7 Incredible Zambia Waterfalls: Nature's Breathtaking Showcase

By Azure Lee | Update on: Feb 02, 2024

Waterfalls are one of Zambia's specialties; the country is known for sharing the Victoria Falls with neighboring Zimbabwe, but did you know that there are 17 additional impressive waterfalls spread across the nation?

Many visit Zambia and head straight to Victoria Falls (and rightly so), but Zambia has so much more to offer. Explore beyond the tourist hotspots and you’ll discover some of the best waterfalls on the continent. Of course, we recommend you spend a while traveling this incredible country, but for those fleeting visitors here are the top seven Zambia waterfalls.

How Many Waterfalls Are In Zambia? 

One of Africa's most water-rich nations, Zambia is home to numerous rivers that wind through its undulating terrain, creating spectacular displays of falling water. The most famous of these is undoubtedly the magnificent Victoria Falls, but there are also seventeen other equally stunning waterfalls spread throughout the nation.

These falls in Zambia hold significant importance for the local communities with special attachments to their cultures, history, and spirituality.

Zambia is home to numerous rivers that wind through its undulating terrain

A Tour Of 7 Beautiful Falls In Zambia 

We have compiled the 7 most beautiful waterfalls in Zambia from south to north. The waterfalls offer distinct views at other times of the year, but they are often at their best in January, February, and March, which is the conclusion of the rainy season.

1. Victoria Falls

As one of the Seven Wonders of the World, Victoria Falls is undoubtedly well-known to you, unlike many of the other waterfalls on this list. It is the largest waterfall in Africa and the pride of Zambia.

Widening to a staggering 1,708 meters, Victoria Falls is visible from both Zambia and Zimbabwe. In the Lozi language, the falls are called the "Mosi-oa-Tunya," or "Smoke that Thunders." As you approach, you will understand why they say that—it is loud!

After entering the falls, it will only take a few seconds to hear the roar and a few minutes to see the cascading water! Head across the tiny, precarious-looking bridge to Knife Edge, a spectacular spot to see the falls and grab a shower (you will get soaked between March and June). 

It is recommended to follow the path that veers off to the left near the entrance, as it leads directly to the bottom of the falls where you can witness the churning water and the daring bungee jumpers at Batoka Gorge. After that, head to the back of the falls, where the water flows down into nothingness, as this is the best place to see rainbows.

Victoria Falls is the largest waterfall in Africa

2. Ngonye Falls

These stunning Zambia waterfalls are also referred to as Sioma Falls since they are close to the community of Sioma. The Zambezi River flows over these falls from the Kalahari sand floodplain to the basalt dyke, which finally feeds into the spectacular Batoka Gorge of Victoria Falls.

The sheer amount of water that pours over the uneven 20-meter (66-foot) plunge makes the horseshoe-shaped Ngonye Falls spectacular. The river flows beneath the rock on both sides of the falls, which is an interesting feature. It is an amazing sensation to stand atop the falls and feel and hear the underground flow below.

3. Kalambo Falls

Kalambo Falls, often overlooked by many travelers, holds the distinction of being the second-highest continuous waterfall in all of Africa. Despite its impressive status, its relative obscurity is attributed to its placement at one of the northernmost points of Zambia, near the border with Tanzania. Consequently, few people venture to explore this remarkable waterfall, making it a hidden treasure on the waterfalls in Zambia map.

When hiking to Kalambo, most people begin their journey from Luke's Beach on the shores of Lake Tanganyika. The walk up to the falls takes two to four hours one way, and it is a strenuous one at that, with a 500-meter elevation gain and lots of scrambling over sharp rocks.

Once you are there, the vistas are definitely worth the sweat. There are multiple viewing points to observe the waterfall, all of which will make you feel terribly little in compared to this natural wonder. 

Visit the Kalambo Falls, Lake Tanganyika, and Nsumbu National Park in combination for a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will show you a breathtaking and largely undiscovered region of Zambia.

