Victoria Falls

29 06 2012

The Victoria Falls is a waterfall located in southern Africa on the Zambezi River, forming a natural border between Zambia & Zimbabwe. The falls are known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya which means “Smoke that Thunders”. The name Victoria Falls was given to the falls by the Scottish explorer Dr David Livingstone, who named them after the reining queen at the time. The Victoria Falls is neither the highest nor the widest waterfall in the world, however it is considered the largest. This recognition comes from the combination of its height and width (108m and 1,708m respectively), which together form the largest single sheet of flowing water found anywhere in the world (although the Iguazu Falls in Brazil/Argentina is a close competitor). As a result, the Victoria Falls feature as one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World.

Map of the Victoria Falls area

Reportedly, the two best ways to experience the falls are by air and on foot. Helicopter and microlite tours are available, both providing a breathtaking panoramic view of the falls. There are plenty of trails running opposite the falls, which present a view level with the top of the falls only 60 metres away. The majority of the trails are on the Zambian side, however the Zimbabwean side is said to give a more panoramic view. Apparently, the best time to view the falls is in June and July, when there is enough water for them to be spectacular, without there being too much that it obscures the view.

The Victoria Falls from above

One last awesome feature to mention is the Devil’s Pool. This is a naturally formed pool near the edge of the falls, accessed by Livingstone Island. When the river flow is at a certain level (usually between September and December), a rock barrier means there is little current in the pool and it is therefore safe for tourists to swim in.

Devil’s Pool!