victoria falls location

Victoria Falls Location | All About Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Victoria Falls Water falls in Zimbabwe

Welcome to the captivating realm of Victoria Falls, where the essence of "Victoria Falls location" becomes the gateway to an extraordinary adventure. Located on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe in Southern Africa, Victoria Falls stands as a breathtaking testament to the raw power and splendor of nature. Also known as "Mosi-oa-Tunya" or "The Smoke that Thunders," this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a magnetic destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Join us as we explore the geographical wonders , cultural richness, and myriad activities that make Victoria Falls a truly enchanting experience. Get ready for an enlightening journey through the heart of this iconic waterfall, where the spirit of adventure converges with the unparalleled beauty of Mother Nature.


Where is Victoria Falls located?

Victoria Falls is situated on the Zambezi River, which forms the border between Zambia to the north and Zimbabwe to the south. The coordinates for Victoria Falls are approximately 17.9249° S latitude and 25.8572° E longitude. Victoria Falls is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was inscribed as a World Heritage Site in 1989 due to its outstanding natural beauty and significance. The falls are recognized as one of the largest and most spectacular waterfalls in the world, attracting visitors from all over the globe.

Victoria Falls location

Tourism is a significant industry in the region, attracting at least a million visitors per year from around the world to witness the breathtaking beauty of Victoria Falls and to engage in various outdoor activities. The falls are also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Why do people visit Victoria Falls?

People visit Victoria Falls for its breathtaking natural beauty and awe-inspiring size. Besides being a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Victoria Falls is also one of the seven natural wonders of the world. As a destination, Victoria Falls offers a range of experiences for visitors, including:


  1. Sightseeing:The main attraction is, of course, the falls themselves, which stretch over a mile wide and drop more than 100 meters into the gorge below. Witnessing the powerful rush of water and the mist rising from the gorge is a truly unforgettable experience.
  2. Adventure Activities: Visitors can also partake in a variety of adrenaline-pumping activities such as bungee jumping, white-water rafting, zip-lining, and helicopter tours, providing unique perspectives of the falls from above.
  3. Wildlife Viewing:The surrounding area is home to diverse wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, hippos, and various bird species. Safaris and wildlife tours are popular among visitors looking to explore the region's natural wonders. The best place to view Victoria Falls largely depends on personal preferences and the desired experience:

What is the best time to visit Victoria Falls?

Victoria Falls in high water season

The best time to visit Victoria Falls depends on what kind of experience you're looking for:

  1. High Water Season (February to June): This is when the falls are at their most powerful and impressive. The peak flow is usually around April, creating a stunning display of water and mist. However, the heavy mist can obscure views of the falls, and some activities may be limited.
  2. Low Water Season (September to December): During this time, the water levels are lower, revealing more of the rock formations and allowing for better visibility of the falls. Activities like white-water rafting and swimming in the Devil’s Pool are more accessible. The lower water levels also mean less mist, providing clearer views and better photographic opportunities.
  3. Transitional Periods (January and July-August): These months are the in-between seasons where the water levels are neither at their highest nor lowest. January can still be quite wet, while July and August are drier but starting to warm up.
Victoria Falls in low water season

Each season offers a different perspective of the falls, so consider what you prioritize in your visit when choosing the best time.

You might also be wondering about the best time of day to visit the waterfall. I suggest the time between 10 AM and 3 PM. The falls are well-lit during this period, making it ideal for photography. There will not be as much mist or as many showers compared to early morning or late afternoon. Rainbows can also be prominent around midday.

Here are 7 geographical facts about Victoria Falls

  1. The falls are situated at approximately 17.9249° S latitude and 25.8572° E longitude.
  2. The falls are shared between Zambia and Zimbabwe. The Zambezi River, which feeds Victoria Falls, is the natural boundary between the two countries.
  3. Livingstone in Zambia and Victoria Falls Town in Zimbabwe are the two primary towns near the falls. Livingstone is named after the Scottish explorer David Livingstone, who was the first European to see the falls.
  4. Victoria Falls is formed by the Zambezi River, which is one of the longest rivers in Africa. The river flows through several countries, including Angola, Zambia, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique.
  5. The falls are approximately 1,708 meters (5,604 feet) wide, making them the widest waterfalls globally. The height of the falls varies along its span, with the largest single drop being around 108 meters (354 feet).
  6. The falls are located within the Zambezi Gorge, which the river has carved over thousands of years. The Batoka Gorge is downstream from the falls.
  7. The area surrounding Victoria Falls is protected and designated as national parks in both Zambia and Zimbabwe. In Zimbabwe, it is part of the Victoria Falls National Park, and in Zambia, it falls within the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park.

A bit about the history of the Victoria Falls

David Livingstone Victoria Falls was known to indigenous peoples in the region for centuries before the arrival of European explorers. However, the first European to discover the falls is widely considered to be David Livingstone, a Scottish missionary and explorer. Livingstone encountered Victoria Falls on November 17, 1855 , and he named the falls after Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom.

David Livingstone is known for his extensive explorations of Africa and his efforts to map and understand the continent. When he first saw the falls, he wrote in his journal: "Scenes so lovely must have been gazed upon by angels in their flight." Livingstone's detailed accounts and descriptions of Victoria Falls brought international attention to this natural wonder, and his exploration played a significant role in making the falls known to the Western world .



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