Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls is a grand natural spectacle and one of the most popular travel destinations in Southern Africa. African Sky offers many tours, safaris, and honeymoons that spend a few nights at the falls. No trip to the subcontinent is complete without gazing upon Vic Falls - a truly inspiring sight.

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Popular Activities at Victoria Falls

Around Victoria Falls are several national parks and protected areas to safeguard the area for generations to come. The great Zambezi River supplies the falls with its water. The river forms the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Devil's Pool is a trench naturally gouged out of the rock right on the edge of one of the falls, which allows tourists to experience the falls from within them - a spine-tingling yet memorable experience. This activity is not for the faint of heart. Devil's Pool is only accessible in times of low water flow.

The original adrenalin rush adventure, white water rafting on the Zambezi below the falls, is generally considered the best white water rafting experience in the world. Rapids encountered are as high as category five during specific times of the year.

Few other places where a sunset cruise can be enjoyed offer more dramatic landscapes than those surrounding the Zambezi River. We recommend that all who visit the area book one of these cruises at least once.

These excursions enrich your understanding of the traditions and cultures of the local tribes. It also offers the opportunity to purchase hand-made curios unique to the region.

The young and brave can endeavor this often seemingly foolish activity. Jumps are offered by professional jump masters from the bridge that connects the countries of Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Elephant encounters are one of the most popular activities at Vic Falls. It typically involves seeing these gentle giants close-up and interacting with them in the presence of an experienced elephant minder.

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Victoria Falls Travel Overview

One of Africa's grandest natural wonders, Victoria Falls, is a destination not to be missed when traveling to Southern Africa.

These mighty falls occur in the Zambezi River between northeast Zimbabwe and southwestern Zambia - one of the world's natural wonders.

Width
1708m
Height
108m
Mean flow rate
1 088 cubic meters per second
Maximum flow rate
12 800 cubic meters per second
Closest Towns
Livingstone - Zambia, Victoria Falls  - Zimbabwe

Recommended Accommodation

Accommodations at Victoria Falls range from hotels in Livingstone and Victoria Falls to luxurious lodges on the banks of the Zambezi River.

River Club

This magnificent lodge overlooks the Zambezi from a perch on the banks of the Zambezi on the Zambian side of the river.

Royal Livingstone

The Royal Livingstone is a fine luxury hotel built in a colonial style close to the falls on the Zambian side of the Zambezi River.

Victoria Falls Hotel

Built-in 1904 by the British, the iconic Victoria Falls hotel remains one of the finest hotels available in the area.

Elephant Camp

The Elephant Camp overlooks the Zambezi River gorges inside the Victoria Falls National Park.

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Reasons to Visit Victoria Falls

1

Awesome Sight

Few who have gazed upon the majesty of Victoria Falls will disagree that it is a truly inspiring sight. Visiting various vantage points from where the Falls can be seen, from both the Zimbabwean and Zambian sides of the river, is the most compelling reason to visit the Falls.

2

Variety of Activities

The area adjacent to the Falls offers visitors unique choices as far as activities are concerned. From relaxed options like sunset cruises and cultural village tours to heart-stopping adrenalin rush activities that include white water rafting, bungee jumping, and a host of other adventures.

3

Close Proximity to Chobe

Combining a visit to Victoria Falls with a few nights on safari in Botswana's Chobe National Park is a great way to experience one of the world's natural wonders and enjoy one of Africa's most fabulous safari destinations. The transfer from Victoria Falls or Livingstone to Chobe is only about an hour and a half.

4

Accommodation

Victoria Falls is a destination that caters to travelers in all budget categories. Whether your budget allows for a comfortable personal hotel or an ultra-luxurious lodge set on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River, you will be spoiled for choice when considering the available options.

Vic Falls Vacation Options and Travel Tips

A vacation to Victoria Falls is easily combined with a safari in Botswana or a tour in South Africa. All our holidays are 100% customizable.

