Air Travel to Victoria Falls: Livingstone, Zambia

Published June 21, 2010 at 7:00 am |

IMG 0187 300x225 Air Travel to Victoria Falls: Livingstone, Zambia

Victoria Falls as seen from the airplane

Which Country to Fly Into?

If you’re considering making a trip to Victoria Falls, one of the first questions you’ll need to ask yourself is, “Which side of the falls should I visit? Zambia or Zimbabwe?” Your decision will naturally impact which airport you fly into: Livingstone, Zambia or Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.

I chose to fly into Zambia. The recent instability in Zimbabwe’s political and economic fronts was enough for me to avoid spending my nights there. But no worries, taking a day-trip into the neighboring country to see the falls from the other side is easy, albeit a bit pricey.

How Much is Airfare to Livingstone, Zambia?

Sadly, I have always had trouble finding a discount to Livingstone. Average round-trip airfare from Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport range in price between $500 – $600. Surprisingly, on the day I was booking my airfare, British Airways had a sale on tickets to Livingstone. Round trip tickets were only $300!!! I took this as a sign and immediately booked my ticket.

British Airways, South African Airways and 1Time all fly to Livingstone and prices hover around the same for all three. And even though British Airway was on strike during my travel period – my flight was operated by Comair so up, up, and away I went!

So the short story is: If you see a cheap ticket. Buy it right away. Otherwise, be prepared to pay top dollar. It’s okay though, Vic Falls is worth every penny!

What Can I Expect on Arrival?

IMG 0188 300x225 Air Travel to Victoria Falls: Livingstone, Zambia

Flying from JNB-LVI you can expect a quick flight; about 2 hours. Health & Safety Regulations require that the airplane be sprayed for bugs before landing. As the flight attendants make their way up and down the aisle, be prepared for a smelly, toxic (but safe-for-humans according to the WHO) spray to linger for 5 minutes. It’s not as bad as it sounds. Africa ain’t for sissies my friend.

Depending on your seat, you may be able to see the falls as you approach the airport. So ask for a window seat, or just crawl over your neighbor’s lap. Whatever is easiest.

There are no jetways here. You’ll be taking the steps off your Boeing 737 and walking across the tarmac to immigration.

What do I Need to Know About Customs & Immigration

Customs and Immigration is pretty painless. At the time of my adventure, single-entry visas for U.S. Citizens were $50/ double-entry visas were $80. Multiple entries need to be arranged in advance. Payment is in U.S. Dollars. Bring exact change, just in case. If you plan on going to Zimbabwe or Botswana, you’ll need to get a double-entry (or multiple-entry depending on your itinerary) visa. Otherwise, fork over your 2 Jacksons and a Hamilton and grab your luggage.

The airport only has 1 main hall about the size of my driveway. If you’re lucky, someone will have your name on a sign. Otherwise, taxi’s are waiting to take you to your hotel. If you’re staying at Chanters Lodge, as I was, Richard Chanter himself will pick you up and bring you to your home away from home.

Congratulations, you’ve made it to Livingstone, Zambia. Victoria Falls is just 15 minutes away!