Victoria Falls: The Smoke That Thunders
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| Victoria Falls |
Victoria Falls is a magnificent waterfall on the Zambezi River in southern Africa, which forms the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. It is one of the world's largest and most spectacular waterfalls, with a width of 1,708 metres (5,604 feet) and a height of 108 metres (354 feet). It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a natural wonder of the world.
We will explore some of the features, history and attractions of Victoria Falls, as well as some tips for visitors to enjoy this amazing destination.
Features of Victoria Falls
- Victoria Falls is not a single waterfall, but a series of cascades that span the entire width of the Zambezi River. The largest and most famous cascade is called the Main Falls, which has a drop of 93 metres (305 feet) and a width of 1,500 metres (4,921 feet). The other cascades are named Devil's Cataract, Rainbow Falls, Horseshoe Falls and Eastern Cataract.
- The falls produce a huge spray of water that can be seen from up to 50 kilometres (31 miles) away. This spray gives rise to the local names of the falls: Mosi-oa-Tunya in Lozi, meaning "The Smoke That Thunders", and Shungu Namutitima in Tonga, meaning "Boiling Water". The spray also creates a permanent rainbow over the falls, which is why they are sometimes called "The Place of the Rainbow".
- The falls are fed by the Zambezi River, which is the fourth-longest river in Africa and the largest flowing into the Indian Ocean. The river has a variable flow rate depending on the season, with the highest flow occurring in April and the lowest in October. The average flow rate of the falls is 1,088 cubic metres per second (38,400 cubic feet per second), but it can reach up to 12,800 cubic metres per second (452,000 cubic feet per second) during peak floods.
- The falls are located on a plateau of basalt rock that was formed by volcanic eruptions millions of years ago. The river has eroded the rock over time, creating a series of gorges that extend for about 150 kilometres (93 miles) downstream from the falls. The gorges have different names such as Batoka Gorge, Songwe Gorge and Mupata Gorge.
- The falls and the gorges are home to several unique species of plants and animals that have adapted to the wet and dry conditions. Some of the plants include ferns, palms, figs, mahogany and ebony trees. Some of the animals include crocodiles, hippos, elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, antelopes and monkeys. There are also more than 400 species of birds such as fish eagles, kingfishers, herons and hornbills.
History of Victoria Falls
Victoria Falls has a long history of human occupation and exploration. Archaeological sites and oral traditions indicate that the falls have been known and revered by local people for thousands of years. They have also been used as a source of food, water, trade and spiritual power.
The first European to see the falls was David Livingstone, a Scottish missionary and explorer who visited them on 16 November 1855. He named them after Queen Victoria of Britain, but he also recorded the local name of Mosi-oa-Tunya. He described the falls as "a sight so wonderful that angels must have gazed down on it in flight".
After Livingstone's discovery, Victoria Falls became a popular destination for adventurers, traders, hunters and tourists. In 1905, a railway bridge was built across the gorge below the falls, connecting Zambia and Zimbabwe. In 1934, a hotel was opened on the Zimbabwean side of the falls, followed by another one on the Zambian side in 1947. In 1989, Victoria Falls was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List as a natural site of outstanding universal value.
Victoria Falls has also played a role in the political history of southern Africa. In 1975, it was the site of a failed attempt by Rhodesian forces to sabotage a railway bridge used by guerrillas fighting for independence from white minority rule. In 1980, it was the site of a celebration marking the end of the Rhodesian Bush War and the birth of Zimbabwe. In 1991, it was the site of a summit meeting between South African president F.W. de Klerk and African National Congress leader Nelson Mandela, paving the way for the end of apartheid.
Attractions of Victoria Falls
Victoria Falls offers a variety of attractions for visitors of all ages and interests. Some of the most popular activities include:
- Viewing the falls from different perspectives: There are several viewpoints along the edge of the falls on both sides of the river, as well as bridges, islands and helicopter flights that offer panoramic views.
- Swimming in the Devil's Pool: This is a natural pool at the edge of the falls on the Zambian side, where adventurous swimmers can enjoy a thrilling dip in the water with a view of the drop below.
- Rafting on the Zambezi River: This is an exhilarating activity that involves navigating rapids and waves on inflatable boats downstream from the falls. The rapids range from grade 3 to 5, depending on the water level.
