Exploring Devil's Pool Victoria Falls: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go
Are you ready for the thrill of a lifetime, perched at the very edge of one of the world's largest waterfalls? Get ready to dive into the heart-stopping adventure of Devil's Pool Victoria Falls! In this blog post, we'll guide you through everything you need to know to make your visit truly unforgettable.
Key Takeaways
- Experience the ultimate thrill of swimming on the edge of one of Earth's largest waterfalls, Devil's Pool Victoria!
- Accessible from Zambia and Zimbabwe with safe guided tours offering amazing packages & wildlife encounters.
- Visit during dry season (August - December) for an unforgettable experience & bring your swimwear, sun protection and camera to capture memories!
The Thrilling Adventure of Devil's Pool
Imagine swimming on the edge of one of Earth's largest waterfalls,
a death-defying feat that will leave you breathless and exhilarated. That's the thrill of visiting the Devil's Pool Victoria at Victoria Falls, a natural wonder formed by the spectacular falling water of Victoria Falls that has created a natural pool at the very edge of the falls. Known as the world's ultimate infinity pool, Devil's Pool has a depth of 3 meters, providing visitors with a unique and unforgettable adventure.
Those who are medium to strong swimmers can navigate Livingstone Island on the Zambezi River to reach Devil's Pool. Upon arrival, they swim upstream for a brief period before making their way downstream into the Pool. Seasoned guides are available to provide instructions and assistance (if necessary) throughout the Devil's Pool tours, guaranteeing both safety and thrill.
The view of the falls from the Pool is incredibly spectacular, making it one of the world's seven natural wonders. The unique experience of swimming on the edge of Victoria Falls is only accessible during the dry season when the water level is low enough for visitors to swim in the Pool safely.
Location and Accessibility
Devil's Pool is located on the Zambian side of Victoria Falls and can be accessed through exciting guided tours from both Zambia and Zimbabwe. It's important to note that trying to reach Devil's Pool on your own poses significant risks, such as the danger of plunging over the falls and potentially making an illegal border crossing, which could result in being thrown in a Zimbabwean or Zambian jail cell.
To avoid these thrilling dangers, it's best to book a Devil's Pool tour through your hotel, hostel, tour company, or any travel agency in Victoria Falls.
Getting to Devil's Pool from Zambia
When visiting Devil's Pool from Zambia, it's essential to book a guided tour with a reputable company like Tongabezi Safaris, which includes transportation and safety measures.
To get to Devil's Pool, you'll need to swim or wade across a portion of the Zambezi River from Livingstone Island, adding an extra layer of excitement to your adventure.
Visiting Devil's Pool from Zimbabwe
If you're coming from Zimbabwe, you'll need to make extra arrangements to reach Devil's Pool. Here are the steps you need to follow:
- Obtain a visa on arrival at the border, with fees varying based on your nationality.
- Most nationalities will need to get a $20 Zambia Day Tripper visa (on arrival) when crossing the border from Zimbabwe to Zambia.
- If you plan to make a double entry into Zimbabwe, you will need a Double-Entry visa, which costs $45.
Next, arrange transportation to the Zambian launch point, which costs $60 per person roundtrip.
Finally, ensure you notify the tour operator that you want to take the shuttle to the Devil's Pool launch site and verify the shuttle times when booking your tour. The shuttle from Zimbabwe to the launch site costs $15 per person for the roundtrip transfer. If you are the only person on the shuttle, the fee is $30 minimum.
Safety Measures and Precautions
Safety is a top priority when you access Devil's Pool! Experienced guides ensure visitors follow all the necessary precautions to avoid potential dangers, such as slippery rocks and wildlife encounters, during their devil's pool trip. Children under 12 are not permitted to swim in the pools, but kids under 10 can still join in the fun at Devil's Pool.
Some potential dangers when visiting Devil's Pool include slippery rocks and encounters with wildlife, such as hippos and crocodiles. Travel insurance is not required but is strongly recommended to cover any unexpected events during your visit.
Best Time to Visit Devil's Pool
The absolute best time to visit Devil's Pool is during the dry season, typically from mid-August to December when water levels are low and swimming is safe. The only way to access Devil's Pool is through seasonal boat tours to Livingstone Island, which operate for a thrilling seven months of the year, from June to December.
The Pool is closed to tourists during the rainy season, which usually lasts from January to August. Dangerous levels of water flow can make swimming unsafe. To capture the riverine scenery at its most stunning, plan your visit during the early morning or late afternoon, which ties in perfectly with the 7:30 AM and 3:30 PM tour departures.
