One of the world’s most significant natural geographical features and world’s most famous, and arguably most beautiful waterfall formations. The Victoria Falls are formed by the rapids of River Zambezi that is mostly in Zimbabwe but a part of which meanders through Zambia. The Victoria Water Falls straddles both countries.
Victoria Falls is located on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. The fall is one of the world’s 7 Natural Wonders and a UNESCO World Heritage site. While the breath-taking falls are neither the widest nor the highest in the world, when the river is in full flow it does form the largest cascading sheet of water. For millennia the falls existed undiscovered by anyone outside of Africa. The first European to see the famous falls was David Livingstone who loyally named them after his Queen Victoria although the locals use the name Mosi Oa Tunya, which means “the smoke that thunders”, referring to the crashing noise of the falls and the towering mist that rises above it.
Batoka tribe lived here for over thousands of years and still remain in the area today, joined by other tribes such as the Ndebele, Tonga, the Lozwi and the Kololo. In 1855, it was the Kololo who introduced the falls to the missionary and explorer stone who went on to tell the rest of the world about their glory. He famously said “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.”
In 1905 construction of the Victoria Falls Bridge was completed, which greatly opened up tourism to the area. The bridge was commissioned by Cecil John Rhodes, as part of his “Cape to Cairo” vision, with the specific instructions that it was in a location where passing trains would be sprayed by the mist to add a thrilling experience to the passenger’s journey. Unfortunately, he passed away before it was completed, and with it his dreams of exploiting the region’s resources for himself. The bridge and railway provided access to travellers from as far north as the Belgian Congo and as far as south as Cape Town. Now, the bridge is a popular spot for adrenaline junkies who like to bungee jump or bridge swing from its great height. For history and/or engineering fans, it is also possible to take a tour of the bridge with a guide who is dressed like an engineer from the early 1900s while you are strapped in with a safety harness, walking along the lower catwalk to explore the structural intricacies.
During British colonial rule, a trip to the falls was on many daring explorers’ bucket lists. During the 1960s independence struggles in what was then Southern Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) closed the border posts between Zambia (previously Northern Rhodesia) and affected travel to the area. However, it again grew in popularity in the 1980s after political unrest in Zimbabwe calmed down and it became more accessible via international travel. In 1989 the magnificent falls were awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status due to its size and beauty. In the 1990s it became popular with thrill seekers drawn by the wealth of adventure activities on offer, such as white water rafting and bungee jumping. It is now one of Africa’s must-see tourist attractions with over a million visitors a year who flock to the falls for a variety of reasons, honeymoons being particularly popular, but chiefly to experience the unique wonder of the smoke that thunders.
1. Spectacle
When a sight is named as one of the seven natural wonders of the world then you know you are in for a treat. In the 1800s the local Kololo tribe named the waterfall as ‘Mosi-oa-Tunya’ or ‘the Smoke that Thunders’. The wide basalt cliffs and powerful Zambezi river together create a waterfall like no other, spilling over 500million cubic metres of water every minute.
2. Water activities for all
Whether you fancy a leisurely canoe down the Zambezi or an adrenaline-filled white-water rafting adventure, there really is something for all explorers. If you prefer to stay on land, Victoria Falls is an excellent location for both experienced anglers and beginners to have a chance at reeling in a Tiger fish. Don’t worry about cramming all these exciting activities into one day, you can always stay the night at the Victoria Falls safari lodge.
3. Safari
An African trip wouldn’t be complete without going on safari, and at Victoria falls you will be spoilt for choice. You can discover the wild on foot with a walking tour through the Zambezi National Park or if you feel brave enough why not climb up onto an elephant and go on a safari led by one of Africa’s most magnificent creatures. If you’d be more comfortable on horseback then you can also canter through the African bush.
4. Affordable
Accommodation in Zimbabwe tends to be less expensive when compared with Zambia and Botswana. Hotels and lodges in Zambia and Botswana are in most cases pitched for the elegant market whilst Zimbabwe’s range of hotels is very wide. Zimbabwe and Zambia denominate their prices in US Dollars, however Sterling, Euro, Rand or Pula are readily acceptable in Zimbabwe but their conversion rate into US Dollars is unfavourable.
