Victoria Falls
Although neither the tallest nor widest waterfall, Victoria Falls is known as the world’s largest waterfall thanks to its 108 m height combined with a vast 1,708 m width. Although neither the tallest nor widest waterfall, Victoria Falls is known as the world’s largest waterfall thanks to its 108 m height combined with a vast 1,708 m width. At its peak flow during the wet season approximately 5 million cubic tonnes of water cascade over the falls every minute, creating a rising mist and resounding roar that can be seen and heard for miles around.
About Victoria Falls
The falls were named after the Queen of England by the famous explorer David Livingstone, who is said to have been the first European to have laid eyes on this natural wonder. He described them in November 1855 as ‘so lovely it must have been gazed upon by angels in flight’. The falls are also commonly referred to by their Lozi name of ‘Mosi-oa-Tunya’ meaning ‘The Smoke That Thunders”. Both names are recognised officially and are in common use.
A stay at Victoria Falls is an ideal start or end to a Southern-Africa itinerary and the airport here is one of the busiest gateways into Zimbabwe. As a result, travel into and out of Victoria Falls is very easy. Access via road and or rail into neighbouring countries such as Botswana and Zambia is relatively hassle-free, and certain visas will allow travel across all.
Things to Do at Victoria Falls
As well as doing a walking tour of Victoria falls, many visitors also enjoy scenic flights by microlight or helicopter so they can really appreciate the dramatic majesty of the cascades from up above. Other popular activities at Victoria Falls include daring to go for a dip in the famous Devil’s Pool, which is high up on the very edge of the falls, as well as white water rafting and bungee jumping from the bridge.
For something a little less precarious, there are breakfast and sunset cruises on the Zambezi River, as well as local village visits and horse riding. Game drives in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park are a good introduction to what safari is all about, whilst for those wanting to dip their toes into Botswana, day trips to Chobe National Park can also be arranged.
Best Places to Stay at Victoria Falls
Victoria Falls is a small town on the southern side of the Livingstone Bridge. However, visitors to the falls can stay on either the Zimbabwe or Zambia side of the falls, depending on their preference. There is a wide variety of hotels of different standards and sizes to choose from whilst staying at Victoria Falls, although it should be noted that not all properties are within walking distance of the falls and some are located on the river rather than in the town.
Hand-picked Camps and Lodges
Matetsi
Talk with one of our experts today to discuss the best options for you.
Best Time to Visit Victoria Falls
Visiting Victoria Falls is most impressive between January and May. During these months, the flow of the Zambezi River is stronger and the falls are more impressive. However, during this period many of the parks and reserves in southern Africa are in their low season for safaris and the power of the falls can make it too misty to actually see. As a result, June to August is an ideal period to visit the falls whilst game viewing is good and the Zambezi is still flowing well, feeding Victoria Falls.
Weather During the Year
