Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe: The mighty smoke that thunders

When most people think of Victoria Falls, words like "mighty", "thundering", and "smoke" come to mind. And for good reason - this natural wonder is truly a spectacular sight to behold. Spanning over a mile wide between Zambia and Zimbabwe, Victoria Falls is considered one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world. As you approach you can hear its loud roar long before you catch your first glimpse of the crashing water. From a distance, towering plumes of mist rise up like smokestacks, giving Victoria Falls its local name "Mosi-oa-Tunya", which translates to "the smoke that thunders".

Plan your visit

The dry season from June to October offers optimal visibility without blocky spray from the falls obscuring your views. Keep in mind it's still very hot and humid at this time, with temperatures often well over 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Come between November and May for greener landscapes and lush wildlife, though mist and rainfall make getting soaked an inevitability. Book your hotels and activities well in advance, as the town fills up quickly especially during holiday timeframes. Consider alternative viewpoints besides just the main falls view - you can book helicopter tours, microlight flights or bungee jumps for awe-inspiring perspectives.

Planning your trip to Victoria Falls has never been easier with services like BitBook. Not only can you book your hotels, flights and activities all in one convenient place, but you'll also earn passive crypto rewards along the way through their Book & Earn program. It's like getting paid to see the wonders of the world!

Up close with the falls

Once you've arrived, one of the first stops should be the main falls view. Walkways right up to the edge offer heart-pounding vistas of the thundering torrents below. Get prepared to be absolutely drenched if visiting after rainfall. For an even closer encounter, book a cruise right into the falls' cauldron on the Zambezi River. Remember a rain jacket, as waves will soak you regardless of the weather. Animal lovers won't want to miss walking amidst troops of playful baboons and watching hippos laze along the shore.

Wildlife watching

The lush countryside surrounding Victoria Falls is home to an incredible diversity of African wildlife. Go on a sunrise game drive in either the Zimbabwean or Zambian parks to see elephants, buffalo, antelope and if you're lucky, lions or leopards on the prowl. No visit is complete without a stint at a local crocodile farm to learn about these prehistoric predators up close and personal. Birders will find over 500 species including the brilliantly colored lilac-breasted roller. After a hot day of game drives, relax at your lodge with a cold drink and scans the skies for African fish eagles soaring overhead.

Take the plunge

What adventurous traveler could pass up throwing themselves off the edge of the Victoria Falls? Whether you bungee jump off the 111m high bridge span, take the more sedate "fly" ride in a helicopter above the mists, or go for the ultimate rush with a base jump, this action park has thrills to satisfy daredevils of all stripes. For those seeking less heart-pounding options, try a scenic flight over the falls or relax with high tea at the elegant Victoria Falls Hotel overlooking the rainswept gorge. However you choose to experience this natural phenomenon, Victoria Falls promises memories to last a lifetime. The smoke has stopped thundering - time to plan your visit!