Victoria Falls National Park
Victoria Falls is not only a World Heritage Site, but also one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the world. The majestic falls are also known as the "smoke that thunders" or "Mosi-Oa-Tunya" by the locals. This massive waterfall lives up to its name as you can hear the roaring water and see the mist from miles away. Victoria Falls is a truly spectacular site to behold and is definitely worth the visit.
In addition to the waterfalls, a luscious rainforest spreads through the park and is home to a diverse array of wildlife and birdlife. From calm walks along the banks of the Zambezi River and sunset cruises to flights over the magnificent Victoria Falls and river rafting, there are many thrilling adventures to be had in Victoria Falls National Park.
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Best Time To Go
May - October (game viewing)
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Average Safari Cost
$200-$700 pp/day. Park fee: $15 (Victoria Falls: $30)
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Highlights
The spectacular Victoria Falls, the Devil's Cataract, river rafting, elephant-back safaris, game drives, night drives, walking safaris, sunset cruises, beautiful scenery, great wildlife viewing, bungee jumping, canoeing, walking with lions, the Big Tree and many more!
Why Visit Victoria Falls National Park?
The Victoria Falls National Park offers a multitude of exciting activities and opportunities that will make your safari experience unforgettable. Wander through the rain forest or along the banks of the beautiful Zambezi River for stunning scenery and incredible photographic opportunities. See the mighty Victoria Falls from up above in helicopter flights or from the Cataracts Viewpoint where you can descend into the gorge for a completely different perspective.
This park is perfect for thrill-seeking adventurers as there are many activities that will get your adrenalin pumping. River rafting, bungee jumping, walking with lions and crocodile cage diving are some of the most popular activities.
Victoria Falls National Park also offers great wildlife viewing and bird watching opportunities with game drives, night drives, elephant and horse-back safaris, canoeing and guided walks through the bush land. Travel to Victoria Falls National Park for a truly memorable experience as there are many breathtaking sights to see and exciting activities to do!
Pros And Cons
Pros
- See the spectacular Victoria Falls
- Many activities, such as canoeing, walking safaris and game drives
- Elephant-ride safaris
- Walks with lions
- Four of the Big Five
- Great place for fishing
- Excellent birdwatching
Cons
- Limited accommodation options - consult your safari operator
- Victoria Falls gets very crowded and busy during high season
Best Time To Go
The best time to visit the Victoria Falls National Park for wildlife viewing is from May to October, which is during the dry season. This is when the vegetation is more sparse and animals are easier to spot. The dry season is from April to October consisting of sunny days and an average temperature of 81˚F (27˚C) as well as cold nights that average 45˚F (7˚C). There is a lower risk for malaria during this time as there are fewer mosquitoes.
The wet season is from November to March. Daytime temperatures average about 90˚F (32˚C) with nights cooling down to about 66˚F (19˚C). While the vegetation is more lush and green, the wildlife viewing is not as good during the wet season. Victoria Falls is most impressive from February to May but many people visit between June and January because the spray of water is less so the views are clearer.
For more details about when to visit broken down by months/seasons see our Zimbabwe Safari - Complete Travel Guide.
Start your African Adventure
Popular Tours
Guided Tour of Zimbabwe Featuring Chobe
This tour will take you to most of Zimbabwe's tourist attraction which will give you the opportunity to explore the diverse landscape and culture of the country. A must do tour as it takes you to two countries in one trip.
3 Days Amazing Victoria Falls Safari in Zambia
This safari will take you to Victoria Falls, the largest sheet of falling water in the world, roughly twice the height of Niagara Falls. In the 1800s, it was described by the Kololo tribe living in the area as "Mosi-oa-Tunya" or "the smoke that thunders." It presents a spectacular sight of awe-inspiring beauty and grandeur on the Zambezi River, forming the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe.
Wildlife And Birds
- Lion
- Elephant
- Leopard
- Hippo
- Buffalo
Rare Animals
- Leopard
Frequently Seen Animals
- Elephant, hippo, buffalo
There are over 400 recorded species of bird found in Victoria Falls National Park, which makes this an excellent birding destination. The birdlife thrives along the river and in the rain forest areas of the park. Cormorants, African darters and egrets are commonly found along the shoreline of the Zambezi River as well as Pel's Fishing Owl, the Western banded snake eagle and many more can be spotted in the surrounding area. The best time to visit the park for bird watching is from November to April because migratory birds can be found.
Endangered Birds
- African skimmer
Getting There And Safety
Most foreign visitors fly to the Victoria Falls Airport before driving to Victoria Falls National Park which is only a short distance away. Transport between airports and accommodation is often included in safari packages so check with your operator.
If you are based in the UK and Europe, check out these flights to Zimbabwe
If you are based in the USA and Canada, check out these flights to Zimbabwe
The vaccinations recommended for Zimbabwe are cholera, typhoid, hepatitis A and hepatitis B. There is also a risk for malaria, especially from October - May, so anti-malarial drugs are advised as well as bringing insect repellent.
It is better to check with your local medical authority which vaccinations are required.
For more details about vaccinations see our Zimbabwe Safari - Complete Travel Guide.
Going on a safari in Africa comes with obvious risks. Zimbabwe lacks good health care facilities so if anything happens you would need to be airlifted out of the country and taken to South Africa to be treated. We recommend you get travel insurance for all safaris in Zimbabwe. Make sure your insurance has full medical coverage, emergency air evacuation, repatriation and the standard travel insurance for cancellations, delays and luggage cover.
Check World Nomads’ travel insurance calculator to see the cost of the safari trip cover.
Pack clothes for both warm and cool weather as it can get very hot during the day and quite cold at night depending on what time of the year you go. Try to pack neutral, earthy toned clothes and avoid bright colours and white. Other essential items are a hat, sunglasses, sun screen, toiletries, closed shoes, torch, batteries, insect repellent, first aid kit, binoculars and camera. A raincoat and waterproof clothes are essential when visiting Victoria Falls.
For more details on what to pack see our Safari Packing List.