Victoria Falls: A First-Hand Visitor's Guide to the World's Largest Waterfall

Since explorer David Livingstone first visited Victoria Falls in 1855, it has drawn people from all over the world with its stunning power and majesty. Located at the border of Zimbabwe and Zambia, Victoria Falls is the largest waterfall in the world and also one of the seven natural wonders. A few years ago, I spent two weeks in Africa - one in Zimbabwe, and another in Zambia. The climax of my trip was an unforgettable visit to Victoria Falls.

Visiting a waterfall requires different planning than visiting, say, a museum. But having experienced something like Victoria Falls provides lasting memories for years to come. A trip to the world's largest waterfall isn't just about staring in wonder at the churning falls. It's a complete experience, with a lot of surprises, Here's the low-down on making the most of your visit - and outsmarting the monkeys!

Be Smart & Stay Safe

When I went to Zimbabwe, we were lucky enough to stay with friends who were native Zambians. If you're not that fortunate, it's critical that you hire a professional guide while planning your trip.Peddlers and scam artists prey upon bemused tourists. For those of you with boundless faith in authority, I have bad news: that can included police, airport employees and security. That is why having a guide who meets you upon arrival is so important. Dealing with difficult situations while traveling internationally can be sticky, and dealing with them incorrectly can even land you in jail. A guide that knows the area and can speak the language deters many scam artists, and can smooth out many problems for you A few examples: when we arrived at the airport, we found that our luggage was "lost" until we paid the airport employee $20.00 USD, at which time it "magically" reappeared. Also, my father was held by police without explanation for several hours because he was making balloon animals (he's an entertainer).

In addition to the guide, keep your passport and money in a passport holder which can be worn around the neck and tucked inside your shirt. Never expose your money in public. I was counting my money at the airport when a little old woman grabbed me and told me this. Also, as the adage goes, never talk to strangers. Unless you've traveled Africa before, Zimbabwe and its people will be a new and thrilling experience for you. You may also want to consider visiting on the Zambian side if you're traveling soon, as Zimbabwe is currently unsafe for many tourists. So stay safe, and enjoy the ride.

Where To Stay

There are myriad hotels on both the Zimbabwe and Zambia sides of Victoria Falls. Island-Safari.com allows you to find information on hotels, book your room, and even arrange safaris and other activities during your stay. Prices vary greatly, due to the fact that both sides vie for tourist dollars. If you don't mind walking a ways to the Falls, you can currently get a room for $65.00 USD. If you want to stay at one of the many five-star resorts on Victoria Falls, you will likely pay $350.00 USD or more. A big plus - any visitor booking through this website gets a free transfer from the airport, which saves you the trouble of hiring an individual guide. Some of the activities which you can add to your Victoria Falls trip include train safaris, the highest bridge bungee jump in the world, white water rafting and more.

Prepare To Get Wet

This one surprised me. When we were on the road approaching Victoria Falls, I noticed that it was raining. Our guide explained to me that it was not actually rain, but the mist churned up by the falls. The "rain" continued the rest of the way to Victoria Falls and during our entire visit. When packing, you might want to consider a lightweight poncho or umbrella. Also, if you have brought a camera (as you should), make sure it is either water-resistant or remains protected from the mist.

Dealing With Wildlife

This is another pleasant surprise when visiting Victoria Falls.The area surrounding Victoria Falls is full of wildlife. The animals are quite comfortable with humans - and the treats they inadvertently bring. The boldest and most troublesome of these animals are the monkeys.

Whatever bag you bring with you, make sure it is tightly and securely fastened to you. Tourists who are not friendly enough for the monkey's tastes may find their purses or backpacks stolen. I experienced an attempted monkey purse-knapping after I ran out of treats for them. According to our Zambian friend, this is a common occurrence. The monkeys rifle through the bags for anything edible or amusing, then throw them over the edge into Victoria Falls. After all, monkeys didn't get their mischievous reputations for nothing.

If you want to make a few monkey friends, pick up some fruit at one of the many stands outside of Victoria Falls, and bring a pocket knife to cut it into pieces. The monkeys will climb down onto the ground or lower branches and take the fruit from your hands. If you're lucky, they'll come even closer. When you run out of fruit, however, be sure to keep your bag close by, because they won't be pleased.

Victoria Falls is a wonderful place to visit, regardless of who you are or where you come from. Although it requires a little more thought and preparation than some more developed destinations, the exotic beauty of Victoria Falls will change your outlook on the natural world forever.