Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls is regarded as one of the top 10 wonders of the world and is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The falls serve as a barrier that separates the high and lower segments of the Zambezi River. The Zambezi River delineates the boundary between Zambia and Zimbabwe, however the river itself exists in a state of “no man’s land.” David Livingstone, the explorer and missionary, was the inaugural European to discover Victoria Falls in 1855. Livingstone designated the falls as Victoria in honor of the reigning Queen of England.

Prior to Livingstone’s arrival, it is essential to acknowledge that African tribes had inhabited the Victoria Falls region for generations. Archaeologists have unearthed fossils and artifacts indicating that the earliest ape-like humans (Homo habilis) inhabited the vicinity of the falls approximately 3 million years ago. The Batoka supplanted these Stone Age individuals. The Batoka were subsequently joined by the Matebele and Makolo tribesmen, whose descendants inhabit the region to the present day. The local populace harbored a profound terror of the falls, and few ventured to approach them near. Among the native soldiers accompanying David Livingstone, only two shown the courage to accompany him near the falls. This dread resulted in the waterfalls being largely uncharted by the indigenous tribes. The falls gained significant popularity among the local populace only after the construction of a railway line in proximity to them.

What is the length of Victoria Falls, located in Zimbabwe and Zambia?

Victoria Falls is the greatest waterfall by volume on Earth. The Victoria Falls are double the height of Niagara Falls in North America. The Iguazu Falls in Brazil and Argentina are the nearest in size to Victoria Falls. The mist from the falls is visible from almost 50 kilometers away, while the sound of the thundering water is audible from 40 kilometers away. This is why the locals refer to it as Mosi-oa-Tunya, meaning “smoke that thunders.” The total width of the falls is 5,604 feet, while the height is 354 feet.

Visiting Victoria Falls during the rainy season results in heightened water flow and spray, obscuring the full view of its face and base. Once the dry season commences and the floods recede, it becomes feasible to notice the stony facade more distinctly and to examine the underlying gorges. The “Devil’s Pool,” a renowned segment of the falls, is situated at the precipice where the water commences its descent. Numerous vacationers engage in the perilous activity of swimming in this specific area, notwithstanding the danger of plunging over the precipice. This pool is accessible solely from September to December (dry season) when the water current’s intensity has diminished. All activities above the falls are suspended during the rainy season due to the perilous river.

Victoria Falls attracts approximately one million people annually. A safari in Africa should encompass a visit to this magnificent natural wonder. Some believe that the Zimbabwean side of the falls has superior views, though this remains a subject of contention. The political difficulties and international sanctions during President Robert Mugabe’s tenure prompted numerous tourists to commence their visits to the falls from the Zambian side.

Admission Fee for Victoria Falls in Zambia and Zimbabwe

The entrance costs for Victoria Falls vary based on nationality. The perspective is contingent upon whether you intend to observe from the Zambian or Zimbabwean side. The fee is $50 for international adults from the Zimbabwean side and around $20 from the Zambian side. Children aged 6 to 16 are charged fifty percent of the full fee. Children under the age of 6 are admitted at no charge. The admission cost for people of SADC nations is $30 in Zimbabwe and approximately $10 in Zambia. Entrance fees must be paid in cash, and it is essential to have tiny denominations.

Activities in Victoria Falls, Zambia and Zimbabwe

In addition to visiting the falls, there are engaging activities available in the vicinity. The falls are situated in a region abundant with national parks on both the Zambian and Zimbabwean sides. Several national parks are situated near the falls, providing opportunities to observe Africa’s renowned mammals, including antelopes, lions, elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, cheetahs, crocodiles, hippopotamuses, leopards, zebras, primates, and other birds. Whether on the Zambian or Zimbabwean side, one can engage in activities such as bungee jumping, whitewater rafting, ziplining, kayaking, fishing, boat cruises, canoeing, horseback riding, nature walks, and more while enjoying views of the waterfalls. The activities you select are contingent upon the season of your visit. Activities on the Zambezi River are most effectively undertaken during periods of low water levels and mild currents. If your intention is solely to visit the falls, we advise scheduling your visit during the wet season to experience the waterfalls at their maximum intensity. Below are some details regarding the activities:

Observing the waterfalls and traversing their pathways:

