Mosi-oa-Tunya / Victoria Falls
Unesco World Heritage

Location on Map

Introduction

Mosi-oa-Tunya / Victoria Falls is a UNESCO World Heritage site located on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. This magnificent natural wonder is renowned for its awe-inspiring beauty and is considered one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the world. The site is of great cultural and historical significance, attracting visitors from all over the globe.

History

The history of Mosi-oa-Tunya / Victoria Falls dates back thousands of years. The indigenous people of the area, the Toka-Leya, Batoka, and Tonga tribes, have long revered the falls as a sacred site. They referred to it as "Mosi-oa-Tunya," meaning "The Smoke that Thunders," due to the immense spray and thunderous noise created by the falling water.

The first European to lay eyes on the falls was the Scottish explorer David Livingstone in 1855. He named the falls after Queen Victoria, and they have been known as Victoria Falls ever since. Livingstone's discovery brought international attention to the site, and it quickly became a popular destination for explorers, adventurers, and tourists.

Current State

Mosi-oa-Tunya / Victoria Falls continues to captivate visitors with its breathtaking beauty and natural splendor. The falls are situated within two national parks: Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park in Zambia and Victoria Falls National Park in Zimbabwe. These protected areas ensure the preservation of the site's unique ecosystem and wildlife.

The falls themselves are a staggering 1,708 meters wide and drop approximately 108 meters into the Zambezi Gorge. The sheer volume of water cascading over the edge creates a mesmerizing spectacle, with mist rising high into the air and rainbows frequently forming in the spray.

Visitors can explore the falls from various viewpoints, including the Knife-Edge Bridge, which offers a thrilling vantage point right at the edge of the falls. The Devil's Pool, a natural rock pool on the Zambian side, allows adventurous visitors to swim right at the precipice of the falls during the dry season.

Aside from the falls themselves, the surrounding area is teeming with wildlife. The national parks are home to a diverse range of species, including elephants, buffalo, zebras, giraffes, and numerous bird species. Guided safaris and walking tours provide visitors with the opportunity to observe these animals in their natural habitat.

The towns of Livingstone in Zambia and Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe serve as gateways to the falls, offering a range of accommodation options, restaurants, and tourist facilities. Both towns have developed sustainable tourism practices to ensure the long-term preservation of the site and its surrounding communities.

Conclusion

Mosi-oa-Tunya / Victoria Falls is a UNESCO World Heritage site that continues to captivate visitors with its natural beauty and cultural significance. Its rich history, breathtaking views, and abundant wildlife make it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. The site's protected status ensures its preservation for future generations to enjoy and appreciate.