Victoria Falls in Full Flow - Zimbabwean Side of Zambezi River
Travel Photography - The Back Story
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
Listen to the Sound of Water Falling in Southern Africa
Victoria Falls in full flow; as seen from the Zimbabwean side of the Zambezi River, in southern Africa.
With a width of 1,708 metres and height of 108 metres Victoria Falls is the world's largest sheet of falling water and forms the natural border between Zambia and Zimbabwe.
The spray from the falls can be seen for miles around and the constant roar of water crashing down a series of basalt gorges is truly thunderous; so much so that the Kololo tribe living in the area referred to this natural wonder as 'Mosi-oa-Tunya', or 'Smoke that Thunders'.
When David Livingstone explored this part of Africa on 16th November, 1855, he chose to name the majestic falls in honour of the British Queen, Victoria.
Both names are inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List although there have been some concerns in UN corridors about the rapid rise of tourist development in a national park area near the Zambian town of Livingstone.
Most Western tourists used to visit from the Zimbabwean side, while staying as guests at the Victoria Falls and Elephant Hills hotels.
The falls can be reached from Livingstone in Zambia, or Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe.
Photo by Michel Guntern.
Plan Your Visit to Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
Map of Zimbabwe
Location Scouting
Victoria Falls, also known as Mosi-oa-Tunya (the Smoke that Thunders), is a stunning natural wonder located on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe in southern Africa.
It is one of the most impressive waterfalls in the world and is considered one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
Access
The town of Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe and Livingstone in Zambia are the main gateways to visit the falls.
Both towns have airports with international connections, making it relatively easy to reach the area.
Adventure Tourism
Victoria Falls has become a popular destination for adventure tourism.
Activities such as bungee jumping, white-water rafting, zip-lining, and helicopter rides provide visitors with an unique and adrenaline-filled experience.
Formation and Geography
The falls were formed by the Zambezi River, which is the fourth-longest river in Africa.
Rainy and Dry Season
The volume of water flowing over the falls varies significantly throughout the year.
During the rainy season (from around February to May), the falls are at their most impressive, with a vast amount of water cascading over the edge.
During the dry season (from around September to December), the water flow reduces, but this allows for better visibility and access to some parts of the falls.
The Zambezi River, flowing across a plateau, drops dramatically into a narrow gorge, creating the magnificent Victoria Falls.
The Devil's Pool
One of the most exhilarating experiences at Victoria Falls is a natural rock pool at the edge of the falls called 'The Devil's Pool'.
During the dry season, usually from September to December, the water level is low enough for brave visitors to swim to the edge of the falls and peer over the precipice.
Wildlife and Surrounding Area
The area around Victoria Falls is rich in biodiversity and is home to various wildlife species, including elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of birds.
The surrounding national parks on both the Zambian and Zimbabwean sides offer opportunities for safaris and other outdoor activities.
Things to Do on Location
Zimbabwe Tourism:
Zimbabwe travel and tourist information with links to official travel and tourism websites and local resources for visitors to Zimbabwe.
Where to Stay in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
Hotels in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.
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