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Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls, Matabeleland North, Zimbabwe

Victoria Falls, located in Matabeleland North, Zimbabwe, is one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders in the world. Known locally as "Mosi-oa-Tunya," meaning "the smoke that thunders," this majestic waterfall is a mu…

#Waterfall#Natural Wonder#Tourist Attraction#Adventure#Zimbabwe

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Victoria Falls.

Top Hotels in Victoria Falls

Top Flights to Victoria Falls

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Victoria Falls.

Tours

Rainforest Walk

Explore the lush rainforest that surrounds Victoria Falls, offering breathtaking views and diverse wildlife.

Victoria Falls Bridge Tour

Tour the iconic bridge connecting Zimbabwe and Zambia. Includes a walk under the bridge and bungee jumping.

Shopping

Traditional Craft Market

Shop for local handmade goods, including jewelry, textiles, and carvings.

Outdoor

Helicopter Flight

Experience an aerial view of Victoria Falls and the surrounding landscape of the Zambezi River.

Elephant Safari

Ride on the back of an elephant and explore the surrounding savannah landscapes.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Victoria Falls.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

33060.0

Languages

English, English, Tonga, Ndebele, Shona

Average weather

Victoria Falls

Jan

31°19°

Feb

30°19°

Mar

30°18°

Apr

29°15°

May

27°11°

Jun

25°8°

Jul

25°7°

Aug

28°10°

Sep

32°15°

Oct

35°19°

Nov

33°20°

Dec

31°20°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Victoria Falls.

What people love

There are several pros of traveling to Victoria Falls located in Zimbabwe:

Natural Beauty: Victoria Falls is one of the most impressive waterfalls in the world, known for its sheer size and beauty. The sight and sound of the water cascading down the cliffs is truly breathtaking.
Adventure Activities: Visitors to Victoria Falls can enjoy a wide range of adventure activities such as bungee jumping, white-water rafting, zip-lining, and helicopter rides over the falls. These activities provide a thrilling experience for adrenaline junkies.
Wildlife Viewing: The area around Victoria Falls is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species. Visitors can go on safari tours to see these animals up close in their natural habitat.
Cultural Experiences: Victoria Falls is located near the town of Victoria Falls, which offers opportunities to learn about the local culture and traditions of the people living in the area. Visitors can visit craft markets, traditional villages, and cultural centers to gain insight into the local way of life.
Accessibility: Victoria Falls is easily accessible by air, with regular flights connecting it to major cities in Africa. The town of Victoria Falls also has a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets, making it a convenient destination for travelers.

Overall, traveling to Victoria Falls offers a unique and unforgettable experience for those seeking adventure, natural beauty, and cultural immersion in Africa.

Enjoy your trip if you decide to visit Victoria Falls!

What to know

Traveling to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe can have some cons that visitors should be aware of:

Safety Concerns: Like any tourist destination, there may be instances of petty theft or scams targeting tourists. It's important to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety.
Health Risks: Victoria Falls is located in a region where malaria is prevalent. Travelers are advised to take necessary precautions, such as anti-malarial medication and insect repellent, to reduce the risk of contracting the disease.
Crowds: Victoria Falls is a popular tourist destination, especially during peak seasons. This means that the area around the falls can become quite crowded, which may detract from the overall experience for some visitors.
Environmental Concerns: The high volume of tourists visiting Victoria Falls can put pressure on the local environment and wildlife. It's important for visitors to be mindful of their impact and follow guidelines for responsible tourism.
Weather Conditions: Depending on the time of year, the weather at Victoria Falls can be quite hot and humid, especially during the rainy season. Visitors should be prepared for these conditions and take necessary precautions to stay comfortable.

Overall, while Victoria Falls is a stunning natural wonder, visitors should be aware of these potential cons and plan accordingly to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Victoria Falls, known locally as "Mosi-oa-Tunya" which means "The Smoke That Thunders," is one of the largest and most famous waterfalls in the world. It is located on the Zambezi River, which forms the border between Zimbabwe (Matabeleland North province) and Zambia. The falls span approximately 1.7 kilometers (about 1 mile) and have a height of 108 meters (354 feet).

Early History

Indigenous Peoples: The area around Victoria Falls has been inhabited by indigenous peoples for thousands of years. The falls were known to local tribes long before European explorers arrived.

European Exploration

David Livingstone: The Scottish explorer and missionary David Livingstone is credited with bringing Victoria Falls to the attention of the Western world. He visited the falls on November 16, 1855, and named them in honor of Queen Victoria of Britain. Livingstone approached the falls from the Zambian side and was reportedly awestruck by their beauty.

Colonial Era

Cecil John Rhodes and the Railway: During the late 19th century, Cecil Rhodes envisioned a railway line from Cape Town to Cairo, passing by Victoria Falls. The bridge over the Zambezi River was completed in 1905, facilitating increased access to the falls and contributing to the region's development. The bridge is a significant landmark and an engineering feat of its time.

Tourism Development

Tourism Growth: By the early 20th century, Victoria Falls had become a popular tourist destination. Hotels and facilities began to be developed to accommodate visitors. The falls are part of two national parks: Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park in Zambia and Victoria Falls National Park in Zimbabwe.

Modern Era

World Heritage Site: In 1989, Victoria Falls was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its outstanding natural beauty and geological significance.
Political and Economic Challenges: The region has faced various political and economic challenges over the years, particularly in Zimbabwe. Despite these challenges, tourism has remained a vital part of the local economy.
Environmental Concerns: There have been growing concerns about the environmental impact of development projects and climate change on the falls. Efforts are ongoing to preserve the natural beauty and ecological integrity of the area.

Significant Landmarks

Victoria Falls Bridge: As mentioned, the Victoria Falls Bridge is an iconic structure, offering stunning views of the falls and the gorge below. It's also a popular spot for bungee jumping.
Livingstone Island: Named after David Livingstone, this island lies at the edge of the falls on the Zambian side and offers a unique perspective of the waterfall.
Devil’s Pool: A natural infinity pool located at the edge of the falls, accessible from Livingstone Island, where adventurous visitors can swim during the dry season.

Victoria Falls continues to be one of Africa's most visited tourist attractions, drawing hundreds of thousands of tourists from around the world each year. The falls are not only a natural wonder but also a cultural and historical landmark with deep significance for both Zimbabwe and Zambia.