While Victoria Falls is a year-round destination, the river level fluctuates in tune to the seasons, and with every ebb and dip, it unveils a pool of different adventures. Annually, the water levels drop significantly in September, our dry season. Due to images that circulate on social media and other platforms, this can cause some alarm. I hope that this blog will put your mind at ease and show you why this is, in fact, one of the best times for your Victoria Falls getaway. Here is what you need to know:
1). The waterfall has not dried up!
As you can see from the images below, the Victoria Falls is far from thirsty! While the water level drops every year in August, September and October, there is still an impressive cascade of water on the Zimbabwean side. However, if you are staying in Zambia and choose to visit the rainforest on that side, you may be disappointed as this section is mostly rock face.
That does not mean that you won’t be able to experience this natural wonder! Zambia is a short drive away, and a simple border cross away. Citizens from certain countries can purchase a Kaza Uni-Visa at the border for a standard fee of $50. This is a multiple entry Visa valid for thirty days, issued for holiday purposes and is an efficient, cost-effective option for a tourist’s requirements.
If you do not qualify for a Uni-Visa, there are other Visa options available and in operation. You can also book transfers between Zim and Zambia.
2). Adrenaline-seekers rejoice!
The Zambezi River is an impressive carpet of water, and when it is pulled back slightly, amazing adventures can be found underneath. When water levels drop, thrill levels soar, and rafting enthusiasts pour into Victoria Falls to tackle the Mighty Zambezi. Between August and December, the river seems to be racing itself, plunging furiously between the lips of the gorge, cascading dramatically around very boulder and corner. Expeditions now begin at rapid number 1, the “Boiling Pot”. You take off from the white water rafting factory- the base of the Victoria Falls, and end at Rapid 21, ‘Oblivion’. The names say it all, and if you are after a heart-racing and mind-blowing rafting trip, then now is the time to visit!
Devil’s pool is open, and as the mist is less dense above the waterfall, the views and photographic opportunities are breath-taking. This video alone will get your heart buzzing!
Footage by Tongabezi Lodge - Victoria Falls Zambia
Game viewing is especially ‘wild.’
September is notoriously the best game viewing month as the sparse vegetation makes the sighting of game much easier. There is also less water inland, so the animals tend to congregate at the river and watering holes.
The birdlife all year round is superb, but in September it is exceptional with the arrival of numerous migrants, among these are the spectacular carmine bee-eaters. These arrive en mass and nest in the sand cliffs along the Zambezi River. Old Drift Lodge has already welcomed them to the riverside lodge!
So while we wait for the annual rains break open the sky and transform the Zambezi once again, let’s make the most of the opportunities afforded to us now and get out there while it lasts!