August 25, 2016
Victoria Falls is located on the Zambezi River on the boarder of Zimbabwe and Zambia. The waterfall is nearly twice the size of Niagara Falls and plummets 5,604 ft creating the “the smoke that thunders.” The falls are truly magnificent. Since it’s a national park, there’s a $30 entrance fee (however, the fee seems to depend on your nationality). There’s a prescribed path with spectacular views.
I stayed at the Rainbow Hotel in town since that’s where my camping trip was starting. The accommodations were mediocre but centrally located. Walking through town, I stopped at the famous Victoria Falls Hotel (this is the place to stay if you’re willing to spend some money), which has a beautiful outdoor terrace restaurant overlooking the canyon. At Look Out Cafe, you can watch people go zip lining, absailing and gorge swinging. You also get a taste of some wildlife with all the the baboons, warthogs and muircats hanging around.
One of the main attractions during the dry season (September to October) is Devil’s Pool when water levels are at their lowest. It’s a natural pool you can swim out to that right at the edge of the falls. I tried to book it after I arrived but it was completely sold out for the two days I was in Victoria Falls. So disappointing. If you go to Victoria Falls, make sure to book in advance!
Victoria Falls was more expensive that anticipated. Given the turbulence of the Zimbabwean economy, it’s a protected tourist bubble with a price tags. Food, hotel and activities such as rafting and bungee jumping are more expensive that elsewhere. You also have to be aware of the hawkers who are trying to aggressively sell you jewelry, bowls, trinkets, etc. It becomes a frustrating exercise in avoidance. American dollars are also the preferred form of currency since the Zimbabwean currency is worthless and the hawkers will try and sell you old currency as a souvenir. Firmly say no and keep walking.
