The 3 Closest Airports to victoria falls zambia

The 3 Closest Airports to Victoria Falls Zambia

Victoria Falls, one of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders, straddles the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. If you’re planning to visit the Zambian side of the Falls, primarily based in or around the town of Livingstone, knowing the nearest airports is crucial for planning your trip. Fortunately, there are options conveniently located to get you close to the action.

Here are the three airports closest to Victoria Falls, Zambia:


1. Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport (LVI)

This is the primary and closest airport serving the Zambian side of Victoria Falls. Located right in Livingstone, Zambia, it offers the most direct access if your accommodation and activities are primarily based in Zambia. It is the closest major airport to Victoria Falls, Zambia.

  • Distance to Victoria Falls (Zambian side town): Approximately 20 km / 12 miles
  • Address: Livingstone, Zambia
  • Pros: Extremely close to Livingstone town and the Zambian side of the Falls, dedicated airport for the Zambian Falls tourism hub. Cons: May have slightly fewer international connections or potentially higher fares compared to VFA at times.
  • Airlines: Proflight Zambia, Kenya Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, Airlink, Fastjet Zambia (Check current carriers as schedules change).
  • Car Rental: Avis, Europcar, local operators available at the terminal or by arrangement.
  • Official Website: Managed by Zambia Airports Corporation Limited (ZACL) – www.zacl.co.zm (check for LVI specific info)
  • Phone: +260 213 321151 (ZACL Livingstone – Check for current number)
  • Rating: Generally rated 4.0 – 4.5 / 5 (typical user reviews)


2. Victoria Falls International Airport (VFA)

Located just across the border in Zimbabwe, this airport is also very close to the Falls themselves. It underwent significant upgrades and can handle larger aircraft, often resulting in more flight options, particularly from South Africa and some international hubs.

  • Distance to Victoria Falls (Zambian side town): Approximately 22 km / 14 miles (Requires crossing the Zim-Zam border)
  • Address: Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
  • Pros: Often more international flight options, modern and recently expanded terminal, direct access to the Zimbabwean side of the Falls. Cons: Requires crossing the border (visa fees may apply depending on nationality, potential delays) if staying in Zambia.
  • Airlines: Fastjet, Airlink, Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, Eurowings Discover (seasonal), Air Zimbabwe (Check current carriers).
  • Car Rental: Avis, Europcar, Impala Car Rental, and others available.
  • Official Website: Managed by Airports Company of Zimbabwe (ACZ) – www.acz.co.zw (check for VFA specific info)
  • Phone: +263 83 2844426 (Check for current number)
  • Rating: Generally rated 4.0 – 4.5 / 5 (typical user reviews)


3. Kasane Airport (BBK)

Situated in Botswana, Kasane Airport primarily serves the Chobe National Park region, famous for its wildlife. While further than LVI and VFA, it’s a relevant option for tourists doing a combined Chobe and Victoria Falls itinerary.

  • Distance to Victoria Falls (Zambian side town): Approximately 85 km / 53 miles (Requires crossing the Botswana-Zambia border via Kazungula Bridge)
  • Address: Kasane, Botswana
  • Pros: Gateway to Chobe National Park, useful for multi-destination trips including Botswana safaris. Cons: Significantly further than LVI/VFA, requires a border crossing, smaller airport with fewer flight connections.
  • Airlines: Air Botswana, Airlink, plus various charter operators (Mack Air, Wilderness Air).
  • Car Rental: Avis, Europcar, various local and safari operators meet flights.
  • Official Website: Managed by Civil Aviation Authority of Botswana (CAAB) – www.caab.co.bw
  • Phone: +267 625 0136 (Check for current number)
  • Rating: Generally rated 3.5 – 4.0 / 5 (typical user reviews)


Conclusion

The closest airport to Victoria Falls, Zambia is Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport (LVI) in Livingstone, Zambia. It is also the closest major airport specifically serving the Zambian side of the Falls, making it the most convenient option for visitors staying primarily in Zambia. Victoria Falls International Airport (VFA) in Zimbabwe is a very close second and a major regional hub, offering another excellent alternative, especially if flight schedules or prices are more favorable, or if visiting the Zimbabwean side as well (remembering the border crossing requirement). Kasane Airport (BBK) is a viable third option, particularly for those combining their trip with Chobe National Park in Botswana.

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