Devil's Pool at the Victoria Falls

General Activity Information

Area and Setting

Devil’s Pool is a natural rock pool perched on the very edge of Victoria Falls on the Zambezi River. During the low-water months, a protective rock lip creates a calm eddy at the brink of the cascade, allowing adventurous visitors to sit safely just metres from the drop into the Batoka Gorge. The setting combines mist, spray and thunderous sound with sweeping views across one of the world’s great waterfalls.

The experience takes place from the Zambian side of the Falls and begins with a short boat ride to Livingstone Island. From this small, rocky outcrop in mid-river, guests follow their guides across shallow channels and exposed rock shelves to reach the pool. At every stage you are surrounded by the drama of the Zambezi — swirling currents, rainbows forming in the spray and the constant roar of water plunging into the gorge below.

What to Expect at Devil’s Pool

Your Devil’s Pool adventure typically starts with a safety briefing and introduction on Livingstone Island, followed by a guided walk and short swim or wade through the river shallows. Guides indicate safe footing, where to enter the water and exactly how to approach the rock lip. Once in the pool, you can lie on your stomach looking directly over the edge, pose for photographs and feel the mist rising from the chasm beneath you.

The visit is usually paired with a tour of the island and a light meal or refreshments — such as breakfast, lunch or high tea, depending on the departure time. Group sizes are kept small, ensuring that each guest has ample time in the pool while guides manage movement carefully. Although it is an adrenalin-fuelled experience, the atmosphere remains controlled and structured, with safety always taking priority over spectacle.

Best Time of Day and Year

Devil’s Pool operates only in the low-water season, when the Zambezi’s levels have dropped enough for the protective rock barrier to emerge and the current to ease along the Falls’ edge. Exact opening and closing dates vary from year to year depending on rainfall, but the activity is always subject to daily water level checks and can be suspended at short notice if conditions are deemed unsafe.

Tours are typically offered in the morning and late afternoon, when temperatures are more comfortable for swimming and the light over the Falls is at its most photogenic. In the heat of the day, operators may adjust timing to avoid the strongest sun. African Sky consultants will advise on likely operating windows for your travel dates and help you weave Devil’s Pool into a broader Victoria Falls itinerary that may include guided tours of the Falls, sunset cruises and other adventure activities.

Riaan's Tips for Visiting Devil’s Pool