When legendary explorer Dr David Livingstone first set eyes on the Zambezi River where it plunges more than 100m straight down into a seemingly bottomless gorge, he named the spectacle for his queen - Victoria Falls. It was 1855 and he was the first European to see this wonder of the natural world. He cannot have imagined how the little town that eventually built up on the periphery of the falls that bears the same name would become one of Africa's most renowned adventure centres, attracting visitors from across the world.

Today, the Victoria Falls are a World Heritage Site and the town of Victoria Falls is without a doubt Zimbabwe's biggest tourism drawcard, especially because it's also a gateway to the impressive Hwange National Park and some of the best game viewing in Southern Africa, not to mention the beautiful Zambezi National Park which extends some 40km upstream of the falls.

Victoria Falls is the perfect add-on to a Zimbabwe safari, or, indeed, any safari in Southern Africa. With a range of incredible hotels, boutique lodges and camps, including the oldest (and some would say grandest) hotel in the southern hemisphere - Victoria Falls Hotel - staying in Victoria Falls for a few days to explore the Zambezi, the falls themselves and indulge in amazing adventure activities is well worth it.

Whether it's a death-defying bungee jump from the rail bridge or a gentle sunset cruise on the Zambezi above the falls, thrill seekers of all ages will be happy with the opportunity to experience this wonderful destination. Adrenaline junkies can take advantage of white water rafting, jet boating and zip-lining while the less adventurous can opt for helicopter flights over the falls and along the river, game drives in the Zambezi National Park and more sedate river-based safaris.

With its international airport offering superb access from all major hubs, there's really no reason not to spend time here!