Zambezi National Park
Six kilometres upstream from the spray of the Falls, elephants wander along the riverbank and sable antelope graze in the teak forest. Zambezi National Park stretches for about 40 kilometres along the southern bank of the Zambezi, covering 56,000 hectares just outside Victoria Falls town – the most accessible safari among Zimbabwe tourist attractions.
Originally part of the Victoria Falls National Park, the area became a separate national park in 1979. Its landscape is a mix of riverine forest along the Zambezi, mopane woodland, Zambezi teak forest and open grassy vleis inland. The park forms part of the vast Kavango–Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area, so animals move freely to and from Botswana's Chobe and Zambia's Mosi-oa-Tunya.
Why visit Zambezi National Park?
The park is particularly known for sable antelope, alongside elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, waterbuck, kudu and occasional lions and leopards. Hippos and crocodiles line the river, which also draws fish eagles, kingfishers and bee-eaters.
Its biggest advantage is convenience: you can be on a game drive within fifteen minutes of leaving your hotel, making it ideal for travellers whose main focus is the falls but who still want a taste of the bush. The river frontage is also beautiful, with islands, rapids and palm-fringed banks that offer some of the best sunset views in the region.
Getting there and around
The main gate is on the Kazungula road, a few minutes from town. The park has two sections: the Zambezi River Drive and the Chamabondo Game Drive in the south. Game drives, walks, canoe trips and cruises are bookable in town; the 3-hour photographic safari from Victoria Falls fits neatly into a morning.
The River Drive is accessible to ordinary vehicles in the dry season, with loops leading down to picnic and fishing sites. The Chamabondo section has a separate entrance off the Bulawayo road. Many visitors prefer a guided drive in an open vehicle, which allows better views and access to the guide's knowledge of where animals have been seen.
Highlights not to miss
- Zambezi River Drive: Picnic sites and fishing camps along the water, with elephants often drinking at the river's edge.
- Sunset cruise: Elephants and hippos seen from the river on a sunset Zambezi boat cruise, or stay on board for the version with dinner.
- Upper Zambezi canoeing: Paddle past islands with a guide, gliding by hippos and birds at water level.
- Sable antelope: One of Zimbabwe's best places to see them, with their sweeping, curved horns.
Practical tips
Self-drivers must keep to marked roads and leave before dusk. Fishing permits are sold at the gate.
Park fees are paid per person per day, with an additional vehicle fee for self-drivers. Bring water, sun protection and binoculars, and remember that the park is unfenced – never leave your vehicle except at designated sites.
Best time to visit
July to October brings game to the river; November to March is lush and superb for birding, though some roads become difficult.
The dry winter months from May to August are also pleasantly cool, while October can be very hot. Combining a visit to the park with peak flow at the falls in March to May means greener scenery and fewer vehicles, though animals are more dispersed.
Accommodation and food
National-park lodges and fishing camps sit right on the riverbank, a peaceful alternative to the hotels in town.
The self-catering lodges are simple but enjoy superb river views, and you may well hear hippos grunting outside at night. Bring all supplies from Victoria Falls town, where supermarkets and restaurants are only a short drive away.
How does it compare to other Zimbabwe tourist attractions?
Smaller and tamer than Hwange National Park, it suits travellers with limited time at Victoria Falls.
Wildlife densities are lower than in the big parks, but the river setting and easy access make it a rewarding addition to any stay at the falls.
In summary
A half-day here adds wildlife and river scenery to any Falls itinerary.
