Great to be back in Victoria Falls. It seems a bit busier than my last visit so tourism must be picking up which is terrific news.
I’ve only got one night in Vic Falls this time, before I head off to Hwange NP, and rather than staying in the town itself I’ll be a short way outside town at Gorges Lodge, spectacularly located on the edge of Batoka Gorge.
Batoka Gorge is a haven for raptors and within a 10km stretch there are 10 different nests – 3 Peregrine Falcons, 3 Augur Buzzards, 2 Lanner Falcons, 1 Taita Falcon and 1 Black (or Verreaux’s) Eagle. I’m hoping to get the chance to photograph the Black Eagles which can be seen riding thermals in the gorge on most days.
Gorges Lodge has 10 stone built chalets, each with a view out over the gorge to the Zambezi 200 metres below.
Guests staying at Gorges Lodge receive complimentary transfers from Victoria Falls airport, complimentary transfers into town – so you can visit the actual falls. I was there in September when the water is pretty low; not ideal for photography.
and enjoy afternoon tea on the terrace of the Victoria Falls Hotel – and back as well as a sunset cruise on the Zambezi.
Hosts Debs and Chris make sure that all their guests are made to feel welcome and the food is amazing.
In addition to the chalets, Imvelo (Imvelo Safari Lodges) are in the process of constructing Little Gorges, a separate camp consisting of 5 spacious tents with their own dining area.
Of the various raptors that frequent the gorge the only ones I saw on this visit were the Black Eagles, but the male put on a reasonable show which gave the opportunity for some photos.
After a great night’s sleep, I made sure that I was awake and outside for the sunrise. September is not the best month for spectacular sunrises, due to the haze caused by a combination of dust and smoke, but I could easily imagine what this would look like on a clearer day. Next time….
All in all a lovely place to unwind and prepare for my safari.