It is a bit surprising to discover that, as of May 2005, Mosi-oa-Tunya/Victoria Falls have still not been reviewed – so I will “put that right”!

One reason possibly is that the site is self evidently “world class” and needs no introduction or explanation. I still debate with myself whether or not it surpasses Iguassu and generally conclude that the latter offers a fuller “visiting experience” with generally more to see over a longer time with more “surprises” and with more associated interest of flora and fauna. But as a “waterfall” per se Victoria Falls is “right up there” as a full-on experience however much the Zimbawean government makes life difficult for tourists.

Both of our visits took place before the recent collapse of the Zimbabwian economy, currency and socio-political framework and some of our experiences may not now be achievable or relevant (we visited in 1988 & 97 - the 'copter flight during the first visit). We travelled around Zimbabwe “self drive” with petrol easy to obtain. We stopped off in Hwange park on the way from Bulawayo (excellent road at that time) and already found that to be a disappointment in comparison with other African wildlife parks. Time and poaching are not likely to have improved matters!

The town of Victoria Falls was totally atypical of others in Zimbabwe – a tourist ghetto offering all sorts of “non African” thrills and experiences – bungee jumping, white water rafting etc etc. It is what I term a “blow-out” town - the sort of place one needs to visit occasionally to unwind and relax after periods of tough travelling.

The main point I would make about Vic Falls is to recommend visiting them from all 3 sides – ie the Zimbabwean, the Zambian AND from the air (see photo). No doubt some would add a 4th – from river level white water rafting but, since this takes place quite a way downstream of the falls I wonder how much you actually feel to be “under the falls”. By the time of our second visit Zimbabwe had introduced “single visit tickets” which meant that you could not enter on the same ticket both morning and afternoon. This is unfortunate since the sun provides very different views at different times of day but the price of a ticket militates against paying twice!

We booked our helicopter ride early in the morning on arrival from Hwange, saw the falls am, flew around lunchtime (the helipad is a few miles outside town and really needs a car to get to), crossed over to Zambia for early afternoon, returned for “English Tea” at the Vic Falls hotel at 4 pm (an essential part of a “blow-out day”) and then drove back to Bulawayo in the dark (not entirely to be recommended because of unlit cattle and elephants on the road!) .

All in all memorable day. We just hope that 1 day the people of Zimbabwe will get a government capable of ruling with justice and efficiency and that we may return.