A Plunge Into Paradise: The Ultimate Guide To Devil’s Pool

Have you ever dreamt of sitting at the edge of a waterfall?

Feeling the rush of the current against you, the sound of gallons of water falling to the ground, taking in the ethereal beauty of Zambia and Zimbabwe? Let’s make it more exciting and make that waterfall one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Devil’s Pool at Victoria Falls is one of nature’s most thrilling infinity pools and an absolute bucket-list experience for any adrenaline seeker, sightseers, and photographers! However, with numerous tour options available, how do you select the right one? As your Africa Travel experts, we’re here to break down everything you need to know.

What Is It?

Victoria Falls – also known as the “The Smoke That Thunders” – is an increasingly popular tourist destination. It is a spectacle from any vantage point you choose to view it. Located on the Zambian side of Victoria Falls, Devil’s pool is a natural rock pool that erosion formed after many years. It sits in the Zambezi River close to the midpoint of the mile-wide waterfall, close to the Livingstone Island.

Best Time To Go?

During the dry seasons – between August to December – the water levels of Zambezi River subsides enough to reveal a rock wall at the edge of falls, acting as a natural barrier. The force of the water pushes you to the edge of the waterfall, but the rock lip brings you to a halt, creating the most spectacular experience you will ever have!. The pool is closed to tourists when the flow is dangerously high.

Is It Safe?

It’s the first question on everyone’s mind, and the answer is a resounding yes, when done right. Your safety at Devil’s Pool relies on a chain of trust that begins with us. We only partner with operators whose guides are true Zambezi experts—they know every current, every safe path, and will literally hold your ankles for that iconic “I DID IT!” photo. This is our promise: we vet the operators so you don’t have to. Many of our travel experts are former guides, so we know impeccable safety standards when we see them. This means you can trust the professionals on the ground because we’ve already trusted them first. Just remember, this thrill is only possible with an official tour; attempting to go alone is strictly forbidden and extremely dangerous. (For full transparency: while there was a tragic death of a guide near the falls, this incident did not occur at Devil’s Pool and was not on a sanctioned tour.)

Do You Need To Be Fit?

It does not matter if you are the most experienced swimmer or not. With trusted guides, you will be able to plunge into paradise, so long as you stay out of the currents. A moderate fitness level is more than enough to ensure your experience is unforgettable. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WKO1FCcvU28

What Should You Bring To The Pool?

A good pair of shoes is the secret to any great adventure. A pair of aqua shoes is perfect for exploring Devil’s Pool. Make sure to bring along hats, insect repellent, sunscreen, and swimwear. There are changerooms available to slip into your swimsuit. If you are into photography, make sure to bring your gear to capture every part of your journey and the magnificent views from atop the falls.

What Are Some Fun Facts About Devil’s Pool?

Devil’s Pool is thought to be the world’s oldest and largest natural infinity pool. It is estimated to be about 700-800 years old! It is also the home to Baboons, Hippos, Iguanas and the giant Nile Crocodiles, which make a great find when cruising the Zambezi River. Keep your binoculars and cameras close by. Read more about João and Margarida’s experience of Devil’s Pool, an adventurous and travel-passionate couple who explored Devil’s Pool on one of our tours!

Can You Visit Devil’s Pool From the Zimbabwe Side of Victoria Falls?

If you are touring Zimbabwe and wish to add an adrenaline-filled stop to Devil’s Pool, you can definitely do so! While you should organize a visa in advance, it would make for an epic story – crossing the Zimbabwean border to the Zambian border for a chance to experience a once-in-a-lifetime moment.

How to Fit Devil’s Pool Into Your Itinerary

Devil’s Pool can be a standalone adventure or part of a larger overland journey. Here are a few examples of the types of vetted tours we can help you choose from:

• For the Ultimate Adrenaline Junkie: Consider a tour like the 8 Day Victoria Falls to Johannesburg Overland Adventure. It combines Victoria Falls with the iconic Bridge Swing over the Zambezi and ends with a wildlife adventure through the Kruger National Park, offering non-stop action.
• For the Comfort Seeker: An accommodated safari like the 20 Day Cape Town to Victoria Falls Ultimate Tour provides a more relaxed pace, pairing the thrill of Devil’s Pool with comfortable lodges and wildlife viewing.
• For the Epic Overland Adventurer: A longer journey, such as the 64 Cape Town to Masai Mara Adventure, might travel from Cape Town to Victoria Falls, making Devil’s Pool one of the many incredible highlights on this fantastic tour.

The key is finding the perfect match. That’s what our experts do best. Whether you’re ticking off a bucket-list item or planning a once-in-a-lifetime proposal, Devil’s Pool is an unforgettable experience. But the perfect adventure is more than just the destination—it’s about finding the tour that’s right for you. That’s where we come in. Instead of you spending hours researching, we use our expert knowledge to match you with a vetted tour operator that fits your budget, timeline, and travel style.

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