![]() However, given that the island sits right on the edge of the largest waterfall in the world, one has to imagine that he had an inkling before then. Livingstone Island is often touted as the point at which David Livingstone first set eyes upon Victoria Falls. However, the lower water levels at the start of the dry season open up the seasonal chance to visit Livingstone Island and Devil’s Pool, which are only accessible from the Zambian side. It is also slightly lower than the Zambian side, and during the dry season (see below), water still flows even if the Zambian side has dried up completely. It is situated somewhat further from the falls, but the Zambian side is known for its stunning accommodation options along the riverside.Īround two-thirds of Victoria Falls is situated on the Zimbabwean side, which means more viewpoints are accessible from this side. Livingstone is slightly larger and offers a more city-like feel and a better representation of authentic local life. ![]() Victoria Falls is the smaller of the two towns and is almost entirely tourism-based, with a plethora of backpackers, cafes, lively bars, and colourful local markets. While both sides offer spectacular views of the falls and most activities, there are subtle differences between the two towns and certain attractions that can only be accessed from one or other side. The mighty Zambezi River widens to plunge over the Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe on the left bank, Zambia on the right Zimbabwe or Zambia?įor those new to Victoria Falls, the first question is usually where to stay – the Zimbabwean or the Zambian side? Fortunately, crossing over to either side is a relatively painless process that requires the simple purchase of a visa and can be easily accomplished on foot. The two countries are connected by the Victoria Falls Bridge – a 1905 marvel of engineering that spans the Second Gorge, designed as part of Cecil Rhodes’ Cape to Cairo Railway vision. Upstream of the falls, the Zambezi River flows across an almost flat basalt plateau in a shallow valley teeming with wildlife and dotted with sedate luxury lodges away from the bustle of the central tourism regions. The neighbouring cities of Victoria Falls on the Zimbabwean side and Livingstone on the Zambian side are thriving tourism hubs easily accessed by road, rail or air. Zambia lies on the northern and eastern side of the falls (which is topographically slightly higher), while Zimbabwe is situated to the south and west. From there, the river is forced through a narrow and twisting path between walls of steep rock – a churning tumble of Grade V rapids ideal for thrill-seekers looking to test their nerve. ![]() At the height of the rainy season, five hundred million cubic meters of water hurtle over the edge every minute, sending up clouds of rainbow spray. ![]() Though not the tallest waterfall (on land, this title is held by Angel Falls in Venezuela), at an impressive width of 1,708 meters, the Victoria Falls creates the single largest continuous falling curtain of water in the world. The world-famous Victoria Falls mark the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, where the mighty Zambezi River gathers its strength and tumbles off a fractured basalt plateau into a series of dramatic gorges 100 metres below. Victoria Falls is a place of myth, magic, and romance. The falls are also officially known as Mosi-oa-Tunya or “The Smoke That Thunders” in the Lozi language of the area – a name that perfectly captures the almost mystical atmosphere of this World Heritage Site. As the largest waterfall in the world, Victoria Falls needs little introduction.Įven to the uninitiated, the name conjures images of breath-taking vistas, verdant vegetation, thrill-seeking and, of course, water thundering down into gorges releasing spray that can often be seen kilometres away. Nothing, not even geography, can hold them back as they tumble off cliffs and through dramatic ravines. Streams trickle down the mountains and gradually unite to form some of the most spectacular and biodiverse waterways carving gorges across the continent.
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