Victoria Falls is best seen from both the Zimbabwe and Zambia sides of the river. The Victoria Falls Bridge crosses the Zambezi River which forms the border for both countries. From the Zimbabwe side you can actually walk across the bridge and technically enter Zambia without going through the border post. Charles Darwin’s son, Professor George Darwin officially opened the bridge in 1905. What has to be one of the shortest International flights in the world is the regularly scheduled flight between Victoria Falls and Livingston.
The indigenous name of ‘Mosi-oa-Tunya’ – literally means the ‘Smoke that Thunders’ – and you will see why this name is appropriate when you stand in front of the falls. However its not just the appearance of smoke (mist droplets) that rises high into the air – you will get drenched in certain places and wearing a raincoat or poncho is a very good idea. Both countries have set aside small national parks – allow about 2-3 hours on the Zimbabwe side and about 2 hours on the Zambia side. A highlight of a visit on the Zimbabwe side is a walk out to the wet, slippery and windy so called “danger point”. This is an appropriate name for this potentially lethal jut of rock that sits above the falls with a nasty looking vertical drop all around it. The Zambia side has its own highlights – including the Knife Edge Bridge which crosses a steep gorge with both excellent views of the falls and the historic Victoria Falls Bridge. When the water level is low enough there is a swimming area called “Devil’s Pool” that allows one to swim right at the edge of the plummeting falls! Tourism activities relating to the Zambezi River and the falls about on both sides of the river.
The falls are one of the seven natural wonders of the world.
Victoria Falls is one of the first things I did when visiting the southern part of the African continent so always ranks way up there for me.. Love it!
Wearever will be in S. Africa, Botswana, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe this summer. Super excited about many aspects of the trip, heard there is a place to have dinner on a small island in the river above the falls. Hope to check that out. Enjoyed your post!
Yes, the outdoor experiences and wildlife in each of those countries you mentioned will be enough to make your trip very memorable. The falls are easily comparable to the other great falls on the planet, the Iguazu.
I really enjoyed this post. Victoria falls is one of the beautiful place in South Africa. I like water fall very much. Lovely and nice place for spent time with family. It’s amazing….