The smoke billowing over the Zambezi River!
Victoria Zanbezi
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The Victoria Falls are a group of waterfalls on the Zambezi River / 2574 km /, between the African countries of Zambia and Zimbabwe. The local name of the falls is Mosi-oa-Tunya (in local language means rumbling smoke), probably because in the plain around Zambezi a cloud of mist can be seen over the waterfall from tens of kilometres away. The tribes who began to settle in these parts at the end of the first century may long have been unaware of the thundering of the placidly flowing, lazy river around the myriad islands, which plunges unexpectedly and headlong into a long narrow chasm, becoming for a moment a roaring elemental... only to continue again so calm and full-flowing on its way eastwards across the Central African plateau to the Indian Ocean.
The waterfall was first reported by the Scottish missionary David Livingstone, who, seeking a trade route to the East African coast, saw the falls on 16 November 1855 and named it Victoria in honour of the Queen of England. Victoria is over twice as wide and just as deep as Niagara Falls. The curtain of violently foaming water along the north wall reaches 120 m, where clouds of spray billow, hiding the bottom of the falls from view. Increasing in height, these clouds sometimes rise to 400 m and, carried by the wind like the spray of a fountain, dew the rainforest along the south side.
According to some estimates, Victoria is the largest waterfall in the world. It is 1.7 km wide and between 90 and 108 m high. It is interesting in that the water falls in a valley and from a suitable distance one can cover the entire waterfall with a glance.
Victoria is part of 2 national parks and is one of the most famous tourist destinations in Africa. It has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1989. The waterfall is also one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
Over 500 million litres of water are poured out every minute. The water flow rate is 1088 m3/s.
Waterfalls create „moon arcs“. A moonbow is a special and unique phenomenon that occurs in only two places in the world, Victoria Falls being one of them. A moonbow occurs when the light of the full moon illuminates the falls.
Devil's Pool, a natural infinity pool formed near the edge of Victoria Falls, is a popular attraction for adventurous visitors. During the dry season, when water levels are low, swimmers can experience the thrill of looking over the edge while safely protected by rocks. / Guided tour only.
The upper reaches of r. Zambezi is home to a unique species of fish called the African tiger fish, known for its sharp teeth and aggressive nature. You wouldn't want to swim alongside them.
The Victoria Falls Bridge crosses the first gorge. It was built in 1905 to link Zambia and Zimbabwe. This iconic steel bridge offers stunning panoramic views of the falls and is a popular spot for bungee jumping and swinging on the bridge. It was once the highest place to bungee - 111m.jpg)
There is a 425-foot zipline built across the Zambezi River below the falls and bridge, one of the longest in the world.
At the bottom of the waterfall is a natural rock formation called the Boiling Cauldron. This whirlpool is created by the powerful currents of water once they descend over the falls, giving it an appearance reminiscent of a boiling cauldron.
Batoka Gorge, located downstream from Victoria Falls, is one of the most exciting rafting destinations in the world. It offers thrilling rapids and breathtaking views of the surrounding natural beauty.
Victoria Falls is also famous for its beautiful sunsets. The golden hues of the setting sun reflected in the spray and mist of the waterfall create a magical and romantic atmosphere for visitors.
There is a local legend that the waters of Victoria Falls have a petrifying effect on objects. According to the tale, throwing an object into the waterfall will turn it to stone.
We'll have to check that out!
to visit Victoria Falls is from June to August, when temperatures are more moderate and tolerable for Europeans compared to the rest of the year.