This is evidently the primary attraction in the region. The opportunity to view the largest waterfall on Earth is available from both the Zimbabwean and Zambian sides. The falls in Zimbabwe are situated within Victoria Falls National Park, however on the Zambian side, the park is referred to as Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park. While all perspectives provide an opportunity to observe the falls, there exists a subtle distinction in the viewing experience from either side. The Zimbabwean side has superior vistas of the falls and boasts more picturesque scenery. On the Zimbabwean side, one can traverse the picturesque rainforests at various overlooks. The Zimbabwean side provides access to four principal portions of the waterfall. The portions comprise Horseshoe Falls, Main Falls, Rainbow Falls, and the Devil’s Cataract. The second deepest waterfall, known as Eastern Cataract, is located on the Zambian side. One can readily traverse the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia using the Victoria Falls Bridge. If you intend to do this crossing, ensure you possess your passport and be prepared to remit a Visa fee for temporary entry.

Best periods for seeing Victoria Falls

This is the bridge linking Zambia and Zimbabwe. This renowned bridge was constructed over a period of fourteen months. Completed in 1905, it has since experienced multiple restorations. The bridge possesses a captivating history that will be conveyed by an approved guide during an activity referred to as “The Historic Bridge Tour.” Seasonally, one may have the chance to traverse beneath the bridge to appreciate the full expanse of the Botoka Gorge or witness the rainbow created by the mist from Victoria Falls.

The Knife Edge Bridge:

This bridge is located on the Zambian side of the border. This destination is superb to explore during the rainy season, since it offers a vantage point over the deepest gorge on the Zambian side. You will have the chance to approach the rushing water and experience the spray directly on your face.

Livingstone Island and the Devil’s Pool:

Livingstone Island is located on the Zambezi River, right upstream of the falls. The journey to the Devil’s Pool commences with an exhilarating boat excursion through canals bordered by rugged cliffs. Upon arriving at the small island, you may embark on a tour while admiring the stunning waterfalls and the velocity of the river. Livingstone Island provides a distinct perspective of the magnificent falls. Your guides should be capable of elucidating the history of the falls and their formation. You will thereafter be directed to the precise location where Livingstone stood during his initial visit in 1855.

Following the island tour, the subsequent activity is to immerse oneself in the renowned Devil’s Pool. To reach the pool from the island, one must swim upstream and go through rocky areas to access the pool. The pool is profound and was formed naturally through a gradual erosion process spanning thousands of years. A granite ledge is located at the brink of the falls, serving as a barrier to prevent being swept away by the river. Swimmers are secured with ropes as an additional safety measure. This specific activity can only be conducted during the dry season (late June or early March) when the water current has diminished and conditions are safe.

Chobe National Park

For an African safari experience in conjunction with your vacation of Victoria Falls, consider Chobe National Park in adjacent Botswana. A safari in Chobe National Park is an exceptional option following a visit to the falls. The park boasts the largest population of elephants in Africa. A park trip encompasses a river safari and a terrestrial excursion to observe the Big Five African wildlife in a typical tour vehicle.

Proceed to the Market in Shearwater Village:

This is an exceptional location on the Zimbabwean side for purchasing native souvenirs. It is constructed to superior standards with the aim of attracting a maximum number of tourists.

Hwange National Park:

This is Zimbabwe’s largest national park, encompassing over 15,000 square kilometers. The park hosts more than 29,000 elephants, ranking second to Chobe National Park. Tourists may observe buffaloes, leopards, rhinoceroses, lions, roan antelopes, sable antelopes, and the endangered wild dogs. Reaching Hwange necessitates a two-hour drive.

Top attractions in Victoria Falls Whitewater rafting:

The Zambezi River features numerous grade 5 rapids, providing thrill-seekers with the chance to experience proximity to the formidable falls. Whitewater rafting is an exhilarating and daring pursuit that will remain etched in your memory indefinitely. The duration of the activity is contingent upon the season. The rainy season introduces substantial water volumes, rendering certain rapids perilous. Nevertheless, if you arrive at the appropriate moment, anticipate an extraordinary and extended experience. One can enjoy stunning vistas of the gorge and its environs while resting at the most tranquil sections of water.

Noteworthy information regarding Victoria Falls: Helicopter flights above the falls last 15 minutes; although costly, they provide an aerial perspective that enhances appreciation of the falls’ grandeur. You will observe the towering waterfalls, mist, Batoka Gorge, and wildlife further along the Zambezi River. You may choose a longer 25-minute flight to observe further waterfalls and the Zambezi National Park. The helicopter flight option is particularly intriguing during the wet season when ground visibility poses a barrier.