Getting there
By Air
Victoria Falls international airport serviced by several flights from Johannesburg, Nelspruit, Cape Town, Addis Ababa, Harare, Windhoek, Maun and Lusaka. The airport is located 22 kilometres from the town of Victoria Falls. The time to be processed through immigration and customs all depends on how full the flight is, so at peak times of year with full aircraft it can take up to 2 hours to clear customs and catch your shuttle, in quieter times this can be done in under an hour, so just bear this in mind when booking any activities on the afternoon you arrive. Generally, there is sufficient time for a sunset cruise or a helicopter flight.
Weather & Best Time To Visit
When the volume of water going over Victoria Falls is at its greatest, you are hard pressed to hold a conversation above the sound of the water, and even if there isn’t a cloud in the sky, be prepared to get a soaking… rain coats and umbrellas are on hand, and don’t be embarrassed about using them. It is also good idea to take protective covering for your camera. The level of the Zambezi River changes with the season and during November and December, the waters are at their lowest, thus turning the spectacle into a trickle, and making for some interesting geology. September and October are prime months in Victoria Falls and there will still be a substantial flow of water over the Falls on the Zimbabwean side. You don’t get the full force of the Falls that you do during the peak flow months of April and May, but the views are clearer as there is not so much spray which can obliterate the views during the heavier flow months..
The summer months are generally hotter with temperatures often exceeding 36°C and the short afternoon thunderstorms often make way for magnificent sunsets. This is the time of year where you can get your tan on at your poolside hotel. The winter months are characterised by long sunny days with cold nights where warm clothes will be needed.
Medical Considerations
Victoria Falls is situated within a high malaria risk area, and anti-malaria safeguards ought to be consulted with your personal medical practitioner when you are scheduling your tour to Southern Africa. Further than that, make sure that all your regular vaccinations are up to date.
Health & Safety
Petty crime does take place in Victoria Falls as centers are now lively tourism focal points. Make sure that your valuables are secure on your person if you make stop over at curio markets or crowded areas. Should your hotel room not be equipped with safe, you may request hotel secure your valuable during stay.
Transfers from the airport to your hotel or lodge will be typically be in private air-conditioned vehicles. This is also the case for transfers to the various activities that you will partake in while staying at the Victoria Falls. If you opt for a day excursion to Chobe, the above will apply as well. Once you reach Chobe, however, you will transfer to an open 4×4 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.
White Water Rafting
Due to the fluctuating water levels of the Zambezi, there are high and low water seasons at different times of the year.
In the rafting world, the Zambezi River rafting is classified as class 5 (high volume) out of 6 – 1 being the tamest and 6 being commercially not raftable. With rapids named Stairway to Heaven, The Terminator, The Washing Machine, Judgement Day, Devils Toilet Bowl and Oblivion, you get an idea of what to expect.
High water rafting begins in mid-January and ends in August. Sometimes, however, if the water level is too high, rafting will close as a safety concern during the months of April and May. High water rafting goes from rapid number #10 to #25 as the water rise they start putting in at #14. These trips are full day from 8h30 to 15h30.
Low water rafting starts in approximately August through to January and this is when the river is at its wildest. Half day trips go from either rapid #1 to #10 (morning trip – 7h30 to 14h00) or #10 to #25 (afternoon trip – 10h15 to 17h30). Full day trips take you through #1 to #25 from 7h30 to 17h30. The difference between this activity and the one offered in Zimbabwe is that in Zambia, there is no hike out of the Batoka Gorge but a cable car takes you out the gorge instead which is a huge bonus for some people.
High Wire Activities
Basically there are three main high wire activities, namely, Flying Fox, Foofie Slide and Gorge Swing.
Flying Fox: You get clipped into a harness which is attached to a pulley which then glides along an almost horizontal cable across the gorge, 125m above the valley floor. This gives you the sensation of flying. It looks tame in comparison to the Foofie slide and Gorge swing, but I promise you this is still a thrilling experience, and requires great courage.
Foofie Slide: this is similar to the Flying Fox but here the cable is not horizontal it is at an extreme angle so once you let go you accelerate downhill at speeds of over 100km/h. It is extremely exhilarating and unbelievably fast. This can be done single or tandem. It is also twice the distance as flying fox.
Gorge Swing: leave your stomach behind, this is only for the totally insane. Your harness is attached to a rope, the rope is attached to the middle of a cable that runs across the full width of the gorge.
