Zambezi National Park
Lining the south bank of the Zambezi near Victoria Falls, this park protects exceptional riverine wildlife—elephants, hippos, crocodiles—and is explored by boat or 4×4 through pristine bush.
Zambezi National Park stretches across northwestern Zimbabwe, along the south bank of the Zambezi River, in immediate proximity to the town of Victoria Falls. Created to protect the wildlife and riverside vegetation bordering one of southern Africa's great rivers, it offers an authentic bush experience, away from the well-trodden Victoria Falls circuits. Elephants, buffalo, hippos and crocodiles coexist here in a landscape of alluvial forest and open savanna.
Practical Information at a Glance
- Entrance: fee-based — entry fees collected by Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZPWMA); rates to be verified directly with the authority or your local operator.
- Access: from Victoria Falls town centre, the park is accessible by vehicle; a road runs along the river westward.
- Recommended duration: half-day to full day depending on chosen activity.
- Attire: neutral clothing (khaki, beige, olive green) recommended; closed-toe shoes mandatory outside vehicle.
- Rules: do not exit the vehicle outside designated zones; follow your guide's instructions.
What to See
The park is home to wildlife characteristic of the Zambezi corridor. Elephants regularly frequent the banks to drink. Hippopotamuses and Nile crocodiles occupy the shallow waters. On the savanna, you'll observe buffalo, impalas, zebras and, more rarely, lions and leopards. Birdlife is remarkable: African fish eagle, giant kingfisher, goliath heron.
History and Context
Zambezi National Park was created to form a protected corridor between Victoria Falls and upstream bush areas. It is part of a larger transboundary network that includes Chobe National Park (Botswana) and Hwange National Park (Zimbabwe). This ecological continuity allows seasonal movements of vast elephant herds, among southern Africa's largest.
Highlights of Your Visit
Sunset Boat Safari on the Zambezi
The sunset cruise on the Zambezi is the park's signature activity. Boats line the Zimbabwean bank and allow you to observe hippos and elephants at eye level from the water, bathed in golden light. Several operators based in Victoria Falls offer these outings.
4×4 Vehicle Safari
The park's interior tracks traverse alluvial forest and savanna. Early morning sorties offer the best chances of spotting predators and large herbivores before midday heat.
Tigerfish Fishing
The Zambezi is renowned for sport fishing of tigerfish (Hydrocynus vittatus), the river's emblematic combative fish. Permits and specialist guides are available through local lodges.
Photography Tips
Light is optimal early morning and late afternoon. From a boat, the sunset backlight on hippo and elephant silhouettes yields striking images. A telephoto lens (200 mm minimum) is essential for land-based wildlife. Avoid flash at all times: it disturbs animals and is generally forbidden.
Location and Access
The park adjoins the town of Victoria Falls, in Matabeleland North province. The main entrance is a few kilometres from town centre, accessible by rental vehicle or via a transfer arranged by your lodge. Most visitors combine a visit with Victoria Falls, located east of the park. Victoria Falls International Airport serves the town from Harare, Johannesburg and other regional hubs.
Nearby Attractions
- Victoria Falls — one of the world's largest waterfalls, on the Zimbabwe-Zambia border, a few kilometres east.
- Hwange National Park — Zimbabwe's largest park, approximately 100 km southeast, renowned for its vast elephant herds.
- Victoria Falls Bridge — historic bridge spanning the Zambezi gorges, departure point for bungee jumping and zip-lining.
Frequently asked questions
The dry season (May to October) is ideal: vegetation is less dense, animals concentrate near the river and tracks are passable. In the rainy season (November to April), the park is greener but some areas may be inaccessible.
A personal vehicle is sufficient for main tracks, but a local guide is highly recommended to maximise sightings and ensure safety, especially outside the vehicle. Cruises and guided safaris are organised by Victoria Falls lodges and operators.
Yes, this is the most common combination. Victoria Falls is visited in the morning; a river cruise in the park in late afternoon perfectly completes the day.
A few lodges and camps are located on the park's edge or on the Zambezi banks. Most visitors stay in Victoria Falls and make day trips to the park.
Photography is permitted for personal use. Drone use requires prior authorisation from Zimbabwean authorities; check before departure.
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