Devil’s Pool, an exhilarating natural infinity pool, is perched on the very edge of Victoria Falls, one of the world’s largest waterfalls, located on the Zambezi River at the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe.
Offering unrivaled views and an adrenaline-packed experience, it is a unique destination that attracts thrill-seekers from around the globe. If you’re thinking of visiting the Devil’s pool, here’s what you need to know before you go.
Best Time to Visit
Devil’s Pool is best visited during the dry season when the water levels of the Zambezi River drop enough to make swimming in the pool safe. This typically occurs between late August and early January.
During these months, visitors can safely swim to the edge of Devil’s Pool, which is naturally barricaded from the sheer drop of the waterfall by a rock wall. Outside this period, particularly in the rainy season, the water levels rise significantly, and the current becomes too strong, making it extremely unsafe to swim in the pool.
It’s also worth noting that the specific timings may slightly vary each year depending on the rainfall, so it’s advisable to check with local tour operators or guides for the most accurate and current information before planning a visit. Safety should always be your top priority when visiting Devil’s Pool or any other natural attraction.
Safety Precautions
Visiting Devil’s Pool at Victoria Falls can be a thrilling adventure, but it also requires due caution and adherence to safety guidelines. Here are some important safety precautions to take:
- Swimming Ability: You should be a confident and strong swimmer to visit Devil’s Pool. The currents in the Zambezi River can be swift, even in the dry season when it’s safest to visit.
- Appropriate Attire: Wear suitable swimwear and consider wearing water shoes for better grip on the slippery rocks.
- Life Jackets: Some tours provide life jackets for the swim to Devil’s Pool. Wearing one adds an extra level of safety, even for strong swimmers.
- Avoid Alcohol: Alcohol can impair your judgement and physical response, increasing the risk of accidents. Avoid consuming alcohol before your swim.
- Health Considerations: If you have health issues, especially those that could be exacerbated by swimming or adrenaline, such as heart conditions, it would be wise to reconsider visiting the pool.
- Adhere to Instructions: Always listen to your guide’s instructions. They are trained to keep you safe and ensure you have an enjoyable experience.
- Check the Weather: Weather conditions can impact safety. The pool is safest during the dry season when water levels are low.
- Respect Nature: Lastly, respect the natural environment. Don’t litter or disrupt the wildlife. Remember that you are a guest in this natural wonder.
Getting There
Devil’s Pool is located on Livingstone Island, which is on the Zambian side of Victoria Falls. The journey to get there is part of the adventure and usually involves the following steps:
1. Getting to Zambia: The first step is to get to Zambia, one of the countries that Victoria Falls straddles (the other being Zimbabwe). The easiest way to reach Zambia is by flying into Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport in Livingstone, which is well served by many major African airlines.
2. Transport to Victoria Falls: Once in Livingstone, you can take a taxi or arrange for a hotel shuttle to Victoria Falls, which is about 10 km away from the city center.
3. Boat Ride to Livingstone Island: To access Devil’s Pool, you need to take a short boat ride to Livingstone Island. This is usually organized as part of a guided tour. The tour company will provide a small boat or a canoe to ferry you across the river.
4. Swim/Walk to Devil’s Pool: Once you’re on Livingstone Island, a guide will lead you on a short swim and walk to reach the Devil’s Pool. This involves wading through the river and possibly swimming a short distance. During the dry season, the water level is low, and the current is not too strong, making it relatively safe.
Remember, Devil’s Pool is a natural feature with inherent dangers, and any visit should be undertaken with a professional guide to ensure your safety. Always listen to your guide and never try to swim to the pool without professional supervision.
What To Pack
Packing appropriately for your trip to Devil’s Pool will help enhance your overall experience. Here are some essentials you should consider:
- Swimwear: A bathing suit is essential as you’ll be swimming in the river to reach Devil’s Pool. Pack a comfortable swimsuit that you’re able to swim easily in.
- Water Shoes: The rocks around the pool can be slippery, so consider packing water shoes to help maintain your footing.
- Sunscreen: You’ll be out in the sun for an extended period of time, so bring along sunscreen with high SPF to protect your skin.
- Towel and Change of Clothes: After swimming, you may want to dry off or change into a dry set of clothes.
