Livingstone Victoria Falls Helicopter Flights: A Detailed Review
Seeing Victoria Falls is that unique thing you really should experience, yet deciding how to do it could feel a bit like solving a puzzle, isn’t it? If you find yourself around Livingstone, Zambia, and are searching for a way to really experience the Falls’ magnificence, think about seeing it from above on a helicopter flight. Now, I will try my best to give you what I believe is a helpful look at what you might expect, share some points that could be important for you to know, and just try to generally guide you as you look at this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Picking the best flight for you over Victoria Falls
You have got a handful of helicopter tour choices. Commonly, flights go from 12 to 30 minutes. I figure, a shorter flight gives you that ‘wow’ moment of witnessing the Falls and the Zambezi River’s stunning layout, while a longer option tends to include stuff like exploring the Batoka Gorge or getting views a bit further away from the Falls themselves, so that you see other points of interest too, isn’t that interesting? Many of the tour providers typically have a few routes, allowing you to choose what exactly you would most love to view.
Tour operators include well-regarded outfits such as United Air Charters and Batoka Sky. Commonly, these companies focus on safety above other things, use experienced pilots, and take great care of their helicopters. What could be very useful would be to read a number of reviews or simply ask some questions directly to make certain their values are matching your personal expectations for the flight. Very much be mindful of any particular requirements that they would have for travelers such as that relating to any medical conditions or policies with young kids. Knowing these details helps guarantee your flight occurs smoothly and without any unfortunate last-second surprises.
What to anticipate in flight
Getting off the ground feels, in a way, both stirring and fairly smooth. You get this distinct sensation as the helicopter lifts, as if this view shifts almost directly beneath you. As you are coming close to Victoria Falls, keep an eye out, for that initial view is definitely one you will keep in mind. Very, very big sheets of water crashing down, that mist rising high enough to make rainbows– it is really quite the sight.
While on the flight, most pilots very, very naturally also double as your guide, adding interesting information regarding the ecology, the history, including geological pieces of the Falls. The commentary almost always makes what you’re witnessing have more layers, I think. And so, it is that being high in the air delivers incredible photography options that simply are not feasible from anywhere else. Understand, cameras, plus securely carried phones, are basically welcomed on almost all flights. Nonetheless, it may be worthwhile confirming such things right before your trip.
Guidelines for Booking & Cost factors
I suggest booking in advance. To that end, in the drier months, generally, things get especially active for tourism in Livingstone; as such, securing that spot is really sensible. Costs may change depending upon flight duration along with operator selected. Basically, it’s worth checking a handful of services and reading reviews to receive the best possible deal for the service that seems ideal for what you need.
For certain operators or particular promotions, know if any deals might be provided when you book ahead of time. It would appear a number grant savings to groups or families; consequently, so, check out those details just before booking. Payment procedures are rather streamlined today, as several companies will accept online cards, while a small number might prefer money– that aspect could be confirmed while reserving, too, surely? Get acquainted with all cancellation policies linked; many feature distinct guidelines, given weather conditions or unexpected occurrences.
What You Might Wish You Knew Before Going
Firstly, taking photos can sometimes be tougher than you might think because of the helicopter’s vibration as well as reflections on that window. Yet, a helpful tip for sure is, of course, making sure you actually clean the window, then, using a fast shutter speed. You also need to keep your camera right up near the glass in order to bring down the amount of glare.
There will be seasons whenever the spray from the Falls is very, very extreme– notably directly after peak rain levels. Given how significant ‘that spray is, viewing could very well be decreased at those times, so consider what time of year you want your travels, that could really affect just how much you will witness. Very often the months having fewer rains (May through October) often present superior visibility. Also consider wearing dark colors so you reduce reflections from the windows for that ideal photo opportunity. Lastly, if prone to motion sickness, taking preventative medication beforehand can make your trip more fun.
Other Activities around Livingstone
Livingstone really has lots of things going on beyond just the helicopter tour. A visit towards the historic spot, the actual Devil’s Pool, that tends to permit brave folks to swim rather near where that fall occurs, probably could provide a pulse-pounding rush, doesn’t it? So, for many seeking cultural enrichment, what may prove particularly interesting might be paying a visit to a nearby village, therefore witnessing the practices together with the traditions from the local Zambian population.
If that seems just a little peaceful, perhaps give white-water rafting down the Zambezi an effort or, arguably, choose to go on one of many safari excursions situated within Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park. Each will supply amazing memories, it’s almost a guarantee! Also, remember not to miss the attractive sunsets over the Zambezi; very possibly enjoy that experience while taking a riverboat or whilst enjoying that evening meal on among the riverfront restaurants.
- Flight Duration: Opt for a longer flight if possible to see more than just the immediate falls area.
- Book Ahead: Book during peak season so you don’t miss out.
- Photography Tips: Clean the window and use a fast shutter speed for better photos.
- Seasonal Considerations: The drier months usually offer improved visibility due to less spray.
