Victoria Falls Airport

Victoria Falls Airport (VFA) is not just a spot on the map, but a modern gateway opening the path to one of the most impressive wonders of the world. Located amidst picturesque landscapes, it immerses guests in the atmosphere of a true African adventure from the very first minutes, while remaining an island of comfort and civilization. Thanks to a recent large-scale renovation, the terminal impresses with its spaciousness and thoughtful design, turning the wait for a flight or arrival into a pleasant part of the journey. A mere 20-minute drive separates you from the thundering torrents of Victoria Falls, making this airport the ideal start for your safari.

Features and Advantages of the Airport:

Following the opening of the new international terminal in 2016, the airport reached a qualitatively new level of service. The runway was extended to 4 kilometers, allowing it to accommodate large long-haul liners from around the world. Inside the building, travelers are greeted by modern air conditioning systems, providing relief from the heat, while the interiors are designed using elements of local decor.

The infrastructure is thought out to the smallest detail: passengers have access to Duty Free shops with unique souvenirs, cozy cafes, and banking services. A huge plus for tourists is the ability to obtain the KAZA UniVisa directly in the arrival area — this single visa allows for free travel between Zimbabwe and Zambia, allowing you to enjoy views of the falls from both sides of the border without unnecessary formalities.

Here is the essential contact information that may be needed by travelers arriving at or departing from the airport of Victoria Falls:

• Official Website: The airport is managed by the Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe (CAAZ). Up-to-date information can be found on their official website: www.caaz.co.zw.
• Inquiry Service Phone: For general questions, you can contact one of the airport numbers, for example: +263 83 2844222.
• Airport Address: Victoria Falls International Airport, A8, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.
• Email: For official inquiries, you can use the general email of the Civil Aviation Authority: pr@caaz.co.zw.
• Social Media: The airport does not have separate verified pages on popular social networks. It is recommended to follow news on the official CAAZ website.
• Lost Luggage Information: In case of loss or damage to luggage, you must immediately contact your airline representative at the service counter in the arrival hall.
• Passenger Support Contacts: for assistance directly within the terminal, please visit the Information Desk.

Victoria Falls Airport (VFA) is located approximately 22 kilometers south of the city of Victoria Falls, making the trip to the center quick and convenient. On average, the journey takes about 20-30 minutes depending on the chosen transport and traffic conditions. You can get to the city or your hotel in several ways, each with its own features.

The most popular and reliable way to get from the airport to the city is by taxi or pre-booked transfer. Most hotels and lodges in Zimbabwe offer a transfer service to their guests, which can be booked simultaneously with accommodation. This is the most convenient option, as the driver will meet you with a sign right in the arrival hall. Also, official taxis are always on duty at the terminal exit. The cost of a trip to the city center is usually around 25-30 US Dollars, but it is recommended to confirm the price with the driver before starting the trip.

For travelers who value independence, car rental is an excellent solution. Several international and local rental companies operate at Victoria Falls Airport. By booking a car online in advance, you can pick up the keys immediately upon arrival and set off to explore not only the city but also its picturesque surroundings at your own pace. The road to the city is direct and well-paved.

It should be noted that direct public transport, such as city buses or trains, between the airport and Victoria Falls center does not exist. Although local minibuses (kombis) may ply the route, this option is not recommended for tourists due to the lack of a clear schedule, cramped conditions, and inconvenience when carrying luggage.

If you are arriving at the airport in your own or a rented vehicle, parking is at your service. The airport territory has both short-term and long-term parking zones. This is a safe option if you need to leave the car for a few hours or for the entire duration of your trip from Victoria Falls.

Victoria Falls Airport (VFA) is a modern and relatively compact aviation hub, the structure of which was significantly improved after recent reconstruction. It is designed to be as convenient and intuitive as possible for travelers arriving to see the famous waterfall.

Structure and Purpose of Terminals

The airport consists of two main terminals located in close proximity to each other:

• International Terminal: This is a new, spacious, and modern building serving all international flights. Passengers arriving from other countries or flying out of Zimbabwe pass through registration and security here.
• Domestic Terminal: Located in the old airport building and serves flights within the country, for example, to Harare or Bulawayo. It is smaller and simpler in structure.

Map and Navigation

Thanks to its small size and logical layout, navigating Victoria Falls Airport is quite easy. Signs in English are clear and highly visible. Departure zones are located on the upper level (for the international terminal), and arrival zones are on the lower level. Transfer between terminals is done on foot and takes just a few minutes; they are located next to each other, and special transport is not required.

Procedures and Time

Check-in and security processes at VFA usually go quickly. However, during peak hours, when several flights arrive or depart simultaneously, queues may occur. On average, you should allow the following time for all formalities (check-in, passport control, security screening):

• For international flights: it is recommended to arrive at the airport 2.5–3 hours before departure.
• For domestic flights: it is sufficient to arrive 1.5–2 hours before departure.

After passing security in the international terminal, passengers enter a comfortable waiting area with Duty-Free shops, cafes, and souvenir stalls. The domestic terminal offers a more modest range of services, but everything necessary is also available there.

The history of Victoria Falls Airport (VFA) is inextricably linked with the development of tourism near the famous waterfall. The first runway and a modest terminal were built here back in 1952. For decades, it functioned as a small regional airport, serving mainly domestic and charter flights that delivered travelers to one of Africa's main natural wonders.

A key moment in the airport's history came in the 2010s. The government of Zimbabwe decided on its radical modernization to turn the city into the country's main tourism center, capable of receiving direct intercontinental flights. The large-scale reconstruction, completed in 2016, was a real breakthrough. Within the framework of the project, a modern international terminal was built, and the old building was completely renovated to serve domestic flights.

