I visited Victoria Falls National Park in Zimbabwe in December 2019, and it was one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders I’ve ever experienced. Known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya,“The Smoke That Thunders”, the name couldn’t be more fitting. The sheer sound of the falls is unforgettable, like the roar of nature itself.
Walking along the trails and viewpoints, each stop offered a different perspective. One moment, I was standing in the mist, feeling the spray on my face; the next, I was gazing across the gorge at the massive curtain of water plunging with incredible force. The scale is almost impossible to take in, photos simply can’t do it justice.
What struck me most was how alive the whole area feels. The rainforest created by the spray is lush and green, filled with birds and the scent of wet earth. And if you’re lucky with the sunlight, rainbows form in the mist, adding a magical touch to an already breathtaking scene.
Tips for future visitors:
Expect to get wet, the spray is powerful, so bring a light rain jacket or waterproof cover for cameras.
Take your time along the walking paths; each viewpoint feels like a new discovery.
If possible, visit both sides (Zimbabwe and Zambia) for different perspectives of the falls.
Victoria Falls isn’t just a waterfall, it’s an experience that engages all your senses. The sound, the mist, the sight of endless water pouring over the edge, it leaves you humbled and inspired. This was easily one of the most powerful encounters with nature...
Read morePhotographs and videos do not do justice to the mighty and magestic Victoria Falls. There is a total of 16 main viewing points so to soak it all in, it's best to arrive early in the morning so that by midday you can grab a bite to eat. There are so many beautiful views and opportunities for photos so ensure you have sufficient storage space in your devices. There is a lot of fact-rich geographical information one can read by the entrance on how the Falls was formed, it's comparison to other waterfalls around the world and what the future holds for it.
Unless they are waterproof, a waterproof bag is a must-have to protect your gadgets from the mist. February-May is when the Zambezi is full and the Falls is at its flowing peak after the rain season, however, there is so much spray and mist. The spray is also very enjoyable especially during the hot months, otherwise, do wear clothing that dries quickly and pack a raincoat. Just ensure your bag zippers are closed and there are no snacks in view as there are monkeys around.
Do ensure you carry sufficient water for the hike as the refill station is by the exit. The last viewing point is that of the bridge that facilitates crossing between Zimbabwe and Zambia. This is also where bungee jumping takes place as well as where one can visit the bridge café. The bridge view is even better from the Zambian side. There are so many activities to sign up...
Read moreVictoria Falls National Park in north-western Zimbabwe protects the south and east bank of the Zambezi River in the area of the world-famous Victoria Falls. It extends along the Zambezi river from the larger Zambezi National Park about 6 km above the falls to about 12 km below the falls. A notable feature of the park is the rainforest which grows in the spray of the falls, including ferns, palms, liana vines, and a number of trees such as mahogany not seen elsewhere in the region. The park is located within the Zambezian and Mopane woodlands ecoregion.
Visitors have the chance to view the elephant, Cape buffalo, southern white rhinoceros, hippopotamus, eland and a variety of other antelope herds during drives and walking safaris. A bask of crocodiles may be seen in the river, and a nearby Crocodile Ranch offers a safer view of these dangerous animals.
Accommodation is provided in campsites in the Zambezi National Park and in the numerous resorts and hotels in and around the town of Victoria Falls which forms part of the western boundary of the park.
Visitors are required to take precautions...
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