Bungee Jumping
Surely jumping 111 meters off the Victoria Falls Bridge has to be one of the most challenging, terrifying, crazy things to do. I have not built up the courage yet but from all accounts…. It’s a must do. If you are not brave enough to do this alone, you can always try to convince a buddy to leap with you and do the tandem jump. First timers normally do a standard head first dive, but the more experienced try all sorts of flips, backflips and inward tucks, some even with a bicycle or kayak. Pre-booked and paid bungee jumpers are entitled to a full refund up until they sign the indemnity form on the bridge and start to strap up, you are then past the point of no return.
Skydiving
Based in the Zambezi National Park, STC is just seven kilometres away from the majestic waterfall. In a small plane, adrenaline seekers soar 10 000 meters into the sky. Without the small plane, they make the 10 000-meter journey back. Prior to the jump, the aircraft flies over the waterfall, giving you a breath-taking bird’s eye view of Devils Cataract, Main Falls, Rainbow Falls, and Horseshoe Falls. It then circles back to the drop zone in the National Park, where you will step into masses of open African air. After experiencing the rush of a 200kph free fall, a parachute is released, and jumpers soar above the wilderness that stretches into the horizon.
Boiling Pot Hike
Take this awesome picturesque hike in the morning or afternoon down the gorge, under the Victoria Falls Bridge, and experience the splendour of the Victoria Falls from down below. Then take a swim in the pools at the base of the falls.
Seeing the Victoria Falls from its base is a breath-taking experience, but there is a rather strenuous hike involved. You have to walk down the Batoka Gorge, go under the Victoria Falls Bridge and take a raft to the base of the Falls. Sounds simple enough, but you do have to be reasonably fit in order to complete this rather physical activity. It takes about 30 minutes to get to the bottom of the gorge which is almost 110m high (360 feet), with steep steps, rocks, some rafting and swimming. Then there is the preparation time and rafting across to the other side of the gorge which takes about 30 minutes. After spending about an hour at the base of the Falls, it takes roughly another hour to get back out of the gorge. The experience though is very enjoyable and worth the time and effort.
The Boiling Pot Hike is a seasonal activity, and is available the same time with the low water rafting, which is offered during the months of August through to December when the water level of the Zambezi River is at the right height in order to make access possible. Outside of these months the shear volume of water makes it dangerous and access impossible.
The Siduli Hide
Experience a unique and authentic safari activity and watch the big game of Victoria Falls up close. The Siduli Hide offers wildlife enthusiasts a unique and authentic opportunity to observe a variety of mammal, reptile and bird species that frequent this very busy waterhole. Built to look like a termite mound the hide is completely unobtrusive, so as long as guests sit quietly when inside it, the animals are unaware of their presence and literally stroll by within a few feet, giving them an incredible and very close-up encounter with nature.
Guest meet at the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge reception and are then driven a short distance down the hill towards the waterhole. Then a short five-minute walk, conducted by a professional guide takes you to the hide. On our trip we had to up the pace slightly as the elephants were already on their way to drink and we needed to get into position before they arrived.
Victoria Falls Canoeing
On these canoe trips, guests paddle their own canoes/kayaks following their experienced canoe guide. You don’t have to be a canoeing expert and a life-jacket will be provided. Victoria Falls canoeing above the Falls on the upper Zambezi is the perfect activity for those who not only want to see the abundant bird and animal life but also want to experience the peace, tranquillity and beauty of the Zambezi River. The river is a kilometre wide and in places a bit more. It has an indescribable beauty with crystal clear waters and a myriad of islands and channels to explore.
The birdlife is phenomenal with rare beauties like the African Finfoot, half collared kingfisher, palm thrush and numerous others species. Elephants and other game is often encountered on the Zimbabwean side so whether you are an avid bird watcher, wildlife fan or just want to experience the peace and tranquillity of this mighty river, I would highly recommend an “Above the Victoria Falls Canoeing Trip” it’s a great way to get to know this outstanding location. Sections of the upper river do have some white water rapids, nothing like the rapids below the falls but enough to get your heart racing.
Zambezi National Park
Zambezi National Park together with Victoria Falls National Park cover an area of 56,000 hectares. The northern border of the Park is formed by the great Zambezi River which also forms the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia for much of its length. A wide variety of larger mammals may be found within the Zambezi National Park including elephant, lion, buffalo and leopard. In addition, herds of sable antelope, eland, zebra, giraffe, kudu, waterbuck and impala as well as many of the smaller species of game can be viewed.
