Its name will make some people tremble, others will get excited, but whatever the case, it will not leave anyone indifferent! An indescribable experience at the top of the highest waterfalls in the world, does that tempt you? If you’re ready to dive into the boiling waters of the Zambezi to experience a unique moment, here are our tips for swimming in the Devil’s Pool Victoria Fall. Departure for the majestic falls…
Located at the border of Zimbabwe and Zambia in Southern Africa, the site of Victoria Fall is a pure wonder of nature. Over 1700 meters long, you will admire the waters of the Zambezi River pouring into the Batoka Gorge, 108 meters high. A breathtaking sight, which offers all its richness and beauty according to the seasons.
Although the site is no longer part of the Seven Wonders of the World since 2011, it has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The region benefits from a high level of protection of its heritage, its fauna, and flora.
Nicknamed “the most dangerous pool in the world”, “the devil’s pool” or “Mosi Oa Tunya” or “the smoke that rumbles” of its local name, the small pool contributes greatly to the reputation of Victoria Falls by attracting thrill-seekers. Although more and more people are trying to go there, the experience remains dangerous on many levels, and it will be necessary to prepare your expedition well.
The Season
As you can see, Victoria Fall is divided between Zimbabwe, which has about 75% of the site, and Zambia, which has 25%. Although the experience is just as impressive in one country as in the other, there are some differences and particularities in each.
On the Zimbabwe side, you will have the opportunity to see the falls from all angles and with a panoramic view. A hiking trail will allow you to fully enjoy the site and its majesty. Please note that during the “wet” season, from February to July, viewing the falls will be more difficult due to the huge amount of water flowing from the Zambezi. During this period, up to five million cubic meters of water per minute flow over the falls, creating a surrounding mist that can obscure the view of the falls.
On the Zambian side of the river, you can also walk along a marked trail to see the falls and the chasm that opens into the valley. Zambia is also the place where you will find many thrilling activities such as bungee jumping, rafting, and the famous devil’s pool! Not to be overlooked, swimming in the natural pool is only available during the dry season, from September to January. But it is also during this period that the Victoria Fall on the Zambian side sometimes dries up.
Our advice:
If you want to go to the devil’s pool, you will have no choice but to go between September and January. Once you’ve enjoyed the world’s most dangerous little dip, you’ll more than likely want to take in the magnificent view of the falls. To avoid frustration should they dry up in Zambia during this time, we recommend that you opt for a USD 50 UniVisa upon arrival at the airport of your choice, which will allow you to cross the Zambia-Zimbabwe border at your leisure for 30 days. This will allow you to enjoy the scenic beauty surrounding the Zambezi River and all the activities it has to offer.
Access To The Devil’s Pool Victoria Fall
The devil’s pool is only accessible to groups accompanied by local guides. The organization of your excursion can be done very easily through your hotel, but must be booked upon arrival because places are limited!
If you have landed at Livingstone Airport in Zambia, you will most likely choose to stay in the town of Livingstone or a lodge along the calm banks of the Zambezi River. Located within a 10 km radius of the falls, you will need to pay a visa of 20 USD per day to access the falls site. You will then take a motorboat to Livingstone Island, named after the explorer who discovered Victoria Falls in 1855. Surrounded by lush vegetation and certainly some wild animals such as crocodiles or hippos, you will cross the small island before slipping into the warm water and swimming between 200 and 500 meters to reach the natural pool.
If you have chosen to stay in the city of Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, no worries if you have opted for the UniVisa allowing you to cross into Zambia. From there you can reach Livingstone Island by going first to Zambia to take the boat or if conditions permit, embark in Zimbabwe and cross the border on the Zambezi River. Once there, all you have to do is enjoy!
Our advice:
Even if the access is faster from Zambia, the most important thing is to be well informed when booking your trip about the travel and all the costs involved. For example, when you arrive at the airport of your choice, have some change in your pocket to pay for your visa. Be careful, the tickets must be in good condition otherwise they will not be accepted!
Safety
To get to the Devil’s pool, you will have to go on an expedition in a supervised group. Composed of a maximum of 16 people, you will be accompanied by local guides who know the area and the risks of swimming in the Devil’s pool. However, you will be asked to sign a release form before departure, in case of accident or breakage of your photo and video equipment.
On-site, respect the instructions of your guides because they can vary according to the season and the conditions. Indeed, even in dry periods, the current can be very strong, and even if the pool is made of a rock blocking the fall into the void, a change of current can be fatal.
Although your guides are used to this unusual swim and you will be almost constantly held back by one of them, you must not neglect your safety and that of your group. Despite the implementation of devices, there are several incidents on the site every year.
Our advice:
Make it a point of honor to follow the safety instructions given by your guides. They will ensure on the one hand the good progress of your expedition which will offer you marvelous memories and will also take care to preserve the fragile beauty of this unique place in the world.
Also Read: Discover The Iguazu Falls
