The question is never really whether it can be done. It is whether you have the days. Namibia’s eastern tip is already 1,200 kilometres from Windhoek, and the Falls sit beyond that, so bolting them onto a fortnight means either dropping the desert or flying one leg. Both work. Here is what each actually costs you in time.

Three ways to do it

The overland route is the one worth doing if the days exist. The Zambezi region is nothing like the rest of Namibia — it is green, riverine and full of elephant, and most visitors never see it because they run out of time in the desert.

The visa that saves you money

If you want both sides of the Falls, ask for the KAZA UniVisa rather than two separate visas. It costs USD 50, lasts 30 days and covers Zambia and Zimbabwe together, plus day trips into Botswana through the Kazungula border. Eighty-seven nationalities are eligible, including most of Europe, the UK, the US, Canada, Australia and Japan.

Border logistics that catch people out

• Your hire company must issue a cross-border letter before you travel. Without it you will be turned around at the post.
• Allow a full day for the crossing. The posts are small and the queues are slower than the distance suggests.
• Do not arrive at a border late in the afternoon. Hours are shorter than European travellers expect.
• One-way vehicle drops between countries carry a fee that is often larger than the flight you were avoiding.
• Namibian dollars are not accepted in Zambia or Zimbabwe. Carry US dollars for the Falls side.

Zimbabwe and Zambia each have their own entry rules on top of the UniVisa, and the current requirements are worth checking close to departure rather than at booking.

Which side of the Falls

Zimbabwe gives you the long panorama and the majority of the viewpoints, which is why most first visits are made from that side. Zambia puts you closer to the water and, in low season, onto the lip of it. In full flood the spray is so heavy from either side that you see less rather than more, which surprises people who planned around the peak. If you have one afternoon, take Zimbabwe. If you have two, do both on the UniVisa and decide for yourself.

Our 19-day deserts and falls safari is this trip done properly, desert to Zambezi to the Falls. If you are still deciding between countries, Namibia against Botswana covers that, and the Namibian entry rules are in which countries need a visa.

Frequently asked questions

Can you combine Namibia with Victoria Falls?

Yes. Either drive east through the Zambezi region and cross at Ngoma or Katima Mulilo, or fly Windhoek to Victoria Falls in about two hours. Allow four extra nights at minimum.

How far is Victoria Falls from Windhoek?

Namibia’s eastern border is about 1,200km from Windhoek and the Falls lie beyond it. Driving takes three to four days each way with sensible stops.

What is the KAZA UniVisa?

A single USD 50 visa valid 30 days across Zambia and Zimbabwe, including day trips to Botswana via Kazungula. Eighty-seven nationalities are eligible.

Where can I get the KAZA UniVisa?

Only at four entry points per country, including both Victoria Falls border posts, Kazungula and the main international airports. Zambian entry points also allow online application.

Which side of Victoria Falls is better?

Zimbabwe has more viewpoints and the classic panorama. Zambia puts you closer to the water. In peak flood the spray obscures the view from both sides.

Do I need a cross-border letter for a hire car?

Yes. The rental company must issue one before you travel, and one-way drops between countries carry an additional fee.