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A guide to the Victoria Falls rainforest walk – Some peace and quiet awaits

The Victoria Falls Rainforest Walk is a must-do experience for anyone visiting this natural wonder. It offers a perfect blend of adventure, tranquillity, and awe-inspiring views, allowing you to appreciate the power and beauty of Victoria Falls fully. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a photographer, or simply looking for a peaceful walk, the rainforest trail promises a memorable and breathtaking journey through one of Africa’s most iconic landscapes.

Meta description: The Victoria Falls Rainforest Walk offers an immersive experience through lush vegetation, stunning viewpoints, and diverse wildlife, showcasing the beauty of one of Africa’s most iconic landscapes.

Image via Royal Livingstone Hotel by Anantara

Introduction to the Victoria Falls Rainforest Walk

The Victoria Falls Rainforest Walk is one of the most enchanting ways to experience the majesty of Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Situated on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, this UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its breathtaking beauty and sheer power. The rainforest walk offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the lush, mist-covered forest surrounding the falls, providing stunning viewpoints and a chance to immerse yourself in the area’s natural splendour. Many Victoria Falls hotels in Livingstone, the likes of Royal Livingstone Hotel by Anantara provide amazing amenities and ease of access.

The Start of the Journey

The rainforest walk begins at the entrance to Victoria Falls National Park on the Zimbabwean side of the falls. As you set off on the trail, you’ll be greeted by the sound of thundering water and the sight of mist rising from the falls, creating a cool and refreshing atmosphere. The path is well-marked and easy to follow, making it accessible to visitors of all ages and fitness levels. The entire walk typically takes about 1-2 hours, depending on how much time you spend at each viewpoint.

Spectacular Viewpoints

One of the highlights of the rainforest walk is the series of viewpoints that offer different perspectives of Victoria Falls. The walk features 16 main viewpoints, each with its own unique angle on the falls. Some of the most popular stops include the Devil’s Cataract, which provides a close-up view of the westernmost part of the falls, and the Main Falls, where you can witness the full breadth of the water cascading over the edge. The Knife-Edge Bridge is another must-see, offering a dramatic view of the Eastern Cataract and the swirling mists below.

Flora and Fauna of the Rainforest

As you walk through the rainforest, you’ll be surrounded by lush vegetation that thrives in the moist environment created by the constant spray from the falls. The rainforest is home to a variety of plant species, including ferns, palms, and fig trees, as well as colourful flowers that add to the beauty of the trail. Keep an eye out for the diverse birdlife that inhabits the area, including the vibrant Livingstone’s turaco, with its striking green and red plumage. Monkeys and other small animals are also often spotted along the trail.

Practical Tips for the Rainforest Walk

To make the most of your rainforest walk, it’s important to come prepared. Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the paths can be wet and slippery due to the mist. A lightweight raincoat or poncho is recommended, as you’re likely to get wet from the spray. Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning views, but be sure to protect it from moisture. Early morning or late afternoon are the best times to visit, as the lighting is perfect for photography, and the park is less crowded.

Experience the Wonders of Zambezi River Cruises – A Mesmerising Journey of Discovery

Unleash your inner explorer as you embark on a cruise along the mighty Zambezi River amidst the untamed natural beauty and exotic wildlife of southern Africa; if such an adventure has got you excited, read on to find out more!

How to Get Started

There are various cruises on offer at both the Zambian and Zimbabwean sides of the Zambezi River. A good option would be to find accommodation in Livingstone, Zambia that offers such river cruises as well as unlimited access to Victoria Falls, known for being the largest sheet of falling water on the planet! In this regard, The Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Zambia Hotel by Anantara makes an ideal choice offering luxurious rooms and suites, various Zambezi River activities, dining venues and spa rituals.

Sunset Cruises

The most popular Zambezi River cruises would undoubtedly be sunset excursions which provide a magical setting. Such experiences can be enjoyed when based at a Livingstone hotel; Victoria Falls can also be viewed on one of these unforgettable journeys along the river. Such cruises can be taken with a knowledgeable guide along the boundary of the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park giving you a chance to spot wildlife too; be on the lookout to see bush elephants, hippos, buffaloes, giraffes, crocodiles and more!

Other Cruises & Safaris

Keep in mind you also get early morning and afternoon cruises on the Zambezi River; those taking place at sunrise provide an enchanting view of life on the river as the day begins as well as the perfect setting for photographs and birdwatching. Apart from cruises, some resorts will also provide thrilling river safaris right from their onsite jetties; such excursions are well worth experiencing too and offer a wonderful opportunity to observe free-roaming animals, diverse bird species and the stunning Victoria Falls.

Additional River Experiences

Keep in mind there are other escapades as well, so look to stay at a resort that provides more river-based experiences and things to do in Victoria Falls. These can include exhilarating journeys to Livingstone Island along the river where you will find the intriguing Devil’s Pool offering breathtaking views beside a 100-metre drop. Families can look to go exploring on a canoeing safari, while adrenaline junkies can go white water rafting or bungee jumping off the Victoria Falls Bridge, 111 metres above the Zambezi River!

The best safari experiences in Zambia – Beckoning the passionate wildlife enthusiast

Voyage across African savannahs in search of elusive leopards, majestic elephants, and a host of other species as part of a safari expedition in Zambia that is likely to be etched in your memory.

Make plans for South Luangwa

Few in the African continent rival the flora and fauna on show within the nation’s most traversed wildlife park – South Luangwa National Park. One could choose from a guided walking tour to driving within its territories come morning or night. With some luck, you will be able to spot a leopard on the prowl. If not, you need not wait long before a herd of African elephants fills your gaze.