Zambezi National Park in Zimbabwe has two main game-viewing sections: The Zambezi River Game Drive, with an extensive network of roads along the river accessed through the main gate of the Park, and the 25 kilometre Chamabondo Game Drive in the southern part of the Park, which begins about 5 kilometres outside of Victoria Falls town – just off the main road to Bulawayo. The roads are in reasonable condition, but please note that they do close the park after heavy rains. Upstream along the Zambezi River Drive, there are 25 numbered sites where day visitors may picnic or fish. These sites are attractively situated on the banks of the river and sheltered beneath the beautiful shady trees like the Natal Mahogany. It is within this park that the Upper Zambezi Canoe trips are conducted. You drive through the park to your put in point and then canoe back along the Zambezi River.
Victoria Falls Canoe Safari
The Upper Zambezi River is a beautiful place for canoeing, with stunning vegetation such as ebonies, water berries, palms and a tremendous variety of acacia. The canoe trails are operated in Zambia, but they take you down the Zambezi, zigzagging on the boundary between two countries with views of the Zambezi National Park in Zimbabwe, and the Mosi oa Tunya National Park in Zambia.
Victoria Falls canoe safaris on offer on the Zambian side are the ½ day, full day and overnight trips – where the evening is spent in tents by the riverside and a delicious meal and cool drinks are enjoyed under the beautiful African skies.
Zambezi River Fishing
Above the Victoria Falls is a calmer portion of Zambezi River where one can go and have en exciting experience fishing for Tiger fish. These elusive fish require a bit of skill to catch as they are quite aggressive – which is part of the thrill. Also, they can grow as big as 33lb (15kgs) so you could be in for a big fight.
The Zambezi River has over 75 fish species but the most sought-after of these is the Tiger Fish. You can also find African Pike, Barbel, Upper Zambezi Yellow fish, Bream or Tilapia while on your fishing trip. Spinners and lures are the most common method of catching these fish although using light tackle, a fly and a fly-rod is becoming very popular and brings an extra dimension to a very exciting sport.
The Zambezi is real Africa so there is no getting away from the fact that Hippos and Crocodiles live in these waters in profusion. Experienced guides however know exactly how to avoid these animals and let them be, so that both man and animal can enjoy this magical place. So don’t let these dangers stop you from going rather make sure you go only with someone who knows what they are doing.
Elephant Safaris
The elephant encounter allows an intimate and educational experience with the African Elephant. The Wild Horizons Elephant Sanctuary and Orphanage is home to several rescued and resident African Elephants that have been cared for for years in the Victoria Falls area.
Here, guests have an opportunity to learn about the beginning of this vital conservation program, the guides that have journeyed with the elephants that they have cared for, and the stories of the elephants themselves.
The elephant encounter begins with a presentation on the orphanage and how it came to be. Guests will have an opportunity to have a conversation with the very people that care for the elephants each and every day. The guides will give insight into the way the herd interacts, and how they came to be where they are today. Learn about the threats to the African elephant in the region.
After the informative presentations, take a walk venturing out into the bush – an opportunity to interact with the elephant on a personal level. Observe their individual behaviour up close while marvelling at their massive sizes, see how they interact with each other, and note the special relationship which the elephants have with their keepers.
Walk with Lions
Walk side by side with the King of the Jungle. You are invited to take a walk on the wild side and interact with the rowdy adolescents as well as learn about the conservation issues on the walk with lions safari. Walk with the Pride no leashes, no collars, and the pride roam freely with you through the African bush in this walk with lions activity. All clients will be given equipment for their Walk with lions (stick). On a walk with lions safari there are three lion handlers plus a Trip leader. All Trip Leaders carry a .458 rifle, and a communication radio plus a first aid kit.
Fishing on The Zambezi River
The Zambezi is the fourth longest river in Africa, after the Nile, Congo, and Niger Rivers. It is the longest east flowing river in Africa. From there it flows through Zambia, Angola, Namibia and Botswana then back along the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe finally discharging into the Indian Ocean at its delta in Mozambique. The area of its catchment basin is 1 390 000 square km which is half that of the Nile. This river evokes mystery and excitement with few rivers in the world remaining as pristine or as little explored.
The Zambezi is ever changing through the seasons so one visit is never the same as the next keeping you spell bound every time. Wildlife and birds are in abundance. There are over 75 fish species found inhabiting these waters. The most sought-after of these is the Tiger Fish, well renowned as probably the greatest fighting fresh water fish around. It is a ferocious species which can grow as large as 33 lbs (15 Kg) in weight.
