At the edge of Victoria Falls lies a natural infinity pool where you can experience the power and beauty of one of the largest waterfalls in the world flowing all around you. The photos are not an illusion, you’re actually sitting right at the edge. This experience truly defines connecting with nature in its most raw and powerful form. But with such an extreme location, it’s only natural to wonder: is Devil’s Pool safe?
Where is Devil’s Pool?
Devil’s Pool is located on the Zambian side of Victoria Falls in Southern Africa. It’s a natural rock pool formed over thousands of years by erosion and is considered one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The pool is situated at the very edge of the waterfall, where the Zambezi River plunges over 100 meters into the gorge below. During dry season when the water level is low, it becomes possible to swim near the edge!
Getting to Livingstone, Zambia
First, you’ll need to make your way to Livingstone, Zambia. I flew from EWR to Johannesburg, and from there, it’s about a two-hour flight to Zambia. If you are staying on the Zambia side of the Falls, fly into Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport (LVI). You do not need a visa to enter Zambia if you are a US citizen.
However, some people choose to stay in Zimbabwe and visit the Falls from that side. If you choose that option, you will need a double- entry visa, which will be valid for when you enter the country on arrival, and reenter Zimbabwe after visiting Zambia. You can get this on arrival to the country.
Once you arrive in Livingstone, the best way to get to your hotel is to set up an airport transfer. They’re affordable and convenient!
I used Nekacheya Tours for my airport transfer and other activities I did while in Zambia. I highly recommend them! They were able to arrange everything I needed on very short notice and their communication was excellent. Their goal is to promote sustainable and responsible tourism. They invest in the education of the community and they even offer volunteer opportunities. If you’re looking for a way to support the local community during your travels, you should definitely book with them. You can read more about their story here.
Getting to Devil’s Pool
Most tours depart from the Royal Livingstone Hotel. If you choose not to stay there, the transfer from the hotel you choose will be arranged while booking your tour to Devil’s Pool. You’ll take a speedboat ride from the Royal Livingstone, across the Zambezi River, to Livingstone Island. The boat ride is an exciting experience, as you speed through the strong currents and get closer to the thundering falls. The guides are highly experienced and even stop the boat in some places so that you can see the animals. It’s like a mini boat-safari before the main experience.
After arriving on Livingstone Island, you’ll be briefed by your guide on the Falls and what to expect and then head towards the pool.
Should You Stay on the Zambia or Zimbabwe Side?
Deciding whether you should stay in Zambia or Zimbabwe would truthfully depend on what the rest of your itinerary looks like. I stayed on the Zambia side, and ran out of time to cross over to Zimbabwe to see the falls from the other side. But keep in mind if you do stay on the Zimbabwe side, to visit Devil’s Pool you will have to do a border crossing before your tour, which can take some time.
If your primary goal is to visit Devil’s Pool, then staying in Zambia is the most convenient option. Devil’s Pool is located on the Zambian side, and most tours to the pool depart from the Royal Livingstone Hotel in Livingstone.
The Best Time to Visit Devil’s Pool
Dry Season
The best time to visit Devil’s Pool, and have a chance to swim in it, is during dry season. Dry season runs from late August to early January. During this time, the water level of the Zambezi River is low enough to expose the natural rock pool at the edge of the falls, making it safe to swim. It’s also the best time to enjoy clear views of Victoria Falls, as the mist and spray are less intense.
Wet Season
During wet season (February to July) the water levels in the River are too high to safely visit Devil’s Pool. The currents are much stronger, and the pool is submerged. The Falls are at their most powerful during this time—sometimes the mist they create is so strong, it’s impossible to see directly in front of you. Needless to say, it’s impossible to safely visit Devil’s Pool at this time.
What Makes Devil’s Pool Safe to Visit?
So now for the most asked question about Devil’s Pool– is it actually safe? The answer is yes, but with important caveats. Devil’s Pool is safe to visit if you follow the rules, listen to your guide, and take the right precautions. Just remember, there are no (recorded) deaths at Devil’s Pool, so they’re clearly doing something right. Here are some reasons you should feel safe and confident during your visit.
You cannot visit on your own
This is one of the main reasons that Devil’s Pool is safe to visit. You must be accompanied by a licensed tour company to have this experience. Trying to navigate the Falls on your own would surely mean death. The pool is located at the very edge of one of the world’s largest waterfalls, and the currents of the Zambezi River are strong and unpredictable.
Every morning, before tours start running, the expert guides assess the water levels and ensure it is safe to bring tourists over. They are experts at understanding the conditions of the river and can assess whether it’s safe to visit the pool on a given day. They also help you with crossing the river to reach the pool and ensure that you enter and exit the pool safely.
There are age restrictions
The minimum age for children on the island is 8 years old but to actually swim in Devil’s Pool the minimum age is 12. This ensures everyone’s safety, as children can be even more unpredictable than the Falls.
You must be able to swim
This probably just seems like common sense, but you’d be surprised at how many people don’t think before they do things. You should be steady on your feet, and able to swim if you plan on taking part in this experience. The currents can be strong, and you need to be able to swim against them
Obviously the guides cannot check to make sure you can actually swim before heading towards the pool. But if they sense that you are not able to make it there safely, they will stop you from proceeding. If you’re not a strong swimmer, it’s still possible to visit Devil’s Pool, but it’s important to be honest with your guide about your concerns. They are experienced in helping visitors of all swimming abilities and can provide extra assistance if needed.
Personal Accountability
As a visitor, it’s crucial to take responsibility for your own safety by following all instructions from your guide, not taking unnecessary risks, and being honest about your physical abilities. If you feel uncomfortable at any point, communicate this with your guide – their primary goal is to ensure your safety.
Other ways you can ensure your safety is by making sure you are dressed appropriately for the falls. I have a guide on what to bring/ wear here. Make sure you have sturdy shoes with good grip. The rocks can be sharp and slippery so having the right things to wear definitely helps.
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Visiting Devil’s Pool is a thrilling and unforgettable experience, offering the rare opportunity to sit on the edge of one of the world’s most powerful waterfalls. Although the picture might look terrifying, it’s actually a safe experience if the right precautions are taken. I hope this guide empowered to plan this experience of a lifetime! Check out my other blog posts for tips, guides, and stories that will fuel your wanderlust and help you plan your next adventure.
