Why Victoria Falls is special
When the calm flowing waters of the Zambezi River encounter the 1700-meter (1-mile) wide edge of the Victoria Falls gorge on the Zambia- Zimbabwe border, they abruptly plunge 100 meters (330 feet) to the bottom. The impact generates soaring mists and thunderous sounds that can be seen and heard from great distances.

Victoria Falls vs. Iguazu Falls
Globetrotters forever debate which is mightier, Victoria Falls or Iguazu Falls in South America. It's virtually a toss up, with a slight edge going to Iguacu Falls. Either way, both are considerably grander than the world's third large-scale falls, Niagara.

Worst and best times to visit
Generally, it's best to avoid the peaks of the rainy season (when the mist can become so thick you see little) and dry season (when the water volume can noticeably ease). Victoria Falls is typically ideal at all other times.

Which side is best?
For the best rim-level view, visit the Zimbabwe side of Victoria Falls. For the best base-level view, walk down the rain-forest footpath on the Zambia side. For the best overall view, book passage on one of the Zambian or Zimbabwean flight-seeing tours - only then will you appreciate the enormity of Victoria Falls.

Victoria Falls' official name
The sounds and rising mist of Victoria Falls inspired the wonder's native and official name, Mose oa Tunya, meaning "smoke that thunders".

What leading travel books say about Victoria Falls
120 million gallons of water cascade over the Victoria Falls brim every minute.
Exploring South Africa
Fodor's

Prepare yourself for a good soaking from the spray at Victoria Falls.
Africa - The South
Lonely Planet Guides