Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls, dubbed one of the Seven Wonders of the Natural World by CNN, lies on the Zambezi River between Zimbabwe and Zambia. Called “The Smoke that Thunders” by the Tonga people, it is 5,604 feet wide (more than a mile) and 354 feet tall, twice the height of Niagara Falls.

Visitors to the town of Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe have several options for activities. A stroll through the Rain Forest park includes spectacular view of the Falls and the occasional encounter with baboons (harmless if you leave them alone). More demanding trails are also available to climb down into the gorge when weather permits.

Victoria Falls before the spring rains.
Victoria Falls before the spring rains.

A trek across the Victoria Falls Bridge includes opportunities for bungee jumping, riding a zip line, or taking a close-up guided tour explaining the bridge’s construction.

Victoria Falls Bridge
Victoria Falls Bridge
Bungee Jumper
A Bungee Jumper prepares

Shopping includes open air markets with stalls of local crafts. Each resort has its own restaurant. Coffee shops offer a variety of light fare, including cappuccino and sandwiches, or for the more upscale, high tea at the Victoria Hotel. An evening river cruise offers views of hippos and other wildlife.

Hippos in the Zambezi River
Hippos in the Zambezi River
Baboons by the Zambezi River
Baboons by the Zambezi River

Something for the history buff, the nature enthusiast, and the adrenaline junkie: Victoria Falls offers it all.