Lunar Rainbows
& Full Moons

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The Zambezi River reaches its crescendo at the Victoria Falls where it crashes with a thunderous roar down a sheer cliff face into the Batoka Gorge, causing rising columns of spray that can be seen several kilometres away.

Known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya or 'The Smoke That Thunders', Victoria Falls is the world's largest curtain of falling water and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.

Victoria Falls is also the only place in Africa where the magical natural phenomenon of a lunar rainbow can be witnessed at full moon during high water season.

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  • Victoria Falls Livingstone Island
  • Livingstone Island kiss
  • Livingstone Island jump

Welcome ToThe IslandIn the Thunder

Livingstone Island sits at the heart of the Victoria Falls. One of Africa’s most iconic natural and cultural heritage sites, this island also has a fascinating history.

Discover

Welcome To

    • Devil's Pool

      Victoria Falls

      Devil’s Pool is famous for attracting thrill-seekers from around the world, offering daring swimmers the chance to experience a life-changing adventure that is completely safe.

      Explore

    • Angel's Pool

      Victoria Falls

      Make no mistake, Angel’s Pool is not the more reserved option, as it is open when the Falls are at their most impressive and you can experience the full force of the mighty Zambezi River.

      Explore

    Lunar Rainbow

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    A lunar rainbow or moonbow happens when the moon shines bright enough to have its light reflected by raindrops, just as is the case for the sun.

    Moonlight is much fainter of course, so the lunar rainbow is not nearly as intense as one created by sunlight. It is still an ethereal sight worth seeing, which you can do over the three days of full moon during high water levels at Victoria Falls.

    Months that are famous for the best moonbows are April, May, June, July and August.

    Victoria falls lunar rainbow
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    Full Moon Dates

    *The best moonbow months are highlighted below.

    03 January
    01 February
    03 March

    01 April
    01 May
    31 May

    29 June
    29 July
    28 August

    26 September

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    Nearby
    Activities

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      • Microlight Flights

        Microlight flights

      • Helicopter Flights

        Helicopter flights

      • White Water Rafting

        White water rafting

      • Royal Livingstone Express

        Sindabezi lodge

      • Rhino Walk

        Sindabezi lodge
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      Where To Stay

        • Tongabezi Lodge

          A short drive from Victoria Falls in Zambia, this award-winning lodge can be found nestled along the banks of the Zambezi River, as it has been since 1990. Stay here for endless river views, sunset safari cruises, garden-to-table dining, and a luxury safari experience that empowers the local community.

          Explore Tongabezi

        • Sindabezi Island Camp

          Livingstone Island is not the only island of note on this stretch of the Zambezi. Just a little way upstream of Victoria Falls in Zambia, this award-winning island camp is entirely off-grid and made up of only five open-sided chalets, which means that it can be booked privately.

          Explore Sindabezi
        Palm leaf background Victoria Falls Map