Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls

Introduction to Victoria Falls

The Zambezi River, which flows gently through southern Africa, is the fourth-largest river on the African continent after the Nile, the Congo, and the Niger. Its source lies in Angola, where it cuts through western Zambia, forming the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia before flowing into the Mozambique Channel and the Indian Ocean. Victoria Falls is located in the middle section of the Zambezi River. Together with Iguazu Falls in South America and Niagara Falls in North America, it is known as one of the world’s three most famous waterfalls.

Victoria Falls was discovered in 1855 by British explorer David Livingstone. It was named "Victoria Falls" after the then Queen of England, but is now also referred to as "Mosi-oa-Tunya," which means "The Smoke That Thunders" in the local dialect. The reason for this name becomes immediately clear upon visiting. The slow-moving waters of the Zambezi River plunge into the Victoria Falls basin with a thunderous roar, creating a mist that rises more than 150 meters into the air. During the rainy season when water volume is high, the mist falls like rain overhead. The sight is truly breathtaking.

Today, the falls have become a major tourist attraction for Zimbabwe. It seems almost impossible to find a visitor to Zimbabwe who hasn’t seen Victoria Falls. As a result, the surrounding area has gradually developed into a thriving tourism hub in recent years. Luxury resorts have been built in competition, and local tour companies vie fiercely for business. Consequently, prices here tend to be higher than in other cities. However, the natural landscape—the river, the waterfall, and the valleys—remains virtually unchanged from when Livingstone first discovered it over a century ago. Hippos lounge leisurely along the riverbanks, while crocodiles lurk beneath the surface. The pristine riverside environment of the past continues to this day and will likely endure well into the future.

Harare, Zimbabwe