Victoria Falls, known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya or “The Smoke That Thunders”, is one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders of the world. Straddling the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, this massive waterfall is a must-visit for travelers seeking adventure and natural beauty. The falls stretch over 1.7 kilometers wide and drop approximately 108 meters into the Zambezi Gorge below. Whether you’re visiting from the Zambian side or the Zimbabwean side, Victoria Falls will offer breathtaking views and thrilling experiences.
#### Getting to Victoria Falls
**From Zambia**, you can fly into Harry Mwaanga Nkumbula International Airport in Livingstone. From there, it’s just a 20-minute drive to the falls.
**From Zimbabwe**, flights arrive at Victoria Falls Airport, located just outside the town of Victoria Falls. The airport is about 20 minutes away from the waterfall.
Both airports have regular connections to major cities like Johannesburg and Cape Town.
#### Best Time to Visit
The experience of Victoria Falls changes dramatically with the seasons:
– **High Water Season (February to May)**: Just after the rainy season, when water levels are at their peak. This is when you can see Victoria Falls in all its glory but expect lots of mist and spray.
– **Low Water Season (September to January)**: Offers clearer views of the falls’ geological formations. It’s also an excellent time for activities such as white-water rafting because river levels are lower and more navigable.
#### What to Do
**Viewpoints**: On both sides, numerous viewpoints offer various perspectives of the falls:
– **Zimbabwe**: With about three-quarters of Victoria Falls visible from numerous viewpoints along a well-maintained path opposite the main cascade.
– **Zambia**: Attracts visitors with its Knife-edge Bridge, which offers impressive close-up views during high water season.
**Activities**: There is no shortage of adrenaline-pumping activities in Victoria Falls:
– **Bungee Jumping**: Leap off a bridge connecting Zambia and Zimbabwe, close to the waterfall.
– **White-Water Rafting**: Experience some of the world’s wildest rapids on the Zambezi River.
– **Helicopter Rides**: Known as ‘Flight of Angels’, offering spectacular aerial views of the falls.
– **Devil’s Pool (seasonal)**: Swim at this natural pool right at the edge of Zambia’s side during low water season.
#### Accommodation
Both sides boast a range of accommodations:
– In Zimbabwe, you can stay in luxury lodges such as The Elephant Camp or resorts like Kingdom Hotel close to town.
– Zambia features upscale options like Royal Livingstone Hotel by Anantara right on banks of Zambezi River or budget-friendly hostels in Livingstone town.
#### Cultural Experiences
Don’t miss experiencing local culture:
– Visit local markets in Livingstone or craft markets near Elephant’s Walk Shopping & Artist Village in Victoria Falls town.
– Take village tours for insights into local traditions and lifestyles.
#### Travel Tips
1. **Visas**: Depending on your nationality, you may need visas for both countries; consider a KAZA UniVisa if planning to cross borders.
2. **Currency**: Zimbabwe uses US dollars widely; Zambian Kwacha is preferred in Zambia but USD is often accepted too.
3. **Safety**: Both areas are generally safe for tourists but always heed local advice especially around wildlife.
4. **Health Precautions**: Malaria prophylaxis might be recommended; consult with a travel doctor before your trip.
Finally, while visiting this iconic landmark shared by two nations offers various experiences depending on which side you choose—whether it be elevation changes for viewing points or different seasonal activities—what remains constant is its mesmerizing beauty that captivates all who visit it. Whether exploring from Zambia’s wild vantage points or enjoying more extensive trails on Zimbabwe’s terrain, each perspective provides unique ways to appreciate one of Africa’s true wonders – Victoria Falls!