Egypt - The temples of Abu Simbel
Foto: Victoria Falls (bron: Ronald van der Veer)
Zambia - We walk across the rocks of the dried-up Victoria Falls. At times, we have to cross small streams. Leonard shows us where to step on the rocks and helps us keep our balance. At Rainbow Falls, we look out over the edge of the waterfall. From this side, the view is much more impressive. I see a rainbow in the spray and instantly understand the name. After about forty-five minutes, we reach Livingstone Island. Someone approaches to check our ticket — the island is privately owned and not freely accessible. Near the memorial stone for David Livingstone, Leonard tells us about the island’s history. From here, we have a stunning view of the Boiling Pot. The waters of the Zambezi River plunge down more than one and a half kilometers wide, funneling through a single gorge below the border bridge between Zambia and Zimbabwe. Because of the force of the current, this section is called the Boiling Pot. On Livingstone Island, we change into our swimwear. We swim across the first section of about thirty meters through the river. It’s important to swim against the current in a wide arc to reach the other side safely. For extra safety, there’s a rope stretched across in case someone gets pulled away. Felix joins us and takes over my camera, capturing our swim with it. Just beyond the rocks lies the Devil’s Pool — a deep basin with a high rocky edge right next to the waterfall. Leonard shows us how to safely jump into the water. If you jump too far to the right, you're in the waterfall’s current; too far left, and you hit the rocks. I take a short run-up and leap into the Devil’s Pool at the designated spot. I go underwater and immediately realize how unique this dive is. The current gently carries me toward the edge of the pool. Leonard helps me climb onto the rocky ledge. The water of the Zambezi flows calmly past me. I’m sitting on the edge of one of the most extraordinary waterfalls in the world. Just one meter behind me, the water plunges nearly 100 meters down. The constant roar of the falls makes the experience even more unforgettable.
Devils Pool on Livingstone Island
Zambia - Livingstone Island plays an important role in Zambia’s history. In 1855, missionary and explorer David Livingstone viewed Victoria Falls from this island. At the time, the falls were called Mosi-Oa-Tunya, meaning “The Smoke that Thunders.” Later, ...
South Luangwa National Park
Zambia - At six o’clock, we drive into the park with two vehicles, riding with Sylvester, also called Sly. As we leave, it sprinkles slightly, but soon it dries. We drive to the bridge to enter the park. The South Luangwa National Park is unique in having no ...