Ultimate African Experiences: The Smoke That Thunders

Named after the Queen of England by British explorer David Livingston, Victoria Falls are

the epitome of grandeur. An awe-inspiring curtain of water is surrounded by a lush landscape,

complemented by the great Zambezi River, making it one of the ultimate African experiences

that is not to be missed.

"No one can imagine the beauty of the view from anything witnessed in England. It had never

been seen before by European eyes, but scenes so lovely must have been gazed upon by

angels in their flight,” said David Livingston on his first trip to Africa. Many years have

passed since he happened to stumble upon the falls and we still stare in wonder at the

cascading beauty and force.

An African Cruise is the best way in which to experience the culture, heritage and splendor of

Africa. Enthralling sunsets, captivating wildlife and a smorgasbord of tastes and flavors

characterize the perfect African getaway. Luxurious and exciting, a river cruise offers the

perfect balance of indulgence and adventure.

Capturing the Victoria Falls at sunset is certainly an experience worth pursuing. Gushing

down into a series of gorges, the Zambezi River changes its shape from a placid waterway

into an unruly surge of power and strength. A sheer basalt wall faces the falls, coated by a

lush rainforest that is made eerie by the incessant spray of cool mist. The ideal vantage point

in which to soak up the magnificence of the Victoria Falls is by embarking on a river cruise;

from cocktails at sunset and scrumptious tapas to capturing the picturesque views, the falls

are best viewed when you can feel the mighty pull of the river and the soft kiss of mist on

your skin.

Separating Zambia and Zimbabwe, the Zambezi River stretches to 1.25 miles in width and is

a paradise for any birding enthusiast. The gorges and cliffs below the falls are also home to a

variety of rare and indigenous raptors. National parks exist on either side of the river,

boasting a variety of birdlife, exciting wildlife and a rich array of flora. River tours will allow

the best possible view of what the terrain has to offer.

The falls boast an impressive 354 feet in height and are locally known as “Mosi-oa-Tunya,”

the Smoke that Thunders. On foot, one could explore the national park via a footpath that

runs along the edge of the forest which provides unparalleled views of the falls and a healthy

dose of spray! The Knife-Edge Bridge offers phenomenal views of the Eastern Cataract,

Main Falls, Boiling Pot, and Batoka Gorge.

During March and April, the river and falls experience peak flood season where the full

supremacy of the raging water can be appreciated. It is important to keep in mind that the

flood season causes a mass of spray that rises from the falling water, resulting in the closure

of many vantage points.

An array of adventure activities can add extra excitement to any river cruise vacation.

Helicopter flights over the falls, bungee jumping and gorge swinging are just a few of the

thrilling experiences that are on offer. For historical connoisseurs, guided tours transport us

back two million years to show us that Homo habilis may have lived near the falls.

An African cruise caters to an array of interests; if you are searching for a unique getaway

that feeds the senses and quenches your wanderlust, a river cruise is the ideal option.

Incredible scenery and exciting opportunities lay waiting at the Victoria Falls, an ultimate

African experience that is not to be missed!