An Unforgettable Microlight Adventure

Victoria Falls, a naturalwonder of the world, is renowned for its sheer grandeur and the thunderous roar of its cascading waters. While there are numerous ways to experience this awe-inspiring spectacle, one of the most exhilarating and immersive options is a microlight flight.

Imagine yourself strapped into an open-air aircraft, the wind caressing your face as you ascend into the sky, the mighty Zambezi River snaking its way beneath you. As the microlight gains altitude, the vast expanse of Victoria Falls unfolds before your eyes, a panorama of breathtaking beauty.

Although some people may see them as glorified kites with lawnmower engines, microlights, also known as ultralights, are light aircraft that offer an unparalleled aerial perspective of the landscape. They are small, open-air aircraft that provide a sense of freedom and connection with the elements.

The microlight’s open design allows for an unobstructed view of the falls, revealing their intricate details and the sheer power of the water as it plunges over the cliff face.

The spray from the falls creates a mesmerizing mist, often refracting sunlight into a dazzling rainbow, earning Victoria Falls its moniker “Mosi-oa-Tunya” – “the smoke that thunders”. Moreover, there is also the opportunity of getting an aerial view of the gigantic crocodiles in the Zambezi River.
A microlight flight over Victoria Falls and the River is not just about sightseeing; it’s an adrenaline-pumping adventure. The lightweight aircraft manoeuvres with agility, allowing you to soar over the churning waters, feel the rush of wind and experience the falls from a perspective that few get to witness.

As you descend, the Batoka Gorge, carved by the Zambezi River over millions of years, stretches out beneath you, a testament to nature’s immense power. The surrounding landscape, a patchwork of lush vegetation and rocky outcrops, adds to the visual feast.

Wild Horizons on the Zimbabwean side and Batoka Sky on the Zambian side offer microlight flights over the Falls and Zambezi throughout the year, subject to availability. The flight takes off and lands at the Batoka Sky Aerodrome. Flights are scheduled for the early morning and late afternoon due to favourable weather conditions and are postponed in case of storms or high winds

Comfortable clothing is recommended, and scarves, jackets with belts or ties should be avoided to prevent any loose items from snagging during the flight. Participants must be at least 12 years old and have no specific fitness requirements. The maximum weight for passengers is 100 kilograms. Flights last approximately 15-30 minutes and can accommodate one passenger and a pilot.

The microlight operators adhere to strict safety regulations and employ experienced pilots who are trained to handle the unique challenges of flying.

Additionally, passengers are provided with safety instructions before each flight.

Microlight flying is a safe and enjoyable activity when conducted by experienced pilots and reputable operators. Always prioritize safety by choosing a reputable microlight company with a proven track record of excellence. Ensure that the pilots are fully qualified and experienced and that the microlights are well-maintained and meet all safety standards

Soaring through the air, microlight flights provide unparalleled, unobstructed, and awe-inspiring vistas of Victoria Falls and the magnificent gorge that the mighty Zambezi River has meticulously sculpted into the landscape over thousands of years.

Text by Perry Kaande

From DESTINATION ZW EDITION 7