Zimbabwe Waterfalls & Safaris

Zimbabwe waterfall safaris start with the water. Most of Victoria Falls' famous views, Main Falls, Rainbow Falls and Danger Point, are on the Zimbabwe side, reached from the friendly town of Victoria Falls. Two hours south, Hwange National Park holds one of the largest elephant populations in Africa. In the east, Mutarazi Falls plunges more than 700 metres from the Nyanga escarpment.

When to visit Zimbabwe

Best time: April–November. Waterfalls and wildlife peak at different times, so plan around both; see the seasonal calendar.

National parks to pair with the falls

• Hwange National Park
• Mana Pools National Park
• Matobo Hills
• Nyanga National Park

Planning a trip to Zimbabwe

Victoria Falls town is the gateway for most trips: two or three nights for the falls and activities, then Hwange National Park, two and a half to three hours by road, or Chobe in Botswana, about an hour and a quarter away. Travellers with more time add Mana Pools for canoeing and walking safaris, or the Matobo Hills for rhinos and rock art.

Practical tips

The US dollar is widely used alongside the local currency; carry small notes, as change can be scarce. Cards are accepted in most hotels and lodges in Victoria Falls. Malaria is present in the Zambezi Valley and Hwange, so take advice on prevention. Visa, health and entry rules change, so check official advice for your nationality before you book.

Getting to Zimbabwe

Fly into Victoria Falls Airport (VFA), with connections from Johannesburg and other regional hubs. The KAZA UniVisa covers Zimbabwe and Zambia. Most trips start from Victoria Falls town, a short walk from the rainforest. Visa rules change, so check them for your passport before travel. Read Plan your trip for visas, health and packing, and the waterfall safari FAQs for quick answers.