Victoria Falls—known by locals in Zambia and Zimbabwe as Mosi oa Tunya, "The Smoke that Thunders," due to the massive spray from the water—may seem like a pretty unlikely swimming spot…but when water levels get low enough, thrill-seekers can take a dip in Devil’s Pool on Livingstone Island.
Devil’s Pool is a natural phenomenon, where roaring currents go on either side of a pool at the lip of the falls (on the Zambian side). Because the currents are going around the pool rather than through it, the adventurous can swim to the very edge without being swept over. From there, they have a bird’s eye view of the largest curtain of falling water in the world.
Guests arrive at Livingstone Island in a twin engine speedboat for one of three morning visits, lunch or an afternoon tea. The concession for Livingstone Island is managed by Tongabezi Lodge and can be booked through any in-bounder or hotel/lodge in Livingstone and Victoria Falls.
Good to know: Tongabezi gives 10 percent of the Livingstone Island revenue to education projects in the Mukuni area. So far, they have built three teacher’s houses, and are looking to build two more.
For more information, visit www.tongabezi.com/livingstone_island.php.