Victoria Falls

It was a weird feeling leaving Kruger and driving into the real world again with humans, not to mention the freedom to exit the vehicle whenever. But we navigated our way through the maze of construction that is now Johannesburg Airport as it is being renovated for the FIFA World Cup in 2010. We got our tickets and boarded the flight to Zimbabwe for “The Smoke That Thunders” or better known as Victoria Falls. Though not the highest or widest, it does have the largest sheet of falling water in the world!

As a word of advice, make sure you have plenty of USD for currency when you arrive in Zimbabwe as credit cards are not accepted. The economy crashed in recent years, possible one of the worst in the world, leaving a staggering 94% unemployment rate. Their money became so inflated that the $10,000,000,000 bill was worth about a quarter in the US! We bought some for a dollar so, now we are trillionaires. We can’t help but say “I’m rich, bitch!”

We heard stories of people having to bring money in wheel barrels just to purchase a few groceries. Even the street sellers, will opt for trading of clothing or shoes in exchange for their goods. Despite the fact that many people here have nothing they still treat others with respect and have a friendly curiosity. So if you ever come to Zimbabwe, bring some extra Hanes t’shirts or old shoes because it will be much appreciated. Some guys we met were Peter Pumpkin, sGeorge of the Jungle, Happiness, and Innocence. They change their names for tourist because it’s easier to remember. Jason even received the new name “Hey Jesus” since he hasn’t shaved in a while.

First day we explored the Zimbabwe side of the falls which is said to be the better view. We went early in the morning so the mist obscured some of the sights but created beautiful rainbows. We spent a couple hours walking around the scenic trails of the national park and even came face to face with a couple warthogs, who we gladly gave the right of way to. Even though this is a major tourist destination animals still run wild as you will see monkeys and baboons walking the streets. Our driver told us not to go out at night, not because of the people but because of the animals. In the afternoon a group of kids came to the hostel and played percussion on bleach buckets, giant springs, and any other object that could make a beat. These kids were amazing and inspiring to watch as they had only been practicing for 6 months. These “Tin Can Kids” live in the townships, which are the very poor neighborhoods, and play for school funds, since education is no longer free in Zimbabwe.

As Africa is just coming into their Spring the area is still pretty dry, which lucky for us meant we could swim in the Zambezi River at the top of the falls! So forget the dare with the barrels, were going freestyle! We are actually glad we left the barrels behind because our hike ended up being an hour long speed walk and jog across the border into Zambia to the hotel where the boat left. We had been misinformed on the time it took to get there but we made it just in time all sweaty and panting into this five star hotel.

The swimming location is called Devil’s Armchair or Devil’s Pool. This is a small swimming pool situated less than a meter from the lip of Victoria Falls and it can only be reached on a tour to a private island, Livingstone Island. You are treated to some of the most magnificent views of the falls, a refreshing swim, and a tasty breakfast. Check out our sweet cannonball moves!

Our next adventure takes us along the Garden route of South Africa!