in the world, falling over 100 meters tall in parts and over one mile wide.
The diverse range of activities that can be ‘discovered’ today is certainly a far cry from what Livingstone first laid eyes on – and almost as impressive as the Falls itself!
For adrenalin junkies the challenge awaits to push the limits of the mind and test the edge of fear by leaping off the impressive Victoria Falls Bridge with the Falls as a backdrop, and the mighty Zambezi below, free falling 111 metres to be brought to a gradual stop by an elastic band.
Alternatively, one could try the newest in adrenaline adventures on offer with a range of unique and hair-raising activities all guaranteed to get the heart rate racing. Try an exhilarating gorge swing, the longest cable or ‘foofie’ slide in the world “flying” over the Batoka gorge or abseiling down a sheer cliff and rapp-jumping (walking down the gorge face forward). These activities even make bungi jumping look tame.
The Victoria Falls however is not all about testing your heart’s pumping ability! There is also an amazing cultural side to be explored. Within the Cultural Village, traditional dancers perform various dances in amazing regalia all with unique meanings and twists. If this does not get your attention, maybe the stilt dancers will – prancing around with an amazing sense of balance on 6ft poles. Or marvel at a dancer lifting a 40kg iron bar with his teeth.
One of the most popular wind-downs for visitors to the Falls area would be to take a sedate trip up the Zambezi river on a sundowner cruise, viewing the wildlife and sipping cocktails while gazing at the amazing African sunset.
So our advice to you is to go out and really explore the Falls on your next visit. Make the most of your holiday there by taking advantage of the various activity package deals offered by several operators. Let the white waters and the good people refresh you. – Venues@zol.co.zw Venues4Africa.com
At home in the African Bush – Lodge of the Month
Any African who has not been home for some time will start to yearn for that feeling of being totally surrounded by the African bush, with its perpetual symphony of sights, sounds and smells, all blending in to make you feel at home. The Victoria Falls Safari Lodge is a venue where this feeling is almost guaranteed.
Set high on a natural plateau, the westward-facing Victoria Falls Safari Lodge borders the Zambezi National Park and is just four kilometres from the thundering Victoria Falls, Southern Africa’s foremost attraction.
Enjoying uninterrupted views of spectacular African sunsets over the unspoilt bushveld, and year-round game at its on-site waterhole, the Lodge is ideally positioned to offer the most discerning traveller a taste of Africa at its best. Appointed in the utmost luxury, the lodge is a wonderful example of how modern hospitality can be melded with an authentic wildlife experience.
Of course, it’s also an ideal base for the Falls itself and the many nearby attractions, offering guests a complimentary shuttle service to one of the true natural wonders of the world. Of the 72 bedrooms, six are split-level suites with a lounge cloakroom and balcony on one level and a bedroom and en-suite bathroom upstairs. Decorated in lavishly coloured ethnic fabrics and fittings, all rooms boast the highest level of sophistication and comfort. Each has its own private balcony overlooking the unfenced Zambezi National Park while most look onto the central waterhole. In the Buffalo Bar, Makuwa-Kuwa Restaurant and pool deck, the renowned friendliness of our Zimbabwean staff is apparent as they offer excellent service and outstanding cuisine.
Victoria Falls Safari Lodge is offering readers of The Zimbabwean a special Holiday for the Homeless package, which includes 2 nights bed and breakfast and 2 dinners. The first dinner is at the Boma Place of Eating, an awesome African experience of food, culture, entertainment, drumming and fun. The second is at The Makuwa-Kuwa restaurant, an a la Carte restaurant overlooking the flood-lit water hole at the lodge. Also included is a Zambezi River sunset cruise and guided tour of The Falls and the Rain Forest. The package is US$399 per person sharing. Please call Amy on +263 4 706 109 or email Martin at venues@zol.co.zw to book.