The Zambezi River

The Zambezi River is the fourth longest river in Africa. It flows for about 1,600 miles across southern Africa. The river is most famous for Victoria Falls, one of the biggest waterfalls in the world. It ends at the Indian Ocean in Mozambique.

Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls is where the Zambezi River drops off a huge cliff. The waterfall is more than a mile wide. The falling water makes a giant cloud of mist that can be seen from far away. Local people call the falls 'the smoke that thunders.' It is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.

Animals of the Zambezi

The Zambezi River is home to many amazing animals. Hippos and crocodiles live in the water. Elephants, lions, and zebras drink from the river. Fish eagles soar above looking for fish to catch. The river and its banks are like a giant wild animal park.

Fun Facts

• Victoria Falls is twice as tall as Niagara Falls.
• The Zambezi flows through six African countries.
• A famous explorer named David Livingstone was the first European to see Victoria Falls in 1855.

Did You Know?

During the rainy season, enough water flows over Victoria Falls every minute to fill more than 200 Olympic swimming pools.