Victoria Falls Zimbabwe
"Mosi-oa-Tanya" The Smoke That Thunders...
Africa's undisputed "Adventure Capital", a World Heritage Site, a Natural Wonder of the World, the longest curtain of falling water on the planet and one of the top destinations in Southern Africa to visit.
1 708 metres long and with an average height of 105 metres, this is one spectacular waterfall of note. Most people's goal is to catch the Zambezi River and the Falls in full flood, times when this occurs is listed below.
Victoria Falls Facts
- Size: 1.7km
- When to visit: year-round
- Altitude: 885 metres above sea level
- Accommodation: Lodges In Victoria Falls
- Activities: Victoria Falls Activities
Where is Victoria Falls located?
Victoria Falls (at actual Falls themselves) is located on the Zambezi River in the north-west corner of Zimbabwe or the south-west corner of Zambia, with the Zambezi River being the border between the two nations.
The Zimbabwean town of Victoria Falls is located right next to the Falls. To walk between the Falls and the town will take not more than 5 minutes and the distance between the two is around- 250 metres.
As always, please have a look-see at these two maps to get an idea of the location of both Victoria Falls, the town and the Falls;
- The Falls: Google Maps - Victoria Falls Zimbabwe (the Falls)
- The Town: Google Maps - Victoria Falls Zimbabwe (the Town)
Best Time to Visit Victoria Falls?
Peak flood season is around the end of March and April; it is around these dates where one can witness the full power and glory of the Falls. During this time, it is best to see the Falls from a helicopter as there is so much spray created on the ground that one will not see much from many of the viewing points.
The Falls at their lowest flow point is around November to December; this is a great time to view and photograph the impressive cliffs that form the Falls and the best time to access 'Devils Pool' (from the Zambian side).
Handy tip; during peak flow, do not take your camera when viewing the Falls on foot. Cameras and water do not like each other, rather take a cell phone and photograph the Falls that way as most cell phones these days are waterproof.
Information On Victoria Falls
One of the most spectacular natural wonders of the world, Victoria Falls, with millions of litres of river water cascading over sheer cliffs into narrow Batoka Gorge below. When in full flow, the spray created by the Falls can be seen 70 kilometres away.
The viewing area near the Zimbabwe border post offers visitors numerous viewpoints that are reached by paths through the rainforest. This walk is a must when in town and can either be guided or meander the paths by oneself. The choice is yours.
Numerous adventure and easy-going activities are on offer and can be booked at any stage of one's visit to the Falls. A host of safari activities is also on offer, ranging from game drives, night drives, horseback options, and elephant experiences.
For a night out on the town, there are numerous bars, night clubs, restaurants and dining options, as well as a casino or two.
Main Attractions Of Victoria falls
- The Upper Zambezi (The Zambezi River above the Falls);
- More relaxed and easy-going activities are on offer, including; sunset and dinner cruises, canoeing excursions, fishing and birding.
- The area around the bridge;
- This is where the adventure activities start, with bungee jumping, ziplining, and the fly fox on offer.
- On the Zambezi River but in the Batoka Gorge;
- White water rafting, kayaking and bodyboarding options for the real adventure seekers out there.
- Above the Falls;
- These are the best options for photography; microlight, helicopter and ballooning options are available.
- Bumi Hills Safari Lodge
Along with a strong focus on complete relaxation, Bumi Hills Safari Lodge features the natural wonders of Lake Kariba.
Having the Zambezi escarpment as its backdrop, Bumi Hills Safari Lodge overlooks the foreshore below and the vastness associated with Lake Kariba.
- Victoria Falls Hotel
The famed Victoria Falls Hotel, "the grand old lady of the Falls", renowned for impeccable service, luxurious accommodation and exceptional facilities is without question one of the best options for anyone looking for 5-star accommodation.
- Matetsi Victoria Falls
Matetsi Victoria Falls, an exclusive, private and luxurious option when looking for a safari experience on the upper Zambezi River in Zimbabwe offers exceptional wildlife encounters, unparalleled river experiences, world-class cuisine and the utmost in luxury.
When it comes to luxurious safari lodges in Zimbabwe, very few can match or come close to Matetsi.
- The Elephant Camp
The Elephant Camp is located within the Victoria Falls National Park and is within a 10-minute drive of the Falls themselves.
An emphasis on exclusivity and privacy all the while surrounded by natural beauty and wildlife.
- Gorges Lodge
Gorges Lodge and Little Gorges lodge are built on top 200-metre high cliffs above the Zambezi River below, offering guests a more idyllic and peaceful experience away from the busyness surrounding the Falls and the town.
One of the betters safari lodges for those looking for a bit more of a safari experience.
- Ingwe Pan Camp
Ingwe Pan Camp is a short 30-minute game drive away from both the Zambezi River and the famed Mana floodplain.
The camp is located on the edge of a secluded pan (namely Ingwe Pan) surrounded by pristine bushveld and amazing wildlife, all within the Mana Pools National Park.