Dominated by unique vegetation of mopane forest and miombo woodlands, and characterized by basaltic gorges shaped by the Zambezi River, the Victoria Falls National Park is a natural wonder and a biodiversity hot spot. Also designated as a World Heritage site for its exceptional geological features and natural beauty, the Park is known for the largest and most spectacular waterfalls in the world, the Mosi-oa-Tunya (“The smoke that thunders”) or Victoria Falls. Animal species recorded in the Site include a sizable number of elephants, buffalo, lions, leopards, and black rhinoceros, of which 10% of the world population lives in the Park. Hippopotamus, giraffe, zebra, antelopes, warthog, baboons and other monkeys, and Nile crocodiles can also be found in large numbers. The Site also supports a wealth of reptiles, amphibians, and over 500 bird species including falcons, eagles, black storks, and herons, which feed and nest in the area. Thousands of tourists travel to the park each year for sightseeing, rafting, boating, and game viewing.

Size of Victoria falls National park

Victoria Falls National Park is a 2300 ha (5680 acres) protected area that includes the town of Victoria Falls, the rain forest, and the riverine vegetation.

Location of Victoria falls National park

Victoria Falls National Park in north-western Zimbabwe protects the south and east bank of the Zambezi River in the area of the world-famous Victoria Falls. It extends along the Zambezi River from the larger Zambezi National Park about 6 km above the falls to about 12 km below the falls.

How to get to Victoria falls National park

The Victoria Falls National Park entrance is about a 10-minute walk from Victoria Falls town. It is located opposite the crafts market where you can buy many memorabilia. Keep your eyes open as you may see elephants roaming around the open fields next to the market.

If you’re staying in Livingstone on the Zambian side, I suggest you take a taxi to the park entrance as it’s a bit too far to walk.

Things to do in Victoria Falls National park

Visit Zambezi nature sanctuary

Zimbabwe is filled with wildlife and landscape that deserves the highest level of preservation and this is one of many institutions with such a goal. Lions and leopards roam the protected lands, and sightings of these majestic cats never cease to amaze. But this is not just any old nature sanctuary.

Visit the art village

A diverse range of local crafts is showcased in this unique shopping village. Experts are kind and welcoming, with answers to all your questions about traditional Zimbabwean craft. Don’t miss the Prime Art Gallery, featuring work from Dominic Benhura, Zimbabwe’s foremost contemporary artist.

Visit the Zambezi River

Away from the roaring falls, the Zambezi River slows down to a calm pace, perfect for welcoming tourists to the water. Canoeing here is a joyful experience, both relaxing and enthralling at the same time. A unique wildlife experience awaits as you cruise along the river – keep your eyes peeled for Hippos at sunset.

Crossing the Victoria Falls Bridge

Cross from one side of the park to the other using the Victoria Falls Bridge, with awe-inspiring views of the gushing falls. If you dare, you can bungee-jump from the bridge, drop locals will announce at 110 meters. That’s 364-feet! For those who’d rather go up, helicopter rides guarantee even more incredible views over the whole cataract system.

Visit the falls and wildlife

The lush lands surrounding the world-famous Victoria Falls comprise an epic national park, filled with unique flora and fauna that developed thanks to the spraying waters of these enormous rapids. Of course, the waterfalls are the highlight, including Devil’s Pool on the Zambian side, but everywhere you go you will also find African wildlife to enjoy.

When to visit Victoria falls National park

January – June is the wet season and is also one of the best times to visit Victoria Falls as the falls begin to fill up. There is a lot of spray and mist which may hamper your views of the falls. However, you can feel the power and might of this beautiful part of nature, and it’s incredible. You will be unable to do the rafting or visit Devil’s Pool at this time due to the high water levels which makes these activities more dangerous.

Where to stay in Victoria Falls National park

Shongwe Lookout

Enjoy an early morning coffee as you watch the sunrise from the treetops, rest and relax in the comfort of our new rooms, or dine-in and take a dip in our infinity pool after a day of exploring all that Victoria Falls has to offer.

Just 1 kilometer from town, and 2 kilometers from Victoria Falls, Shongwe Lookout offers you the chance to enjoy a different point of view and to see the world with fresh eyes.

The Elephant Camp

Set within the Victoria Falls National Park, The Elephant Camp overlooks the Zambezi Gorges with a magnificent view of the Victoria Falls spray. The Elephant Camp has been rated one of the best-tented lodges in Zimbabwe and is within close proximity to Victoria Falls and the bustling tourist town.