Lunar Rainbow – Royal Livingstone Hotel / Avani Hotel Guests (Walking to Falls at Night)

Each full moon, the Victoria Falls rainforest re-opens in the evening for special tours to witness the magic of the lunar rainbow -weather and spray permitting!

Victoria Falls is one of the few places on earth where this natural phenomenon occurs and where it can be witnessed with ease. Yet many people visit here without knowing of this natural phenomenon, but it is one of the most impressive sights of Victoria Falls.

Things to know about Luna Rainbow

What is the lunar Rainbow?

The lunar rainbow is a series of nighttime rainbows visible in the mist of the Victoria Falls, caused by the refraction of the moon’s light reflected in the rising, swirling spray. Visitors get to experience the Victoria Falls, also known as Mosi-oa Tunya, at night, it is a surreal and very enjoyable experience.

When is it possible to see the Lunar rainbow?

The Lunar rainbows occur during the high water period from February to August. If you are in Livingstone over the full moon, the National Heritage Commission (the body in charge of this world heritage site) will open the park from 1800-2400 the night preceding the full moon, the night of full moon and the night after the full moon.

However, please be advised they will not open if the weather looks to be cloudy and there is no notice if this is the case.

Lunar Happenings:

March 9 – Super full moon
March 24 – Micro new moon
April 8 – Super full moon
June 5 – Penumbral Lunar Eclipse (19:45 to 23:03)
July 5 – Penumbral Lunar Eclipse (05:07 to 07:52)

Photography.

Night-time falls shots are fun and provide an interesting alternative to conventional daytime shots. The most obvious rule is not to use your flash. In order to take a picture of the “Lunar Rainbows,” it is necessary to have control of the camera’s shutter and ISO settings and a tripod or bean bag set-up is essential. As a general rule of thumb, an ISO of 800 and a shutter time of 10 seconds works well.

Be aware of the dangers.

Don’t overdo it on the beers and wine. You are obviously on the edge of a large chasm and distance perception at night can be a challenge to most people. Walk carefully in groups and keep children close at hand. There is little wildlife danger as the troops of baboons are roosting. It is perhaps the only time you can comfortably enjoy a meal in the national park without getting raided by these insatiable animals.

Please be respectful and keep your voice low and your flashlight off.

Price:

$58.00