Boat Tours at Sunset:

A sunset boat excursion is an exceptional means of concluding your tour of the falls. This excursion occurs on a cruise vessel down the River Zambezi after sunset. A variety of appetizers, alcoholic beverages, and other drinks are available, all at a fair price of approximately $30. The boat ride offers an excellent opportunity to explore the serenity of the Zambezi River. Anticipate the presence of baboons, crocodiles, elephants, hippopotamuses, vervet monkeys, and several avian species. Get ready to capture stunning photographs of the Zambezi River while you admire its natural splendor.

History of Bungee Jumping at Victoria Falls:

Bungee jumping from the Victoria Falls bridge is regarded as one of the premier experiences available. It entails a leap of 111 meters from the bridge into the formidable Zambezi River, adjacent to the waterfalls. Instructors connect body and ankle straps to jumpers, after which they are urged to leap in a composed manner. Following the jump, a free fall will ensue for around 4 seconds. Following a duration of 4 seconds, the elastic harness/rope will securely yet gently restrain you until you are retrieved and transported downstream by a boat. The vantage point offers excellent perspectives of the river and its environs. The cost of bungee jumping at the Victoria Falls Bridge is $120, and prior reservation is required.

Engage in activities at Victoria Falls: Experience a steam train journey across the bridge for optimal views of the waterfalls on a rebuilt locomotive. Following repair, the train was equipped with excellent seating, lounge rooms, and dining amenities. The train transports you over the falls and directly to Zambezi National Park. Utilize the train journey to capture exquisite photographs of the falls.

Ziplining past the Victoria Falls Bridge:

If you lack the courage for bungee jumping, then this option is suitable for you. The sport is smoothly traversing a 300-meter zipline, commencing from a platform on the Zambian side of the bridge and concluding on the Zimbabwean side. You will obtain stunning vistas of the falls as you glide near the gorge. This exercise may be conducted by young children under the vigilant supervision of an adult.

The optimal time to visit Victoria Falls is to explore the nearby towns: Upon concluding your tour of the waterfalls, you may visit Livingstone on the Zambian side or Victoria Falls town on the Zimbabwean side. Livingstone city is located approximately 10 kilometers from Victoria Falls. The town’s colonial architecture has been preserved to provide tourists with insight into historical conditions. In Livingstone, one may visit coffee shops, cafes, local markets, souvenir stores, and nightclubs. The Livingstone Museum is essential for anybody seeking to gain insights into the renowned Scottish missionary and explorer.

Dine externally:

While seeing the towns on both the Zambian and Zimbabwean sides, you may like to sample the local traditional cuisine. On the Zimbabwean side, one visits the Boma eatery. They offer game meat, including that of impala and warthog. They also cook Mopani worms, a regional delicacy. Boma restaurant offers an extensive selection of vegetarian dishes, as well as chicken, beef, fish, and pork options. The restaurant engages traditional performers to captivate customers with dance, storytelling, and African drumming.

Cycling:

This is optimally accomplished from the Zimbabwean side of the falls. The cycling route traverses the quaint settlements, the border crossing, and the majestic Zambezi River. This is an exceptional method to explore the countryside, with a cost of approximately $80. The total encompasses a bicycle, helmet, and a local cyclist to guide you.

Walking alongside the Zambezi River:

This specific activity is optimally conducted from the Zimbabwean side of the waterfall. The objective of the stroll is to enable you to appreciate the natural splendor of the Zambezi River and its environs. The walk commences above the Devils Cataract and proceeds into Victoria Falls National Park. During the stroll, you will observe buffaloes, antelopes, elephants, warthogs, hippos, and other primates along the riverbanks.

Supplementary Information Regarding Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe and Zambia

Reasons to visit Victoria Falls: To traverse between Zimbabwe and Zambia, it is necessary to present your passport to immigration officials. You must inform them if you will be traveling over for one day or several days. If you intend to travel for just one day and return to your country of origin, a double entry visa will be necessary. Upon completion of all procedures, you will obtain an exit stamp on your visa and advance to the no man’s land. After crossing, one may rent a taxi; however, the majority opt to traverse the 1.6-kilometer span across the bridge to the border post of the adjacent country. You will be required to present your passport again by the second country and pay approximately $20 for a one-day visa. Always ensure to carry small denominations of currency while traveling.