The main achievement of the modernization was the construction of a new runway 4,000 meters long. This allowed the airport to accept wide-body aircraft, such as the Boeing 777 and Airbus A340, which previously could not land here. The capacity of the air harbor grew from 500,000 to more than 1.5 million passengers per year. Thanks to this, Victoria Falls Airport has become one of the most important tourist hubs in Southern Africa.

Interesting fact: before the reconstruction, most tourists wishing to visit the falls were forced to fly through other major airports in the region, for example, in Johannesburg. Today, VFA represents a modern and convenient gateway that opens a direct path for travelers from all over the world to one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World and the numerous national parks of Zimbabwe.

Victoria Falls Airport (VFA) serves as a modern and convenient gateway to Zimbabwe, offering passengers all necessary services for a comfortable start or end to their journey. Despite its relatively small size, the terminal is well-equipped to meet the basic needs of tourists.

Dining and Shopping. At the airport, you will find several cafes and restaurants where you can have a snack before departure. The menu offers both local dishes and familiar international snacks. In Duty Free shops, you can purchase a standard range of goods, and in souvenir stalls — unique handmade items that will be a great reminder of the trip. Essential travel items can also be bought here.

Comfort and Connectivity. For passengers wishing to spend time in a quieter environment, a VIP Lounge is available. Access is usually granted to business class passengers or for a separate fee. In the lounge, guests are offered drinks, snacks, and comfortable places to rest. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and special stations are provided for charging gadgets.

Financial and Other Services. Upon arrival or before departure, you can use the services of bank branches and currency exchange points located in the arrival and departure halls. ATMs are also installed in the terminal. In case of need, a medical center is operating at the airport, ready to provide first aid.

Services for Special Categories of Passengers. The airport is equipped for the convenience of passengers with disabilities: there are ramps and special restrooms. It is recommended to notify the airline in advance if assistance is required. For travelers with small children, mother and child rooms are provided. Regarding accommodation, there are no hotels directly on the airport territory, however, the city of Victoria Falls, which is just a 20-minute drive away, presents a wide selection of hotels for every taste and budget. For business travelers, the VIP lounge can serve as a convenient place for work, however, there are no specialized conference halls at the airport.

Victoria Falls Airport is modern but relatively small, so the choice of dining establishments here corresponds to its size. Although you won't find a huge food court here like in major metropolises, you certainly won't go hungry. The main cafes and restaurants are conveniently located both before and after passing passport control and security.

In the public area (landside), before check-in and security control, there is usually a café operating where you can have coffee, tea, or soft drinks. This is a great place to have a snack if you arrived at the airport early or are seeing someone off. They offer light snacks, sandwiches, and pastries.

The main place for a full lunch or dinner is located in the departure zone (airside), after passing all formalities. Here sits a restaurant where more substantial dishes are served: burgers, salads, hot breakfasts, and main courses of international cuisine. This is also a wonderful opportunity to try local beverages and spend time waiting for boarding in a more relaxed atmosphere.

Regarding special dietary needs, the choice may be limited. Basic vegetarian options, such as a vegetable salad or a cheese sandwich, will likely be on the menu. However, finding certified Halal, vegan, or gluten-free dishes may be challenging. If you have strict dietary restrictions, it is recommended to bring a snack with you or eat in advance in the city of Victoria Falls.

Prices in airport establishments are generally higher than in the city, which is standard practice for most tourist hubs. The opening hours of cafes and restaurants are directly tied to the flight schedule: they open before the first departures and close after the last aircraft leaves. For a quick snack, the café in the general area is ideal, and for a leisurely lunch with a beverage, the restaurant in the departure zone is suitable.

To ensure your journey through the airport of Victoria Falls goes as smoothly as possible, take advantage of our tips. This airport is the key gateway to one of the wonders of the world, and proper preparation will help avoid unnecessary stress.

Arrival Time and Check-in. For international flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2.5-3 hours before departure, and for domestic flights — 1.5-2 hours. This will give you enough time to pass all formalities without rushing. If possible, complete online check-in in advance — this will save you time in the queue at the airline counter.

Security Check. The security checkpoint at Victoria Falls Airport may not be as large as in major hubs, so be prepared in advance. Pack all liquids up to 100 ml in a transparent bag, and remove laptops and other large electronics from your bags. This will speed up the process for both you and other passengers.

Seat Selection and Hand Luggage. If seat selection is available on the plane, opt for a window seat. During takeoff or landing, breathtaking views of the Zambezi River and the surroundings may open up to you. Be sure to put all valuables in your hand luggage: documents, money, electronics, and necessary medications. Do not check them in as luggage. It is prohibited to bring sharp objects and liquids in containers exceeding 100 ml into the cabin.

Connecting Passengers and Customs. If you have a connecting flight, check in advance whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage. Upon entry into Zimbabwe, you will need to fill out an immigration card. Be prepared to answer standard questions about the purpose of your visit and place of accommodation. If you are also traveling to Zambia, find out about the possibility of obtaining a single KAZA UniVisa, which can simplify border crossings.

Saving Time and Money. To save money, book a transfer from the airport to the hotel online in advance. Prices for food and drinks at the airport are generally higher, so it is better to have a snack before arriving. Always have some cash with you (US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas) for small expenses to avoid unfavorable exchange rates.

In Case of Flight Delay. In the event of a flight delay or cancellation, immediately contact your airline representative. Depending on the length of the wait, you may be provided with vouchers for meals or hotel accommodation. Keep all receipts and boarding passes — they may be needed to receive compensation from the airline or through travel insurance.