Victoria Falls

No doubt about it, Mosi-oa-Tunya (meaning "The Smoke That Thunders") -- but more commonly known as Victoria Falls -- is one of the most amazing sights in the world. Just a few miles outside Livingstone and Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe), the Falls are twice as tall as Niagara Falls, and several times longer.

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Culture and History

The big question is which side - Zambia or Zimbabwe? - the answer is quite simply Zimbabwe - If you are travelling through Zambia then Zimbabwe's reputation may put you off - but it shouldn't - although the US$30 visa and US$20 entry fee (US$10 for SADC residents) to the Falls may do more to deter you if you are only coming over for the day. Still it is another African country to brag about visiting and the visa has an impressive hologram on it!

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Travel to Victoria Falls, visa requirements

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Victoria Falls attractions and sightseeing

The park is open year-round, but you will get a much different experience depending on the season in which you visit.

• In the rainy season (November to March), the water volume will be higher and the Falls will be more dramatic. You are guaranteed to get wet if you cross the bridge or walk along the trails winding near the Falls. On the other hand, it is precisely because the volume of water is so high that your viewing of the actual Falls will be obscured -- by all the water!
• In the dry season, (April to October), the water volume will be lower, and Victoria Falls might just be a trickle. You will get a clearer view of the rocky ledge beneath the Falls, which is pretty spectacular unto itself, but "the Falls" might be somewhat underwhelming.

It is not possible to sleep or dine in the park. Most people sleep in either Livingstone -- in Zambia -- or Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe) -- in Zimbabwe.

There are some great hotels in Livingstone (Zambian side). There are some expensive resorts that are operated by Sun International, but various others a little distance from the falls.

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City tours

• Golfing
• Bungee.
• White water rafting.
• Cruise up the Zambezi upstream of the falls. This is a must do. Utterly beautiful.
• Take a microlight flight over the falls.
• Craft Shopping at the Miramba Market, just outside the falls. Be prepared to bargain hard.

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Good restaurants and cheap meals

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Victoria Falls nightlife, bars, clubs and pubs.

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Hotels, youth hostels, lodging