However you can also expect to catch three-spot, pink-happy and Yellow-belly bream, Upper Zambezi Yellowfish, African Pike and Silver Barbel to name just a few of the most common. The gorgeous Yellow-belly Bream (Nembwe) reach over 4kgs in weight and is very popular amongst anglers. Vundu is a type of catfish and is the largest fish found in the Zambezi, and can grow as large as 100 lbs (45 Kg).
Night Drive
Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe is lucky to have two different night drive options available.
Shearwater Adventures operates a night drive and bush dinner on the Victoria Falls Private Game Reserve. The reserve is 3500 hectares of pristine land, situated about 12kms from Victoria Falls town. It is here that Shearwater operate their elephant back safaris, lion walks, rhino tracking, games drive in-fact all their game activities. There is a wide variety of resident game on the reserve including amongst others rhino, buffalo and giraffe. However it is unlikely you will see wild lion here as the park is fenced.
Discover Safaris are very privileged to have been granted the only licence to conduct night drives within the genuine unfenced wilderness of the Zambezi National Park. It’s a special and unique opportunity to visit this park which is 56000 hectares in extent. The northern border of the park is formed by the great Zambezi River. The park is totally wild and has a huge variety of wildlife including lion, leopard, wild dog, big herds of buffalo and elephant. In addition there is plenty of plains game like zebra, sable, giraffe, eland, kudu, waterbuck and impala to name a few. If you are comparing this to option 1, this is much bigger and wilder than the Victoria Falls Private Game reserve.
African Horse Safari
What better place can you think of for an African horse safari than the Zambezi River valley – an area of outstanding natural beauty, with such a diversity of habitats from from the magnificent Zambezi River, to rugged mopane woodland and the endless dunes of Kalahari sand teak forest. Birdlife is prolific and special species include Schalow’s Turaco, African Finfoot, Rock Pratincole, African Skimmer, Taita Falcon, Half Collared Kingfisher, Collared Palm Thrush and many more…… Game is bountiful and the big 5 (sadly apart from rhino nowadays) are regularly seen.
It is a truly exhilarating experience to ride through the African bush, it kind of transcends one back in time to the pioneer days. It’s quiet and peaceful and you feel at one with nature. For experienced riders options range from dawn or sunset, half day African horse safaris to multi day trips moving from lodge to lodge through National Parks and private game areas. Shorter, separate rides on quieter horses are available for less confident riders.
Walking Safari
Walking safaris are not just a sightseeing tour of the bush, but they allow you to get close to the flora and fauna, while studying the spoors of big and small creatures and learning how to track them. They are a fantastic activity for the photographer, bird and wildlife enthusiast, the botanist, and anyone who enjoys the outdoors.
You are not restricted to the Victoria Falls bush – trips can also be arranged for walking safaris in Hwange National Park.
Victoria Falls Tour
On the Zambian side of the falls, the tour is shorter as only 30% of the Falls are viewable from Zambia but it is still very much worth the visit as the perspectives are quite different to Zimbabwe. The tours are available 7 days a week and last about 2 hours.
On a guided Victoria Falls tour, you will learn how this magnificent world wonder was formed. You will also learn about the people who lived here over a century ago, and those that came to discover its existence and shared it with the world.
A path along the edge of the forest provides the visitor with an unparalleled series of views of the Falls. One special vantage point is across the Knife edge bridge, where visitors can have the finest view of the Eastern Cataract as well as the Boiling Pot where the river turns and heads down the Batoka Gorge. Other vantage points include the Knifes Edge bridge and the Lookout Tree.
A Lunar Rainbow
The lunar rainbow is best seen at times of high water (April to July) when there is sufficient spray to create the moonbow effect. This spectacle is best witnessed in the early hours after moonrise, before the moon rises too high to create a moonbow that is visible to the ground-based observer.
The Victoria Falls are one of the few places on earth where this natural phenomenon occurs regularly and where it can be witnessed with ease. And yet many people visit the Falls without knowing of this natural phenomenon but it is one of the most impressive sights of Victoria Falls.
Just like its day-time equivalent, the lunar rainbow or ‘moonbow’ is created as light is refracted by water particles in the air, ever-present from the spray of the Falls.
Flights over the Falls
Experience the Flight of Angels, an unforgettable helicopter flight with breathtaking views of the mighty Victoria Falls, the Batoka Gorge, the Zambezi River and the lush Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park.
