Victoria Falls

The Victoria Falls are a spectacular sight of awe-inspiring beauty and grandeur on the Zambezi River, lying in between Zambia and Zimbabwe in Southern Africa. In terms of size, these Falls are over (1.7 km) 1 mile wide and 106m high. Columns of spray can be seen from miles away as 546 million cubic meters of water per minute plummet over the edge over a width of nearly two kilometers into a deep gorge over 100m below. The falls are part of two national parks, Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park in Zambia and Victoria Falls National Park in Zimbabwe.

Victoria Falls

To fully appreciate the incredible size of the Falls and the awesome power, spray, noise and spectacular rainbows of the water as it carves into the deep rumbled gorges for 8km, one must see it from the air. Micro-light and fixed wing flights are available. The breathtaking sight of this magnificent natural phenomenon, seen in all its glory from the air, is unforgettable.

Victoria Falls

Seasons

The best time to view the Victoria Falls is during the rainy season from February to May, when they are at their most impressive with a peak in April characterized with flooding.

During this season, it becomes hard to see the foot of the falls and most of its face, similarly the walks along the cliff opposite are in constant shower and shrouded in mist

During the dry season, you can take a walk along the lip of the Falls themselves. Now the water is low enough to walk all the way across to Livingstone Island, the site where David Livingstone had his first glance of the Falls. This is surely one of the most magnificent views in the area. Also in the dry season, the islets on the crest become wider and more numerous; in September to January up to half of the rocky face of the falls become dry and the bottom of the First Gorge can be seen.

National Parks

On the Zambian wing is Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, situated along the upper Zambezi stretching from and including the Falls for about 12kms up river. It is about 65 sq km and is habitant for several antelope species, giraffe, zebra and the recently acquired white rhinos. You can take a pleasant drive around the park and almost all the species there are viewable at close range. There are no predators to worry about. Most animals in here are relaxed to afford some excellent photo opportunities.

Zambezi Crocodile

On the Zimbabwe side is the Victoria Falls National Park. It is found in the north-western region of the country and protects the south and east bank of River Zambezi. The Park covers 23.4 sq km and extends from the larger Zambezi National Park about 6 km above the falls to about 12 km below the falls. Open to tourists throughout the year, Victoria Falls NP contains plentiful wildlife including sizable populations of elephant, buffalo, giraffe, zebra, and a variety of antelope species.

Getting there

Victoria Falls can be accessed through Livingstone town south via the Mosi-O-Tunya route about 11km. Just before the border, there is a turning to the right which leads to a parking area. The more adventurous may opt to go via Zimbabwe, cross the border point of Victoria Falls town and turn left just after the Zambian customs post.

Enjoy your tour to one of the most precious natural wonders of the world Victoria!