VISIT VICTORIA FALLS
Imagine a waterfall about twice as high and twice as long as Niagara and you get an idea of how big the Victoria Falls are! Its traditional name is ‘Mosi-au-Tunya’, which means ‘the smoke that thunders’ because the spray and noise can be seen and heard for miles around. This is the world’s largest sheet of falling water and a ‘must see’ for everyone who visits Southern Africa.
The waterfall ebbs and flows according to summer rainfall. It is at its lowest with some bare rock visible in October then gradually builds up to reach its highest levels in about March or April, depending on the rain. It is easy to reach via short-haul flights in surrounding countries such as South Africa or we can drive from the Chobe area of Botswana to the falls. The Victoria Falls form a natural boundary between Zambia and Zimbabwe but the most impressive views are on the Zimbabwean side.
We don’t have specific itineraries for the falls because it is so easy to add on two or three days here after time in South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe and Zambia. If you are interested in seeing the Victoria Falls, then let me know when you reach out to me.
TOP PLACES TO VISIT
DEVIL’S POOL
Devil’s Pool is a naturally occurring rock pool on the edge of the falls that opens up when water levels drop, usually from mid-year. When authorities deem the current slow and safe enough, brave visitors can swim in the Devil’s Pool under the watchful eye of a trained guard only.
LIVINGSTONE ISLAND
This is an island that becomes accessible once water levels drop and is popular for afternoon tea, also known as high tea. It is named after Dr David Livingstone, the first known white person to see the falls.
ZAMBEZI RIVER
The Zambezi is a very long river that creates the falls as it crashes over the precipice into Batoka Gorge. It is not only beautiful but harbours aquatic and bird life – not to mention large herds of elephants. Sunset and sunrise cruises are popular as are whitewater rafting expeditions – the rapids are grade five, some of the most challenging and exciting in the world!
THE RAILWAY BRIDGE
Still standing strong since construction started in 1904, the bridge spans Batoka Gorge and connects Zambia and Zimbabwe. It is where bungee jumping, bridge swinging and other adrenaline sports happen. There is also a dinner steam train that crosses the bridge at sunset for us to get a taste of the past!