Many travellers must have heard about the Victoria Falls. This beautiful waterfall on the Zambezi River is located on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe.
The falls are known by different names in the local languages, but the name that stands out is “Devil’s Pool.”
In this article, we will answer the question, “Why is Victoria Falls Called the Devil’s Pool?” and learn a few things about the Falls.
About the Victoria Falls
What we call Victoria Falls is known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya, which means “The Smoke That Thunders,” and Shungu Namutitima, which means “Boiling Water.”
Being one of the largest and most famous waterfalls in the world, Victoria Falls has a width of 1,708 m (5,604 ft). The height of the fall is 108 m (354 ft), making it the largest sheet of falling water in the world.
The fall formed over thousands of years when the Zambezi River plunged over a cliff, creating a spectacular curtain of water. The current from the fall is so high that tourists are advised against swimming in the waters.
This brings us to the nickname Devil’s Pool.
What is the Devil’s Pool?
To correct a common misconception, the entire Victoria Falls is not called the Devil’s Pool; only a portion located at the edge of the falls is known as the Devil’s Pool.
The Devil’s Pool is found on the Zambian side of Victoria Falls, near Livingstone Island. This calm pool starts to form during the dry season when the water levels are lower.
Although many people have fears of falling off, a few who are brave enough can swim right up to the edge of the falls.
Now, you can imagine swimming in a pool where, just a few feet away, the water cascades down more than 100 meters. Those who are brave enough to try this experience will not forget the feeling.
To get to the Devil’s Pool, you will need to take a guided tour from Livingstone Island. This involves a boat ride on the Zambezi River, followed by a short swim or wading to the pool.
Why is Victoria Falls Called the Devil’s Pool?
“Devil’s Pool” might sound worrisome to people who are planning to visit Victoria Falls, but there is a reason for this name.
Victoria Falls is called the Devil’s Pool because of the natural rock pool at the edge of the Falls on the Zambian side. This name originates from the thrill and danger that are associated with the pool.
Although swimming in the Devil’s Pool is relatively safe during the dry season, it is still a daring experience to try.
Just like many other prominent places in Africa, there are always local legends and stories. For the Devil’s Pool, some people believe that the pool is a place where the spirits of the river dwell.
In the folklore of the Tonga people that live in Southern Africa, there is a god named Nyami Nyami who is known as the Zambezi River God or Zambezi Snake Spirit.
It is believed that Nyami Nyami protects the people and offers them sustenance in difficult times.
Is it Safe to Swim in the Devil’s Pool?
It is safe to swim in the Devil’s Pool since all swims are conducted with experienced guides. These guides are there to ensure that visitors are safe at all times.
There is also a rock lip that prevents swimmers from falling off over the edge, creating a pool.
I would say that safety depends more on the traveller’s ability to listen to tour guides and not try to tempt fate.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the Devil’s Pool if you want to swim is during the dry season, from August to December.
This is when the water levels are low enough to form the pool and the currents are manageable. You can always check with local tour operators for the safest times while planning your trip.
Conclusion
At this point, you now know that Victoria Falls is called the Devil’s Pool due to the daring pool at the edge of the fall. In this article, I have provided answers and information about Victoria Falls and Devil’s Pool.
FAQs
How many people have fallen over Devils Pool in Victoria Falls?
As of recently, no one has ever fallen over the Devil’s Pool in Victoria Falls.
Who discovered Devil’s Pool at Victoria Falls?
The Devil’s Pool at Victoria Falls has been known to locals of the region for centuries. It was introduced to the world by David Livingstone, a Scottish missionary who became the first European to see the falls in 1855.
Is it safe to swim in Devil’s Pool Victoria Falls?
Yes, it is safe to swim in the Devil’s Pool Victoria Falls during the dry season and accompanied by experienced guides.
Since there has never been any incident that resulted in loss of life, it is safe to swim.
Why is it called the Devil’s Pool?
The pool is named for its daring location right on the edge of Victoria Falls and the thrilling nature of the swim.
How deep is Devil’s Pool?
Devil’s Pool is approximately 3 meters (10 feet) deep when the water levels are low during the dry season.
Hi, I’m Louis Ojibe, and I grew up around wildlife in Africa. I have always been fascinated by animals and nature across the world.
As a child, my parents used to take me to see wild animals like lions, elephants, gorillas, tortoises, and many others at our local zoo.
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