Discovered by pioneering missionary David Livingstone in 1855, he was said to be so impressed with the falls that he described them as ‘scenes so lovely must have been gazed upon by Angels in their flight’. Such a bold sight has also earned the falls the local name of ‘Mosi-oa-Tunya’ or the ‘Smoke that Thunders’ and a place as one of the seven natural wonders of the world. Between the months of November and April you are likely to enjoy a thrilling almost deafening roar of cascading water and you could get rather wet in what is an exhilarating experience. Even during the dry season when most of there is little water in the river, the Zimbabwean side of the falls is still a breathtaking sight.
Many people choose to take to the skies and experience the falls in a scenic flight which has been named the ‘Flight of Angels’ for its unique vantage point which offers a completely different experience to walking the around the seventeen different viewpoints. For those exploring on foot the main viewpoints are the main falls and devil cataract, where it is said that the water flow amounts to around 500 litres per second during the rainy season!
As well as the idyllic scenery, the area is a centre for adventure sports activities, arguably known as the ‘adventure capital of the world’, with bungee jumping, kayaking and white water rafting, as well as canoeing amongst the hippos and crocodiles.
For those looking for even more of an adrenaline rush, you can even try your hand at river boarding, which originally started as a means of rescue. Even when it comes to wildlife activities, it will get your heart pumping, with the option of a walk with the lions.