A video showing a female tourist leaning over the edge of Victoria Falls went viral some time ago.
At the time, I watched it with awe, it felt like one of those cool, exotic adventures.
However, when I stumbled upon the video again recently, something clicked. I saw it through different eyes this time – I realized just how reckless and perilous the stunt was.
As the waters gushed and swirled around her, the woman was focused on capturing the perfect photos (probably for Instagram and TikTok) rather than the potential danger.
Meanwhile, her tour guide held her feet, the only thing anchoring her to safety as she lay on the slippery rocks, 108 meters (354-foot) from the base of the fall!
One extreme tourist adventure right?
Victoria Falls, one of the world’s most breathtaking natural wonders, lies between the Zambia and Zimbabwe borders. It has become a hotspot for thrill-seekers and social media enthusiasts.
One of the most common activities associated with the falls is the daredevil stunts performed by tourists in the Devil’s Pool, a natural pool located on the edge of the falls.
The views are stunning, the water is crystal clear, and the experience is undoubtedly one of a kind. But then it’s called “Devil’s Pool” for a reason – right there is where the water plunges into the Zambezi Valley.
You can’t afford to take one miscalculated step during this supposedly thrilling experience.
It’s said that no accidents have happened there, which I consider a miracle. Because from the videos of fun-seeking swimmers I have seen, the currents in the treacherous pool are powerful and can take anyone over the edge.
In the pursuit of social media fame and adventure, anything could happen. And what would be said of the victim?
“He died while he was live-streaming on Facebook from Devil’s Pool.”
Not a flattering way to die.
See, it’s one thing to be taken unawares by death, it’s another to give oneself over to the devil like that.
So nah… I would pass on such an adventure.
In recent years, there have been adamant assurances that swimming in Devil’s Pool is perfectly safe.
The pool’s caretakers point to a natural lip in the rock that serves as a barrier to hold onto, preventing individuals from being swept over the edge of the falls.
People are also assured of the presence of certified guides to ensure maximum comfort and safety throughout the experience.
Additionally, access is available from August to January, when water levels are at their lowest, according to Zambia Tourism.
While robust safety measures are indeed in place, the disclaimers at the falls loudly emphasize that visitor safety largely depends on their caution and judgment. You are your responsibility.
And again, there are a lot of ‘what ifs’ that can’t be ignored by anyone who chooses to swim at such height, feeling like King Kong, testing fate.
What if one dark thought whispers “jump” in your ear?
