The secret side of Victoria Falls

As the largest waterfall in the world, Victoria Falls needs little on the path of introduction, about a million tourists and emotion seekers come here every year. Just for those not initiated, the name Victoria Falls evokes water visions in thunderous cascade, tropical jungles soaked with fog and high spray columns visible from kilometers away. With 1.7 km wide and more than 100 meters high, the cataracts are impressive in the way you look at the subject: you really need to see them to have their enormous.

The city of Victoria Falls of Victoria, on the side of Zimbabwean of the cataracts, is a fun city, full of activities and experiences for each type of traveler and seekers of old adrenaline, backpackers with budget, travelers alone. There is a myriad of things to do and see here, some better known than others. We are going to immerse ourselves on the most secret side of this small tourist city and we discover some of the special experiences you can have while you are here.

1. Experience of the municipality of Road Dusty

In the heart of the buzzing municipality of Chinotimba, just 2 km from the city, Dusty Road sacrifices a gastronomic experience like no other in Victoria Falls, presenting international tourists to traditional Zimbabuense cuisine.

The food here is not just a meal, it is a cultural trip that uses indigenous ingredients, some relatives and surprising, to create an experience that sacrifices a sample of Zimbabwe’s culinary heritage. For those ‘domestication bellies’, there is chicken in peanut butter sauce, or brightness with local vegetables and lemon, but for the most adventurous, the unexpected delights of the mopane worms and the crispy crunch and corn crispies are.

The food is not the only unique element in Dusty Road; Funky recycling and recycled decoration is a true winner. Everything, from doors to cable reels, cans, pots and more, are reused in furniture: the bathtubs become chairs, the tin cups become candlesticks, recycled bottles become glasses. It is important to note that Dusty Road supports local women through the use and sales of small -scale crafts, as well as to empower the local community by obtaining ingredients from local farmers and markets. Each meal here is a flavor and a celebration of the Zimbabuense culture.

2. Chef Simba bakery

In the heart of Victoria Falls, the last culinary jewel that transforms the city’s food scene is. Founded by chef Simba Musiyiwa, the bakery sacrifices a delicious range of artisanal breads, cakes, cakes and delicious desserts. With a friendly environment and a practice outdoor seat area, this is the perfect place to stop to enjoy freshly baked sweets, while watching a little people.

3. Tea at Stanley & Livingstone

YoIn the quiet surroundings of the Victoria Falls Private Hunting Reserve, 20 minutes from the city, Stanley & Livingstone Hotel offers afternoon tea every day on the hotel terrace, overlooking the be careful garden and a water well that drinks a drink or its own.

High cake beans, loaded with delicious tasty cakes and sweets, a variety of teas and a champagne glass. Whether it stays in one of the luxury suites of the hotel or visit the day, tea at Stanley & Livingstone is essential and the perfect way to relax after one day of exploring one of the seven natural wonders of the world.

4. Dinner in Pure Africa

On the banks of the Zambezi River, you will find the restaurant at the Pure Africa Waterfront. Whether you started your event with a cruise at sunset in the river, or be looking for a special place for dinner, follow the road illuminated by flashlight to the restaurant, where you wait for an African food of three plates. School on the riverbank, this outdoor restaurant has a charming atmosphere, the distant roar of Victoria cataracts, the growl of nearby hippos and Nightjars calls accompany their food.

5. The experience of the culture of the vulture

For a complete gastronomic experience, go to the ‘Buitre Restaurant’ in Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, just 4 km from the city. Daily at 1 PM, visitors can witness hundreds of in danger of extinction that are pounced to feed on remains of meat remains of the hostel kitchens. This free experience shows a variety of vulture species and begins with an informative session on the ecological importance of vultures, as well as the dangers they face, such as poisoning, electrocution and the use of body parts in traditional medicine.

This complementary food program plays a crucial role in helping to maintain local vultures populations, which are in decline due to human impact. The experience of the culture of the vulture is a family activity that is not only an exciting show, but also supports the conservation of the vulture.

6. SUNDOWNERS IN THE SHONGWE LOOKOUT

In the Shongwe Lookout Guest Lodge, the highlight for guests and visitors is the same is the viewpoint itself, an elevated observation tower with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, the Zambezi River and the Rocío distant from the Victoria cataracts. Whether it is a gin and tonic, a lower local zambezi or a cocktail, this is the perfect place for a sunset as the day ends, what a great place they provide for another incredible day in Victoria Falls.

