June 25, 2023by Sasha Ella

Nature’s thunderous applause

Victoria Falls

Zimbabwe is home to some of the world’s most incredible natural wonders and wildlife. The country, situated in Southern Africa and bordered by South Africa, Botswana, Zambia and Mozambique, is well known for its diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, rich history and landmarks. But, most famous of all is the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It captivates all who visit by its sheer grandeur.

Locally known as ‘Mosi-oa-Tunya’ which means ‘the smoke that thunders’ in the language of the Kololo people, it is the largest waterfall in the world.

Chasing Rainbows

The sound of the thundering water is a loud symphony of the power of nature, as an average of 550 000 cubic metres of water flows continuously down from the Zambezi River. Gushing and gurgling as it cascades across jagged rocks and over the edge of this 1708 metre wide natural wonder. Victoria Falls is said to be the largest curtain of water in the world, falling over 100m into the Gorge below.

From a distance you see the spray which creates a constant cloud of misty rain along with prisms of colour and light, forming rainbows that brighten the sky. This invigorating mist awakens your senses … be prepared to get drenched. Or, wear the raincoat on offer.

Signage points out the landmarks which include Rainbow Falls, Livingstone Island, Danger Point and Devil’s Cataract which always boast exceptional rainbows – often double or arcing over the entire area. As you meander through the tropical rainforest, thick with ferns, palms and vines, it is itself a multi-sensory experience as you feel, smell, see and hear your surroundings.

A luxury sanctuary

Four kilometres away from the Victoria Falls Park is the Mbano Manor Hotel Victoria Falls by Mantis. An exclusive, intimate boutique hotel set in an ancient teak tree forest. This 5-star hotel provides an eco-luxury experience within a bird and tree sanctuary. The serene setting offers a perfect blend of rich cultural history and world-class hospitality. It’s the perfect gateway to view this natural wonder, the best of wildlife, cultural immersions and the thrilling adventures Zimbabwe has to offer.

Bird’s Eye View

Take a helicopter or microlight flight over the Falls and up the mighty Zambezi River. It provides a unique perspective of the sheer length and breadth of the waterfall, gorge and the surrounding lush rainforest.

Sunset cruise

A leisurely cruise along the Zambezi as the sun dips below the horizon is an idyllic way of taking in the surrounding beauty of the area while keeping your eye out for hippos, crocodiles and other animals on the river’s edge. The bird life is abundant and you’re sure to hear the haunting cry of a fish eagle.

Be exhilarated

If you’re an adrenalin junkie, then experience the exhilarating rapids as you white water raft down the mighty Zambezi River. There is also abseiling across the Zambezi gorge or bungee jumping from the Victoria Falls Bridge on offer!

Best of wildlife

You are spoilt for choice with two national parks on the Hotel’s doorstep. Game drives are undertaken by experienced game rangers, trackers and guides in open four-wheel drive vehicles. Head out early morning or mid-afternoon to seek, find and be thrilled by the wild animals in their natural habitat.

The Hwange National Park, one of Africa’s largest game reserves at 14 600km², has one of the largest elephant populations in the world and is renowned for massive herds of wild game, including Africa’s Big Five. See these magnificent wild animals in their natural environment: Herds of elephant wondering across the savannah, graceful giraffe stretching their necks to reach the treetops for the juiciest leaves or predators, such as lion and cheetah, stalking their prey.

History and heritage

When it comes to history, the Mbano Manor Hotel pays tribute to its deep heritage. Mbano is from the Shona totem called Mbano Matemavi, which is rooted in the cultural heritage of founder and owner, Dr Mati Nyazema.

The use of totems identifies the different clans that historically made up the ancient civilisations of the dynasties that ruled the Shona people from Great Zimbabwe (AD1250 onwards). Each of the 18 luxury suites are named after female totem names from the Shona, Ndebele, Nambia and Tonga tribes and bears the symbol of the praise name, such as a lion, elephant, buffalo. This is echoed through local art and gifts, handcrafted by the local community.

African women are celebrated for their role as mother, daughter, provider, community leader, farmer, child-carer, modern businesswoman and more. And interestingly, an African woman never loses her clan identity, even after marriage. She‘s always addressed by the clan’s maiden name.

Mbano Manor Hotel at Victoria Falls by Mantis is a place of culture and celebration. It is a place to rest and relax, under the shade of the magnificent teak trees, to reflect on the wonders of time, nature and the ancestors who have gone before us, whose legacies are the foundation of all that is today.

Want to extend your stay in Africa? Talk to the Mantis Travel Specialist about combining a trip with a visit to the Zambezi Queen Collection and/or Feline Fields by Mantis. Get in touch here.