The smoke that thunders
Victoria Falls – the largest waterfall in the world – is a spectacular sight. Five million cubic metres of water tumble down a gorge over a hundred metres deep into the mighty Zambezi River, sending up columns of mist that can be seen from many kilometres away. It’s one of the continent’s greatest natural wonders, and a must-see on any southern African itinerary.
While standing under the golden-tinged spray of Africa’s mightiest waterfall is magical, a visit to Victoria Falls is not just about the falls. The area around the falls – both on the Zimbabwean and the Zambian sides – offers some of Africa’s best adventure activities. In fact, Victoria Falls is known as Africa’s adrenaline capital. Here is our pick of the best Victoria Falls adventure activities to get your heart pumping!
Scenes so lovely must have been gazed upon by angels in their flight – David Livingstone
1. Bungee Jumping
For an unparalleled view of the falls, take the plunge off Victoria Falls Bridge on a 111-metre bungee jump that plummets you down to the wild rapids of the Zambezi River. You can’t get more bucket list than that!
2. Helicopter flip
Get a bird’s eye view of the falls by taking to the skies in a helicopter. During the flight you’ll fly directly above the falls as well as around the Zambezi River – it’s the best way to truly appreciate the grand splendor of this majestic place.
3. Microlight flight
Want to take flying up a notch from a helicopter flip? Jump in an open-air microlight – which looks like a hang glider with an engine – for a thrilling flight above the falls, Batoka Gorge and the neighbouring wildlife of Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park in Zambia.
4. Abseiling
Safe and relatively tame, abseiling involves being strapped into a harness and lowering yourself down slowly on the face of a cliff into the dramatic gorge below the thundering Victoria Falls.
5. White water rafting
The Zambezi River offers Africa’s best white water rafting – take your pick from an easy stretch of the mighty river or if you’re looking for a real adrenaline kick (and a thorough soaking), there are some heart-pumping mega rapids to be tackled!
6. Walking with elephants
Have an unforgettable animal interaction when you go walking through the bush with African elephants and a trained guide. You’ll follow elephants as they play, feed and socialise on the banks of the Zambezi River – and occasionally swim in the river. Even if you’ve seen elephants many times from the back of a game drive vehicle, seeing them on foot like this is a whole new experience.
7. Gorge swing
Take a deep breath as you are clipped onto a wire and then free fall 70 metres off the edge of Batoka Gorge and then swing like a pendulum in a 100-metre arc. This is definitely not for the faint of heart!
8. Horseback safaris
Explore the bush from a different perspective – on the back of a horse. Guided horseback safaris take you through the upper channels of the Zambezi River to spot wildlife such as impala, bushbuck, kudu, hippo, crocodile, buffalo and elephant and if you’re very lucky, leopard!