The Victoria Falls are one of the most popular tourist attractions in Africa. Located on the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia, the falls are a must-see piece of natural splendour. If you’re planning a visit to this amazing natural landmark, here are some Victoria Falls facts that are sure to interest you!
The Falls were named after Britain’s Queen Victoria who ruled England between 1837 and 1876, and played a part in Zimbabwe’s colonial history. Though Zimbabwe and Zambia have enjoyed independence for decades, the landmark has become a household name and so it was decided not to rename it. Other interesting Victoria Falls facts include:
- The Victoria Falls are the most popular tourist attraction in Zimbabwe, attracting thousands of visitors each year.
- The Victoria Falls Bridge, which offers magnificent views of the falls, is 111 metres high.
- During the rainy season (November to April) the Falls are at their loudest, with a huge volume of water cascading downwards each minute.
- The Falls are also known by their traditional name, “Mosi-oa-Tunya”, or the “Smoke That Thunders”.
- The Falls are one of the ‘Seven Natural Wonders of the World’, as discovered by the famous explorer David Livingstone.
- The amount of water flowing over the main Falls can exceed 500 litres a minute during the rainy season.
Some lesser-known Victoria Falls facts include the various activities that are available in the area around the falls. For those who crave excitement, the thrill of bungee jumping off the Falls Bridge or white water rafting in the Zambezi River will provide some serious entertainment. If you’re more at home in comfortable surrounds, a sunset cocktail at one of the luxury hotels in the area or a helicopter tour will round off a pleasant day’s sightseeing perfectly.
