Victoria Falls Wonder Of The World
The Victoria Falls wonder of the world, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Zimbabwe.
Its awe-inspiring beauty, roaring waters, and surrounding wildlife make it a truly unforgettable experience. For those visiting Bulawayo, Victoria Falls is a convenient and accessible destination.
Victoria Falls Wonder Of The World Facts
Distance and Travel Time:
- By Car: Victoria Falls is approximately 475 kilometers away from Bulawayo. The drive typically takes around 6-7 hours, depending on traffic and driving conditions. The journey offers scenic views of the countryside. Unfortunately, portions of the road are rundown, requiring careful driving in places.
- By Air: For a quicker and more comfortable option, flying is the preferred choice. Joshua Nkomo International Airport in Bulawayo has direct flights to Victoria Falls International Airport. The flight duration is usually around 1 hour.
Why Visit Victoria Falls from Bulawayo:
- Accessibility: Victoria Falls is well-connected to Bulawayo, making it easy for travelers to reach this stunning destination.
- Natural Beauty: The falls themselves are a breathtaking spectacle, with the Zambezi River plunging over a 108-meter cliff. The mist created by the falls creates a magical atmosphere, and the surrounding rainforest is home to a variety of wildlife.
- Activities: There are numerous activities to enjoy in the Victoria Falls area, including white-water rafting, bungee jumping, helicopter tours, and game drives. Visitors can also explore nearby Livingstone Island, which offers stunning views of the falls.
- Accommodation: Victoria Falls offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, from luxury lodges to budget-friendly hostels.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or simply a chance to witness one of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders, Victoria Falls wonder of the world, is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling from Bulawayo.
With its easy accessibility from Bulawayo, stunning beauty, and diverse range of activities, it’s sure to create memories that will last a lifetime.
A Smaller But Picturesque Waterfall To Visit: Lumene Waterfall
Victoria Falls: A World-Class Wonder
Victoria Falls is not only one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World but also holds the distinction of being the widest waterfall in the world. Here are some key statistics about this magnificent natural phenomenon:
- Width: The average width of Victoria Falls is approximately 1,708 meters (5,603 feet).
- Height: The falls drop over a cliff face that ranges from 80 to 108 meters (262 to 354 feet) high.
- Flow Rate: The average flow rate of the Zambezi River at Victoria Falls is around 550 million cubic meters per day. During the rainy season, this flow rate can increase significantly.
- Location: Victoria Falls is located on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. The majority of the falls are in Zimbabwe, while a small portion, known as the “Horseshoe Falls,” is in Zambia.
The impressive width of Victoria Falls is a result of the Zambezi River spreading out over a wide chasm before plunging over the edge. This creates a breathtaking spectacle that is unmatched by any other waterfall in the world.
In the rainy season, when the waterfall is at its most powerful, the spray that is created by the water smashing on the rocks at the base of the chasm almost makes the waterfall invisible; it is so dense. Walking along the viewing edge feels like a tropical rainstorm and is very wetting.
However, the spray is what has created the rainforest that is found along the edge of the waterfall, a tropical paradise with monkeys and beautiful birdlife to view whilst walking along the meandering pathways.
Victoria Falls Bridge
One of the most famous landmarks in Victoria Falls is the famous Victoria Falls Bridge. This iconic bridge spans the Zambezi River, connecting Zimbabwe and Zambia. Built in 1907, the bridge was the brainchild of British colonialist Cecil John Rhodes, who played a significant role in the development of the region.
The bridge offers stunning views of Victoria Falls and the surrounding landscape. It is a popular spot for tourists to take photographs and admire the natural beauty of the area. The bridge also serves as a crossing point for vehicles and pedestrians, connecting the two countries.
Bunjee jumping is the most popular activity that takes place from the bridge. There is also a very interesting Bridge Tour that gives the history of the construction and takes you under the walkways in a harness to see how the iron bars hold the bridge together.
Victoria Falls Town: A Gateway to Natural Beauty
Victoria Falls Town is a charming and bustling town located on the Zimbabwean side of Victoria Falls. It serves as a gateway to the iconic waterfall and offers a variety of attractions and amenities for visitors.
The town’s vibrant atmosphere is a perfect mix of local culture, tourism, and international influences. On occasion, you may even see elephant strolling along the streets of the town as well as monkeys looking for a special treat.
Attractions in Victoria Falls Town:
In addition to the bridge, Victoria Falls Town offers a variety of other attractions, including:
- Victoria Falls National Park: This park is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, and hippopotamus. Visitors can take game drives or walking safaris to explore the park.
- The Rainforest: The rainforest surrounding Victoria Falls wonder of the world, is a lush and vibrant ecosystem. Visitors can take guided walks through the rainforest and learn about the unique flora and fauna.
- The Market: The Victoria Falls market is a great place to find souvenirs, handicrafts, and local products.
- Restaurants and Bars: Victoria Falls Town offers a wide range of restaurants and bars serving both local and international cuisine. These establishments are at the very heart of the town.
Victoria Falls Town is a vibrant and exciting destination that offers something for everyone.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or simply a chance to experience one of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders, this town and Victoria Falls wonder of the world is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Map of Victoria Falls
A map showing the position of the waterfall on the Zambezi River and the bustling Victoria Falls town.
