Welcome to Victoria Falls: The Smoke That Thunders

Imagine standing on the edge of a mighty cliff, feeling the ground tremble beneath your feet as millions of liters of water roar down in a never-ending cascade. A cool mist kisses your face, and a rainbow dances in the air, shimmering like magic. Welcome to Victoria Falls, one of the most breathtaking wonders of the natural world!

This isn’t just another waterfall. Call it THE waterfall! It is the largest sheet of falling water on the planet, straddling the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. Locals call it Mosi-oa-Tunya, meaning “The Smoke That Thunders”, because the sheer power of the falls creates a mist that rises over 400 meters into the sky, visible from miles away.

If you are planning a visit (and you should), here is everything you need to know about this jaw-dropping natural wonder.

A Quick History: Who Discovered the Victoria Falls?

Long before the first tourist ever laid eyes on it, Victoria Falls was known and revered by the indigenous Batoka people. They believed the waterfall was a sacred place, home to powerful spirits.

In 1855, the famous Scottish explorer David Livingstone became the first European to see it. He was so mesmerized that he named it after Queen Victoria (because explorers loved naming things after British royalty). His famous words?

“Scenes so lovely must have been gazed upon by angels in their flight.”

Well, Livingstone wasn’t wrong.

How Big Is Victoria Falls?

Let’s talk numbers because Victoria Falls doesn’t do “small”:

• Width: 1,708 meters (5,604 feet) – That is nearly twice the width of Niagara Falls.
• Height: 108 meters (354 feet) – Taller than a 30-story building.
• Water Flow: In peak season, over 500 million liters of water plunge over the edge every minute. That’s enough to fill 200 Olympic swimming pools every 60 seconds!

It is so massive that it is officially one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.

Discover visa requirements for your travel

The Best Time to Visit

The Falls change dramatically throughout the year, so timing is everything.

1. Peak Water Season (February – May)

• The falls are at their most powerful, thanks to the heavy summer rains.
• The mist rises so high that you might struggle to see the full waterfall!
• Expect to get soaked. It is like walking through a heavy rainstorm.

2. Low Water Season (September – December)

• The water level drops, revealing the rocky cliffs behind the falls.
• The Devil’s Pool (more on that later) becomes accessible.
• Less mist means better visibility and stunning sunset views.

What is the best time overall? March to June for full power, or September to October for adventure activities.

You may want to sleep in any of these hotels, depending on your budget

Things to Do at Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls isn’t just for standing and staring (though trust me, you will do plenty of that). There are tons of adrenaline-pumping and chill activities you can try.

1. Take the Ultimate Waterfall Shower

Walking along the Victoria Falls Bridge or Knife-Edge Bridge puts you right in the mist zone – expect to be completely drenched. Forget umbrellas; embrace the natural waterfall shower!

2. Swim in the Devil’s Pool (If You Dare)

This one is not for the faint-hearted. The Devil’s Pool is a natural infinity pool located right on the edge of the falls. Yes, you read that right. You can sit at the edge of a 108-meter drop with nothing but a rock ledge keeping you from tumbling over.

Is it safe? Surprisingly, yes. That is if you go with a licensed guide. But one thing is for sure: it is the most extreme swimming spot in the world!

3. Go Whitewater Rafting on the Zambezi River

If standing near the falls isn’t thrilling enough, how about racing through raging rapids? The Zambezi River below Victoria Falls has some of the world’s best whitewater rafting, with rapids up to Grade 5 (translation: expect wild waves, high drops, and total madness).

4. Take a Helicopter Flight Over the Falls

Want the ultimate Instagram shot? A helicopter ride gives you aerial views of Victoria Falls, the Zambezi River, and the surrounding wildlife. It is expensive, but the views are priceless.

5. Watch the Moonbow (Yes, a Nighttime Rainbow!)

Ever seen a rainbow at night? Victoria Falls is one of the few places on Earth where you can witness a lunar rainbow (moonbow). It happens when the full moon’s light hits the waterfall mist, creating a faint but magical nighttime rainbow. Surreal!

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Wildlife at the Falls: More Than Just Water

This place is not only about water. It is also a wildlife haven. The surrounding area, including Zambezi National Park and Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, is home to:

• Elephants – Sometimes, they cross the river near the falls!
• Hippos & Crocodiles – Found chilling (or hunting) in the Zambezi River.
• Buffalo, Zebras & Giraffes – Roaming in the nearby grasslands.
• Vervet Monkeys & Baboons – These guys are not shy and may try to steal your snacks.

Pro tip: Keep your belongings close because baboons are professional thieves!

Things You Need to Know Before You Go

• Visa & Entry: If you are visiting from abroad, check if you need a visa for Zambia or Zimbabwe (or both).
• Currency: Zimbabwe uses the USD, while Zambia uses the Zambian Kwacha.
• Health Precautions: Get malaria tablets. Mosquitoes here don’t play!
• Safety: The falls are generally safe, but don’t wander alone at night (wild animals and crime risks).

Why Victoria Falls Should Be on Your Bucket List

Because it is pure magic. It is powerful yet peaceful, thrilling yet breathtaking, and one of nature’s greatest masterpieces. Whether you are chasing adrenaline, photography gold, or just the experience of standing before one of Earth’s greatest wonders, Victoria Falls delivers.

So, what is the first thing you would do here – swim at Devil’s Pool or take that helicopter ride? Let’s hear your thoughts!