Majestic Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

June 14, 2012 | By Donna Evans

The thunder echos as the fog rises. When you get closer the mist covers you, folding you into the blanket of drops that bounce from the pouring of the massive amount of water tumbling from the river to the canyon below it. The amazing Victoria Falls spans two countries in Africa: Zimbabwe and Zambia. One of the seven wonders of the world, this rushing flow of water is also known as the “cloud that thunders”. When you set eyes and ears upon it, this becomes more clear.

There are options of helicopter, small plane or microlight flights over the falls, depending on the side of the Zambezi River you are staying. I recommend both, since each offers a different experience and the time of year also makes a difference. Later in the year you will find the water on the Zambia side at a mere trickle. The Zimbabwe side will be rushing as usual and a tour under portions of the falls is worth getting wet. Wearing a hooded poncho will help with this, but you will be surprised at the amount of precipitation you will encounter despite this preparation.

If you are in Africa at all, Victoria Falls is worth the visit. Plan to spend a couple of nights and enjoy an elephant ride, river cruise or wildlife safari in addition to viewing Victoria Falls from the air.