Sushi on the Zambezi
VICTORIA FALLS: BY ROPE, CABLE, RIVER AND STEAM
There’s more than one way to get around.
Adriaan Roets
Iflirt with the idea of being a global citizen, and as a result, the feeling of a universal union is one I often relish in. There’s certain cultural ideologies and ideas that have grown too big for their original locations – and have instead been adopted into broader areas of the world. I take advantage of that because not only does it broaden my personal scope, I can perhaps help to expand other people’s ideas of the world whether through conversation, tweets or Instagram stories. You see it in the constant evolution of cuisine, art and design. But while dipping really good sushi into soy sauce in the middle of the Zambezi river I was a little stumped. The act seemed so outrageously lavish, and out of place, that for a second I wondered – has being a global citizen gone too far?
I mean I’m on a river cruise, in the waters between Zimbabwe and Zambia eating Asian cuisine – and in that moment the beauty of Africa was completely lost. But just as I started to wonder about this conundrum five elephants were taking an afternoon swim and it all clicked. It’s not about the what, it’s about the where.
If you are eating biltong in the mountains of Peru, the beauty of Peru won’t diminish. Geographical locations remain a backdrop that can’t be altered, no matter how globalised we become. Victoria Falls fits beautifully into this idea.
Bekhakied Brits and Swedes in Safari suits are everywhere – taking in one of Africa’s most beautiful sites. And while they expect certain luxuries from home, they are aware that this beauty stays in the Victoria Falls National Park.
But you can add to that beauty if you are willing to see the area in more than one way. Included in our itinerary thanks to a trip organised by Fast Jet and Africa Albida Tourism I got to see Victoria Falls from the other side – and realised how it only added to the splendour.
ON TRACK
Departing from the historic Victoria Falls Hotel, Bushtracks Africa is cultivating a romance for Africa from a different perspective. Their ultra-luxurious steam train experiences Livingstone in Zambia and the hotel in Zimbabwe and travels to the bridge, where it stops for a sunset spectacular. In peak water flow season between May and July the mist from the falls are part of the experience, but other times of the year it provides equal perks thanks to the grandeur of the bridge. While you won’t get an extra passport stamp, you are technically crossing country borders and will need to provide yours at the onset. With catering by the Victoria Falls Hotel the trip and the lushness of the train’s interior, you can’t help but be transported into another world. If you like your tipple, the bar is fully stocked (and inclusive), but if you want to spend a little, there are premium brands if it’s a special occasion.
ON THE HIGHWIRE
If you’re fearless, even crazy, Victoria Falls has a selection of extreme adventures, none more imposing than the bungee jump from the Victoria Falls Bridge.
Combining a 111m freefall with one of the world’s most iconic bridges it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience. But if dangling by your feet between two African nations seems too daunting, head over to the Lookout Cafe just a short bumble from the bridge. The Cafe is built on the edge of the Batoka Gorge and offers thrillseekers fantastic activities, including a canopy tour, two zipline experiences and a gorge swing. At 70m the swing is a hell of a jump, but once your fall comes to an end the gentle swing between the gorge with a view of the bridge and yells
of support from the jumping point kicks in it is something that will stay with you forever.
If you prefer something more gentle the canopy tour seems to be a real hit. It consists of nine slides, varying in length, and a cable bridge walkway. As you zip down the gorge don’t be suprised if you’re met by forest birds. It lasts up to 2 and a half hours.
For more information visit wildhorizons.co.za
WITH THE FLOW
Bushtracks Africa also has a stake in the popular Zambezi river cruises. There’s a congestion of boats, but what sets the Bushtracks Africa vessels apart is that they have a special licence to travel 800m to the waterfall.
The high-end The Victoria is their lounger, where you can sit and enjoy an unrivalled river safari. From hippos bobbing in and out of the water, elephants peeking through the lush greenery and various birds and wildlife. Animal sightings aren’t guaranteed but they’re likely. Most importantly, while having your sushi, marvel in the surroundings, no matter how worldly you’ve become.
For more information visit bushtracksafrica.com