The Traveling Taylors

Landing at Zimbabwe Victoria Falls Airport can be the start of an unforgettable adventure—or a confusing mess if you’re unprepared. We’ve flown in ourselves and put together this guide to help you breeze through the arrival process. Here’s what first-time travelers need to know.

When visiting famous landmarks, many travelers like bringing a compact selfie stick tripod like this one so they can easily capture photos without asking strangers.

1. Location & Layout

• Full Name: Victoria Falls International Airport (VFA)
• Distance to Town: About 20 km (12 miles) to Victoria Falls town—roughly a 20-minute drive.
• Size: It’s a small, modern airport with just a few gates, which makes navigation quick and simple.

2. Visa on Arrival & Immigration

• Visa Options: Most nationalities can get a visa on arrival. Choose the right one:
• Single-entry: $30 USD
• Double-entry: $45 USD
• KAZA Univisa (Zimbabwe + Zambia): $50 USD — best if crossing borders
• Payment: Cash preferred (USD), though some counters accept cards.

💡 Pro Tip: Ask for the KAZA visa specifically—they won’t offer it unless you do.

3. Customs & Baggage Claim

• Baggage Wait Time: Usually short, but delays can happen with multiple international flights.
• Customs: Straightforward, but have your hotel address ready in case they ask.

4. Airport Facilities

• ATMs: Limited and not always stocked—bring USD cash just in case.
• SIM Cards: Available at small kiosks near arrivals; Econet and NetOne are the main providers.
• Currency: Zimbabwe uses USD; avoid exchanging large amounts at the airport (rates aren’t great).
• Free Wi-Fi: Available, but spotty.

5. Getting From Zimbabwe Victoria Falls Airport to Town

• Pre-Booked Transfers: Easiest and most reliable. Your lodge or hotel can arrange this.
• Taxis: Cost around $30–40 USD. Settle the price upfront.
• Shuttle Services: Available outside the terminal for shared rides.

😬 Watch Out For: Overpriced taxi quotes—stick to posted rates or ask airport staff for guidance.

6. What to Do If You Have a Long Layover

• Lounge: Small but decent VIP lounge available with drinks and snacks.
• Nearby Hotel: Look into Victoria Falls Safari Lodge or Nguni Lodge for close airport access.
• Short Trip: If you have 5+ hours, a quick visit to the falls is doable with a private transfer.

7. Departure Tips

• Arrive Early: At least 2 hours before international flights—security and check-in lines move slowly.
• Airport Tax: Usually included in your ticket, but double-check just in case.
• Souvenirs & Snacks: A few gift shops and cafés after security, but prices are high.

Zimbabwe Victoria Falls Airport

Zimbabwe Victoria Falls Airport is small but efficient—if you arrive prepared. With the right visa, cash in hand, and a transfer sorted, your first impression of Zimbabwe will be stress-free and smooth. Since airports are easy places to misplace items, many travelers keep their passport in a hidden RFID-blocking money belt like this one for extra security. Airports involve long travel days, so many travelers bring reusable collapsible water bottle like this one to stay hydrated after passing through security. For long-haul flights, many travelers pack disinfecting wipes like these to quickly wipe down tray tables and armrests. Near water (like Victoria Falls), a waterproof phone pouch like this one helps protect your phone while taking photos. Let the adventure begin the moment you land!