Victoria Falls: Zimbabwe's Majestic Smoke That Thunders
Nestled on the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia, Victoria Falls stands as one of the most breathtaking natural wonders on Earth.
Straddling the mighty Zambezi River, this colossal waterfall, known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya or "The Smoke That Thunders," captivates visitors with its thunderous roar and towering plumes of mist visible from miles away.
As of 2025, it remains a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, drawing over 60,000 tourists in the first quarter alone.
Spanning approximately 1,708 meters in width and plunging 108 meters into the gorge below, Victoria Falls is not just a waterfall but a symphony of nature's power, forming the largest curtain of falling water on the planet.
The falls' history is deeply rooted in Africa's ancient landscapes and human heritage. Archaeological evidence suggests human habitation in the area dates back at least two million years, with Early Stone Age tools and Iron Age pottery unearthed nearby.
Indigenous peoples, including the Tonga and Lozi, have revered the site for centuries, using it for fishing, trading, and spiritual ceremonies. They named it Mosi-oa-Tunya, a fitting descriptor for the constant mist and noise that evoke thunder.
In 1855, Scottish explorer David Livingstone became the first European to document the falls, naming them after Queen Victoria to honor the British monarch. This event marked the beginning of global awareness, spurred by colonial exploration.
By the early 20th century, the completion of the Victoria Falls Bridge in 1905 connected the two sides and kickstarted tourism infrastructure. Today, the falls symbolize shared heritage between Zimbabwe and Zambia, with Zimbabwe hosting about 75% of the viewing points.Geologically, Victoria Falls is a masterpiece of erosion and time.
Formed during the Jurassic period around 200 million years ago, the falls carve through a basalt plateau along fracture zones. The Zambezi River, Africa's fourth-longest, drops into a transverse chasm, creating sections like Devil's Cataract, Main Falls, Horseshoe Falls, Rainbow Falls, and Eastern Cataract.
Below, five gorges channel the water, forming the infamous Boiling Pot and world-class whitewater rapids.
The falls' altitude sits at about 915 meters above sea level, and during peak flood from February to May, over 550,000 cubic meters of water cascade per minute, generating spray that rises up to 1 kilometer high.
In contrast, the dry season from September to December reduces flow to under 20,000 cubic meters, exposing the rock face and enabling unique experiences.
The ecology surrounding Victoria Falls is equally enchanting. The perpetual mist sustains a lush rainforest, dubbed the Victoria Falls Rainforest, which "rains" 24/7 during high water, nurturing rare plants like pod mahogany, ebony, ivory palms, and wild date palms.
Beyond this, mopane woodland and miombo savannah dominate, supporting diverse wildlife. Elephants, Cape buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, lions, leopards, and cheetahs roam the adjacent national parks, while hippos and Nile crocodiles inhabit the river.
Birdwatchers delight in 35 raptor species, including the Taita falcon and peregrine falcon, alongside herons and kingfishers. The Zambezi hosts 84 fish species above the falls and 39 below, making it a haven for anglers.
Conservation efforts in Victoria Falls National Park (23 km² in Zimbabwe) and Zambezi National Park focus on protecting this biodiversity amid climate challenges, such as extreme weather threatening water levels.
Tourism thrives here, blending adrenaline and serenity. In 2025, entry to Victoria Falls National Park costs $30 USD for international visitors.
The best viewing is from Zimbabwe's rainforest trail with over 15 viewpoints, while Zambia offers the Knife-Edge Bridge and Devil's Pool—a natural infinity pool inches from the edge, open seasonally from late August to early January.
Thrill-seekers can bungee jump from the 111-meter Victoria Falls Bridge, raft Grade 5 rapids, or kayak the Zambezi. For calmer pursuits, sunset cruises spot wildlife, helicopter "Flight of Angels" tours provide aerial vistas, and game drives in Zambezi National Park reveal big game.
Cultural experiences include Boma dinners with traditional performances and craft markets. The KAZA Univisa simplifies cross-border visits, and improved airports like Victoria Falls International (VFA) offer daily flights from major hubs.
Peak season (February-May) dazzles with full flow, but June-August suits safaris, and November-January offers lush, budget-friendly escapes.
A lunar rainbow, or moonbow, enchants full-moon nights from January to July.Despite its allure, Victoria Falls faces pressures from tourism growth and climate change, prompting sustainable initiatives like community-driven conservation. UNESCO monitors waste and environmental impacts to preserve its status.
Yet, its timeless grandeur endures, inviting travelers to witness nature's raw force.
In 2025, Victoria Falls isn't just a destination—it's an immersion in Africa's soul, where water, wildlife, and wonder converge. Whether seeking adventure or awe, this Zimbabwean gem promises unforgettable memories, echoing the thunder that has resounded for millennia.
Nautical Mile Magazine
