Wings of freedom over Victoria Falls

Having the opportunity to view the majestic Victoria Falls is a wonderful sight in itself. However, having the chance to admire the falls from above – in a microlight – is an experience like no other; one that you will cherish for the rest of your life! 🙂

How much does it cost to do a microlight flight over Victoria Falls?

This breathtaking adventure is not the cheapest of activities. A 15 minute flight will cost you $135 (Batoka Sky rates, Zambia).

For 30 minutes, expect to pay twice as much ($270). The same prices apply for helicopter rides.

Helicopter ride or microlight?

Advantages of microlights:

– 360° panoramic view

– Much closer to nature

– Stimulates your senses and gives you a great adrenaline rush

Are there any disadvantages?

– Microlight rides are relatively noisy

– Things can get a little shaky up there, especially when the wind is blowing 🙂

– If you are afraid of heights, the helicopter might be a better option for you

How safe are microlights?

While safety cannot be guaranteed 100%, the first thing you can do in order to minimize risk is to choose a serious microlight company. Do a little research and only deal with the most popular businesses out there.

In the case of Batoka Sky for instance, security is the number 1 priority on their check-list:

Batoka Sky Adventures Ltd operates the only microlight flight training school in Zambia, approved by the Zambian Department of Civil Aviation and the highest standard of tutoring is offered. Our resident commercial pilots are carefully selected and are all Instructor Rated. Highly qualified engineers of many years experience, carry out all aircraft servicing providing an excellent safety record.

The guy I flew with was an ancient pilot from the Air Force of Zimbabwe. A very interesting chap with lots of things to say and anecdotes to tell you about (both the pilot + passenger usually wear headphones with a mic, which enables easier communication).

Are personal cameras allowed up there?

No, for safety reasons no cameras are allowed. However, companies usually offer a wing-mounted digital camera that takes pictures at regular intervals. You can buy those pictures after the flight. This makes the experience even more enjoyable as you don’t have to worry about taking photographs yourself. 😉

How much does it cost for the microlight photos?

From what I remember, it costs approximately $40 for pictures of your personal flight.

Short vs. long flight?

The short flight only includes a circuit over the Zambezi river + Victoria Falls and back to the landing strip.

The longer microlight flight includes the short circuit + a view of Kalai island and a flight over the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park for good game viewing opportunities.