Everything You Need to Know about Victoria Falls Bridge

Connecting 2 great countries, the Victoria Falls Bridge (originally known as the Great Zambesi Bridge) represents the longevity of dreams.

Once only a puzzle piece in Cecil John Rhodes’ ambition to see Africa connected in his ambitious Cape to Cairo railway scheme, today the bridge links the towns of Livingstone in Zambia and Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe.

Construction of Victoria Falls Bridge

Beginning construction in 1903, the instructions from Rhodes were “build the bridge across the Zambezi where the trains, as they pass, will catch the spray of the Falls”. Although Rhodes never even visited the site and actually died before construction began, his dream came to fruition 14 months later when construction on the 198 metre bridge was completed in 1905.\

Did you know? The bridge was officially opened by Charles Darwin’s son, Professor George Darwin.

Although the design is often mistakenly attributed to Sir Ralph Freeman, the bridge was in fact designed by George Andrew Hobson of Sir Douglas Fox and Partners. Constructed in England, the steel bridge was then shipped to Mozambique before making its final destination to Victoria Falls.

Fact: The Victoria Falls Bridge is the only rail link between Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Victoria Falls Bridge today

“It was the concept that was bold, to the point of arrogance: to build a modern steel bridge supported by a single slender span here, in the middle of the deserted jungle...” Grogan and Sharp,Cape to Cairo.

While today the area surrounding Victoria Falls can hardly be described as a “deserted jungle” the mystery and the allure of the region remains. But like most things in life, you have to just experience it for yourself.

For luxurious Victoria Falls accommodation, look no further than the Royal Livingstone Hotel. Or if family fun is more your pace, check out the Zambezi Sun – either way, Victoria Falls is a must-see.

Bungee jumping off Victoria Falls Bridge

Here’s an idea, why not discover Victoria Falls from a different angle.

While Victoria Falls Bridge was once the dream of one man, Cecil John Rhodes – today the bridge represents the dream of thousands of daredevils worldwide. Bungee jumping off the no-man’s land between Zambia and Zimbabwe, throngs of adrenaline junkies have found their match at this imposing bridge. Despite the roar of the might Zambezi bellow you won’t struggle to hear your heartbeat echo in your ears as you go against instinct and jump off this mighty bridge.

If even the thought of bungee jumping has your heart jumping then click here and check out this video of a brave Victoria Falls Bridge jumper. See? It is as easy as 5 – 4 – 3 – 2 – 1 – BUNGEE! 

However, if you’re keen to stay glued firmly to the ground then we suggest that you take a tour of the bridge aboard an authentic steam train. Sip champagne aboard the train and chuckle at the fools who jump off the bridge rather than marvelling at the spectaculars view from this charming form of transport.

Fast facts

• Total length: 198 metres
• Longest span: 156.5 metres
• Height: 128 metres