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Zambia

Victoria Falls: A Start-To-Finish Guide

03/04/2019 2 Comments

Named after Queen Victoria, the Victoria Falls are a spectacular natural beauty, right on the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia. The falls are not the widest or tallest in the world but are thought of as the biggest and taking all dimensions into account, it has one of the largest sheets of falling water in the world.

The mist from victoria falls — The mist from the falls, taken in April

The local Tonga people named the falls ‘Mosi Oa Tunya’, meaning ‘the smoke that thunders’. David Livingstone is believed to be the first explorer to discover the falls, resulting in the nearest town on the Zambian side being named after him (Livingstone).

Victoria falls are truly spectacular, plus there’s so many activities you can do around the area, it’s worth spending a few days here.

Zambia or Zimbabwe?

What to do at Victoria Falls

When to visit Victoria Falls?

Where to stay near Victoria Falls?

Do I need a visa to visit the falls?

Is it safe to visit Zimbabwe & Zambia?

Zambia or Zimbabwe?

As Victoria Falls is located between the countries of Zambia and Zimbabwe it’s hard to know from which county to visit from. The good news is that you can visit both, if time permits. From Zambia you can see about 25% of the falls whilst on the Zimbabwean side you can see 75%. Although the experience from both sides is not too different, you will see a lot more in full view from Zimbabwe.

However from Zambia there are many different viewpoints above and on the ground, you can even swim under the falls in one section. If you’re looking to swim in the famous ‘devils pool’, via Livingstone Island, then this can only be done from the Zambian side. Both sides are worth the visit and the dual visa has made it a lot easier for tourists (more on that below).

Victoria Falls hike — There’s many viewpoints from the Zambian side

If you are coming from Zimbabwe then the closest town is Victoria Falls. This town is a lot more touristy than the Zambian side but the plus side is that it’s walking distance to the falls. It also has more options for shopping and eating out.

The Zambian side is a fair bit cheaper and has lots of options for more budget accommodation but you will have to take a taxi from Livingstone town to the falls (about 10km). The town has a more local feel but does have some western style restaurants. This is the side I was staying on and I found it very quiet and pretty safe during the day.

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What to do at Victoria Falls?

Zambia

I visited the Zambian side during wet season and it was incredible. There are many different viewpoints from this side to get an all round view of this breath-taking place. At first you get an overall view of the falls in full panorama mode. The sound is something else too- you can hear the powerful waterfall before you even see it.

When to Visit Victoria Falls — The first sight of the falls (Zambia)

Victoria Falls wet season — The powerful falls are awe-inspiring

Cross the Knife-edge Bridge to get a close up view of the falls (and potentially wet) and then take the trail down to the ‘boiling pot’. This is where the water flows and whirls to look as though the water is churning. This is also a great viewpoint of Victoria Falls bridge, where you can watch people bungy jumping off.

Victoria Falls boiling pot hike — The boiling pot

Zimbabwe

On the Zimbabwean side of Victoria falls you can head to the main falls viewpoint to get that iconic view of the majority of the falls. This side also has water flowing all year round, even in the dry season. There are more viewpoints on the Zimbabwean side but if your looking for an all round experience then Zambia may be better for you.

More activities at Victoria Falls: (2019 prices in USD)

· Helicopter & Microlight flights- from $150-$300

· Bungee Jumping Victoria Falls Bridge- $160

· Bridge Swing Victoria Falls Bridge- solo $160 & tandem $240

· Full Day White Water Rafting- $120

· Zip lining (from Zimbabwe)- solo $69 & tandem $111

· Devils Swim & Livingstone Island tour (from Zambia)- $110-$175

· Zambezi Sunset River cruise- $40

· Chobe National Park Botswana- Full day- $170

· Transfer from Victoria Falls town to Livingstone town/hotels- $28

Victoria Falls bungy jump — Jumping into a rainbow!

More on Africa: Namibia: 15 Stunning Reasons Why You Need To Visit

When to visit Victoria Falls?

The falls are a year round destination, providing a different experience with each season. March and April are when the waterfall is at it’s most powerful. The mist may block some of your views but the aerial view will be incredible with the spray being seen from afar. From mid-August to mid-January the water levels are much lower and ‘devils pool’ will be open. June to August is a great time to combine your trip with a safari to neighbouring Botswana.

Where to stay near Victoria Falls?

There are accommodations for all budgets on both sides of the falls, however the Zambian side may be more budget friendly. From five star hotels like the Victoria Falls Hotel (Zimbabwe) to budget hostels such as Livingstone Backpackers (Zambia). Most of the hostels are well done, complete with swimming pools.

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I camped at the Victoria Falls Waterfront in Livingstone, Zambia. There are more expensive private rooms here or you can camp on site for a cheaper price. The views over the Zambezi river are beautiful, plus there are two swimming pools, a bar and restaurant. And they did an all you can eat buffet breakfast- yum!