- Waterproof Camera/Phone Case: You’ll definitely want to capture the breathtaking views. A waterproof camera or a waterproof case for your phone will be helpful to prevent any water damage.
- Insect Repellent: Depending on the time of year, mosquitoes and other insects may be prevalent. An insect repellent can come in handy.
- Water and Snacks: Depending on the length of your tour, consider packing some water and snacks to keep you hydrated and energized.
- Dry Bag: A waterproof dry bag is useful to keep your items safe and dry while you’re swimming.
- Personal Medication: If you are on any medication, be sure to bring it along.
Accomodation
When visiting Devil’s Pool at Victoria Falls, you’ll find various accommodations on the Zambian side, where the pool is located, catering to different budgets and preferences. Here are some options:
1. Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Zambia Hotel by Anantara: This luxury hotel, located on the banks of the Zambezi River, offers opulent rooms and stunning views of the falls. It’s also just a short boat ride away from Livingstone Island, the launch point for Devil’s Pool tours.
2. Avani Victoria Falls Resort: This mid-range resort provides comfortable rooms, multiple dining options, and a pool. It’s located within walking distance from the falls and offers guided tours to Devil’s Pool.
3. Jollyboys Backpackers & Camp: For budget travelers, this backpackers’ lodge and camp in Livingstone offers dorms, private rooms, and camping options. They can assist with arranging tours to Devil’s Pool.
4. Tongabezi Lodge: If you’re looking for a unique, secluded retreat, this lodge offers luxurious riverside cottages and houses about 20 km upstream of Victoria Falls. They provide personalized itineraries which can include a visit to Devil’s Pool.
5. The River Club: Situated on the Zambezi River, about 18km upstream from Victoria Falls, this luxury lodge offers beautiful chalets with a vintage feel. They can arrange a variety of activities, including a trip to Devil’s Pool.
6. Stanley Safari Lodge: This exclusive lodge offers open-sided cottages that provide unique views of the falls’ spray and beautiful African sunsets. They also offer various activities, including tours to Devil’s Pool.
When planning your visit to Devil’s Pool, remember to book your accommodation and activities in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Other Attractions
While in the area, consider exploring other attractions like the Victoria Falls National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Besides the exhilarating swim in Devil’s Pool, there are several other attractions in the vicinity worth exploring:
. Victoria Falls: The waterfall itself is a sight to behold. Spanning over 1.7 kilometers wide and 108 meters high, it’s the world’s largest sheet of falling water.
2. Victoria Falls National Park: Located on the Zimbabwean side of the falls, this park offers various viewpoints of Victoria Falls, nature walks, and a chance to see diverse wildlife.
3. Zambezi River Cruise: Enjoy a scenic cruise along the Zambezi River, especially at sunset. It’s a great way to relax and take in the scenery and possibly spot some wildlife.
4. White Water Rafting: If you’re up for more adventure, white water rafting on the Zambezi River is one of the most thrilling experiences in the area.
5. Helicopter or Microlight Flights: Get a bird’s eye view of Victoria Falls and the surrounding landscape with a helicopter or microlight flight. It’s a breathtaking experience.
6. Livingstone Museum: Located in the nearby town of Livingstone, this is the oldest and largest museum in Zambia. It provides historical and cultural insights into the region.
7. Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park: On the Zambian side of the falls, this park is home to a variety of wildlife including elephants, giraffes, zebras, and a rare population of white rhinos.
8. Bungee Jumping: For extreme thrill-seekers, there’s the opportunity to bungee jump off the Victoria Falls Bridge, plunging more than 100 meters towards the Zambezi River.
9. Walking Safaris: Walking safaris in the surrounding national parks offer a closer and more intimate encounter with African wildlife.
10. Local Craft Markets: Visit local markets to buy traditional arts and crafts, a great way to support local artisans and bring home a piece of your journey.
When planning your itinerary, remember that each of these activities has its own set of requirements and it might be worthwhile to work with a local tour operator to plan your stay effectively.
In conclusion, visiting Devil’s Pool can be a thrilling and unique experience if done responsibly. It’s crucial to respect the guidance provided by the professional guides and the environment, ensuring this beautiful location can be enjoyed by future generations.
