Royal-Livingstone | 26 Aug 2014 | By Sun International
Devil’s Pool - The World’s Most Thrilling Swim
The saying goes "the world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page". Enthusiastic travellers take note: a trip to Zambia to experience the magnificent Victoria Falls and the exciting Devil's Pool might cover a few chapters.
Victoria Falls boasts the world's largest sheet of falling water, also known as "Mosi-oa-Tunya" or "the smoke that thunders". This majestic World Heritage Site is an absolute must-see. Along with the Grand Canyon, the Great Barrier Reef and Mount Everest, Victoria Falls is rightfully one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The Royal Livingstone and Zambezi Sun hotels welcome guests from around the world to Zambia. Perfectly located to enjoy the countless thrills of Victoria Falls and Devil's Pool; your adventure getaway is waiting.
Although the spray from the falls can be seen from 30km away, it is best to enjoy the beauty of Victoria Falls up close. Regular visitors to the banks of the falls include buffaloes, hippos, zebras, warthogs, giraffes and baboons and even the occasional lion – the only visitor that is missing is you. Need more convincing? "Awe-inspiring", "thrilling" and "stunning" are just some of the words that are used to describe this natural wonder, but most gushing visitors to Victoria Falls will agree – words fail to accurately capture the magnificence of this dazzling natural spectacle. Put simply, you just have to see it for yourself.
European explorer David Livingstone, upon seeing the falls said "…so lovely, it must have been gazed upon by angels in their flight". But if poetic exclamations by Dr Livingstone himself don't manage to convince you then consider this little-known secret - Victoria Falls is also where you'll find the aptly named "Devil's Pool".
Devil's Pool – a Zambian adventure
Thrill seekers and intrepid adventurers, this one is for you. Legend has it that Victoria Falls was once known as "the end of the world" due to its sheer 360-degree drop and breath-taking size. Now you can experience "the end of the world" for yourself by diving into Devil's Pool found on the very edge of the falls surrounding Livingstone Island on the Zambian side.
Any Victoria Falls experience is simply incomplete without your own unbelievable Devil's Pool story to share for years to come. Not to mention the incredible photos that you will have as proof that you actually did bravely dive into the surprisingly warm water with natural rock walls and permanent rainbows as your background.
Devil's Pool, often incorrectly labelled as an "internet myth" due to its unbelievable awesomeness, is the ultimate Bucket List item that will put all your previous holiday albums to shame. Only accessible during the dry season (approximately late August until early January), Devil's Pool is a once in a lifetime adventure that takes "living on the edge" to the next level! Forget your fear of heights. In fact, forget your fear of anything; after enjoying this amazing experience you can't help but be inspired to live fearlessly.
Think: an exciting boat ride to the island, wading across the Zambezi, with a bit of swimming thrown in, and then the exhilarating dive into the best infinity pool that nature has to offer! Afterwards, celebrate your bravery and quell your hunger at the five-star Royal Livingstone Hotel. Renowned for its unwavering commitment to decadent luxury, you can enjoy a five-star high tea experience that is fit for royalty, and with a sundeck overlooking the Zambezi River, you'll be excused for lingering long after tea-time. In fact, you're encouraged to sit back and relax while at The Travellers Bar, a favourite of guests to the hotel, complete with its very own grand piano and a barman that serves a mean gin and tonic. With so much to look forward to after your Devil's Pool adventure, what are you waiting for?
Handy tips for making the most of your Devil's Pool experience:
- It goes without saying, slather on the sunscreen. You want hot memories, not burning hot cheeks!
- If possible, try going in the morning when the sunlight falls across the gorge, making for the best selfies.
- Speaking of selfies, a waterproof camera is best. The amazing guides are only too happy to take photos, so remember to wear your best swimsuit and smile!
- The water is very muddy so don't wear your new sandals or sneakers, unless you want to keep your mud-drenched shoes as a souvenir from your trip!
In the words of Richard Branson: "Screw it, just do it!"
Swimming in Devil's Pool is an incredible opportunity to feel exhilarated and alive, so just take the plunge! After all, many claim to be "daredevils", but few have dared to dive into the Devil's Pool in Zambia.