- Bungee jumping from the Victoria Falls Bridge: This is an extreme sport that involves jumping from a platform on the bridge with a cord attached to your ankles. The jump is 111 metres (364 feet) high and offers a free fall of about 80 metres (262 feet).
- Exploring the national parks: There are two national parks that protect the wildlife and vegetation around the falls: Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park in Zambia and Victoria Falls National Park in Zimbabwe. They are home to animals such as elephants, hippos, crocodiles, giraffes, zebras, antelopes and monkeys, as well as birds, butterflies and plants.
Other activities that can be enjoyed at or near Victoria Falls include:
- Fishing: The Zambezi River is rich in fish species such as tigerfish, bream, catfish and tilapia. Fishing enthusiasts can try their luck with rod and reel or fly fishing, or join a fishing safari with experienced guides.
- Walking safaris: These are guided walks through the bush that allow visitors to get close to nature and learn about the flora and fauna of the area. Walking safaris can be done in the national parks or in private game reserves nearby.
- Horseback riding: This is a relaxing way to explore the scenic landscapes around the falls, with options ranging from short rides to full-day excursions. Horseback riding can be done in the national parks or in private game reserves nearby.
- Golfing: There are several golf courses in the vicinity of Victoria Falls, offering different levels of difficulty and scenery. Some of the courses are located within wildlife sanctuaries, adding an element of excitement to the game.
- Cultural tours: These are tours that introduce visitors to the culture and history of the local people, such as the Tonga, Lozi and Ndebele. Cultural tours can include visits to villages, markets, museums, monuments and ceremonies.
Tips for visiting Victoria Falls
Here are some tips to make the most of your visit to Victoria Falls:
- Plan your visit according to the season:The best time to see the falls in full splendour is from February to May, when the water level is high and the spray is dense. The best time to see the rock formations and the gorge is from September to December, when the water level is low and the spray is minimal.
- Choose your side: You can visit the falls from either Zambia or Zimbabwe, or both. Each side has its own advantages and disadvantages, such as visa requirements, entrance fees, accommodation options and accessibility. You can also cross the border on foot or by car via the Victoria Falls Bridge.
- Bring your camera and waterproof gear: You will want to capture the beauty of the falls with your camera, but be prepared to get wet from the spray. You can also rent raincoats and umbrellas at the entrance of the falls. >Respect the wildlife and the environment: Victoria Falls is home to a variety of animals, such as elephants, hippos, crocodiles, baboons and monkeys. You may encounter some of them on your way to the falls or in the nearby national parks. Be respectful and keep a safe distance from them. Do not feed them or provoke them. Also, be mindful of your impact on the environment. Do not litter or damage the vegetation. Follow the rules and regulations of the park authorities.
Try some adventure activities: Victoria Falls is not only a natural wonder, but also an adventure hub. You can try some thrilling activities such as bungee jumping, white water rafting, zip lining, helicopter rides, microlight flights and more. These activities will give you a different perspective of the falls and an adrenaline rush. However, they are not for the faint-hearted or the budget-conscious. Make sure you are physically fit and mentally prepared before you sign up for them.
Visit the Devil’s Pool: If you are feeling brave and adventurous, you can swim in the Devil’s Pool, a natural pool at the edge of the falls on the Zambian side. The pool is only accessible from mid-August to mid-January, when the water level is low enough to create a natural barrier that prevents you from falling over. You will need to book a guided tour that will take you to Livingstone Island by boat and then walk you to the pool. You will then be able to sit on the edge of the pool and enjoy the view of the falls from above.
Explore the culture and history: Victoria Falls is not only about nature and adventure, but also about culture and history. You can learn more about the local people and their traditions by visiting a village or a cultural center. You can also visit some historical sites such as the Victoria Falls Bridge, which was built in 1905 by Cecil Rhodes, or the Livingstone Museum, which displays artifacts and exhibits related to David Livingstone, the first European explorer to see the falls.
Victoria Falls is a must-see destination for anyone who loves nature, adventure and culture. It is a place where you can witness the power and beauty of water, feel the thrill of adrenaline, and learn about the history and heritage of Africa.
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