Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe
Victoria Falls is located on River Zambezi in Victoria Falls National Park. The falls stand at an elevation of 915 meters above sea level with a width of about 1708 meters. These falls form a natural boundary between Zambia and Zimbabwe. Victoria Falls was known in the area as “the smoke that thunders,” which in the local language of the Kololo tribe translates to “Mosi-oa-Tunya.” This means that the waters spray and create an incredible noise. Additionally, Victoria Falls is the world’s largest sheet of water, which is twice the height of Niagara Falls in North America. More so, Victoria Falls is a UNESCO World Heritage Site found in Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park.
In 1855, David Livingstone was the first European explorer to witness these falls. He renamed the falls after Queen Victoria Falls, who was the then supreme leader of England. Victoria Falls is among the seven wonders of the world that attract millions of tourists to Africa from all parts of the world. Like mountain gorillas and wildebeests in Kenya and Tanzania, Victoria Falls is a prime tourist attraction in Africa. The falls have been the major tourism destinations in the East African region. There are two islands around the falls that travelers encounter on their safaris. These include Boaruka Island or Cataract Island, which is at the western bank of the falls, and Living Stone Island, near the middle of the falls.
Seasonal Flooding
The seasonal flooding of River Zambezi is usually from November to May, and it hits the peak in April. The area experiences a rainy season from November to early April, and the rest of the months is a dry season. In the flooding season, the foot and the face of the falls are not usually seen due to high water. On the other hand, in dry seasons, the islets become wider. All gorges can also be seen properly during the dry seasons. The gorges around the Zambezi include the First Gorge, Second Gorge, Third Gorge, Fourth Gorge, Fifth Gorge, and Songwe Gorge.
What to do around Victoria Falls?
Are you planning a tour to explore the falls in Zimbabwe and wondering which activities you can add to your bucket list? Below are some suggestions;
Flying above the falls
This is one of the exciting experiences done around Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe. It provides the best views of the falls from above. Flying above the falls takes about 15 minutes. It is mostly done in the dry season since the area is clearer with less mist.
Bungee jumping
Are you a fan of bungee jumping? Add these falls to your bucket list. You will create everlasting memories. Test your adrenalin as you jump down the falls and listen to the roaring waters.
Swimming
This is another activity that travelers do in this area. The swimming is done in the devil’s pool that is near the river. Swimming is best in the dry season when the water levels are low. To reach the pool, travelers cross the river, which requires braveness and some experience.
Game drives
Game drives are one of the primary activities done around Victoria Falls and Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park. During the game drives, tourists spot many wildlife species. It is one of the best places for photography tours in Africa. Some of the animals found here include lions, kobs, rhinos, elephants, and many others.
Boat cruise on River Zambezi
A boat cruise on the River Zambezi offers magnificent views of the area. It is done on dugout canoes. More so, these canoes accommodate four people. Some of the commonly seen animals include hippos, crocodiles, and many others.
Where to stay during the safaris to Victoria Falls?
Victoria Falls is surrounded by several accommodation facilities both in Zambia and Zimbabwe. These facilities are budget, midrange, and luxury. Some of the accommodation facilities include; Anantara Stanley and Livingstone Boutique Hotel, Elephant Camp, Sindabezi Island Lodge, Mpala Jena Camp, and many others.
