THE EXPLORER’S GUIDE TO VICTORIA FALLS

“Scenes so lovely they must have been gazed upon by angels in their flight” – David Livingstone

A visit to Zambia is incomplete without witnessing this member of the Seven Wonders of the World. Having made the arduous journey from high in the Angolan mountains, collecting water from other rivers along the way, the Zambezi River reaches its crescendo at Victoria Falls where it plunges 100 meters down into a narrow gorge below.

 

Known locally as “Mosi-oa-Tunya” (aptly meaning The Smoke That Thunders), Victoria Falls lies on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe, with the town of Livingstone falling on the Zambian side, and the best vantage point to take in this spectacular sight being Livingstone Island. Scottish explorer, David Livingstone, first glimpsed Victoria Falls in 1855 after being canoed across to the island that now bears his name.

So, put on your explorer’s hat as we journey to the magical destination of Victoria Falls and surrounds.

 

The Iconic Livingstone Island

 

Visiting Victoria Falls on the Zambian side offers incredible close-up waterfall viewing from Livingstone Island when water levels permit. Guided tours are offered on the island, where you will find out about its history from ancient times when it served as a sacrificial site, all the way to the present day and its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Even getting to the island is an exciting journey that takes you through the fast-moving channels of the Zambezi River.

 

The Thrilling Devil’s Pool

 

Along with the magnificent view, Livingstone Island is the only place from which to take an exhilarating dip in Devil’s Pool during the low-water season, usually between mid-August to mid-January. Devil’s Pool attracts thrill-seekers from all around the globe and for good reason; peering over the edge of the largest curtain of falling water in the world is sure to give anyone a kick of adrenaline. Devil’s Pool is a safe adventure that is just a short swim from Livingstone Island.

 

The Extreme Zambezi

 

Jet boating on the Zambezi River © Robin Pope SafarisThe mighty Zambezi River is the fourth largest river in Africa and a highlight for watersport enthusiasts, high flying adventurers and wildlife lovers alike travelling to Zambia. White water rafting and jet boating on a high-powered speedboat are always top priorities for adrenaline-junkies looking to get up-close-and-personal to the tumultuous waters. If getting into the air gives you the rush you are seeking, then take to the skies on a microlight or helicopter, or take the leap for a gorge swing.

 

The Low-key Zambezi

 

For those wanting to move at a slower pace on the river and enjoy what nature has to show, riverboat safaris along the Zambezi allow you to get up-close to animal and bird life that come to the river to feed, drink and – in the case of elephants in particular – play around in the cool water. This unique type of safari can also be enjoyed further up the river in the wildlife-rich South Luangwa National Park.

 

Sound like it’s right up your alley? Book your adventure holiday NOW with Robin Pope Safaris.