Victoria Falls National Park
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
Named for the thundering falls at its heart, Victoria Falls National Park is a lush rainforest that surrounds the Zimbabwean side of Victoria Falls. The park offers arguably the best views of the falls, providing more than a dozen overlooks for admiring the 5,604-foot (1,708-meter)-wide wall of water—known as the largest sheet of falling water in the world.
The Basics
One of the Seven Wonders of the Natural World, Victoria Falls bridges the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia and is protected by Victoria Falls National Park on the Zimbabwean side, and Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park on the Zambian side. Two-thirds of the falls are located within Zimbabwe, so given the choice, most people view the falls from Victoria Falls National Park.
The park offers a diverse array of ways to view the famous waterfall, from a guided hike along the falls to a helicopter flight above the UNESCO-listed site. Thrill-seekers can also get a different view of the falls on a zipline or bungee jump from the Victoria Falls Bridge. To explore more of the park, embark on a high-adrenaline rafting trip down the Zambezi River.
Things to Know Before You Go
- If you can only view the falls from one side, choose Victoria Falls National Park.
- There is a fee to enter the park. It is included in the price of most guided tours.
- Wear rain gear or take advantage of provided ponchos on a tour—the mist from the falls can be enough to soak your clothes.
- A wheelchair and stroller accessible pathway makes viewing the falls accessible for all.
How to Get There
The national park borders the town of Victoria Falls, which has an international airport and is the main jumping-off point for exploring the area. It’s about a mile (2 kilometers) from town to the falls, making it easily accessible on foot, bike, or taxi.
When to Get There
Victoria Falls National Park is a worthwhile destination year-round. To see the falls at their most impressive, visit during the rainy season from December through early May. Avoid visiting during the dry season—October and November.
Wildlife Viewing in Victoria Falls National Park
This dynamic area encompasses both rainforest (created by the mist from the falls) and big game territory, creating a diverse array of wildlife viewing opportunities. The falls area is ideal for birdwatching and monkey sightings. To spot classic African wildlife such as elephants and lions, take a game drive in the adjacent Zambezi National Park.
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