Although Zimbabwe has been in the news for the last decade or so for all the wrong reasons, it remains a destination with much to offer.  For those prepared to be bold, we will happily organize trips to the uniquely beautiful wildlife paradise that is Mana Pools on the Zambezi River, or to visit the San rock art and Cecil Rhode’s Grave in the Matobo Hills National Park among other places.

However, one place that we have no hesitation in including in any itinerary is the Victoria Falls.  Named by the explorer Livingstone for his Queen, but also known more evocatively as Mosi au Tunya (the Smoke that Thunders), the Falls are found at the point where the broad swathe of the Zambezi River unexpectedly tumbles over the edge of a broad fissure, sending spray soaring hundreds of meters into the sky.  It’s enchanting to walk along the edge of the great gorge through the forest that exists purely because of this spray (although it can be a damp experience), but it is even more dramatic to view the spectacle from the air on a helicopter ride.

A visit to Victoria Falls is incomplete without a typically British afternoon tea on the lawns of the stately Victoria Falls Hotel, built in 1904, with a view of the iconic bridge.  The hotel is steeped in history, diligently preserved by its owners, and there’s an interesting 1 hour talk, delivered by an historian, on the life of David Livingstone which is most certainly worthwhile.