Transport

Transfers from the Airport to your hotel or lodge will typically be in private air-conditioned vehicles. It is also the case for transfers to the various activities you will partake in during your stay at Victoria Falls.

The above will apply if you opt for a day excursion to Chobe. Once you reach Chobe, however, you will transfer to an open 4x4 game drive vehicle for the duration of the safari in Chobe.

Sunset cruises are conducted in boats of varying sizes. All are well-equipped to enjoy the magic of a sunset over the mighty Zambezi River.

Experiences to be Savored when traveling to the Victoria Falls

There are many experiences to savor around the majestic Victoria Falls. The cream of the crop focus on the bounties of the Zambezi River. Whether you are experiencing it from within, on, or high above, you'll delight in this majestic African waterway.

Rainbows

Rainbows form in the spray cloud of the mighty falls, sometimes seeming so close you can touch them. If a pot of gold exists at the end of the rainbow, this will be the place to find it. Even if not found, rainbows add a magical element to viewing the falls.

Flight of Angels

An aerial view is a unique vantage point from which to observe the majesty of the falls. From a helicopter or microlight aircraft, the sheer scale of Victoria Falls becomes even more apparent than when viewing this natural spectacle from the ground. These flights are typically between ten and thirty minutes in duration.

Canoeing

Gliding silently across the river on a canoe with birdsong and the occasional hippo snorting in the reads is relaxing. From this vantage point, you will experience the mighty trees that line the riverbank and the reed-lined islands scattered throughout the Zambezi in the best possible way.

Best Private Tours and Safari Packages

14 Days From: ZAR 69,270 pp Luxury Code: T02

A two-week private tour & safari package combination that explores some of the finest travel destinations in Southern Africa.

10 Days From: ZAR 69,270 pp Personal Code: T15

This tour visits the three most popular southern African destinations, Cape Town, the Kruger National Park, and Vic Falls.

4 Days From: ZAR 69,270 pp Luxury Code: S23

An exploration of Victoria Falls departs from and returns to Johannesburg. A short but memorable visit to this natural wonder.

Foods to try when visiting the Vic Falls

Nshima

Nshima is the staple of the local population in both Zambia and Malawi. It is a starch dish cooked with water, salt, and maize flour. Salted water is brought to a boil, after which the maize flour is added and cooked for ten to twenty minutes.

Tilapia

Tilapia is a local freshwater fish species abundant in the Zambezi. Methods of preparation include pan frying, roasting, or serving tilapia in a traditional fish stew. However you choose to enjoy it, it is well worth a try.

Mapopo Candy

Made from papaya fruit, sugar, mint, and grated lemon peel, Mapopo Candy is a local sweat treat. It is available in local markets and should be available at most hotels and lodges in the area during the papaya season.

Maheu

A creamy drink made from maize meal, Maheu has a slightly sour taste and becomes alcoholic if left to ferment. Locals commonly enjoy it, but it is an acquired taste. People who like to try new and different foods might enjoy it.

FAQ

Should I take a raincoat?
In times of peak flow, you will be drenched by the spray cloud of the Falls. It is, however, not necessary to bring your raincoat, as ponchos can be hired at a very nominal fee.
Which country offers a better view of the falls?
Each is different and special in its way. Two-thirds of the Falls can be seen from the Zimbabwean side of the river and one-third from the Zambian side.
Is white water rafting safe?
The safety record is impressive. However, it is recommended that this activity only be undertaken by physically fit people.
What is the ideal duration for a visit to Victoria Falls?
A stay of three nights with two full days will offer enough time to appreciate the Falls and their surroundings.
How long is the drive from the Airport to the Hotels and lodges in the area?
Depending on the specific property, it takes roughly twenty to thirty minutes.
During which months can Devil's Pool be visited?
The autumn and winter months from May to September will be a relatively safe bet if you wish to venture to the Devil's Pool.
What other regional destinations can I visit from a base near Victoria Falls?
Botswana's Chobe National Park is the most popular regional destination close to Victoria Falls.
What is the best hotel or lodge property in the area?
River Club on the Zambian side of the Zambezi River is, in the author's, opinion, the finest of the lodges near Victoria Falls.
Will I have mobile reception and access to the Internet?
Yes, though, connections can be very slow.