Access Lower Zam

Though, small in stature, the Lower Zambezi National Park found running the length of the Zambian border along the mighty Zambezi River is one of Africa’s picturesque reserves. While diverse species call the Lower Zam their home, perhaps, a reason in chief for calling by the Park is the opportunity it presents anglers to cast their line in the Zambezi in search of tiger fish.

Admire Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park

Encounter giraffes moving towards and out of dense thickets as you ride a robust 4×4 that will deftly take you across rough terrain. Stretching out for 12 km along the banks of the Upper Zambezi is the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park which can be conveniently reached from Royal Livingstone Hotel by Anantara which is a lavish Livingstone hotel Victoria Falls has to offer. During your outing, you are sure to come into contact with antelope, buffalo and the white rhino which is the 2nd largest land mammal on earth.

Fabio Achilli from Milano, Italy, Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, Zambia (48598532326), CC BY 2.0

Roam Kafue National Park

From witnessing prides of lions, cheetahs, hippos to the 490 species of birds that find refuge within the borders of Kafue National Park, one is in for the ultimate wildlife experience when at Africa’s largest national park.

Have a world-class safaris adventure in Zambia – For your diary of Africa

Zambia is a landlocked country in Southern Africa that offers diverse tourist attractions. There is something for everyone in Zambia, from national parks to historical sites. Let’s explore the top tourist attractions in Zambia:

Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls is one of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders and is located on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. The falls are over a mile wide and drop 355 feet into the Zambezi River. Visitors can take a guided tour of the falls offered by a Livingstone hotel in Victoria Falls or go white-water rafting, bungee jumping, or zip-lining to experience the power and beauty of the falls up close.

South Luangwa National Park

South Luangwa National Park is one of Zambia’s premier wildlife reserves and is home to a wide variety of animals, including elephants, leopards, giraffes, and hippos. Visitors can take a safari tour through the park to see the wildlife up close or stay in one of the park’s luxurious lodges for an unforgettable wilderness experience.

Livingstone Island

Livingstone Island is a small, rocky island located on the edge of Victoria Falls. Visitors staying at Royal Livingstone Hotel by Anantara can take a guided tour of the island and swim in the Devil’s Pool, a natural rock pool that sits on the edge of the falls. The experience is exhilarating and offers a unique perspective of the falls.

Lusaka National Museum

The Lusaka National Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in Zambian history and culture. The museum features exhibits on the country’s pre-colonial history, traditional art and music, and the colonial era. Visitors can also see a collection of traditional weapons, household items, and clothing.

Incredible wildlife of Zambia – Animals you can see

The vast Luangwa Valley, the majestic Victoria Falls, and the untamed Zambezi River are all found in the landlocked nation of Zambia, along with more than a dozen National Parks and other important wildlife conservation programs. It should come as no surprise that adventurous travellers who seek unspoiled African nature flock to Zambia. A safari in Zambia is the best opportunity to get up close to the continent’s wildlife. Here are only seven amazing species you can see in their natural settings.

African Elephants

African elephants, the largest species of elephant, can be found in Zambia’s river-rich national parks such as South Luangwa, Lower Zambezi, and Kafue. Elephants live in close matriarchal families, much like humans, making them one of the cutest large mammals. The family members are so close to one another that you seldom ever see them more than a few steps apart.

Charles J. Sharp creator QS:P170,Q54800218, African bush elephants (Loxodonta africana) female with six-week-old baby, CC BY-SA 4.0

Lions

In Zambia’s grasslands, the king of the jungle spends his time hunting or relaxing. You have a decent chance of seeing one of these gorgeous cats in the southern parts of South Luangwa and Kafue National Park, which both contain sizable pride within a constrained territory. In Kafue, where they are known to be especially playful, you might even catch a pride of lions climbing trees if you’re lucky. You can arrange for a safari with your Livingstone hotel in Victoria Falls.

White Rhinos

Due to poaching, white rhinos, the largest species of rhinoceros, were once uncommon in southern Africa. The Zambia Wildlife Authority did, however, transport four white rhinos from South Africa to Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park in 2010. Currently, a herd of over ten animals is closely guarded and lives close to Victoria Falls to stop poaching.

Giraffes

Giraffes, the world’s tallest mammals, graze on trees in the South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi National Parks. The Thornycroft’s giraffe subspecies is only found in Zambia and has distinctive markings. About 20 giraffes make up a herd. You might even be lucky to spot a few at your resort such as Royal Livingstone Hotel by Anantara.

The mesmerising beauty of Zambia’s Victoria Falls – A spectacular view

Mosi-oa-Tunya is what the locals call it. The Victoria Falls in Zambia is indeed a wonderful creation of nature. It’s also one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the world.

The location

Located along the course of the Zambezi River, the Victoria Falls is an attraction visited by many guests who spend their holidays at any Livingstone hotel the likes of Royal Livingstone Hotel by Anantara.

It’s a massive creation

Did you know that Victoria Falls is even larger than Niagara Falls? It’s as twice as wide and deep as Niagara Falls.

The waters fall into a chasm

Although many waterfalls have an open basin on which all the waters drop, Victoria Falls has a chasm.

A little bit from the history

It was in 1855 that this waterfall was first discovered by a British explorer. He was also the one who named this beautiful waterfall ‘Victoria’ in respect of the Queen Victoria of the UK.

Attractions nearby

Those who come to enjoy the views of Victoria Falls also have the opportunity to explore many more. Victoria Falls National Park, Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park are located very close by.