buses from Johannesburg to Bulawayo and the journey takes 15 hours. From there, you need to take the train to Victoria Falls. There are departures every night and the total travel time is 33 hours.

Driving from Johannesburg to Victoria Falls

You can drive from Johannesburg to Victoria Falls (Matabeleland North, Zimbabwe). When you rent a car , make sure you ask whether you can take it over the border. The total travel time is over 17 hours, so make sure to plan a stop along the way (or switch drivers, if you don’t travel alone).

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