Transportation in the vicinity of the falls:

Private vans or taxis can be hired for transportation from your accommodation to the falls or the main towns. The hotels may assist with automobile arrangements or provide contacts for individuals who can facilitate a rental. Should you intend to traverse international boundaries, it is highly probable that you will need to acquire an additional vehicle when entering the foreign nation. This is due to limitations on vehicular crossings between the two borders. Changing vehicles near the bridge might be problematic, particularly when visiting the falls during the rainy season.

Monetary unit:

The value of the Zimbabwean dollar was adversely impacted by worldwide sanctions, complicating its use for visitors to the nation. Having sufficient US Dollars is preferable for convenience and to circumvent the need to carry substantial local currency. It is advisable to carry lower denominations of US dollar bills for gratuities and purchasing inexpensive items. Your credit card is generally accepted for payment, though not universally.

Diverse waterfalls and observation points:

The Victoria Falls consist of five distinct waterfalls. They comprise the Devil’s Cataract, Main Falls, Horseshoe Falls, Rainbow Falls, and Eastern Cataract Falls. Victoria Falls has nineteen observation locations. Fifteen are located on the Zimbabwean side.

You will become moist.

If you intend to observe the falls from both nations or visit during the rainy season (when water levels are elevated), be aware that you will get soaked. The trail adjacent to the waterfalls is so saturated with mist that it may feel as though one is ensnared in a torrential rainstorm. Remember to bring a raincoat and an umbrella.

The waterfalls are situated within national parks:

Anticipate the presence of wild animals, particularly when visiting the Zimbabwean region. Elephants, baboons, mongooses, and several other wildlife traverse the vicinity of the falls with relative freedom. No barrier exists to segregate guests from the park’s wildlife. This may lead to exhilarating wildlife encounters, but it is prudent to be prepared beforehand.

You will need to capture many photographs:

Visiting Zimbabwe and Zambia necessitates the presentation of a yellow fever vaccination certificate. Vaccination against Tetanus, Hepatitis A, and Hepatitis B is also essential. Absence of a yellow fever vaccination card may result in denial of entry to the two countries.

The optimal period to visit Victoria Falls

There is no optimal time to see Victoria Falls. The outcome is contingent upon your desired experience. If your objective is to swim in the Devil’s Pool or stroll along the summit of the falls, you should explore activities in Victoria Falls during the peak dry season from September to November. In the dry season, visibility increases, allowing one to observe the base of the falls. The arid months from June to August are ideal for individuals seeking to embark on a safari in nearby national parks or those located in Botswana.

The rainy season, akin to the dry season, possesses advantages and disadvantages. The wet season reveals the waterfalls’ full force and flow. Anticipate becoming wet from mist resembling rain as you visit the many viewing sites. The visibility is inadequate, making it challenging to capture quality photographs. Swimming or going along the precipice of the attractions at Victoria Falls is perilous. Nevertheless, the wet season possesses its benefits as well. It provides an opportunity to observe a moonbow. Moonbows occur when mist interacts with the light from a full moon, resulting in a distinctive rainbow in the water spray. This differs from the typical rainbow produced by the sun. Victoria Falls is one of the rare locations globally where a moonbow can be observed.

For optimal enjoyment, we advise visiting during the months of June and July. During this time, the rains would have stopped and water levels still impressive enough not to affect overall visibility.

Methods to access Victoria Falls

If you are currently in Africa, you should be able to obtain direct flights to Zimbabwe or Zambia. International travelers from Asia, Europe or America will most likely require connection flights. Taxis can be organized upon your arrival in either of the two nations; however, your hotel should facilitate airport transfers.

Upon arrival at your accommodation, you may request assistance in arranging a taxi to Victoria Falls. It is important to note that that you will be required to have a visa before entering any of the countries unless you are from a country where VISAs are waived. If you are planning to view the falls from both Zimbabwe and Zambia, you will need to acquire multiple visas or a special VISA (Known as the Kaza Univisa) which allows you access to both countries for 30 days. The recent governmental transition has rendered the process of obtaining a Zimbabwean visa somewhat more lenient. Even then, we think it’s important to check with your embassy website to see the current VISA requirements of Zimbabwe and Zambia.

Packing List for Victoria Falls

The right clothing: This is particularly important if you are traveling during the wet season. A waterproof jacket is essential for safeguarding against the mist generated by the falls. You can acquire a good jacket from the visitor’s centers but we advise that you acquire a good one before traveling into the two countries.

