How to Explore the Devil’s Pool in Victoria Falls – A Comprehensive Guide for a First-Timer
If you've ever dreamt of standing on the edge of the world's largest curtain of falling water, Victoria Falls should be at the top of your bucket list. With a whopping 110 million gallons of water gushing into a 105-metre-deep canyon every minute, it's a sight and sensation that defies belief. However, for the most thrilling experience, you'll want to dip your toes into the Devil’s Pool. Here's a handy guide to help you do just that.
Marvel at The Majesty
Victoria Falls isn't just another waterfall. Deemed one of the seven natural wonders, it beckons a wide range of globetrotters, from backpackers and honeymooners to tour groups. Whether you're gazing from a viewpoint at the parks of Zambia or Zimbabwe or flying overhead in a helicopter, the falls never cease to amaze.
Dive into Devil’s Pool
Perched precariously at the cliff’s edge is the Devil’s Pool, a natural marvel formed due to thousands of years of erosion and the tumultuous dance of tectonic plates in southern Africa. In the dry season, the water current here eases, letting adventurers swim right up to the edge, looking into the canyon's depths.
Choosing the Right Tour
All tours to Devil’s Pool are operated by Tongabezi Safaris, and don't be bamboozled by the myriad of prices you find online. Larger platforms like Viator, Lonely Planet, and Trip Advisor often sell the tours at a marked-up rate. In contrast, lesser-known local operators offer competitive prices but might not draw the same crowds. Always remember, whichever tour you opt for, you'll be accompanied by official guides.
Important: Some unofficial guides might offer you tantalisingly inexpensive rates. However, these chaps often gloss over the real risks and aren't properly insured. It's better to be safe than sorry, so always stick with the recognised pros.
Deciding on a Package
Tongabezi Safaris provide three official packages:
- Livingstone Breezer (morning tour): Kick off your day with a 90-minute tour. Priced at 110 USD, the package offers a welcome drink and a hearty breakfast.
- Lunch on Livingstone Island: A tad pricier at 175 USD, this midday, 150-minute tour comes with the perks of a lavish three-course meal and extra leisure time on Livingstone Island.
- High Tea (afternoon tour): An afternoon delight, this tour offers a range of snacks and drinks post your Devil's Pool swim.
To see what's on the menu for these tours, check out the official Victoria Falls Guide. Regardless of which tour you pick, you'll have roughly the same amount of time to enjoy the Devil’s Pool.
Accommodation Near Victoria Falls
Victoria Falls is one of the most popular tourist attractions, so naturally, there are many hospitality establishments located close to the Falls. At Victoria Falls, hotels come in all forms to suit a variety of budgets. The likes of Avani Victoria Falls Resort, for example, make a good choice if you want to benefit from a central location.
Best Time to Visit Victoria Falls
Want to see Victoria Falls at its most impressive? Visit between February and May, just after the summer downpours. That's when this massive curtain of water is at its fullest, and it's quite the sight!
How Many Days Should You Spend Here?
Ideally, you'll want to earmark at least two days. This ensures you catch its most majestic moments and soak in the ambience. However, if you're looking to truly immerse yourself and perhaps dabble in a few local activities, setting aside three or four days is a good idea.
Other Things to Do
If you have more time, here are some other things you can do:
- Sign up for a sunset boat cruise.
- Enjoy a helicopter flight over Victoria Falls.
- Embark on a safari tour at Hwange National Park.
- Enjoy some white water rafting.
- Bungee jumping
- Explore Livingstone and discover its history.
