The mighty Victoria Falls spanning 1.7 Km long, is a spectacular sight and is the culmination of the placid Zambezi River which is the boarder between Zimbabwe and Zambia. The Falls, also known as the “Smoke that thunders” in the local Tonga language were discovered by David Livingstone in 1855. 70% of the exquisite views are seen from the Zimbabwe rain forest and 30 % from The Zambezi National Park in Zambia. It is easier than ever to visit the fall on both sides since the introduction of the KAZA Univisa which also allows you to do day safaris in Chobe National Park, Botswana.
Crossing between the two countries done by crossing over the Victoria Falls Bridge. Walking (and catching a taxi back) is highly recommended as the walk takes around 20 minutes, but the views of the falls are spectacular.
Victoria Falls National Park has neatly laid out paths leading to the various viewpoints of the Devil’s Cataract, Main Falls, Horseshoe Falls and well-named Rainbow Falls. Although Zimbabwe has more viewpoints the Zambian side has a wilder feel as the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park (Zambezi National Park) gets you right up close to rushing water, a highlight is walking across the Knife-Edge Bridge. However, if the Zambezi is in full flood prepare to get thoroughly wet from the spray coming off the falls.
There are many activities on offer in both Zimbabwe and Zambia – horse-back safaris, peaceful river cruises on the upper Zambezi or thrilling white-water rafting, bungee jumping, helicopter flips and zip lining. Except for the heart-racing walk to the Devil’s Pool, which you can only do from the Zambian side of the falls. This activity starts with a gentle boat trip out to Livingstone Island. Then it’s time to wade through the running river to a rock pool right on the very edge of the falls, an exhilarating and once-in-a-lifetime experience.
It is recommended to eat at one of the many restaurants in the Victoria Falls Town but experience local life on the less commercial Zambia side.
Best time to visit: April to October (After rainy season in Summer April to October is dry, cooler and the Victoria Falls at full capacity)