The smoke that thunders, or Mosi-oa-Tunya. This is the name that indigenous peoples gave to the impressive waterfalls of the Zambezi River between Zambia and Zimbabwe. While it is more commonly known as Victoria Falls, when one experiences the falls, the smoke that thunders is imminently more appropriate. These falls, which according to explorer David Livingston “must have been seen by angels on their flight,” will be the highlight of any trip to South Africa.

Visitors can view the falls from Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park in the country of Zambia and Victoria Falls National Park in Zimbabwe. In fact, visitors can glimpse the falls from a distance of up to thirty miles. During the rainy season, 19 million cubic feet of water spill from the falls, and the spray shoots up over a thousand feet into the air and can be seen from those miles away. Unlike other world famous waterfalls such as Niagara, you will enjoy a frontal view of Victoria Falls. Here, your senses will enjoy the cool mist of the dew, the tremendous noise and the omnipresent rainbows. Incredible doesn’t begin to describe it.

Travelers who want to see and hear Victoria Falls at its most impressive should make plans to travel to Zimbabwe or Zambia in the rainy season, from March to May, when the volume of water increases, just like the drama of the falls. . Today’s visitors often choose to view the falls from the Zambian side, and the decision is largely due to political tensions in Zimbabwe. Many see it as safer to go to Zambia, and even tour groups will advise you not to travel to Zimbabwe without an escort. That said, it is generally considered safe to visit the falls and get a day pass to see them from the Zimbabwe side. You do not need to obtain a visa for a day visit, and hotels in the area often include a pass with your accommodation. Be sure to review current warnings and regulations regarding border crossings before you go, and be sure to return before the border closes (usually around 6:00 pm).

You can spend a nice day at Victoria Falls, enjoying the sights and sounds. The more intrepid among us can enjoy activities like bungee jumping, rafting, and kayaking. While there, take the opportunity to see native wildlife. Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park is home to baboons, wild boars, giraffes, white rhinos, elephants, and buffalo. Natural beauty abounds at Victoria Falls.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *