As the world’s largest sheet of falling water, Victoria Falls is roughly twice the height of North America’s Niagara Falls and plummets in a single vertical drop into a transverse chasm of basalt rock. This breathtaking waterfall, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is also well known by its indigenous Tonga name, Mosi-oa-Tunya — “The Smoke That Thunders”.
The TAS team on a rhino walking safari.
Marco van Embden, the TAS CEO, on a rhino walking safari.
The view during the helicopter ride over the Victoria Falls
Kim Evans watching the falls.
Our team enjoyed a visit the Zambian side of the Falls last week, where we stayed in and visited some of the beautiful properties to which we regularly send our guests. Royal Chundu, with two stunning riverfront lodges along a private 15km stretch of the Zambezi River, is an idyllic and luxurious retreat that also offers guests easy access to Chobe National Park. Sanctuary Sussi & Chuma – named for Dr. David Livingstone’s faithful friends – accommodates guests in sumptuous treehouses perched in giant ebony trees overlooking the River and is a spectacular base from which to explore the area. The environmentally-conscious design of the neighbouring Thorntree River Lodge is inspired by local customs and culture, and features a stunning riverfront deck with a sunken boma for outdoor dining and a beautiful infinity pool. Closest to the Falls is the Royal Livingstone Hotel, where Victorian elegance and colonial charms are in expressed in impeccable style.
Breakfast after a canoe ride down the Zambezi, hosted by Royal Chundu.
Belinda and Kim sitting next to the river at &Beyond Matetsi.
Kim, Belinda and Marco having lunch at &Beyond Matetsi.
With an action-packed itinerary, Marco, Casey and our team of travel specialists enjoyed a thrilling helicopter flight over the Falls, swam in the Devil’s Pool, went river rafting on the Zambezi, saw rhinos while on a walking safari, fed elephants by hand, watched the sun rise during an early-morning cruise and had a five-course dinner on a steam train that crossed the impressive Victoria Falls Bridge, a historical landmark with an incredible view of the area’s main attraction.
The TAS team in an upstream river ride.
The TAS team swimming in Devil’s Pool, on the edge of the Victoria Falls.
Abby during the farewell ceremony at the airport.
“It was a really incredible trip,” says Casey, who recommends a minimum of three nights at Victoria Falls. Whether you’re interested in experiencing the region’s natural beauty, wildlife, high adventure or family fun, there is plenty to do and see in this unforgettable part of Africa.