Visit Victoria Falls, Devil's Pool & Zambezi River
RE-IMAGINING VICTORIA FALLS
“A visit to southern Africa isn’t complete without a trip to Victoria Falls, the majestic waterfall that serves as the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. British explorer David Livingstone put Victoria Falls on the map in the 1850s, and since then millions of visitors have been awestruck by the site’s tremendous size and depth. The Batoka tribe referred to the Falls as “the smoke that thunders,” a nod to the constant rumbling water and pervasive misty spray. Travelers today can also participate in a number of activities that include breathtaking helicopter and microlight plane safaris, swimming in the stunning natural Devil’s Pool at the edge of the Falls, and battling world class rapids down below in the Zambezi River – all while luxuriating at stunning lodges that combine style, service and wondrous views.”
WHAT WE LOVE
Visiting Livingstone Island and swimming in Devil’s Pool is by far one of the continent’s highlights, as here is the closest one can safely get to the edge of one of the world’s most majestic waterfalls. Devil’s Pool is surprisingly free of currents, so a dip is actually quite safe, and affords plenty of opportunities to photograph the rainbows that often appear in the mist of the cascading waters.
Helicopter rides combine uninterrupted views of Victoria Falls and nearby Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, filled with African game. Sunset flights are truly unforgettable, with colors that can only be seen in Africa.
Serious white water rafters put Victoria Falls on their bucket list for a reason: the Class V rapids that rollick in the Zambezi River right below. For those more interested in observing wildlife than in perfecting their rafting moves, canoeing down the river is another more placid option.
For those who might want a slightly more thrilling ride, hop on board a Microlight plane. Microlights carry just a pilot and a passenger, who ride in an open cockpit, with the wind and sun directly in their face: an exhilarating and extremely unforgettable bird’s eye view of one of the world’s greatest natural wonders.
The rim of Victoria Falls can be navigated by foot on the Zimbabwean side, and the path provides full length, fully-immersive views. An afternoon stroll will never be quite so spectacular.
REST & REJUVENATE
After a full day of exploring, you will need a comfortable place to lay your head. Luxury lodges like those below start at slightly less than US$500 per person in low season. Hotels can be booked on a full board or bed and breakfast basis.
Mpala Jena: All four luxurious tents at Mpala Jena have spacious decks and private plunge pools overlooking the Zambezi River. Completely solar powered and built with recycled materials, this exclusive camp is situated in a private concession within Zambezi National Park where an abundance of wildlife like buffalo, lion, and elephant roam.
Matetsi: The sleek, contemporary, minimalist design at Matetski make this one of the chicest places to stay near Victoria Falls. Accommodation options include nine luxury suites, including two family suites, all with gorgeous river views, and the 4-bedroom River House for exclusive use which is great for families or groups of friends.
Victoria Falls River Lodge: Situated so close to the falls that you might even see the spray misting off the Zambezi River as it spills over the edge, Victoria Falls River lodge has both luxury tents including a family tent on the riverbank, or treehouse-style suites - including star bed perfect for couples - on a private island. Although this property is just a bit less luxurious than some of our other preferred properties here but suites and tents have viewing decks and private plunge pools and it’s an excellent choice for its prime location.
Royal Livingstone: A recent million-dollar renovation brought the 21st century to this Victorian hotel, while leaving its original charm intact. The Zambezi River rushes through a front lawn dotted with giraffes and zebras, sundecks were built with Zambia’s legendary sunsets in mind, and most rooms have private riverside verandas. But head directly to the hotel pool – situated to provide absolutely breathtaking views of the Falls – to see what really makes the Livingstone special: it’s worth staying here for the swims alone.
Royal Chundu: Those yearning for a little more isolation will appreciate the exclusivity of the private villas at the Royal Chundu River Lodge. Built on a private island nestled on a gentle stretch of the Zambezi, each villa is encircled by an outdoor deck, and guests can lounge amidst groves of Baobab trees that date back almost two thousand years: the perfect juxtaposition of convenient elegance and rustic nature.
WHAT TO KNOW
May through August is considered the best time to maximize your Victoria Falls experience: water levels are still high, yet dry enough for a safari adventure, and views are unobstructed.
The rainy season runs from December to March and, while the resulting mist and cloud cover may hamper views, this is also when you’ll see the water at peak flow.
A tourist visa is required for visitors from the United States and can be obtained on arrival to Zambia.