Victoria Falls Zimbabwe is the most visited side of the
falls because it offers a lot to the visitor. The locals call it “Mosi-Oa-Tunya”- the smoke that thunders.
Not only does it offer a choice of over 17 hotels and lodges to stay, but it
also provides the best view of the natural landscape, rich game reserves, wild
life safaris and a variety of activities for the traveler. The limited
development in the areas close to the falls on the Zimbabwean side allows
visitors to see the beauty of Africa in its natural form.
Development has been restricted to the areas around the town
of Victoria Falls far from the rainforest, to ensure that the Victoria Falls
(one of the Seven Wonders of the World) retains its status as a World Heritage
Natural site. The town of Victoria Falls is served by an international airport,
which makes it easy to fly directly to the town.
So what are the places to visit in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
and what kind of activities can you partake in? The following are places to see
in Victoria Falls:
Places to Visit in Victoria Falls,
Zimbabwe
Victoria
Falls National Park
Victoria Falls National Park is situated in North Western Zimbabwe.
It covers the southern and eastern banks of the Zambezi River as well as the 18km
along the Victoria Falls from the upper Zambezi to the lower side of the falls.
Here visitors will see the Victoria Falls rainforest which
is watered by the spray and mist from the falls. Naturally occurring plant life
which thrives in humid conditions and which is not indigenous to the region can
be found in the rainforest, for example palms,ferns,vines,mahogany and many
other plants.
The park has an assortment of big animals such as elephants,
buffalo, hippopotamus, white rhino, antelopes and eland. On the western side of
the park is the town of Victoria Falls where hotels, lodges and campsites are
scattered.
Matetsi
Private Game Reserve
This is not a state owned national park but it’s a private
game reserve owned by CC Africa. It is 40km from the Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe
when you are going to the Botswana border town of Kasane.This wildlife conservation
area is the most visited game reserve in Zimbabwe because of its large
population of wild animals. Over 50,000 elephants are said to be living in this
region which allows a free movement of animals between Matetsi Game Reserve,
Zimbabwe and Chobe National Park, Botswana.
Matetsi also offers a view of the Zambezi River along the
15km bank which it privately owns. Accommodation can be found at Matetsi Water
Lodge and Matetsi Safari Camp.Matetsi is a preferred spot for game hunters who
come to this region from around the world to hunt elephants, buffalo and other game.
This is the place where Donald Trump’s sons took their world-famous African
Safari game hunting excursion.
Mana
Pools National Park
Lies on the southern
bank of the Zambezi River in Zimbabwe, opposite to Lower Zambezi National Park.
The Upper Zambezi River extends up to the top of the
Victoria Falls. Canoeing is a favorite activity for visitors on the Zimbabwean side,
where a 15km stretch of strong river currents provide fun and challenge.
Cross
Border Game Parks
Chobe National Park
– Situated in northern Botswana. The section of the park near Victoria Falls is
popular.
Lower Zambezi
National Park – Situated in South Eastern Zambia, the park is along the
northern bank of the Zambezi River.
Things to Do in Victoria Falls,
Zimbabwe
A visitor can enjoy the following activities at Victoria
Falls:
White Water River Rafting – One of the most popular
and exciting adventures is white water rafting in the Zambezi
River by Wild Horizons, Zimbabwe
Game Hunting and Viewing – View or Hunt Game in the Matetsi Game Reserve and Victoria Falls National Park.
Zambezi River Cruise – Take a cruise along the mighty Zambezi River with Shearwater Adventures.
Helicopter Flights – View the Falls from the Sky with Shearwater Adventures, Zimbabwe
Elephant Back Safaris - Elephant Riding in the Safari by Backpackers Bazaar Tours, Zimbabwe
Canoe Trails – Enjoy canoeing in the upper Zambezi
River
Horse Trails - Horse Riding
Bungi Jumping – Take a spine chilling jump from the Victoria
Falls Bridge in the 110 m high Batoka Gorge.
Fishing – Enjoy fishing in the Upper Zambezi River above
the Falls
Victoria Falls rainforest – Take a walk in the
rainforest close to the falls.
