“The most wonderful sight I have witnessed in Africa. None can imagine the beauty of the view from anything witnessed in England. It has never been seen before by European Eyes, but scenes so lovely must have been gazed upon by angels in their flight”. David Livingstone.
There are a few British explorers so synonymous with Africa than Livingstone. These comments were made in 1855, when he visited Africa and had a glimpse of magical Victoria Falls. He proclaimed that he had the most wonderful sight. This is located in Southern Africa between two countries Zimbabwe and Zambia. This is supposed to be the largest waterfall in the world with a height of more than 100 meters and a mile wide.
How to visit the Zimbabwean side of Victoria Falls
Both the waterfalls are called Victoria Falls. The airport is 20 minutes outside the town of Victoria Falls. Unlike from the Zambian side which requires lots of logistical preparation, going from the Zimbabwean side is relatively easy. The falls is at a stone’s throw distance away from the town of the same name. Entrance depends on nationality and age. The standard adult rate for non-Zimbabweans is $30 USD. This is a single entry fee and if you leave, you need to pay again to reenter. As you enter the staff at the gate might advise you to take a path to your left. This is a path for self-guiding that encompasses 16 viewpoints. You may go slow or fast, while an average tour last around two hours. For a keen photographer, the falls ample opportunity to catch some natural wonder at the wee hours in the morning.
There is a bridge that connects Zimbabwe and Zambia. You are allowed into the Zambian side for a small time to catch some beautiful glimpses. You can purchase a Kaza Univisa that provides multiple entries and exits. Remember to take your passport.
Winter Hours: 6:30 Am – 6:00 pm
Summer Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Within the Victoria Falls there are bathrooms, restaurants, and drinks/ snack sellers.
Best Time to Visit Victoria Falls
This depends on you as to what actually you want to experience. You can visit this falls during the rainy season (November – April) and the view is just beyond compare. The sheer force of 625 million liters of water cascading over the edge ever y minute and thereby creates a rain storm that appears to fall from below and a thunderous bellow echo out across the land. However, as there is a limitation on the visibility, it creates a hindrance for photography. There is a general feeling that the best time to visit is during the months of June or July. There is still a large volume of water left from the rainy season to showcase its splendor. If you want to walk across the top of the falls, peak dry season (September – November) should be your aim. Every time is a good time to visit this marvelous place.
How to get to Victoria Falls
The easiest way to reach Victoria Falls is by plane. There are several flights a week from Harare, Cape Town, Johannesburg, Windhoek and Addis Ababa. For those travelling to Africa from Europe, Asia or the Americas, the journey to Victoria Falls will mean a connection transfer at one of these airports. Please be informed that immigration process at Victoria Falls Airport is not a swift process. There are often long queues as there is a need to obtain visa on arrival.
Activities at Victoria Falls
You can find a lot of activities happening at the Victoria Falls and also in and around the town. White Water rafting can be considered something interesting and you may give it a shot. Helicopter flight above the falls is another very interesting activity. Viewing Sunset at Zambezi River and Bungee jumping from Victoria Falls Bridge may be considered. A bike tour, over the stunning border bridge and a trip to the Chobe National Park is something that you will really enjoy.
The Best Accommodation in Victoria Falls
Accommodation options are plentiful and ranges from most modest of budgets to heights of luxury. Here are some of the options that you may try.
1) Shoestrings Backpacker Lodge:
Most people choose Shoestrings for its atmosphere. The bar comes lively on the weekends and becomes a popular place for both the backpackers and the locals. Most people prefer to stay in the dorms or good-sized privates. There is a small place for camping too. It is an ideal place for spending a night at Victoria Falls.
2) Shear water's explorer’s Village:
This property provides a range of accommodation options to suit a range of budgets. It includes camping spots, permanent tents for those travelling without equipment, and also rooms and suites of high standards. There is an on – site, restaurant, bar, pool and tour office.
3) Victoria Falls Hotel:
This hotel is supposed to be the choice of Queen Mother. It firmly sits in the category of luxury hotel. Built in 1904, there is a mixture of colonial charm and modern comforts. It is the first hotel to be built in the area and is a popular choice still.
4) Victoria Falls Safari Lodge:
While the rooms and facilities are exceptional, the real reason why people choose this property is the spectacular view overlooking a large watering hole. You can watch wild elephants, antelopes and more from your balcony. You can enjoy a truly African experience.
Don’t Forget to ….
Here is a list of items which are utterly essential for a trip to Victoria Falls. Some of these are
Sunscreen
Mosquito Repellent
Waterproof Jacket / Poncho
Waterproof Phone case
Practical Shoes
Water Filtration Bottle
