Hailed as one of the world’s most spectacular destinations, it’s easy to see why Victoria Falls overland tours have become so popular.
Known by its full name, and its affectionate nickname favoured by locals and travellers, this is one of Africa’s most impressive destinations by far. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a truly unforgettable safari experience that is sure to leave all who visit with memories to last a lifetime.
To get the most from your Vic Falls overland experience, here is some more information on the falls and some of the many attractions that you may enjoy on an overland tour in this beautiful region.
Victoria Falls Fast Facts
Victoria Falls is situated on the Zambezi River, bordering both Zimbabwe and Zambia. The falls can be accessed from either side on a typical Victoria Falls overland trip, either via Livingstone on the Zambian side or Victoria Falls town on the Zimbabwe side. The falls sits at a massive 1, 708m wide, making it the largest of its kind worldwide. There is a drop of 90m to 107m into the Zambezi Gorge, with about 550,000 cubic metres of water plummeting over the edge every minute. With this amount of water thundering into the Zambezi, it is easy to see where the falls gets its name ‘Mosi-oa-tunya’ (the smoke that thunders’) from the local dialect.
When To Visit
While the falls are at their fullest during the flood season, which runs from February to May with a peak in April and sees the spray from the falls rising as high as 1, 300 feet or more, this season is one of the least favourable times for Vic Falls overland tours. This is mostly due to the fact that it is hard to see the falls through the spray, and many of the walking trails are impossible to access. During dry season, from September to January, the gorges are more visible – offering better views and more chance to enjoy some of the adventure activities on offer around the falls.
Game Viewing and Bird Watching
There are a number of excellent national parks to explore, including the Victoria Falls National Park in north-western Zimbabwe, the Zambezi National Park in Zimbabwe and the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park in Zambia, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wildlife that you will see in these parks includes large numbers of elephant, lion, leopard, antelope and other game, with an abundance of bird species ranging from endemic species to birds of prey, water birds and other migratory species. Game drives and walking safaris offer and excellent way to experience the falls’ wildlife.
Activities
For those wanting to make the most of their Victoria Falls overland tour a host of activities await with something to suit every taste. Known as Africa’s adventure capital, Victoria Falls plays host to a huge range of exhilarating adventure sports, from bungee jumping to abseiling, microlight flights, scenic flights, kloofing and many others. Those preferring a more sedate experience can try guided walks, hiking, boat trips or visits to local villages.
Getting There
Most overland tours to Victoria Falls access the falls from the Zambia side. Depending on your tour, you may visit the falls as part of a larger Southern Africa tour, or you may choose to do an exclusive Victoria Falls tour. Vic Falls overland tours travel by overland trucks, while additional ways to enter the falls include flights to Livingstone in Zambia, or Victoria Falls town in Zimbabwe.
For all your Vic Falls overland questions and trip information contact the team at OverlandingAfrica.com or post your comments below.
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