When it comes to packing for a specific destination, trust that I will take up to two hours! Especially if I can’t find some or other handy packing list online. That’s exactly why I thought this Victoria Falls packing list might come in handy – not just for myself when I return to the Victoria Falls, but also for you.
Wondering About the Weather at Mosi-oa-Tunya?
Africa is Africa, which means it’s pretty much summer all year round. But, our tour guide, Chris, from Chris Travel & Tours says in winter, it does get cold at night, which means you’ve got to come prepared.
We visited the Victoria Falls mid-February and it was HOT! Luckily, we stayed at the AVANI Victoria Falls Resort, where you have unlimited daily access to the falls, so apart from the resort’s swimming pool, that is pretty much where we cooled off. We went down to the falls twice in one day and merely changed our routes as there are three different trails to take.
Play It By Ear at the Victoria Falls
Depending on where you’re staying, there might be informal and more formal dinners to dress for. Or, you might just feel like dressing up anyway. I suggest that men opt for cotton shirts or anything made from a light and easy-dry fabric. Ladies, you do you in strappy dresses and strappy sandals, cotton dresses or viscose-type of skirts, tops and dresses.
For a boat cruise on Radisson Blu Mosi-Oa-Tunya, Livingstone Resort‘s River Cruiser, go all out in a stylish maxi dress like this from Milk & Honey, which not only looks chic and instantly elevates your look, but also keeps you cool. Couple your outfits with simple, yet elegant sandals, or even Havaianas. If you’re buying something for the trip, opt for something classic which you can wear well into spring and summer come September.
Fashion for Vic Falls
I am all for pretty pictures at the magnificent falls. What I am less keen on are images of me posing in an unnatural and impractical look. Creating that Victoria Falls aesthetic should be simple and carefree, offering you the chance to truly enjoy the beauty of it all. On our first day, I wore jean shorts and a crop top, which was okay, but I was drenched within minutes, which made the jeans a little impractical.
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The next day I went to the falls with proper nylon gym pants and a crop top as we were doing the adventurers’ Boiling Pot trail. Something sporty was perfect for this trail.
Ultimately, for the perfect rainbow-inspired, misty falls pictures, I’d go for easy-dry, non-white pants and tops. Perhaps something floral that pops and complements the yellow lilies growing all along the falls.
If you have a cute trench coat or rain jacket, you can always bring that along, especially during times when the Falls are at their peak. Just remember that it is hot and humid out there and you won’t need anything warm. There are often guys at the entrance renting out umbrellas, raincoats and even Crocs to those who did not bring the right attire, so if you feel like supporting the locals, go ahead and rent yourself a poncho. I would come prepared, though, just in case.
Sizing Up Your Shoes
If rented Crocs aren’t you vibe, bring your most comfortable, non-slip shoes as the pathways are permanently wet from the Falls’ spray and the popular Knife’s Edge Bridge can be quite slippery. The photographic trail is a rather long trail, which means you would want to have some proper hiking shoes. The same goes for the Boiling Pot trail, which goes right down to the bottom of the Falls where the water gathers in a whirlpool underneath the famous Victoria Falls Bridge.
Lounging By The Pool
Don’t forget your swimsuit and your poolside accessories! No matter where you’re staying, Devil’s Pool will most probably be on your to-do list and most hotels will have swimming pools, so either way, you will need swimwear when travelling to the Victoria Falls.
This light kimono came in handy on many occasions – from lazily lounging by the pool, to exploring the resort and dining at the poolside restaurant. It’s elegant and practical at the same time, serving as the perfect cover up amidst the African heat.
Pack SPF, Sunnies and Sunhats for the Victoria Falls
SPF is a must. Zambia (or Zimbabwe, if you’re visiting the Falls from that side) is known for its African sun, which has no mercy. So, be sure to slap on some sunscreen before, during and after your visit to the Victoria Falls. Also, remember your sunglasses as the glare from the Falls can be intense when its not cloudy or too misty. For someone like me who wears contact lenses, even more so. And, of course, a hat is also non-negotiable.
Protect Your Electronics
If you’d like to keep your phone or camera from getting wet, be sure to bring a protecting bag of sorts along. A fashionable sling bag will definitely come in handy, but preferably one that’s not made from leather. Some people merely put their phones in Ziploc bags to be able to still take photos through the plastic film. You do you.
Since we were novice Vic Falls visitors, we merely put our phones in our pants’ pockets, which worked, but wasn’t necessarily the most practical, especially when the Falls are in full force. I’d much rather bring a sling bag along next time.
One of those quick-dry gym towels could also come in handy for when you leave the Falls for the cool, airconditioned comfort of your hotel room. It’s also dual purpose then, as AVANI Victoria Falls Resort boasts an intimate gym where you can run off that cheesy pizza from lunch or the many, many cold Mosi beers that are so welcome in the hot African sun.
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