Victoria Falls National Park : Victoria Falls National Park is situated in northwestern Zimbabwe and encompasses the world’s largest waterfall, which has a height of 108 meters (355 feet) and spans 1,708 meters (5,604 feet).
The Victoria Falls, noted for its extraordinary natural beauty and cultural importance, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1989 and is recognized as one of the seven natural wonders of the world. The park encompasses approximately 23.4 square kilometers and features a dense rainforest sustained by the mist from the Falls. The Zambezi River, which spans 2,700 kilometers across six countries, is the origin of the mighty Falls, flowing from its source in north-western Zambia to the Indian Ocean.
What to do in Victoria Falls National Park
Whitewater Rafting
This is the quintessential adrenaline-fueled holiday adventure in Zimbabwe, unsuitable for faint-hearted tourists. The remarkable Zambezi River features one of the greatest options for white-water rafting experiences globally.
The rapids originating near Victoria Falls are navigated in large rubber rafts. The possibilities for river rafting here are undoubtedly limitless; one can partake in excursions lasting a few hours, a full day, or even two days. From March to July, the river may exhibit elevated levels, and only 13 rapids can be navigated with ease. As the water decreases, approximately from June to February, any of the 23 are traversed. This Victoria Falls excursion is suitable for tourist groups comprising more than four individuals.
Biking
This is most effectively accomplished from the Zimbabwean side of the falls. The cycling route traverses the charming towns, the border bridge, and the magnificent Zambezi River. This is an exceptional method to explore the countryside, with a cost of approximately $80. The total encompasses a bicycle, helmet, and a local cyclist to accompany you.
Take a steam train across the bridge
To obtain best views of the waterfalls, one may embark on a journey aboard a refurbished steam train. Upon restoration, the train was equipped with comfortable seating, lounge areas, and dining amenities. The train transports you over the falls and directly to Zambezi National Park.
Visit Livingstone Island and the Devil’s Pool
Livingstone Island is located on the Zambezi River, just upstream of the falls. The trip to the Devil’s Pool commences with an exhilarating boat excursion through channels bordered by rocky formations. Upon arriving at the small island, you may embark on a tour while admiring the stunning waterfalls and the swift current of the river. Livingstone Island provides a distinct perspective of the magnificent falls. Your guides should be capable of describing the history of the falls and their formation. You will subsequently be directed to the precise location where Livingstone stood during his initial visit in 1855.
After the island tour, the next thing to do is to swim in the renowned Devil’s Pool. To reach the pool from the island, one must swim upstream and subsequently navigate through rocky areas to access the pool. The pool is deep and was formed naturally through a gradual erosion process spanning thousands of years. A rocky ledge is located at the brink of the falls, serving as a barrier to prevent being swept away by the current. Ropes secured to swimmers as an additional safety measure. This activity is exclusively permissible during the dry season (late June or early March) when the water current and flooding are lessening, ensuring safety.
The waterfalls and the accompanying footpaths are certainly the primary attraction in the region. The opportunity to view the world’s largest waterfall is available from both the Zimbabwean and Zambian sides. The falls are situated in Victoria Falls National Park in Zimbabwe, whereas in Zambia, they are within Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park. While both perspectives provide an opportunity to observe the falls, there exists a subtle distinction in the viewing experience from each side. The Zimbabwean side provides better views of the falls and boasts beautiful scenery. On the Zimbabwean side, one can traverse the picturesque rainforests at various viewpoints. The Zimbabwean perspective provides access to four principal segments of the falls: Horseshoe Falls, Main Falls, Rainbow Falls, and the Devil’s Cataract. The second deepest waterfall is referred to as Eastern Cataract and is located on the Zambian side.
Helicopter Excursions Above the Falls
This 15-minute flight may be costly, but it will provide a panoramic view of the falls and enhance your appreciation of their magnificence. You will observe the towering waterfalls, mist, Batoka Gorge, and wildlife further along the Zambezi River. You may choose a longer 25-minute flight to observe additional waterfalls and the Zambezi National Park. The helicopter flight option is particularly appealing during the wet season when ground visibility presents a challenge.
Bungee Jumping
Bungee jumping at the Victoria Falls Bridge is regarded as one of the premier experiences available. It entails leaping 111 meters from the bridge into the mighty Zambezi River, adjacent to the waterfalls. Instructors attach body and ankle harnesses to jumpers, after which they will be urged to make the leap in a composed manner. After the jump, a free fall will ensue for approximately 4 seconds. Following a duration of 4 seconds, the elastic harness/rope will securely yet gently restrain you until you are retrieved and transported downstream by a boat. The vantage point offers excellent views of the river and its environs. The cost of bungee jumping from the Victoria Falls Bridge is $120, and prior reservation is required.
Best Time to visit Victoria Falls National Park
There isn’t a definitive best time to visit Victoria Falls. The experience you seek eventually determines the outcome. To experience swimming in the Devil’s pool or walking along the top of the falls, plan your visit during the peak dry season from September to November. In the dry season, visibility improves, allowing you to see the base of the falls clearly. The arid months from June to August present an ideal opportunity for individuals looking to embark on a Zimbabwe safari in nearby national parks or those located in Botswana.
The rainy season, much like the dry season, presents both advantages and disadvantages. During the rainy season, one can observe the waterfalls in all their magnificent power and flow. However, be prepared to get drenched with water (mist descending like rain) as Top tourist attractions in Victoria Falls You visit the various viewing points. The visibility is limited, making it challenging to capture quality photos. Approaching the edge of the falls while swimming or walking poses significant risks. Nonetheless, the rainy season brings its own benefits as well. It provides an opportunity to experience a moonbow.
Moonbows occur when mist interacts with the light of a full moon, resulting in a distinctive rainbow effect in the water spray. This differs from the typical rainbow produced by the sun. Victoria Falls is among the rare locations globally where one can experience a moonbow. To ensure an optimal experience, we suggest planning your visit during the months of June and July. At this time, the rains would have ceased, and the water levels remained sufficiently impressive to not hinder overall visibility.
