Nestled on the edge of the magnificent Victoria Falls, the Devil’s Pool offers one of the most exhilarating and unique swimming experiences in the world. This natural infinity pool, formed by thousands of years of erosion, sits right at the precipice of the 355-foot drop, making it perhaps the most extreme infinity pool on Earth.
What is the Devil’s Pool?
The Devil’s Pool is a natural rock pool that has formed at the very edge of Victoria Falls on the Zambian side. When water levels drop during the dry season (typically from mid-August to early January), a rock barrier forms, creating a relatively safe pool where adventurous travelers can swim just inches from where the water cascades over the falls. This unique geographical feature allows visitors to peer over the edge of one of the world’s largest waterfalls, also known as Mosi-oa-Tunya (“The Smoke That Thunders”).
When to Visit
Timing is everything when planning a visit to the Devil’s Pool. The pool is only accessible during the dry season when water levels are low enough to make swimming safe. The general timeframe is:
- Peak season: September to December
- Possible access: Late August to early January
- Closed: Rest of the year due to dangerously high water levels
Morning visits often provide the best experience, as you might witness the stunning rainbow that forms in the mist of the falls when the sun is at the right angle.
How to Get There
Access to the Devil’s Pool is strictly regulated and only possible through guided tours. The journey itself is part of the adventure:
- Book an official tour through Tongabezi Lodge or other authorized operators
- Travel to Livingstone Island by boat from the Royal Livingstone Hotel
- Hike across the island with experienced guides
- Swim a short distance across the Zambezi River to reach the Devil’s Pool
The entire experience typically lasts about 1.5-2 hours, including transportation, swimming time, and often a light meal or refreshments on Livingstone Island.
The Swimming Experience
Swimming in the Devil’s Pool is not for the faint of heart. As you approach the edge, the roar of 500 million liters of water plummeting over Victoria Falls becomes deafening. The experience includes:
- A swim across a portion of the Zambezi River with guides
- Entering the natural rock pool at the edge of the falls
- Leaning over the edge to look down the 355-foot drop
- Professional guides who help position you for incredible photos
- The intense sensation of water rushing past you toward the precipice
Despite how dangerous it appears, the natural rock barrier and low water levels during the dry season create a surprisingly safe experience when accompanied by experienced guides.
Safety Considerations
While thousands visit the Devil’s Pool each year without incident, it’s important to understand the safety aspects:
- Tours only operate when water conditions are deemed safe
- Competent swimming ability is required
- Guides are highly trained in water safety
- There is a natural rock lip that prevents swimmers from being swept over
- Children under 12 are not permitted
What to Bring
Pack light for this adventure, as you’ll be swimming and hiking:
- Swimwear
- Towel
- Waterproof camera or GoPro (though guides often take photos for you)
- Dry clothes to change into afterward
- Sunscreen
- Small waterproof bag for valuables
Beyond the Swim: The Full Experience
A visit to the Devil’s Pool is often part of a broader Victoria Falls experience. Many tours include:
- Breakfast or high tea on Livingstone Island
- Guided tour with information about the falls’ history and geology
- Spectacular views of the main falls from unique vantage points
- Opportunities to spot wildlife along the Zambezi River
Why It’s a Bucket-List Experience
Swimming in the Devil’s Pool offers a rare combination of extreme adventure and natural wonder. It allows visitors to:
- Experience one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World from a perspective few ever see
- Feel the raw power of nature while in relative safety
- Capture once-in-a-lifetime photos that appear death-defying
- Create memories that will last a lifetime
- Gain a deeper appreciation for the magnificence of Victoria Falls
For thrill-seekers and adventurers, few experiences can match the adrenaline rush and sheer awe of dangling your feet over the edge of Victoria Falls, feeling the spray on your face, and knowing you’re experiencing something truly extraordinary. The Devil’s Pool rightfully claims its place on many travelers’ bucket lists as one of the most extreme and rewarding swimming experiences on the planet.