Known as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, Victoria Falls has captured the imagination of locals and visitors alike.
The world’s largest sheet of falling water spans two countries (Zimbabwe and Zambia) and tumbles into the mighty Zambezi River, the fourth largest on the African continent. It’s no wonder the popular tourist destination is called “the smoke that thunders.”
When Dr David Livingstone first saw the falls, he famously wrote in his diary, “No one can imagine the beauty of the view from anything witnessed in England. It had never been seen before by European eyes; but scenes so lovely must have been gazed upon by angels in their flight.”
The vivid description always leaves one in awe of the miraculous marvels found around the globe. No wonder the falls attract about one million people a year to its basalt cliffs and unique moonbows (lunar rainbows).
If you’re planning on visiting Victoria Falls for the first time, we’ve curated some helpful advice to get the most from your trip.
1. Do your research
Just like any other holiday, lots of research and planning goes into visiting an African country, from visa checks to malaria tablets.
Most tourists prefer to take direct flights from South Africa with FlySafair, Airlink and CemAir servicing the route. If flying from Harare, Air Zimbabwe and Proflight Zambia make regular scheduled stops at Victoria Falls Airport.
The best time to go is between March and August when the falls are at their strongest, giving you the chance to experience its outstanding beauty and the sheer force of the water cascading down its several gorges.
2. Pick a spot
According to experienced travellers, viewing Victoria Falls from the Zimbabwean side will give you an advantage as 75% of the falls can be seen from that side, whereas only 25% is visible from Zambia.
There are endless possibilities when wanting to capture the perfect shot. Novice photographers will be enthralled by the Devil’s Cataract which offers mindblowing views of the endless gorges and lush landscape.
Other viewing spots are Livingstone Island, Knife Edge Bridge, and the Boiling Pot. Quick pro tip: The best time to shoot is at sunrise and sunset.
3. Come Prepared
Because Victoria Falls is partly located in the Victoria Falls rainforest on Zimbabwe’s side, it always rains. It’s the only place on Earth where it rains every single day. No one wants to be soaked through for the duration of their excursion so pack a lightweight raincoat, umbrella, comfortable walking shoes and an extra pair of clothes.
4. Mind the Wildlife
Victoria Falls spreads across two national parks – Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park and Victoria Falls National Park. There’s a chance you might come across the indigenous wildlife.
After all, Africa is home to the “Big Five.” You might have the urge to take a photo up close, but be mindful of disturbing animals in their habitat. Crocodiles are particularly a common sight in these parts. We strongly suggest you have a trained guide accompanying you if planning to stray from the regular path.
5. Take a Dip in Devil’s Pool
This is probably one of the craziest things you can do in your life. And to think people travel halfway across the globe to claim bragging rights to swimming to the edge of the falls.
It’s not for the faint-hearted, but adrenaline junkies say this is the closest thing to feeling alive. Not anyone can attempt to take on Devil’s Pool. Often tour guides only include strong swimmers in their group.
And here’s why: You have to rely on the current in the Zambezi when the water level is low to carry you along the river. Once you reach the edge (Devil’s Pool), you’ll be rewarded with the exhilaration of floating in Mother Nature’s greatest infinity rock pool.
6. Walk the Bridge
If a nerve-wracking dip in Devil’s Pool leaves you in a cold sweat, taking a stroll across the Victoria Falls Bridge could be another option.
Linking Zambia’s Livingstone and Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, the bridge was constructed in 1903 and is approximately 156 meters long. An architectural marvel, the Victoria Falls Bridge is one of the many colonial artefacts left behind by the British Empire.
Visitors have three options – walk the bridge, take the Bridge Hour hop on the Bamba Tram or the thrill-seekers’ bungee jump.
7. ‘Flight of Angels’ Tour
A helicopter across Victoria Falls is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
For those who want to make lasting memories, the ‘Flight of Angels’ helicopter tour is the only way to truly get an idea of the mystical falls from above. A standard tour is about 12 to 13 minutes. There are also 25-minute helicopter trips available.
Boat cruises are the other favoured mode of transport when exploring the Zambezi. You can enjoy a sunset cruise, a romantic dinner or a river safari experience.
8. Visit Vic Falls Town
The popular resort town of Victoria Falls, affectionately known as Vic Falls, is the gateway to the falls from the Zimbabwean side.
Visitors have a wide range to choose from when it comes to accommodation, from hotels, lodges, and B&Bs to campsites.
The best safari lodges for both budget and luxury experiences are Ilala Lodge, Victoria Falls Safari Lodges, Thorn Tree River Lodge, Shongwe Lookout, and The River Club on the Zambian side.
Get a taste of the culture by booking a traditional village tour. These tours allow you to meet the locals and learn about their traditional way of life. Most of these tours will include crafts and cuisine experiences.
9. Book Via a Reputable Tour Company
Booking your trip via a travel specialist takes the hassle out of doing your admin and planning. Finding a company with an extensive network and knowledge of Zimbabwe and Victoria Falls will work in your favor.
Cape Archives Tours takes the guesswork out of your holiday. Contact us for all your Victoria Falls and Zimbabwe trips.