Shoes with good grip:

A pair of good converse may be okay during the dry season but water proof boots may be a better alternative during the wet season or if you are planning to get so close to the falls but you don’t want to get your feet wet.

Sunscreen:

This is important during the drier months as temperatures can get high. If you are too used to the cold winters in Europe or north America, then you will need a good sunscreen to help protect you from the direct rays from the sun.

Insect Repellent:

Zambia and Zimbabwe are all malaria zones. Like in most tropical countries, expect to see more insects than usual. Most of the insects are harmless but should be very concerned about mosquitoes. Mosquitoes cause malaria and are very active during the months of August and June. Although you may be safe from malaria because you took anti-malaria drugs, you will still need to deal with mosquito bites which can be very annoying. You therefore need to have a good insect repellent, long-sleeved trousers and shirts.

Waterproof bag:

This will ensure that your electronic gadgets like phones, laptops and music players are not get socked by the dropping water (mist).

Waterproof camera: In order to take the best photos of the falls, you will need a good quality camera. It can be difficult to take good photos during the rainy season with mist all over the place.

Accommodation at the Victoria Falls

As a popular travel destination, there are several accommodation facilities close to the Victoria Falls offering both budget and luxury suites. The rooms are mostly built in form of cottages, huts, chalets or Best activities in Victoria Fallsvillas. Most of the accommodation facilities are within walking distance to the Victoria falls itself and provide amazing (romantic) views of the River Zambezi. Because they receive international many tourists, the hotels have mastered the art of offering high quality services with very professional staff. The rates can be all-inclusive with a visit to the falls and games drives in the national parks. Some of the hotels include:

Shoestrings Backpacker Lodge:

This lodge offers budget facilities in form of dorms and private tents. Don’t expect high-end facilities here but enough quality rooms to satisfy the budget travelers and particularly backpackers. What makes it special is the atmosphere. During weekends, the bars are frequented by tourists and local folks who want to party. If you are traveling on a budget and want to stay in a place full of fun and offering opportunities to mingle with the locals, then we recommend this lodge.

Shearwater’s Explorer Village:

This facility provides various types of accommodation facilities to cater for budget, mid-range and luxury travelers. There are camping spots for backpackers, self-contained tented rooms and cottages of high quality. The hotel has a bar, restaurant and swimming pool.

Victoria Falls Hotel:

This is also found on the Zimbabwe side and was the first hotel to be built in the area (1904 to be specific). It is an opulent and ultra-luxury hotel that has hosted prominent guests Accommodation at the Victoria Falls including royals. It was built during the colonial era but has that modern comfort with beautiful settings. The recent renovation in 2013 has taken quality a step further and the hotel now has over 200 luxurious rooms of different categories (standard deluxe, honeymoon and executive rooms). Families can choose the stable signature rooms with their own private wings, lounge and courtyard. All rooms have air conditioning, excellent Wi-Fi and guests have their own private path to the waterfalls. The hotel also has a fitness Centre, spa, excellent cafes, a bar and a poolside restaurant. If you are traveling with toddlers and children, the hotel will provide you with babysitting services.

Victoria Falls Safari Lodge:

The great thing about staying at Victoria Falls Safari Lodge is the opportunity to spot wild animals like elephants and antelopes. The lodge is built close to a major animal watering hole in Zambezi National Park. The rooms are comfortable, spacious and caters for children too. Victoria Falls Safari lodge is very close to the waterfalls and is an excellent choice for those who love nature.

Zambezi River Lodge:

This lodge is found on the Zimbabwean side and at the banks of the river Zambezi. The lodge has 83 rooms with amazing views of the river and a giant swimming pool. As you eat from the outside dining deck close to the river, expect to see warthogs, hippos, elephants, crocodiles and vervet monkeys roaming near the hotel lawns or the river banks.

Other hotels in the area:

Apart for the above hotels, you can also check out The Kingdom at Victoria Falls for their striking African style cottages or Elephant camp for their private plunge pools and visiting elephants. Other options include Imbabala Zambezi Safari Lodge, Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, Elephant Hills Resort, Rainbow Hotel Victoria Falls, Masuwe Lodge, Ilala Lodge Hotel, Batonka Guest Lodge, Cresta Sprayview Hotel and Little Gorges Lodge.