Gorge swing
Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park
louder and more intense the closer you get. The whole area is like an outdoor playground, with increasingly adventurous ways to experience the falls from every angle. For a bird’s-eye view from either side, suggest a short helicopter ride, especially for guests staying in Zambia who might not otherwise get a full picture of the falls. From Zambia, book a microlight flight; from Zimbabwe, suggest zip-lining or a gorge swing over the churning waters below. Thrill-seekers wishing to meet the Zambezi eyeball to eyeball can take a gut-flipping plunge off Victoria Falls Bridge on a bungee wire, an exhilarating white-water rafting trip through the rapids or even cage-dive with crocodiles. Less-energetic guests may
prefer a paddle in a canoe through the upper waters or a two-hour sunset cruise – especially popular if romance is on the agenda. Low water on the Zambian side may limit watersports during the dry season, but it opens up other opportunities, says Somak
Holidays chief executive Ash Sofat. “When the water is low, you
can take the path down to Boiling Point, a large whirlpool at the base of the falls,” he said. “It’s also possible to take a dip in Devil’s Pool and peep over the edge into the chasm below.” If the spray gets too much,
suggest clients head to one of the surrounding national parks – in Zimbabwe, the Victoria Falls National Park or the Zambezi National Park; in Zambia, the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park. There they can ride elephants, take a big five safari drive or fish for bream, all with the sound of the falls in the distance.
l WHERE TO STAY ZIMBABWE Ilala Lodge Hotel: This affordable hotel has just 34 rooms, all in colonial style. There are two restaurants and beautiful gardens, and it’s a short walk to the falls or the town centre. It also borders the Victoria Falls National Park, so don’t be surprised if clients see impala grazing on the lawn.
ilalalodge.com
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travelweekly.co.uk — 25 June 2015
Victoria Falls Hotel: This large, gracious property was the first hotel in the area, and combines colonial-era charm with modern facilities. It’s set in manicured gardens and there is a clear view of the bridge a short walk away. The hotel has 161 rooms and suites, three restaurants and a large pool.
victoriafallshotel.co Elephant Camp: Honeymooners looking for privacy and luxury will enjoy this 12-tent camp overlooking the Batoka Gorges, six miles from the falls. Each tent has a private deck and plunge pool, indoor and outdoor showers, and a bath with a view. Elephant Camp West opens this year for families or groups of up to eight.
theelephantcamp.com
ZAMBIA Zambezi Sun: This lively, informal hotel is a great budget base at the heart of the action. The 200 rooms have air conditioning and balconies, many overlooking the falls. The multiple restaurants, pool and kids’ club make it a
popular choice for families, and the activities desk can organise everything from abseiling to safaris.
suninternational.com Royal Livingstone: This colonial-style hotel oozes Victorian elegance and is ideal for more-affluent families or couples. The 173 rooms and suites are spread along the riverbanks and have air conditioning and balconies. Suggest afternoon tea in the lounge surrounded by old maps, or sundowners on the river-view terrace.
suninternational.com Sanctuary Sussi & Chuma: Set on a bend in the river seven miles upstream from the falls, this luxury property lies within the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park. Accommodation is in 12 Sussi tree houses reached by wooden walkways, or two Chuma Houses, suitable for families, with two bedrooms and private plunge pools.
sanctuaryretreats.com
PHOTO: WILDERNESS SAFARIS/DANA ALLEN
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