With Batoka Sky, adventurers can choose from 15 minute, 22 minute and 30 minute Victoria Falls helicopter flights. We also offer Gorge Liftouts, because after White Water Rafting on the Zambezi River, the best way to return to Livingstone is by helicopter. It is an exhilarating finish to your river rafting experience, which saves you an exhausting two hour walk! Another incredible experience offered by Batoka Sky is the Gorge Picnic at Bobo Camp; a delectable lunch at rapid 21 accompanied by stunning aerial views over the Zambezi River and Batoka Gorge.
Zambezi Cruises
Going on a sunset cruise on the Zambezi is an absolute must when you visit Victoria Falls. The beauty of the luscious bush and vast Zambezi River is such a peaceful experience. Not only do you get to take in the sights, but during a sunset cruise, you most certainly will see the river regulars such as the hippo, crocodile and elephants, to name a few. Sunset is the time when a lot of the animals converge for their last drink of the day.
There are a number of cruise boats options that do sunset cruises in Zambia; the African Queen and African Princess, are amongst the most popular vessels. They are comfortable luxury boats that set off from the Royal Landing jetty at 16h00 during winter and 16h30 in the summer months. Transfers are provided from the Day Activity Centre to the jetty.
While you sip on delicious cocktails and freshly made snacks, the boats will take you around the different islands on the Zambezi. The cruise boats do not go closer than 4km from the edge of the Victoria Falls but you will be able to see the rising spray from the safety of the vessel. The duration of a single trip is about 2 hours.
Spencer Creek Croc Farm
The crocodile farm is situated about 5 Kilometres from the town centre and very close to A’ Zambezi Hotel. The grounds are set along a natural creek surrounded by tall, shady trees which keeps the temperature down.
Originally set up in the 1950’s in response to the declining crocodile population of the Zambezi, which was subject to uncontrolled hunting and slaughter by people regarding them with superstition and fear. The government granted a license to Spencer’s creek in Victoria Falls to collect 2500 eggs from the Zambezi every year for commercial purposes. In return the farm was obliged to return 125 three year old crocs back to the river to keep the natural population sustainable. If you are brave you can have a chance at holding one of the newly hatched crocodiles, always good for the holiday photo album.
Victoria Falls Bike Tour
This is a unique way to get around Victoria Falls, see sights and experience the area in a way that not many visitors do. You get to experience the local culture in Chinotimba township, scenic rides along the Zambezi River and views of the Victoria Falls from the bridge. If you have a slightly energetic nature and a bit of extra time in the Falls we would recommended doing this activity. Please bear in mind that it can get extremely hot in Victoria Falls during summer, hence the early morning and late afternoon trips are recommended, however this can be quite arduous.
Then you make your way up to Chinotimba Township, where you definitely get a sense of local customs and culture as you wander through the bustling local fruit and vegetable markets.
You will also visit a local church, clinic and school, seeing a side of Victoria Falls that is not on most tourist itineraries. For many guests this is the highlight of the tour. Whilst cycling keep an eye out for impala, warthog, monkeys, baboons, an abundance of birdlife and even the mighty elephant.
Victoria Falls Bridge Tour
The Cape to Cairo railway line was the vision of English-born businessman, mining magnate and politician Cecil John Rhodes. The Railway line pushed northwards at incredible speed but the Zambezi Gorge presented a huge natural barrier that they had to overcome if it was to continue on towards Cairo.
The Victoria Falls Bridge built in 1904-5 was to span this gorge, it was designed by Mr. George Hobson of Sir Douglas Fox and Partners. At the insistence of Rhodes it was to be positioned so that the spray from Victoria Falls would fall on the carriages as they crossed over the bridge.
In May 1903 Rhodesia Railways awarded the contract for the construction of the bridge to The Cleveland Bridge Company of Darlington, England for a price of £72,000 pounds sterling.
The entire bridge was fabricated in Darlington, England and then shipped to the port of Beira, Mozambique and then transported by rail to Victoria Falls. It is one of the many outstanding achievements that the bridge, built in England, could be fitted together so perfectly more than 8,000km away in the heart of Africa.
This is just a snippet of the history surrounding this bridge and how it was built so early in the 1900’s. At the time of it’s construction it was the highest railway bridge in the world. After the Visitors Centre walk is completed, there is an “optional” physical under the Bridge tour, where you get the rare opportunity to walk on the catwalks used in the original construction of the Bridge.
