Is Victoria Falls Tap Water Safe To Drink?
No, it's not advisable to drink the tap water.
Tap water in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, is generally treated but may not meet international drinking water standards consistently. Boiling or treating water is advised.
Contamination risks include aging infrastructure and occasional supply interruptions, which can introduce pathogens or pollutants. Locals and tourists often use bottled or filtered water.
For safe consumption, use bottled water or boil tap water. Avoid ice cubes made from tap water and consume only well-cooked food and fruits.
Last checked: 2025-08-11
Source of Water in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
The main source of tap water in Victoria Falls is the Zambezi River, from which water is abstracted for treatment and distribution.
Water treatment plants in the area process the raw river water to remove sediments, pathogens, and contaminants before supplying it to the town.
Groundwater from boreholes also supplements the water supply, especially during dry periods or increased demand, ensuring consistent availability for Victoria Falls residents.
Victoria Falls Drinking Fountains
Public drinking fountains in Victoria Falls may not consistently provide safe water due to potential contamination and limited maintenance. Caution is advised.
Bacteria or pollutants can accumulate in fountains, especially without regular cleaning and water quality checks, posing health risks to users.
To minimize risk, use bottled water or treat water from fountains by boiling or filtering before drinking while in Victoria Falls.
Drinking Water Map
Here is a map showing all the locations of drinking water spots in Victoria Falls. You can click on each water drop to open the spot directly in Google Maps for directions.
Nearby Places
- Maun
(341 km)
- Lusaka
(383 km)
- Harare
(552 km)
- Polokwane
(763 km)
- Pretoria
(902 km)
- Johannesburg
(947 km)
About the Author

Hi, I'm Emily Hartman, a researcher and water quality specialist with a background in public health.
I've spent the last few years studying how everyday water systems impact our health, and I'm passionate about making that information clear and useful for everyone.
Safe, clean tap water isn't just my job — it's something I truly care about.