While ascending the four -story tower, take your time to admire the striking works of art or Nicole Sanderon that align on the walls, spiral upwards. Nicole is an artist born in Zimbabwe, recognized by vibrant designs, bold colors and intricate details in her local birds and flora paintings. The Shongwe lookout is home to the Nicole Gallery, and an impressive selection of its paintings can be purchased here. (They are easily rolled up for transport).

7. Simunye – The Spirit of Africa

The Simunye show, at the Ndlovu Theater in Victoria Fall, is a captivating performance designed to show Zimbabwe’s cultural heritage through dance, the narration of stories and impressive images. With a talented local cast, an incredible set, impressive costumes, intelligent puppets and some impressive and immersive lighting and sound effects, the show emphasizes issues of cultural harmony, conflict resolution and rich African traditions.

Simunye is suitable for all ages, which makes it a great family activity, and after the show, guests can meet, mix and take photos with the cast. Simunye – It is guaranteed that the spirit of Africa will leave a lasting impression.

8. Victoria Falls Safari Spa

For a bit of relaxation and pampering, Victoria Falls Safari Spa is a serene retreat located within the land of Victoria Falls Safari Lodge. This is the first spa property specially designed in Victoria Falls and is hidden from the indigenous forest and is designed to mix with the natural surroundings, the visitors of the wild boars or the Wanderby can Wanderby.

Here are some fairly luxurious facilities, which include massage treatment rooms, manicure and pedicure stations, a hair and makeup study, a relaxation room and a splashes pool with a picturesque cover. Guests can enjoy a variety of treatments, from massages, to facial treatments, body hair removal and even bridal party makeup. A quiet escape with uninterrupted views of the mountain, this is a great place to relax after a safari adventure.

9. Victoria Falls Boxing Academy

The Victoria Falls Boxing Academy is more than a place to train; It is a source of hope and opportunity for some of Zimbabwe’s young orphans. Founded by Tobius Mupfuti, he once an abandoned child, many of the children who come to the academy were Homss.

The Academy offers boxing lessons and personal training sessions to the public, but also offers a safe shelter and opportunities for children who need it most. Through boxing, Tobius teaches discipline, perseverance and life values ​​to their students, giving them athletes and as individuals. In essence, Victoria Falls Boxing Academy is a history of resilience and community, where boxing serves as a sport and a way to a brighter future for Zimbabwe’s disadvantaged young people.

10. Bamba Bickes

One of the best ways to explore Victoria Falls is on a Bamba bicycle, a fun and ecological way of experiencing this iconic destination. Retro -style electronic bicycles, with their balloon tires, are an easy and affordable way to obtain anoound, and Peddole’s assistance feature means on the hottest day that you can slide without sweating.

The bamba bike may be interested for full day or days, or you can take a personalized guided tour. Popular stops include Dusty Road, the Big Baobab Tree, the vulture food experience, the bustling local market and the picturesque views along the Zambezi River. Bamba Bikes is a flexible and exciting way to see Victoria Falls’ views and free delivery to his accommodation makes it convenient for everyone.

Where to stay in Victoria Falls

For a quiet and comfortable stay just a few minutes from the cataracts, the owner Run Pamarah Lodge is an elegant boutique option hidden, in the Acre medium, in the leafy suburbs of Victoria Falls.

With only 14 reflexive rooms, which include a private honeymoon suite and spacious family units, offers a quiet base with modern comforts, warm service and easy access to local attractions.

Whether you are finishing a day of adrenaline adventures or cultural explorations, the calm gardens of the shelter and the relaxed environment make it an ideal place to relax.

Whether having dinner under the stars next to the Zambezi River, observing the vultures to a noon party, or cycling fits local reference points on an electronic bicycle, Victoria Falls sacrifices more than is an iconic waterfall. These less known experiences reveal the cultural character of the city, the community spirit and the many creative ways in which the premises share their city. Beyond the roar of the cataracts, a secret side of Victoria is expected, one that will remain in his memory long after the fog has settled.

Kingdom of Sarah

Sarah Kingdom is a travel writer from Sydney, Australia. When he is not climbing or traveling, he lives in a cattle ranch in the center of Zambia.