4. Lumangwe Falls

Lumangwe Falls is the largest waterfall located entirely within Zambia. The Northern Province's Lumangwe Falls is located adjacent to Luapula Province. This magnificent waterfall seems to appear out of nowhere. With a height of 35m and a width of 100m, many people think that Lumangwe is like a miniature Victoria Falls.

One of the best things about Lumangwe Falls is its isolated location; on a visit, you might find yourself the only ones there. It is also an ideal place to camp, with spaces near the falls and simple but recently renovated amenities available for your use.

Lumangwe Falls is the largest waterfall located entirely within Zambia

5. Chishimba Falls

Head north from the capital Lusaka to the small city of Kasama, wrapped in silent tranquility seemingly in the middle of nowhere. Chishimba Falls is one of three falls along the Luombe River, and depending on when you visit, there is a good chance you will have these waterfalls all to yourself.

You could think that Mutumuna Falls is the main Chishimba Falls when you first arrive, but it is actually simply a teaser waterfall to get you interested before you encounter the fierce and stunning Kaela Rapids.

Of course, the area's most precious feature is the 20-meter-tall Chishimba Falls, where you can walk all the way down to the bottom and see the water cascading from the top. The Bemba people believe that the spirit Chishimba, who resides in the cave behind the falls, calls this waterfall home. You will be so overcome by its beauty that nothing negative can possibly enter your mind.

6. Kundalila Falls

The Kaombe River falls 70m / 230ft, breaking into thin veils and nourishing a natural botanical garden that surrounds the Kundalila waterfall, east of the Great North Road near Kanona in Central Province. Visitors can swim in the deep natural pool at the base of the falls, and there is a camping site nearby.

The name of the waterfall, Kundalila Falls, means "cooing or crying dove" in Bemba, one of the many bird sounds you will hear in this tranquil setting. The waterfall is an official Zambian Natural Monument. 

Visitors can swim in the deep natural pool at the base of Kundalila Falls

6. Mumbuluma Falls

Mumbuluma Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in the Mumbuluma Conservancy in northeastern Zambia. Nestled within lush greenery, the falls cascade gracefully, creating a serene and tranquil atmosphere. Visitors to Mumbuluma Falls are captivated by the natural beauty that surrounds the area, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a peaceful retreat. 

Best Time To Visit Waterfalls In Zambia

The best time to visit waterfalls in Zambia, including renowned ones like Victoria Falls, largely depends on the specific characteristics of each waterfall and individual preferences. However, in general:

Dry Season (May to October)

This period is often considered the best time to visit many waterfalls. The dry season experiences lower rainfall, resulting in reduced water spray and better visibility of the falls. Additionally, the dry season is the winter season in the Southern Hemisphere, offering cooler temperatures and comfortable weather for exploration.

Peak Flow Season (February to May)

This is when the water flow is at its peak due to the rainy season. While this means impressive and powerful cascades, the increased water volume can lead to heavy mist and reduced visibility. Visitors who enjoy the spectacle of a roaring waterfall may find this season appealing.

Explore Zambia Waterfalls Today

Zambia waterfalls, with their diverse and awe-inspiring landscapes, beckon travelers to explore the country's natural wonders. From the grandeur of Victoria Falls to the hidden gems like Ngonye Falls and Kundalila Falls, each waterfall unfolds as a unique masterpiece within Zambia's expansive canvas.

Plan your visit to Zambia, where each waterfall promises a unique encounter with nature's marvels. To make your travel dreams a seamless reality, don't forget to secure your travel documents.

For those planning to explore more of Africa's wonders, including Zambia, we recommend considering Rwanda as a gateway to your African adventure. Applying for a Zambia eVisa has never been easier Simply navigate to our Zambia Immigration Services website, where you can initiate the visa application process with convenience and efficiency without visiting the embassy or consulate.

Take off on this voyage now, where you will encounter natural wonders at every step, and let the real expression of your wanderlust emerge in the heart of Africa.