Victoria Falls, often dubbed “The Smoke that Thunders”, is one of nature’s most awe-inspiring spectacles. Straddling the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, this UNESCO World Heritage site boasts a mesmerising curtain of water plunging into the Zambezi Gorge.
Visitors can experience a refreshing mist, punctuated by rainbows, while exploring pathways that offer panoramic views. Beyond the falls, the region offers thrilling adventures, from white-water rafting to scenic helicopter rides.
With its rich biodiversity, the adjacent national parks present a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Whether seeking tranquillity or adrenaline, Victoria Falls promises an unforgettable African sojourn.
Zimbabwe
Dollar
In Victoria Falls, one can expect a blend of traditional Zimbabwean and Zambian dishes coupled with international fare. Staple ingredients include maize, used in dishes like sadza (a maize porridge) and nshima.
Game meat, such as kudu, impala, and crocodile, can often be found on restaurant menus, offering a unique taste of African wildlife. Local fish like bream and tilapia are popular too, often grilled or stewed. Sides might include greens cooked with peanut sauce, tangy pickled vegetables, or spicy chutneys.
With the influx of tourists, there’s also a good array of global cuisines available. To complete the experience, a traditional beer made from maize or sorghum is a must-try for the adventurous palate.
The best time to visit Victoria Falls depends on one’s preferences: From April to June, the falls are at their peak flow after the rainy season, offering a powerful spectacle. The sheer volume of water creates majestic rainbows and an omnipresent mist, which can make viewing challenging but awe-inspiring.
From July to September, water levels begin to recede, allowing for clearer views of the falls and better opportunities for activities like white-water rafting and the Devil’s Pool swim.
October to December sees the lowest water levels, unveiling the full breadth of the basalt cliff face and its unique geological formations. January to March is the rainy season; while the falls replenish, heavy rainfall might disrupt some activities.
Ultimately, for a mix of high water volume and good visibility, May to June is ideal. For adventure activities, late August to September is optimal.
Victoria Falls, aptly named “Mosi-oa-Tunya” or “The Smoke that Thunders” by locals, is one of the world’s most stunning natural wonders. Stretching over a width of 1.7km and plunging around 108 meters, it is the world’s largest sheet of falling water. The raw power and sheer volume of water, especially during the high water season, is a mesmerising spectacle that offers visitors unparalleled views, sounds, and visceral experiences, reminding one of the magnificent force of nature.
For adrenaline junkies, Victoria Falls is a dream destination. It boasts some of the world’s best white-water rafting experiences on the mighty Zambezi River. Additionally, the iconic Victoria Falls Bridge offers a thrilling bungee jump, providing a unique perspective of the falls while plummeting down in free fall.
The calmer sections of the Zambezi River are perfect for sunset boat cruises. As the sun descends, casting a golden hue over the waters, visitors can enjoy the serene environment, often spotting elephants, hippos, and various bird species. The cruises offer an ideal blend of relaxation, nature appreciation, and luxury, often accompanied by drinks and light meals.
The area around Victoria Falls is steeped in history and tradition. Visitors can engage in cultural tours to gain insights into the local customs, stories, and ways of life. From traditional dance performances to village visits, one can immerse themselves in a rich tapestry of African culture that provides a deeper connection to the region.
Adjacent to Victoria Falls is the Zambezi National Park, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. The park, while smaller than some of Africa’s more renowned reserves, boasts elephants, lions, buffaloes, and an array of bird species. The opportunity to spot game against the backdrop of the falls is truly unique.
For those visiting during the dry season, the Devil’s Pool offers a heart-stopping experience. This natural infinity pool, perched on the very edge of the falls, allows visitors to swim to the brink and peer over the cascade, safely held back by a submerged rock wall.
Affectionately known as the “Flight of Angels”, helicopter or microlight flights provide a bird’s eye view of Victoria Falls. This aerial perspective highlights the immense scale and beauty of the falls and the zigzagging gorges downstream.
Victoria Falls offers unique dining experiences that combine gastronomy with spectacular views. Whether it’s a high-tea overlooking the misty cascade or a gourmet meal aboard a steam train, food lovers are in for a treat.
Built in 1904, the Victoria Falls Hotel is an embodiment of colonial elegance. With its Edwardian architecture, manicured gardens, and views of the Victoria Falls Bridge, the hotel transports guests back to a bygone era, making it a destination in itself.
Beyond the waterfall, the Victoria Falls region boasts a variety of ecosystems, from riverine forests to the grassy plains of the Zambezi National Park. Each offers its own set of flora, fauna, and landscapes, making the area a microcosm of African biodiversity.