Tour Options and Packages
Various tour options and packages are available for Devil's Pool, each offering different experiences and price points. Morning, lunch, and high tea tours are available, providing unforgettable experiences for all tastes. Embark on a devil's pool tour that suits your preferences.
The 'Livingstone Breezer' morning tours last 1.5 hours. They depart at 7:30 AM, 9 AM, and 10:30 AM.
The morning tour includes:
- Delicious breakfast with eggs benedict
- Scrumptious scones
- Mouth-watering muffins
- A steaming cup of coffee
The Lunch Tour on Livingstone Island, costing 175 USD, is the most expensive tour option, but promises a unique and unforgettable experience. For those seeking a more leisurely experience, the 2-hour High Tea tour departs at 3:30 PM, offering a delightful afternoon break in a stunning setting.
For Livingstone Lodges or Victoria Falls Lodges, follow the links
Essential Items to Bring
To fully enjoy your Devil's Pool adventure, make sure you pack the following essential items:
- Comfortable clothes
- Swimwear
- Sun protection
- A camera
- Binoculars for wildlife spotting
Water shoes are highly recommended for navigating the slippery rocks at Devil's Pool.
For women, wearing a tight-fitting bathing suit is advised. Mobile phones, handheld digital cameras, and GoPros are permitted so you can capture every thrilling moment of your visit.
Wildlife Encounters and Surrounding Attractions
Devil's Pool is surrounded by diverse wildlife and attractions, offering visitors the opportunity to encounter various species, such as African Fish Eagle and Fork-tailed Drongos, and explore nearby sites like Victoria Falls National Park.
Visitors can indulge in a range of exciting activities at the park, including game drives, bird watching, and guided walks.
Wildlife Sightings
During the boat ride to Livingstone Island, you may be lucky enough to spot hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species.
The Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, located nearby, offers incredible opportunities to see a wide range of wildlife, including elephants, hippo, buffalo and antelope.
Nearby Attractions
Famous Livingstone Island, located in the middle of the Zambezi River near Devil's Pool, is an exciting destination in its own right, named after the famous Scottish explorer, David Livingstone. The Livingstone Island tour is available from approximately late June to early March, as long as the water level of the Zambezi River is low enough to allow safe access.
During the boat ride to Livingstone Island, visitors can witness the amazing plumes of mist that surround Victoria Falls, providing dramatic and breathtaking views of this natural wonder.
Capturing Your Devil's Pool Experience
To capture your Devil's Pool experience, here are some tips:
- Bring a waterproof camera or GoPro
- Take advantage of the guides who can help you take photos and videos during your visit
- Give the guide your camera (or phone) and keep your GoPro with you to ensure you get some awesome shots of your once-in-a-lifetime adventure
Remember, bulky cameras with interchangeable lenses are prohibited at Devil's Pool. Stick to mobile phones, handheld digital cameras, and GoPros to capture the essence of your thrilling experience.
Summary
In conclusion, Devil's Pool at Victoria Falls offers an adrenaline-pumping, heart-stopping adventure like no other. By following our guide, you'll be well-prepared for your visit, ensuring a safe and unforgettable experience. So, pack your bags, book your tour, and get ready to dive into the thrill of a lifetime at Devil's Pool!
Frequently Asked Questions
Experience the ultimate thrill by swimming in the Devil's Pool at Victoria Falls! Dangerous currents and undertows make this natural Pool the "Pool of Death", so if you're brave enough to take a dip, be sure to take extra caution. Be warned: this is not for the faint of heart. The Devil's Pool is a thrilling experience, but it can be dangerous if you don't take the necessary.
Experience the thrill of swimming in Devil's Pool - a natural pool that sits right on the lip of Victoria Falls! Created over thousands of years, the water here is only a few centimetres deep, offering an exciting and unique experience.
Devil's Pool is an extraordinary experience that can't be missed! Being able to stand so close to the edge of a powerful waterfall without any safety is an amazing and unique feeling. Absolutely worth it!
Experience an adrenaline rush like no other with a swim in Devil's Pool, the ultimate infinity pool at the edge of the awe-inspiring Zambezi Falls. Take a rocky walk and jump into this breathtaking swimming hole for an up-close-and-personal view of the sheer drop off the side of the Falls!