Useful Travel Info

Getting There

A few daily commercial flights connect Johannesburg to the town of Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe and the town of Livingstone in Zambia. These flights are about an hour and forty minutes in duration. A short transfer of twenty to thirty minutes from Livingstone or Victoria Falls airport brings guests to their overnight destination.

Weather & Best Time To Visit

Winter months from late May to the end of August are the most temperate. Summers can be brutally hot, with temperatures rising above 40 degrees centigrade. Rainfall in the area typically consists of late afternoon thundershowers that last for an hour or two. The rains fall from about the middle of October to late March.

The best time to visit Victoria Falls is between February and June when the Zambezi is in full flow after summer rains in its catchment area. During this period, you will witness the largest sheet of water in the world that plummets over a sheer drop. During this period, the spray cloud rises an average of 400m into the air, sometimes even twice as high, depending on prevailing winds, and is visible from almost 50km away.

Passport & Visa Info

Visitors from most Western countries, including much of Europe, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Australia, require visas to enter Zimbabwe, with New Zealand being the rare exception. The Middle East and Far East countries are also quite restricted. It is essential to check Zimbabwe's official home affairs website or to contact your nearest embassy before planning your travels.

The visa is acquirable and payable at the port of entry or missions abroad. The current cost is 30 USD for single access, 45USD for double entry, and 55USD for multiple entries. In each case, the visa is 25USD more expensive for UK passport holders. All tourism visas are valid for up to six months. Visa regulations are always subject to change.

Medical Considerations

Victoria Falls is located within a high malaria-risk area, and anti-malaria precautions should be discussed with your physicians when you are planning your travels to Southern Africa. Beyond that, ensure that all your routine vaccinations are up to date.

Health & Safety

Livingstone and Victoria Falls have become bustling tourism hubs over the years; petty crime occurs in busy spaces. Ensure that your valuables are securely on your person when visiting curio markets or dense vantage points. If your private accommodation does not have an in-room safe, request the hotel or lodge to secure your valuables during your stay.

History

Victoria Falls is one of the most recognizable natural wonders in Africa. It was first discovered and introduced to the western world by the great explorer Sir David Livingstone during his expeditions to Africa, which led to his first sighting of the Falls on the 16th of December 1855. He then named the waterfall after the British monarch, Queen Victoria.

During the early 20th century, a town was established near the falls. It came after the formidable Rand lord Cecil John Rhodes proposed exploiting the area and its natural resources. Cecil John Rhodes also built the first bridge here, driven by his vision of a railway stretching from Cape Town to Cairo.

The tourism and recreational activities in the area started when the Victoria Falls Hotel was opened in 1904 to accommodate passengers of this newly built railway station that could take them as far south as the Cape, and from there, it rapidly grew. In the surrounding British colonies, it became a desired destination for many people. By 1990, long after all these countries gained independence, the annual number of visitors here grew to nearly 400 000 into the well-managed and beautiful exclusive destination it is today.

The Gorges

A gorge is a natural trench-like structure and can usually be found further from a waterfall where the rock below the river goes deeper and deeper, started by the water falling and flowing from the falls.

Six gorges are identified within the Victoria Falls area, the first right below the falls. The second is only 200m south of the first and is 2,15 km long. After the first two follow the third, fourth, fifth, and final gorges. The last is special because of its size, around 3.3km in length and 140m deep.

Countries

View of the Drakensberg in South Africa. South Africa
Elephants in the sunset in Botswana. Botswana
A desert landscape in Namibia. Namibia
People swimming in the clear waters of Mozambique. Mozambique
View of the Victoria Falls in Zambia. Zambia
Antelope standing on a river bank in Zimbabwe. Zimbabwe