Victoria Falls Fun Facts: A Must-Know For Travel Enthusiasts
Victoria Falls is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, located on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe. It is known for its majestic and powerful waterfall, which is the largest in the world. If you are planning to visit Victoria Falls in the near future or just want to learn more about it, here are some fun facts that you should know.
1. Victoria Falls is Named After Queen Victoria
The waterfall was named after Queen Victoria, who was the reigning monarch of Great Britain when the falls were first discovered by the Western world in 1855. The falls were previously known as “Mosi-oa-Tunya”, which means “The Smoke that Thunders” in the local language.
2. The Falls Are Over a Mile Wide
Victoria Falls is over a mile wide, making it the largest waterfall in the world. The water falls from a height of 108 meters (354 feet) into a narrow gorge below.
3. You Can Swim at the Edge of the Falls
The Devil’s Pool, located on the edge of Victoria Falls, is a natural pool that allows visitors to swim right up to the edge of the waterfall. It is only accessible during the dry season, from September to December, when the water levels are low enough to allow safe access.
4. Victoria Falls is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Victoria Falls was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1989, recognizing its unique geological and ecological importance. The site is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species, including elephants, lions, and hippos.
5. The Falls Have a Rainbow
Due to the mist created by the waterfall, a rainbow is almost always visible over the falls. The best time to see the rainbow is in the late afternoon, when the sun is low in the sky.
6. Victoria Falls is a Popular Adventure Destination
Victoria Falls is a popular destination for adventure seekers. Visitors can go bungee jumping, white water rafting, and zip-lining over the gorge. There are also helicopter rides that provide scenic views of the waterfall from above.
7. The Falls Are Sacred to the Locals
Victoria Falls is considered a sacred site by the local people, who believe that it is home to powerful spirits. Visitors are asked to be respectful of the local customs and traditions.
8. The Falls Are a Source of Hydroelectric Power
The Zambezi River, which feeds Victoria Falls, is a major source of hydroelectric power for Zambia and Zimbabwe. The Kariba Dam, located downstream from the falls, generates electricity for both countries.
9. The Falls Have a Lunar Rainbow
During a full moon, a lunar rainbow is visible over Victoria Falls. This natural phenomenon is caused by the reflection, refraction, and dispersion of light through water droplets in the air.
10. Victoria Falls is a Year-Round Destination
While the best time to visit Victoria Falls is during the dry season, from May to October, it is a year-round destination. During the wet season, from November to April, the waterfall is at its most powerful and impressive.
11. The Falls Have a High Flow Rate
The Zambezi River, which feeds Victoria Falls, has a high flow rate of over 1,000 cubic meters per second. This means that the waterfall is always powerful and impressive, regardless of the time of year.
12. Victoria Falls is a Natural Border
Victoria Falls is located on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe, and is a natural border between the two countries. Visitors can easily cross the border on foot, and can visit both sides of the waterfall.
13. The Falls Have a Unique Sound
The sound of Victoria Falls can be heard from miles away, and is often described as a deep rumble or thundering roar. The sound is caused by the millions of gallons of water that flow over the waterfall every minute.
14. The Falls Have a Rich History
Victoria Falls has a rich history, dating back thousands of years. The local people believe that the waterfall was created by the gods, and it has been a site of spiritual significance for generations.
15. Victoria Falls is a Must-See Destination
Whether you are an adventure seeker or a nature lover, Victoria Falls is a must-see destination. With its majestic waterfall, diverse wildlife, and rich history, it is a truly unique and unforgettable experience.
In conclusion, Victoria Falls is one of the most impressive natural wonders of the world, and these fun facts only scratch the surface of what makes it so special. If you have the opportunity to visit this amazing destination, be sure to take in all that it has to offer.
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