The 7 Most Interesting Facts about Victoria Falls Town

If you are planning a visit to Victoria Falls Town, you are in for a treat. This small but vibrant town is located on the Zimbabwean side of Victoria Falls, one of the seven natural wonders of the world. Here are some interesting facts you might not know about Victoria Falls Town.

Fact 1: The Falls were named after Queen Victoria

The Victoria Falls were named after Queen Victoria by the famous Scottish explorer David Livingstone when he first set eyes on them in 1855. The local name for the falls is Mosi-oa-Tunya, which means “the smoke that thunders.”

Fact 2: Victoria Falls is the Largest Waterfall in the World

Victoria Falls is the largest waterfall in the world, measuring over 1,700 meters wide and with a height of more than 100 meters. It is twice the size of Niagara Falls in North America.

Fact 3: Victoria Falls Town is the Adventure Capital of Africa

Victoria Falls Town has earned the title of the adventure capital of Africa thanks to its impressive array of adrenaline-fueled activities available. Visitors can bungee jump off the Victoria Falls Bridge, zip-line across the Batoka Gorge, and gorge swing above the Zambezi River.

Fact 4: The Zambezi River is Home to Over 75 Species of Fish

The Zambezi River that flows through Victoria Falls is home to over 75 species of fish, including the famous tiger fish, which is a favorite among anglers.

Fact 5: Victoria Falls Has a Unique Microclimate

Thanks to the falls, Victoria Falls Town has a unique microclimate. Rainbows are visible throughout the year, and heavy mist from the falls creates a natural rainforest ecosystem in the surrounding area.

Fact 6: Victoria Falls Bridge Connects Zimbabwe and Zambia

The Victoria Falls Bridge, which spans the Zambezi River, connects Zimbabwe and Zambia. It was designed by the same engineers who built the famous Sydney Harbour Bridge in Australia.

Fact 7: Victoria Falls Town Has a Rich Railway History

Victoria Falls Town has a rich railway history that dates back to the early 1900s. The town was once an important railway hub that connected the southern and central parts of Africa to the port of Beira in Mozambique.

Conclusion

These are just a few of the interesting facts about Victoria Falls Town. If you’re planning a trip to this amazing destination, make sure you take the time to appreciate all that it has to offer. Whether it’s adventure, nature, history, or culture that you’re after, Victoria Falls Town has it all.

The Insider’s Guide to Victoria Falls Town, Zimbabwe

Victoria Falls Town is a picturesque town located in the northwestern part of Zimbabwe, considered to be one of the most popular tourist destinations in Southern Africa. This vibrant town is known for its majestic Victoria Falls, which is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. In addition to this magnificent natural attraction, visitors can look forward to experiencing the town’s rich history, culture and exploring the diverse activities that make Victoria Falls Town unique.

Local Attractions

Victoria Falls, locally known as “Mosi-oa-Tunya” is the main attraction in the town. This waterfall is 108 meters high and is situated on the Zambezi River. Visitors can access the falls from both the Zimbabwean and the Zambian side. Adventure enthusiasts can also partake in activities like bungee jumping, white-water rafting, zip-lining, and helicopter rides in the Victoria Falls National Park.

Another fascinating attraction is the Victoria Falls Bridge. Built in 1905, it is a symbol of engineering genius at the time. Visitors can take a walk on the bridge and take in the stunning views of the Zambezi River and Victoria Falls.

For a unique experience, tourists can visit Crocodile Farm, which is situated on the outskirts of the town. The farm is home to over 3,000 Nile crocodiles, and visitors can witness them up close during feeding times.

Dining Spots

Victoria Falls Town has an extensive range of dining options to satisfy every palate. The Boma restaurant offers a unique dining experience with traditional Zimbabwean dishes served in a lively and interactive setting.

The Lookout Café is located above the Batoka Gorge and offers stunning views of the Zambezi River while enjoying a cup of coffee or a light meal. For those looking for fine dining, the Livingstone Room in the Victoria Falls Hotel offers a sophisticated ambiance serving contemporary cuisine with a Zimbabwean twist.

Cultural Experiences

Victoria Falls Town has a rich African cultural heritage that visitors can experience through various cultural tours. The Mukuni Village Tour takes tourists on a journey back in time to visit a traditional Tonga village to learn about the local customs, beliefs, and way of life.

For art lovers, the town has several art galleries featuring some of Zimbabwe’s most celebrated artists. The Elephant’s Walk Art & Craft Center, located in the city center, showcases various art and craft shops, making it a perfect stop for souvenir shopping.

Local History

Victoria Falls Town has a rich history that dates back to the colonial era. The town was first established as a railway workers’ camp in the early 1900s.

The Victoria Falls Hotel, which is a five-star hotel, was built in 1904 to accommodate tourists visiting Victoria Falls. The hotel is a testament to Zimbabwe’s rich history and is a perfect blend of colonial and African architecture.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For visitors looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences, Victoria Falls Town has a lot to offer. The Zambezi National Park is located just a few kilometers outside of the town and is home to various wildlife and bird species, including lions, elephants, buffalo, and crocodiles.

The Zambezi River runs through Victoria Falls, and many local tour operators offer sunset river cruises that give visitors a chance to experience the river’s serenity while watching the wildlife along the riverbank.

Another off-the-beaten-path suggestion is to explore the town’s street art. Many locals have created murals and paintings on the town’s walls, depicting both Zimbabwean and contemporary themes.

Conclusion

Victoria Falls Town is a perfect destination for tourists looking for an unforgettable experience. From the majestic Victoria Falls to the rich cultural heritage and history, visitors can look forward to an authentic African experience. Intrepid travelers should not miss out on exploring the off-the-beaten-path suggestions to gain a deeper insight into the town’s lifestyle and unique offerings.