Head on a river cruise on the Zambezi

Great view for breakfast

oh yes

Zambezi river sunset — Gorgeous sunset from the waterfront campsite

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Do I need a visa to visit the falls?

Yes, both Zambia and Zimbabwe both require visas which can be obtained on arrival. If you want to visit both sides then getting the KAZA UniVisa will work out much cheaper. It will allow you to travel between Zimbabwe and Zambia, plus day trips to Botswana through the Kazlunga border.

The visa is available at Harare, Bulawayo and Victoria Falls airports and at the Victoria Falls land border. With the KAZA visa you can visit Zambia and Zimbabwe multiple times within the 30-day validity period. You can also apply for an e-visa in advance but that only applies to certain border points. For more information visit the Zambia Gov site.

Zambia airport — International airport in Zambia

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Is it safe to visit Zimbabwe & Zambia?

I travelled with a tour group throughout Africa which made me feel a lot safer knowing I was with a group of people. However it is possible to make the trip on your own perfectly safely. As always, take precautions when travelling through these countries as there are definitely cases of muggings and robberies.

Zambia Waterfront sunset — Beautiful sunset from the camp site

I would advise not to walk around after dark, especially if solo and to not carry to many personal items on you. During the day is usually fine though and as long as you are vigilant and sensible there’s no reason why you cant enjoy a trip here hassle free. In some areas you will meet fairly pushy trinklet sellers but a firm no should do the trick. Make sure you book activities and tours with a reputable company. Most of the locals are very friendly so don’t be put off by stories you may hear online.

Always keep up to date with any political situations when you are travelling and check the safety rating on your government website. The UK and Australian government travel advice sites are very useful.

Whichever country or time you visit Victoria Falls you are sure to have a once in a lifetime experience. I hope this post has been helpful and as always please share on social media.

You may also enjoy reading: Botswana: 8 Adventurous Reasons To Add To Your Bucket List

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Tanzania & Zanzibar

Mountains, Waterfalls and Coffee in Moshi

18/07/2018 No Comments

moshi, Tanzania blog post — Like it? Pin it!

Moshi is just under 2 hours from Arusha and is much smaller, quieter and less touristy (but still dusty!). The town is not as action packed as Arusha, preferring a slower pace. Most people just stay a few days before heading for the National Parks or to climb Mt Kilimanjaro. I was there for 2 weeks so it was nice to get to know the town, walking along the dusty roads and sipping coffee in Union cafe- where all the expats hang.

Moshi mountains, Tanzania — The surrounding area of Moshi

The town is small and much calmer than Arusha, there are cute cafes to sit with your laptop or book or just do nothing!. The best thing about Moshi is that you can see Mt Kilimanjaro on a clear day. The locals call it the ‘secret mountain’ because it’s normally hidden from view by the clouds.

Mt Kilimanjaro, seen from the road — Mt Kilimanjaro, the secret mountain

Materuni Waterfall

I took a day tour up to the mountainous forest, driving past jungle and small villages along the way. If you’re lucky you may even spot Kilimanjaro through the trees. My guide took us through the lush jungle, complete with coffee trees, banana trees and tropical fruit.

We were headed for Materuni Waterfall, which is a 30 minute easy walk. With it’s clear and refreshing water you can go for a quick swim- the water is cold though! The waterfall is quite impressive but I enjoyed the walk to get there much more interesting and the next section of the tour even more interesting- coffee!

Hillborn Organic Coffee

walking through banana trees, Tanzania — Walking to earn our coffee!

We arrived at Hillborn Organic Coffee, where the locals showed us how they make coffee from scratch, from sieving, roasting and grinding the beans, singing whilst they worked.

After being shown the process from tree to finely ground coffee, we got to taste some. Just black coffee with a spoonful of raw sugar- delicious! So full flavoured, earthy and fresh. Best coffee on my trip. After this we walked through a local village before heading back to Moshi.

dirt road in local village, Tanzania — Locals hanging out

If you find yourself in Moshi then you have to try the coffee! This day tour is easily booked from a tour office in town and gives an insight into local life.

For more Reading on Tanzania: Making Jewellery at the Orphanage: Arusha, Tanzania

Indonesia

Following Julia Robert’s Footsteps in Ubud, Bali

20/06/2018 No Comments

Seen the movie ‘Eat, Pray, Love’? It’s worth a watch as Julia Robert’s strolls around Ubud’s markets and cycles through the rice fields on a journey of discovery and peace. I decided I wanted my own ‘Eat, pray, love’ experience and headed off to Bali to find culture, sanctuary and spiritual awakening (cheesy huh?). Ubud, the setting for the movie, is the culture capital of Bali. Set towards the middle of the island, up in the hills, Ubud is surrounded by lush green jungle and rice paddies.

