Victoria Falls Offers Breathtaking Views and Wildlife Encounters

A trip to Zimbabwe's Victoria Falls is an awe-inspiring experience that leaves a lasting impression on visitors. The falls, known locally as Mosi-ao-Tunya or "the smoke that thunders, are a breathtaking sight to behold.

From the Zimbabwe side of the falls, just half a mile away from the cascading water, the spray provides a refreshing respite from the warm autumn morning. As you approach closer, the mist becomes so heavy that it drenches those stopping to take in the view from designated lookouts or along slippery pathways connecting various viewpoints.

The sheer scale of Victoria Falls is undeniable - its 1,700-meter width earns it a spot as one of the seven natural wonders of the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. But what's equally captivating is how the falls' spray often obscures the view entirely, leaving only the deafening roar of water in the air.

The surrounding area, particularly the town of Victoria Falls, offers a more chaotic experience than expected. The once small town has grown rapidly to the point where it has been reclassified as a city, according to Savanah Du Preez, camp manager at Mpala Jena Private Villas.

Du Preez's own childhood experiences in and around Victoria Falls reflect this growth - she remembers encountering baboons and wild buffalo on roads while walking to school.

The town's main commercial area is a grid of small roads lined with shops selling tours and safari trips alongside souvenir stalls and local eateries. A diverse range of food options has emerged to cater to the growing number of tourists visiting Victoria Falls. Wood-fired pizzas and chicken masala pies are now available at several bakeries and cafes in the town, an unexpected but welcome addition to the local dining scene.

Despite the surge in tourism, Victoria Falls still belongs to its wild inhabitants. The Zambezi National Park encircles the town, providing a vast 56,000-hectare habitat for animals to roam freely. This protected area is home to a wide variety of wildlife, and my guide points out several species during our excursion.

One morning, as we stopped near an ancient giant baobab tree, known as the Big Tree", my guide spotted a large elephant lurking in the underbrush. The elephant's tusks resembled spears, a striking sight. My guide also mentioned that leopards are occasionally seen while driving at night, although they proved elusive during my stay.

The transfer to my accommodation, Mpala Jena villa, was an opportunity to spot wildlife from the water. Barely 10 minutes into the boat journey from Kalambezi jetty, we saw two elephants swimming across the river. Their trunks periodically broke the surface as they moved through the water.

The Zambezi River flows gently past the Mpala Jena luxury safari camp, its tranquil waters a stark contrast to the mighty Victoria Falls just upstream. Visitors from Zambia can enter Zimbabwe without needing passports, a unique perk in this corner of Africa.

As I watch, a mother elephant helps her calf navigate the river's currents and climb up muddy banks, a heartwarming scene that has left me moved to tears. It's a moment that rivals my best safari sightings over the years, a testament to the park's rich wildlife.

My three-bedroom villa is nestled on a private island just minutes upstream from the camp, blending Italian design with earthy African accents. The airy space features drystone walls and conical roofs, while rattan accents and terracottas bring warmth to the interior. Three spacious suites flank a central living and dining area.

Each suite comes equipped with its own outdoor bathing area and verandah, allowing guests to watch wildlife from the comfort of their rooms. My favorite spot is by the swimming pool, where I can lounge on a beanbag chair and enjoy direct views of the Zambezi River while sipping a drink from the adjacent bar.

The villa's seclusion offers guests a unique level of luxury and flexibility in planning their activities. With an on-site hospitality team consisting of a butler, bartender, chef, and nature guide, every need is catered to.

The sounds of the African bush are ever-present, with warthogs grazing peacefully on the grass, vervet monkeys swinging effortlessly through the trees, and red-billed hornbills flitting about in search of their next meal. Even at night, hippos can be heard grunting in the distance.

A game drive through the national park provides a thrilling way to reach Victoria Falls, taking approximately 90 minutes by 4x4. Alternatively, guests can opt for a boat ride that cuts travel time down to just 30 minutes.

Visitors arriving during the tail end of the monsoon season may find some trails inaccessible due to muddy conditions, but even sticking to the main path offers ample opportunities to spot more elephants and antelopes along the way.

The tranquility of Zambezi National Park stands in stark contrast to the bustling activity surrounding Victoria Falls. Amidst the ceaseless whirring of aircraft and tourists, this stillness is a welcome respite, filled only with the sweet songs of birds.

Not everyone comes to Victoria Falls seeking adventure, however. For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, there are plenty of opportunities to unwind. After visiting the falls, I enjoyed a meal at Lookout Café, situated precariously on the edge of the gorge, offering breathtaking views of the bridge connecting Zimbabwe with Zambia.

As I sipped an iced tea and savored my burger, I couldn't help but notice the thrill-seekers participating in the canopy tour. They were ziplining through the hardwood forest, taking in the stunning vistas of the falls from a unique perspective. Others were braving the gorge swing, a heart-pumping experience that left onlookers in awe.

The park offers a range of activities for those seeking a more relaxed experience. I visited Elephant's Walk artists' village, where artisans showcased their colorful wares, including vibrant beads and intricately block-printed textiles. The atmosphere was lively, with visitors engaging in friendly conversations with the enthusiastic artists.

Visitors to Zambezi National Park can also explore nearby wildlife reserves, including Hwange National Park, home to endangered wild dogs, and Chobe National Park in Botswana, known for its massive elephant herds.

For those seeking a more leisurely experience, the villa at Mpala Jena Private Villas offers an inviting atmosphere, complete with a spacious porch perfect for sipping cold drinks and taking in the sounds of nature, including the distinctive honking of hippos.

Guests can choose from two distinct accommodations: the three-bedroom villas at Mpala Jena, ideal for family trips, or the Victoria Falls Hotel within the town, offering 149 rooms with dramatic views of the gorge.