Boma Dinner Experience
The Boma- Place of Eating is fast becoming a very fascinating place in Vic Falls. The Boma specializes in a superb selection of traditional Zimbabwean dishes, The Boma offers a four-course meal combining a mouth-watering choice of starters from the kitchen, soup from the campfire and a substantial barbeque buffet served on cast iron plates. They offer a wide variety of salads from the salad bar and to follow a choice of delicious desserts from the buffet area.
Guests are welcomed with a traditional greeting in the local languages, Shona and Ndebele. The guests are then dressed in ‘chitenges’ (traditional robes) and prepared to enter the main enclosure. They are invited to take part in a hand washing ceremony before sampling traditional beer and snacks, as a prelude to dinner. A feast of nightly entertainment incorporates Amakwezi traditional dancers, singers, a local story teller and a Sangoma (traditional healer). After dinner, guests are invited to join in the drumming extravaganza. This is the highlight of the evening and all are invited to participate in the drumming and dancing show with their renowned drummers – Amazulu.
Meet the People Village Tour
A visit to a local Zimbabwean village is an eye-opening experience and interactive tour, giving insight into the old ways of the Zimbabwean people, essentially taking you back in time. Most rural Zimbabwean folks are subsistence farmers, so they have little interaction with urban centres apart from if they want to sell surplus. Villagers interact more with each other than with the outside world.
In a quiet side of the rural countryside is Monde Village, where you will meet the local inhabitants, go through introductions, and talk about their culture, customs, history and daily lives. You will be shown the how their homestead is set up, the animals that they keep, what sort of equipment and utensils they use, the way their rooms are set up, they kind of food they eat, and so much more. Depending on the time of your tour, you may participate in preparing food and/or other chores.
Should I take a raincoat?
It depends on the season to which you visit the Victoria Falls, it is very useful to shield yourself and/or your equipment (namely camera) from getting drenched, especially if the falls are particularly flowing strongly. But don’t fret if you forgot to bring this because (at least in Zambia) they do hire out ponchos.
Which country offers a better view of the falls?
Each is dissimilar and distinct in its peculiar way. In our opinion, given that Zimbabwe has the bulk of the falls it has therefore a slight edge over Zambia and compounded by that in the dry the Zambia waterfall is non-existent.
Which country offers better accommodation options?
Zimbabwe has a larger range of accommodation within walking distance of the falls since most of the lodges and hotels lie in or around Victoria Falls town. There are two options a short walk from the Zambian side of the falls. Zimbabwe accommodation rates are slightly more priced than Zambia.
How long is the drive from the airport to the hotels and lodges in the area?
The drive is about twenty to thirty minutes on a general basis.
Is white water rafting safe?
The safety record is remarkable. It is, however, advised that this pursuit only be embarked on by those who are physically fit.
During which months can Devil’s Pool be visited?
The Devil’s Pool is located on the Zambia side. The months cover May to September are ideal and safe if you are intent to visit the Devil’s Pool.
What is the ideal duration for a visit to the Victoria Falls?
Three nights and two full day are adequate to see and experience your selected top pick activities.
What is the finest property in the area?
The properties on the Zambia side are generally very good as most belong to hotel chains and those that are family owned and managed also have their service levels on the ball.
Will I have mobile reception and access to the internet?
Yes, though connectivity is not swift.
What other regional destination can be visited?
The most well-liked regional destination near the Victoria Falls is Botswana’s Chobe National Park.
Enjoy three serene nights and four delightful days discovering the area encompassing the mesmerizing Victoria Falls that is located inside the national park. Pursuits covered extend from a customary tour of the Falls on foot …
Enjoy three serene nights and four delightful days discovering the area encompassing the mesmerizing Victoria Falls. Pursuits covered extend from a customary tour of the Falls to a cherished, profound experience with a herd of …
A typical safari that extends great value for money. Take on an expedition to two of the most admired destinations in Southern Africa – the Kruger National Park and Victoria Falls on the Zimbabwe side …
Tel: +27 87 700 6315
Cell: +27-73-145-9910
Email: contact@tourafrika.africa
65 Casa Bella, 247 Sullivan Street, Centurion, Pretoria, South Africa, 0157
Mon – Fri 08.00 – 17.00
Sat – Sun 08h00 – 12h30
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