Zimbabwe, a country rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage, is home to one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders of the world: Victoria Falls. Known locally as “The Smoke That Thunders,” this natural wonder is not only a sight to behold but also a hub for thrilling adventures that attract adrenaline junkies from around the world. From bungee jumping off the Victoria Falls Bridge to white water rafting on the mighty Zambezi River, there’s an adventure waiting for everyone. This comprehensive guide will help you explore Victoria Falls with ease, using the convenient UniVisa, and provide you with all the necessary details to make your trip unforgettable. Also, you can read the Zimbabwe travel guide here.
Best Time to Visit Victoria Falls
Victoria Falls is a year-round destination, but the experience can vary significantly depending on the season. Learn more here.
High Water Season (February to June)
During this period, the Zambezi River is at its peak flow, resulting in the most dramatic and thunderous views of the falls. The mist created by the falls can be seen from miles away, and the sheer volume of water is breathtaking. However, the high water levels can sometimes obscure the view of the falls and make certain activities, like swimming in the Devil’s Pool, impossible.
Low Water Season (July to January)
The water levels are lower during these months, which provides a clearer view of the geological formations and allows for activities like white-water rafting and swimming in the Devil’s Pool. The falls are less thunderous but equally captivating, revealing a different side of their beauty.
Bungee Jumping at Victoria Falls
Imagine standing on the edge of a bridge, heart pounding, as you prepare to leap into the air with nothing but a cord attached to your ankles. This is the thrill of bungee jumping at Victoria Falls. The Victoria Falls Bungee Jump is undoubtedly the most scenic bungee jump in the world. With the Victoria Falls themselves as the backdrop and the mighty Zambezi River flowing beneath you, this is sure to be the greatest bungee jump you’ll ever experience.
The jump is a staggering 111 meters high, offering about 4 seconds of pure adrenaline as you free-fall towards the rapids of the mighty Zambezi River. The minimum age for this thrilling experience is 15 years, and you’ll need to bring your passport for access to the bridge. If you want a keepsake of your daring plunge, personalized DVDs and photographs are available for purchase. Learn more here.
White Water Rafting on the Zambezi River
If bungee jumping isn’t enough to satisfy your thirst for adventure, then white water rafting on the Zambezi River will surely do the trick. The Zambezi River below Victoria Falls is recognized as the best and biggest grade 5 white water rafting in the world. You’ll begin your adrenaline-filled journey in the “boiling pot” directly below Victoria Falls and navigate your way through infamous rapids.
The white water rafting experience on the Zambezi River is not for the faint-hearted. It’s a wild ride through Class IV and V rapids in a gorge reaching depths of 650 feet. The minimum age for this adventure is 15 years, and a reasonable level of fitness is required. After a hard day of rafting, you can relax with a cold beer on a white sandy beach and enjoy the peace, quiet, and tranquility of the gorge.
Understanding the UniVisa
The KAZA (Kavango-Zambezi) UniVisa is a special visa that allows travelers to visit both Zimbabwe and Zambia with a single visa. This visa is particularly advantageous for those planning to explore Victoria Falls from both the Zimbabwean and Zambian sides. The UniVisa is valid for 30 days and costs $50, making it an affordable and convenient option for tourists. The UniVisa is available to citizens of 65 countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and most European nations. Travelers need a valid passport, sufficient funds for their stay, and a return or onward travel ticket.
Conclusion
Victoria Falls is more than just a natural wonder; it’s an adventure seeker’s paradise. Whether you’re leaping off a bridge or battling the rapids of a river, the thrill of adventure at Victoria Falls is an experience like no other. With the convenience of the UniVisa, exploring both the Zimbabwean and Zambian sides of the falls has never been easier. So, if you’re an adrenaline junkie looking for your next thrill, Victoria Falls should be at the top of your list. Remember, adventure is out there, and it’s waiting for you at Victoria Falls.