The
Victoria Falls are shared by both Zambia and
Zimbabwe and is territorially divided by Cecil
Rhodes' famous bridge - which he never lived
to see. As well as a spectacular view down into
the gorge, this bridge has more recently become
famous for its adrenaline-pumping bungy jump
with a fall of 364 feet (111 meters)! The other
most popular adventure pursuit here is white-water
rafting on the Zambezi.
ZAMBEZI
NATIONAL PARK
5½
miles (9 km) from the falls is the Zambezi National
Park. It stretches along the Zambezi for 25
miles (40 km) and boasts several safari lodges.
The lodges are set along the riverbanks amongst
Ilala palms giving leisurely views of the gently
flowing river. Sundowner cruises paddle these
deceptively calm waters above the falls.
ANIMALS
AND BIRDS AND FISH
The
park contains some big game such as elephants,
buffalo, lions, giraffe and antelopes like kudu
and waterbuck, along with plenty of hippos and
crocs. Riverine bird life is plentiful with
egrets, herons, cormorants, fish eagles and
kingfishers. The Zambezi is renowned for its
tigerfish, tilapia and giant vundu (catfish)
over 6 ft long (2 metres).
SEASONS
Dry
Season: May to October is usually dry
and September and October allows better photo
opportunities at Victoria Falls as there is
much less spray, but the torrent is slightly
less impressive. The dry season is also better
for viewing game in the Zambezi National Park.
Rainy Season: It usually rains
anywhere from November through to April, creating
a hot and humid climate. The falls are at their
wettest and most spectacular by the end of this
summer rainy season.
VICTORIA
FALLS & ZAMBEZI NATIONAL PARK SPECIALITIES
• Victoria Falls - one of the greatest
natural wonders in the world
• Mighty Zambezi - white-water rafting,
sundowner cruising, fishing, bird watching and
game viewing
• Victoria Falls Bridge bungy jump
• Flight of the Angels
FACTS
Victoria Falls is one of the natural wonders
of the world and a World Heritage site.
The Zambezi or “great river” is
named in the language of the Batonka tribe.
The Zambezi is 1,687 miles long (2,700 km) and
is Africa’s fourth largest river.
It originates in central Africa and ends in
Mozambique at the Indian Ocean. To the Mozambicans
it is known as the “river of great floods.”
Cameras and clothes tend to get wet when visiting
Victoria Falls, but waterproof capes and umbrellas
are available for hire.
There is plenty of accommodation in this area
ranging from elementary fishing camps to rustic
or exclusive safari lodges and five-star hotels. |