Devil's Pool in Zambia 2025-2026
A swim at Victoria Falls that requires true courage and bravery
Best time: mid-August–mid-January
On the Zambian side of Victoria Falls lies an activity perfect for thrill-seekers: taking a dip in the Devil's Pool, a natural infinity pool formed right at the edge of the 100-meter-high (328-foot-high) waterfall. This extraordinary experience offers daring visitors the chance to feel the immense power of the Zambezi River while being safely protected by a natural rock wall that prevents swimmers from being swept over the edge. With depths varying in different sections, some reaching over 2 meters (6.5 feet), Devil's Pool is a bucket-list adventure that combines breathtaking scenery with heart-pounding excitement.
Best Time
The best time to visit Devil's Pool is from mid-August to mid-January, when the Zambezi River's water levels recede, making the rim of Victoria Falls accessible. Among these months, October and November are ideal for swimming, as the water is at its lowest and the current is gentle. During this time, visitors can safely experience the thrill of swimming at the edge of the waterfall.
Getting There
Devil's Pool is located on the Zambian side of Victoria Falls, near Livingstone Island, and is accessible only through guided boat tours. Tours depart from a launch site on the Zambian bank of the Zambezi River, a short distance upstream from Livingstone Town and Victoria Falls.
Guided Tours
Visits to Devil’s Pool are exclusively available through guided boat tours to Livingstone Island. These tours run five times daily from June to December, offering options such as the 1.5-hour ‘Livingstone Breezer’ tours (US$120) at 7:30 am, 9 pm, and 10:30 am, the 2.5-hour Lunch tour (US$190) at 12:30 pm, and the two-hour High Tea tour (US$165) at 3:30 pm. Early morning and late afternoon tours offer stunning photographic opportunities, while midday tours provide ideal conditions for swimming in the pool.
Safety Tips
Swimming in Devil's Pool is only permitted during the dry season, as increased water flow around April and May makes it unsafe. To ensure safety, children under 12 years old are not allowed to swim, and it is not recommended for those who are not confident swimmers or who have acrophobia. Visitors can enjoy this thrilling experience under the supervision of trained tour guides, who provide essential safety equipment such as wetsuits and life jackets. Sturdy water shoes with good grip are also necessary for navigating the rocks leading to the pool.
Activities
The boat ride to Livingstone Island offers a scenic journey along a wild stretch of the Zambezi River, surrounded by lush tropical forests. Along the way, visitors may spot wildlife such as hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and buffaloes, as well as a variety of bird species, including the African fish eagle, herons, and waterfowl.