Beyond The Victoria Falls Into Zimbabwe

The Victoria Falls, a majestic cascade across the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe, needs no introduction. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, known as Mosi-oa-Tunya "The Smoke That Thunders" in the local Batoka people, is the largest waterfall in Africa based on the volume of water. It plunges 354 feet and creates a breathtaking sight and an unforgettable roar. The Victoria Falls is easily a must-see on any adventure bucket list and today, we're looking at some of the best spots to visit in and around the Falls. 

Zambezi National Park

Between August to September, animals come to the Zambezi River for a drink. Canoe safaris on the river offer an unparalleled view of wildlife. The best time to do your canoe safari is at sunrise when hippos snort in the distance, crocodiles bask on the banks, and elephants lumber down for a morning drink.

For the ones who prefer less of an adrenaline rush in the morning, a traditional game drive in the park sets the scene with herds of zebra and wildebeest grazing on the plains, while elusive leopards lurk in the trees. Sundowners in the park are particularly special, with breathtaking views of the African wilderness as the hues in the sky change from red, to orange, to pink and purple. 

Lake Kariba Zambezi Boat Cruise

Though Zimbabwe is a landlocked country, houseboating is a popular activity on Lake Kariba. Lake Kariba is a massive reservoir on the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia, created by the construction of the Kariba Dam across the Zambezi River. 

Take a boat cruise and witness a parade of elephants, crocodiles, and fish eagles along the shoreline. Keep your eyes peeled for the ghostly sentinels -  dead trees from a flooded forest that now poke out of the water, remnants of a bygone era.  The lake also holds a surprising secret: a booming crayfish population, escapees from a fish farm project that are disrupting the ecosystem, but are a sumptuous meal during your boat cruise.

Mana Pools National Park

Mana Pools National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the northern part of Zimbabwe along the Zambezi River. The name Mana Pools comes from the Shona language, spoken by the majority ethnic group in Zimbabwe. "Mana" itself means "four", named for the four large, permanent pools which were formed by the meanderings of the middle Zambezi River. These pools are a key feature of the park's ecosystem and a major draw for wildlife. Experience excellent wildlife viewing, especially elephants, hippos, and Nile crocodiles, that gather around the river and floodplains.

For the closest experience with wildlife, you can go on canoeing and walking safaris, allowing you to get closer to the wildlife.

Victoria Falls may be the star attraction, but Zimbabwe has so much adventure waiting to be discovered. Add these experiences to your trip and create memories that will last a lifetime! Let's start planning your unforgettable Victoria Falls adventure today