Mabret and Roman sporting their new Chelsea and Barcelona jerseys as we head for the gate.
We arrived in Livingstone on time and the boys enjoyed disembarking immediately onto the tarmac.
Welcome to Zambia.
We headed toward Jollyboys Backpackers which is a well known landing spot for adventurous travelers. Initially, we were booked into the Jollyboys campsite which is one of their two locations in the heart of Livingstone. The campsite is advertised as being geared toward the family and the backpackers location is identified with younger travelers. As we arrived, we learned that the electricity in our room was not functioning. Additionally, the vibe and surroundings at the Jollyboys Campsite were not what we envisioned or anticipated. We headed over to Jollyboys Backpackers to investigate a family room which was available. As soon as we arrived, we knew that it was the place for us. A cool vibe with loads of experienced travelers just hanging out swapping stories and travel ideas.
After unpacking and checking out the surroundings, we walked into town and decided to eat at Fez Bar. As with all of our African travel, people enjoy having the kids and Roman and Mabret found a large area in the back of the outdoor dining setting to play soccer. Additionally, there was a pool table. Pool tables are prevalent in Africa and the boys are becoming quite proficient. We are hoping that as the money runs low that we will be able to hustle our way to funding the back end of the trip.
On Saturday morning, we boarded the Jollyboys' free shuttle to Vicroia Falls. Now the educational portion of our blog.
Victoria Falls is classified as the largest waterfall based on its width of 5604 feet and height of 354 feet resulting in the world's largest sheet of falling water. Victoria Falls is approximately twice the height of Niagra Falls and well over twice the width of Horseshoe Falls.
There are two islands on the crest of the falls that are large enough to divide the flow of water, even at full flood. Cataract Island is near the western bank and Livingstone Island near the middle. Livingstone Island is the point from which David Livingstone first viewed the falls. The dry season runs from September until December/January. During this time, up to half of the rocky face of the falls may become dry and brave souls may walk Livingstone Island to swim Devil's Pool which sits just at the VERY TIP of the 354 foot drop. More on this in a moment.
David Livingstone was a Scottish explorer who is believed to have been the first European to view Victoria Falls. This occurred on November 16 1855 from what is now known as Livingstone Island. Livingstone named his discovery to honor Queen Victoria. However, most Zambians and many 'round the world refer to the falls as Mosi-oa-Tunya—"the smoke that thunders". The falls are one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World as well as a World Heritage Site.
Our first several hours in the park were spent exploring on our own. We hiked to the bottom and observed the Boiling Pot.
We discovered several breathtaking views as we walked for several hours.
The baboons that inhabit the park are happy to pose and show off for visitors.
After a lunch of candy bars and Fanta, we walked across Livingstone Island toward what is called Devil's Pool. Below, is a shot taken from the Island near the top of the Falls.
Below is a shot of the RTW Adventure Family sitting just at the edge of the Falls in Devil's Pool.
This was a major adrenaline rush as we sat on the edge of the pool for several minutes preparing for the swim after receiving instructions from our able guide, Harry. Once again, proud of our young adventurers for taking the leap of faith and swimming at the edge of the largest waterfall in the world. Proud of Mom and Dad for staying cool and not backing out during the 15 minute wait. We recommend this to all as safe and exciting but you just cannot believe it until you are in the water.
Saturday finished with a good dinner at Cafe Zambia.
Sunday and Monday were also eventful days in Livingstone and we look forward to reporting on it.
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