THE NGONYE FALLS

Also known as Sioma Falls because these Falls are near the village of Sioma. These beautiful Falls mark the transition point of the Zambezi Rivers’ flow from Kalahari sand floodplain to basalt dyke – the latter eventually contributing to the magnificent gorges of the Victoria Falls.

The horseshoe-shaped Ngonye Falls are mostly impressive because of the sheer volume of water that cascades over the staggered, twenty meter drop. An interesting aspect is that the river flows underneath the rock on either side of the falls. It is quite remarkable to stand upon them, feeling and hearing the underground flow.

GETTING THERE

The best option is to spend the night at the nearby Maziba Bay Lodge and they will take you to the Falls. They can be found five kilometres south of the town of Sioma. There are a couple of simple camps at Senanga which also offer guided trips to the Falls. Alternatively, get to the village of Sioma and ask for a guide to take you to the Falls. It is best viewed by walking about two kilometres downstream of Sioma. There is usually a dugout canoe that will ferry you across the Zambezi, then a further two kilometre walk back upstream will take you to the Falls’ best vantage point.

WHEN TO VISIT

The Falls provide great photo opportunities at any time of the year, but the optimum time is around June or July. Rafting is best from February to May after the rains. Wildlife is best viewed from July to November, when water is scarce and the animals are forced to come to the water holes or down to the river to drink.