Zambia · Tanzania · East Africa
Kalambo Falls
Dropping in a single free fall into the Kalambo Gorge on the Zambia-Tanzania border, this is Africa's second-highest single-drop waterfall, well over twice the height of Victoria Falls. The nearby archaeological site has yielded some of the oldest known wooden structures, dated to nearly 500,000 years old.
Dropping in a single free fall into the Kalambo Gorge on the Zambia-Tanzania border, this is Africa's second-highest single-drop waterfall, well over twice the height of Victoria Falls. The nearby archaeological site has yielded some of the oldest known wooden structures, dated to nearly 500,000 years old.
Kalambo Falls drops 235 metres (771 ft) on the Kalambo, inside Kalambo Falls National Heritage Site. It is a plunge-type fall, and the nearest base for a visit is Mbala. Access to the main viewpoint is rated hard.
Best flow just after the April-May rainy season ends and roads dry out.
What you can do here
Camping
Falls where you can legally sleep within earshot of the water.
Hiking
From ten-minute boardwalks to multi-day approaches through cloud forest.
Photography
Light angles, moonbows, spray management and the hours that actually work.
When to go
Best flow just after the April-May rainy season ends and roads dry out.
Entry: Small local guide fee
Getting there
- Base townMbala
- CountryZambia, Tanzania
- RegionEast Africa, Africa
- AccessHard — a serious approach: distance, altitude, a boat, or a guide
On the map
-8.5967, 31.2394
Quick answers
How tall is Kalambo Falls?
Kalambo Falls drops 235 metres (771 feet). It is a plunge-type waterfall on the Kalambo.
When is the best time to visit Kalambo Falls?
Peak flow is April to June. Best flow just after the April-May rainy season ends and roads dry out.
What can you do at Kalambo Falls?
Beyond the viewpoints: camping, hiking and photography. Access to the main viewpoint is rated hard — a serious approach: distance, altitude, a boat, or a guide.
How do you get to Kalambo Falls?
The usual base is Mbala. A serious approach: distance, altitude, a boat, or a guide from there. Small local guide fee.
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