The smoke that thunders, or Mosi-oa-Tunya. This is the name that the indigenous peoples gave to the imposing waterfalls of the Zambezi River between Zambia and Zimbabwe. While it is better known as Victoria Falls, when one experiences the falls, the thundering smoke is imminently more appropriate. Said by explorer David Livingston to have been “seen by angels in their flight,” these falls 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 catch a glimpse of the falls from up to thirty miles away. During the rainy season, 19 million cubic feet of water spills from the falls, and the spray shoots over a thousand feet into the air and can be seen for miles. Unlike other world famous falls like Niagara Falls, you will enjoy a front view of Victoria Falls. Here, your senses will delight in the cool mist of dew, tremendous noise, and ever-present 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, as does the drama of the falls. . Visitors today often choose to view the falls from the Zambian side, with the decision largely due to political tensions in Zimbabwe. Many consider it safer to go to Zambia, and even tour groups will advise you not to travel around Zimbabwe unaccompanied. That said, it is generally considered safe to visit the falls and get a day pass to see them from the Zimbabwean side. You don’t need to obtain a visa for a day visit, and hotels in the area often include a pass with your accommodation. Be sure to check current border crossing notices and regulations before you go, and be sure to return before the border closes (usually around 6pm).
A nice day can be spent at Victoria Falls, enjoying the sights and sounds. The most intrepid can enjoy activities such as bungee jumping, rafting and kayaking. While you’re there, take the opportunity to see native wildlife. Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park is home to baboons, warthogs, giraffes, white rhinos, elephants, and buffalo. Natural beauty abounds at Victoria Falls.