Not without permits, and casual tourist flights aren't realistic. Victoria Falls sits on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, inside Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park on the Zambian side and Victoria Falls National Park on the Zimbabwean side. Each country requires approval from its civil aviation authority to fly a drone, and the parks need their own permission. On top of that, scenic helicopters and microlights fly over the falls all day.
Zimbabwe side
- Aviation approval: the Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe (CAAZ) regulates drones under the Remotely Piloted Aircraft regulations, Statutory Instrument 271 of 2018. Drones must be registered with CAAZ, which takes applications online through its drone safety page, and flights need its authorization.
- Park permission: Victoria Falls National Park is managed by the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks). Drone use in the park needs its approval.
- Security clearance may also be needed, especially near the border and the bridge.
Zambia side
- Aviation approval: the Zambia Civil Aviation Authority (ZCAA) regulates drones and requires authorization.
- Park permission: Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park is managed by Zambia's Department of National Parks and Wildlife. Ask before flying.
- Livingstone has an international airport near the falls.
Processes and fees change, and approvals can take weeks. Contact the authorities directly, or work with a licensed local operator who already holds permits.
Customs
Bringing an undeclared drone into either country can lead to it being held at the border or airport until you leave. If you travel with one, declare it, carry your receipt and any approvals, and ask your tour operator about current practice. Crossing between the two countries, for example on the Victoria Falls Bridge, means dealing with both customs services.
Why it's tightly controlled
- Helicopter and microlight flights run constantly over the gorge. A drone there is a real collision risk.
- The Victoria Falls Bridge is an international border crossing with security.
- Wildlife and crowds. The rainforest trail and viewpoints are busy, and elephants and other animals use the surrounding parks.
- Spray. In high-water season, mist from the falls soaks everything nearby. Our consumer drones aren't waterproof.
Getting the shot legally
The classic aerial views come from a scenic helicopter or microlight flight. Book one and bring a camera with a fast shutter speed. On the ground, the rainforest trail on the Zimbabwe side and Knife-Edge Bridge on the Zambia side give the best views. If you want drone footage, hire a licensed local operator.
Other African destinations
Rules across southern Africa vary widely. For South Africa, see drone laws in South Africa. For the full list, see drone laws by country.
If you get approval
Fly in calm conditions, away from the spray and the helicopter routes, and keep the drone in sight. Light drones like the DJI Mini 5 Pro, Mini 4 Pro and DJI Neo are the easiest to travel with. Pack batteries in carry-on as covered in traveling with a drone.
Rules current as of October 2026. This is general information, not legal advice.
Related guides
Not sure which to pick?
Tell us what you'll fly and your budget. One of our drone pilots will reply with a recommendation.
Buying drones for a business, agency or store? Get wholesale pricing →