It’s a small but quite busy town, becoming very popular with tourists but still feels very authentic. The locals are also so friendly and welcoming. The main street is lined with cafes, restaurants, markets and art shops. Locals make their prayers every morning so the streets are always lined with flower petals on the floor from offerings. Combined with the green palm trees and bright flowers this quaint town is incredibly beautiful and pretty, a distance away from the busy, noisy beach resorts down South. So what’s there to do here?

Visit the Cheeky Monkey’s at the Sacred Forest

Monkey Forest!

Within walking distance from the town, the sacred monkey forest is a sanctuary and temple complex housing just over 600 monkeys. You can stroll through the forest, past temples and intricate bridges surrounded by jungle. The monkeys are everywhere but be warned- they are not as cute as they appear! They can grab items from you but if you’re sensible and don’t get too close or bring food to feed them you should be fine. If you decide to feed them then just be careful- they can get angry! I suppose even monkeys get hangry haha!

Go Exploring

I loved just walking around, through small little rice paddies and local houses, stumbling across temples, local shops and markets. Just breathing in the warm air, listening to the tropical sounds of nature, whilst getting lost was pretty marvellous. I enjoyed looking around the small temples and simply walking around town taking in the atmosphere. You don’t always have to be ‘going somewhere’ – getting lost can be fun too!

Check Out the Rice Terraces

The essence of Ubud is it’s lush green rice fields, lined with palm trees. I couldn’t believe how green everything was. Tegallalang Rice Terraces are one of the most popular, offering stunning views over the large hills. I hired a driver who drove me here and to a few other places which worked out reasonably cheap for the day. You can also do The Campuhan Ridge walk, easily accessible from town.

Stop at the Karsa Kafe, set amongst the fields and grab something to eat. It takes about 2 hours return and can get hot in the day so bring lots of water. I went in the afternoon but wished I’d got up for sunrise, I imagine this would be a fantastic and peaceful time to do the walk also. I enjoyed this walk more than the terraces as I got to chill by myself and it felt more like I was ‘exploring’ rather than viewing the terraces along with everyone else.

Bathe in Holy Waters at Tirta Empul

Tirta Empul is a temple popular for its holy spring water, where locals will perform ‘cleansing’ rituals in the water from a natural spring. The purification bath is lined with water spouts and the bathers will cleanse themselves under each spout, working their way from left to right. This temple gets busy so I’d suggested going in off peak season or very early in the morning. It’s quite a magical and spiritual place and you can even get in the water yourself if you wish. This one is defo worth a visit!

Tegenungan Waterfall

This is up there with the best waterfalls I’ve seen! So beautiful and it just captures the magic of Bali. I was so thankful I got up early for this one as at 8am there were only a couple more tourists and a few local kids. Pretty much had it to myself. Plus the early morning mist was rising up from the water leaving a real mystical feel.

You have to climb down a few steep steps to get here but it’s 100% worth it. The sounds from the water and wildlife were like something straight out of a medication app. And the water is still warm enough (just) for a refreshing morning swim, a fantastic way to start the day. This is Bali!

Climb Mt Batur for Sunrise

Be prepared for an early start in the dark but after around 2 hours of climbing this (fairly steep) mountain you will be rewarded with spectacular views. As long as you are reasonably fit you will manage this. I have patella tendinitis on my knees and although uncomfortable was able to climb it without too much hassle. Watching the sun come up over the mountain and looking down on the clouds was quite spectacular. Some views you have to work for!

Visit the Local Market

There is a tourist market and a morning market for the locals, the later in my opinion being far more interesting. From before dawn to around 9am is the busiest time as the locals head to the market for fresh fruit and veg. I managed to get up at 6am and wandered the market where I only saw 1 other foreigner. This is much more authentic than the tourist market and worth the early start to capture Balinese living in its true form. The colours, the smells, the atmosphere- there were so many photography opportunities I didn’t know where to look first!

Unwind at a Spa

Ubud is full of spas from cheap to more expensive ones but most are pretty well priced for what you get and incredible value for money than anything back home. I found Tjampuhan Spa, which was walking distance from town (just!) and situated in the jungle right by the river. For the equivalent of £30 I had a massage and body scrub, a flower bath and then use of the hot and cold pools, plus swimming pool. The room was open at the end so you’re practically in the jungle. The best wind down time I could have asked for!

Head to a Dance Performance

Ubud Palace holds daily performances showcasing traditional dances. Tickets are cheap and easily picked up during the day or even on the night but be sure to arrive in good time for the best seats. I sat on the floor at the front around the stage and with the audience being fairly small, it felt quite intimate as the dancers swirled around in colourful costumes. A relaxed and cultural way to spend the evening. Ubud doesn’t have any late bars or loud clubs so the evenings have a very much chilled vibe (which I love!).

So there are my top things to do in Ubud. Hope you enjoyed reading- any comments or questions more than welcome below. Maybe you have other suggestions on what to do here?!

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