The sight of Mosi-oa-Tunya, which translates to “the smoke that thunders,” otherwise known as the Victoria Falls, is probably one of the most spectacular scenes any man can see in his whole life. It is as if the heavens itself opened up and created this magnificent wonder for us mortals. No kind of falls can compare to the beauty that Victoria Falls offers. It makes one contemplate about the meaning of life and the significance or insignificance of man as compared to something as beautiful and ethereal as the Victoria Falls. Any first timer cannot help himself and stare at nature’s creation.
This one of a kind scenic beauty is located in Zimbabwe and it is twice in height as the Niagara Falls and many times in length. The Victoria Falls was first discovered by the Scottish missionary David Livingstone in 1855. He first heard about Victoria Falls in 1851. The Mosi-oa-Tunya has been a sacred place for the Batoka and other tribes that live near the falls. It was in fact a tribe leader by the name of Chief Sekeletu of the Makololo that personally guided the first European traveler in the Victoria Falls. Upon seeing this wonder, Dr. Livingstone wrote, “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.” Dr. Livingstone was evidently very taken by the magnificence of Victoria Falls and rightly so as even now any visitor cannot help but be amazed at its beauty. The Victoria Falls bridge was first built in 1900 by Cecil John Rhodes and completed in 1905 to allow travelers to see “the smoke that thunders” up close and personal. After man has invaded Victoria Falls, colonization soon cut in further developing Victoria Falls to be tourist friendly and safe.
Many years since then, and in contemporary times, the Victoria Falls is considered as one of the top tourist attractions in Zimbabwe. A park was built in the Victoria Falls allowing tourists to visit all year round. Different seasons offer different experiences for the tourist. During the rainy season in Zimbabwe, which is from November to March, the water level is high giving a more chilling effect to Victoria Falls. One will surely get wet as one walks upon the Victoria Falls Bridge. It must be warned that during the rainy season viewing of the Victoria Falls may offer some difficulties. Tourists can also try to visit Victoria Falls during the dry season, which is from April to October. The water volume is relatively lower than in the rainy season and a beautiful breathtaking scene of the Victoria Falls can be seen. Aside from sight-seeing tourists can also try bungeeing, golfing and white water rafting. To experience the naked beauty of the falls why not try a cruise in the Zambezi upstream. You can also have a microlight flight above the Victoria Falls as well as shopping for native products in the nearby Miramba Market.
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