Mosi Oa Tunya Falls
- Type: Cataract waterfall
- Watercourse: Zambezi river
- Width: 1708m
- Height: 108m
- Avg. Flow Rate: 1088m3/s
- Nearest District(s): Livingstone
- Province(s): Southern
- Countries: Zambia
Share:
General Information
The Mosi-oa-Tunya (The Smoke That Thunders), is a crown jewel of Zambia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a natural wonder that will leave you breathless.
It is a place of awe-inspiring beauty, adventure, and cultural significance. Come experience the power and wonder of this natural marvel for yourself!
Fun Facts!
- The spray from the falls can be seen from 40 kilometers away!
- The roar of the falls can be heard from over 20 kilometers away.
Tourism
- Victoria Falls is a major tourist hub, offering activities like bungee jumping, white-water rafting, and guided tours.
- Support responsible tourism practices that minimize the impact on this natural wonder.
Gorges
The falling water has carved a series of dramatic gorges, adding to the majesty of the falls.
The principal gorges are
- First Gorge: the one the river falls into at Falls
- Second Gorge: 250m south of falls, 2.15 km long, spanned by the Victoria Falls Bridge
- Third Gorge: 600m south, 1.95km long, containing the Victoria Falls Power Station
- Fourth Gorge: 1.15km south, 2.25km long
- Fifth Gorge: 2.25km south, 3.2km long
- Songwe Gorge: 5.3km south, 3.3km long named after the small Songwe River coming from the north-east, and the deepest at 140m, the level of the river in them varies by up to 20m between wet and dry seasons.
National Parks
Explore Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park on the Zambian side for breathtaking views and diverse wildlife.
Wildlife
Witness the unique spray-adapted antelope, the lechwe, graze on the plains near the falls and look out for vibrant birdlife, including the African fish eagle, soaring above the mist.
Fish
The mighty Zambezi River below the falls teems with fish species like the bream and tigerfish, a favorite among anglers.
Vegetation
Due to the constant spray, a special rainforest ecosystem thrives near the falls, with lush ferns and mopane trees.
Climate Change Effect
- Sadly, water flow at the falls can fluctuate due to climate change.
- Sustainable practices are crucial to ensure its continued wonder for generations to come.
Archaeology
Archaeological evidence suggests human presence near the falls dating back thousands of years.
Legends & Myths
Local legends speak of a mythical creature and river god, Nyami Nyami, living in the Zambezi and controlling the water flow.
22°C