Incredibly, only one person has ever survived falling over Victoria Falls - a Chinese tourist who was pulled alive from his horrific fall in 2013. His incredible story of survival went viral when he recounted it five years ago, providing a stark reminder of the danger posed by the world's biggest waterfall.
Chundukwa River Lodge
Chundukwa River Lodge offers a luxurious retreat along the Zambezi River, providing a peaceful escape with river-facing chalets and family cottage. Enjoy horse riding, farm animals, and delicious meals in a serene setting just a short drive from Livingstone. Perfect for nature lovers seeking a dream trip to Victoria Falls.
Chundukwa River Lodge prides themselves on providing a unique and unforgettable experience for our guests. Surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of Zambia, Chundukwa offers a tranquil and peaceful retreat where you can relax and rejuvenate.
Toka Leya Camp
With just 12 tented suites, Toka Leya at the Zambezi River offers a tranquil safari experience. Surrounded by nature, the camp overlooks the river and its islands, providing a perfect blend of luxury and eco-conscious design.
The tented suites at Toka Leya are spacious and airy, featuring en-suite bathrooms, private decks with outdoor showers, and comfortable beds for a restful sleep. Each suite has its own peaceful view of the Zambezi River, where you can see elephants bathing in the water or hippos basking in the sun.
David Livingstone Safari Lodge
The David Livingstone Safari Lodge, situated on the Zambezi River, envelops guests in natural luxury. With Victoria Falls as its backdrop, the hotel offers an intimate connection to nature. Lush greenery surrounds the lodge, allowing guests to fully embrace the beauty of Africa.
Accommodation at The David Livingstone ranges from opulent river-view rooms to exclusive treetop suites. Each room combines modern amenities with traditional African design, ensuring a comfortable and stylish stay for all guests.
Avani Victoria Falls Resort
At The Avani Resort, enjoy the best view of Victoria Falls. This 3-star hotel, The Avani Victoria Falls Resort, boasts adobe-style architecture and exceptional river views. Situated within Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park and just a short walk from Victoria Falls.
The resort features simple finishes with bright mosaics and fabrics, ethnic wall stencils, Zambian artworks, and timber and plaster ceilings. It consists of eight buildings housing guest rooms, restaurants, and a convention centre. The hotel stands out in the evening against the smoky vapour above.
Tongabezi Lodge
Tongabezi Lodge, the first Zambezi River lodge on the Zambian side of Victoria Falls, was founded in 1990 by Ben Parker and the late Will Ruck-Keene. It is a privately owned and run retreat, focusing on exclusivity and romance, with the warmth and hospitality of the Zambian people.
Days at Tongabezi have no fixed schedule and can be tailored to your preferences. Relax or enjoy various activities. Each house and cottage has a dedicated valet providing personalized service. The Treehouse cottage bathroom is renowned as one of the world's top five bathrooms.
Thorntree River Lodge
Thorntree River Lodge is a luxury river lodge located near the Livingstone Area on the Zambezi River. With 10 suites, it offers a recommended stay of 2-5 nights. Highlights include luxury safari suites with private plunge pools, proximity to Victoria Falls, and engaging staff.
Guests can enjoy birdlife, spa treatments, sunset cruises, and fine dining with African-inspired cuisine. The lodge's design blends modernity with local culture, providing uninterrupted views of the Zambezi River. Ideal for a luxury safari experience in Zambia.
Sindabezi Island Camp
Sindabezi Island Camp, nestled on the Zambezi River near Victoria Falls, is a secluded haven. Being the sole bush camp in the vicinity, it provides a serene setting for an authentic African adventure. Guests at Sindabezi can relish the vistas of the Zambezi floodplain and the wildlife in the neighbouring National Park.
The journey to Sindabezi is a picturesque boat trip or a guided canoe excursion along the Zambezi, offering glimpses of wildlife along Zimbabwe's riverbanks. The attentive staff ensure that your comfort and requirements are catered to during your entire stay.
Royal Chundu Zambezi River Lodge
Royal Chundu Zambezi River Lodge is a luxury resort on the Zambezi in Zambia, the only Relais & Châteaux property in the country. Situated on a private 15 km waterway upstream from Victoria Falls, Royal Chundu offers 14 suites with stunning river views and abundant wildlife.
Less than 30 kilometres from Victoria Falls, it serves as an ideal base to discover Africa's iconic wonder. Whether for a romantic escape or a fun family holiday, Royal Chundu River Lodge will exceed your expectations.