Being able to observe one of the seven natural wonders of the planet will simply leave you speechless. Victoria Falls or Mosi-Oa Tunya “Smoke that thunders” are the largest waterfalls in the world and you can visit them in Zambia and Zimbabwe. They are more than just a waterfall, here you can discover the power of nature, the power of water and you will see that more than a landscape there are many more activities to do.
To be able to see them you must arrive at Livingstone, Zambia or Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. Both cities have an international airport although you could reach the different capitals of the country: Lusaka or Harare and find your way to the falls enjoying other parts of each country. The best season to come is in the rainy season. They will have all the power (although you will not be able to swim in devils pool)
I was in Lusaka so I had to take a bus to Livingstone (± 15 USD), the journey is long so I recommend you take the first bus you can to get to the city during the day. Sadly there are no overnight buses but on the way you can enjoy the landscape a lot. Along the way you will find zebras, elephants and giraffes walking very close to the road.
If you are ready to see the Victoria Falls, you have to make some decisions. You want to go to the side of Zambia (Feel the power) or go to the side of Zimbabwe (Have the best view). You can clearly do both but if you a tight schedule or on a tight budget, I recommend visiting Zimbabwe side.
Victoria Falls are not just waterfalls and some water showers, it is a perfect place for extreme sports and adventure. You can enjoy one of the best whitewater rafting tours in the world, Bungee Jumping from more than 100 m high, swim in the devils pool (during the dry season, there is a natural pool where you can swim and be right on the edge of the fall) and if you like to fly, you can take micro-flights by helicopter or plane discovering the Zambezi river and the falls.
If you like to help and do some volunteer work, at Livingstone you can find several opportunities with Worldpackers. I spent a week in a school helping Sillar and Ivar with 20 children. It was an incredible experience where I had the opportunity to learn about culture, country and food. Ivar helps you get the tours and shows you the city like a local.
Backpacker tips:
Visa:
- Depending on the border crossing you make and your nationality, you can apply for the KAZA Visa. This Visa allows you multiple entries to Zambia and Zimbabwe so you can visit both sides of the falls without having to pay another Visa for the same price as a normal one. If you can not apply to this, I recommend that the country you enter ask for a multiple entries Visa in case you cross the border.
Lodging:
- Victoria Falls Backpackers
- Jollyboys Backpackers
Restaurant:
- Food Palace, next to Barclays, is a cheap place with good local and international food.
Transport:
- To go to the falls if you don’t have a tour, you can easily take a taxi. If you take it in the street, it will cost you a lot of money so walk a little and in front of Shoprite, there is a shared taxi station, from there you can take shared taxis to the falls and to the Botswana border. You will get it 10 times cheaper. HERE!!
