Victoria Falls, one of the most spectacular natural wonders of the world, is located on the Zambezi River in southern Africa, at the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. The falls have been known to the indigenous people of the area for centuries, but it was only in the late 19th century that they became known to the wider world.
The first European to see the falls was the Scottish missionary and explorer David Livingstone, who arrived in the area in 1855. He named the falls after Queen Victoria, and his descriptions of the falls helped to popularize them in Europe. Livingstone’s visit to the falls was followed by a series of expeditions by other European explorers and adventurers.
In the late 19th century, the British South Africa Company, led by Cecil Rhodes, established a settlement on the Zambezi River near the falls, which they called Victoria Falls. The settlement grew into a town, and in 1904 it became the capital of the newly created British colony of Northern Rhodesia.
During the colonial era, the area around Victoria Falls became a popular tourist destination, with visitors coming to see the falls and to hunt big game. The town of Victoria Falls grew into a thriving tourist center, with hotels, restaurants, and other amenities.
In the mid-20th century, the countries of Zambia and Zimbabwe gained independence from Britain, and the falls became a symbol of African pride and independence. Today, the falls continue to be a major tourist destination, with visitors coming from all over the world to see the awe-inspiring sight of the water plunging over the edge of the gorge and the rainbows that form in the mist.
The Five Major Cascades of the Victoria Falls
There are five major cascades, or “falls,” that make up the Victoria Falls, each with its own name and characteristics. The falls are located on the Zambezi River, which forms the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe.
Starting from the Zimbabwean side, the first cascade is called Devil’s Cataract, followed by Main Falls, Horseshoe Falls, Rainbow Falls, and the Eastern Cataract. The Main Falls is the largest and most famous of the five, and it is where most of the water from the Zambezi River drops over the edge of the falls. The Horseshoe Falls and the Rainbow Falls are smaller, but still impressive in their own right.
Together, the five cascades of Victoria Falls create a spectacle of water and mist that attracts visitors from around the world. The falls are also an important source of hydroelectric power for the region, and they support a diverse ecosystem of plants and animals.
The Best Time to Visit Victoria Falls
The best time to visit Victoria Falls depends on your preferences and interests, as the experience can vary depending on the season.
The peak flow of water over the falls is typically from around February to May, following the rainy season in the region. During this time, the falls are at their most dramatic, with a massive volume of water plunging over the edge and creating a mist that can be seen from miles away. However, the high water levels can also make some of the trails and viewpoints more difficult to access, and the mist can obscure some of the views.
From around June to August, the water levels start to recede, and the falls become more visible, with clearer views of the rock formations and the gorges below. This can be a good time for activities like white-water rafting, as the rapids become more intense. The weather is also cooler and drier during this time, making it a comfortable time to visit.
From September to November, the water levels continue to drop, and the falls become more separated into individual cascades, rather than a continuous wall of water. This can make for some interesting photo opportunities, as well as easier access to some of the viewpoints and trails.
From December to January, the water levels are at their lowest, and the falls can be quite dry, with some of the rock faces exposed. However, this can be a good time for activities like swimming in the natural pools that form in the gorges below the falls.
Overall, the best time to visit Victoria Falls depends on your interests and preferences, and there are unique experiences to be had throughout the year.
Accommodation Near Victoria Falls
There are many options for accommodation near Victoria Falls, ranging from budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses to luxurious hotels and resorts. Some popular options include:
- Victoria Falls Safari Lodge – a luxury lodge located on a plateau overlooking the Zambezi National Park, with stunning views of the bush and the nearby waterhole.
- Ilala Lodge – a boutique hotel located within walking distance of the falls, offering stylish and comfortable rooms and a variety of amenities.
- The Victoria Falls Hotel – a historic hotel with a colonial feel, located just a short walk from the falls, offering elegant rooms and world-class dining.
- A’Zambezi River Lodge – a family-friendly resort located on the banks of the Zambezi River, with spacious rooms, a variety of activities, and stunning views.
- Shearwater Explorer Village – a budget-friendly option with a variety of accommodation options, including tents, chalets, and dormitories, located just a few minutes’ drive from the falls.
- Lolebezi:
These are just a few examples of the many accommodation options available near Victoria Falls. Whether you are looking for luxury or budget-friendly options, there is something for everyone in the area.
