Victoria Falls National Park

Overview

Victoria Falls National Park, nestled in the Matabeleland North Province of northwestern Zimbabwe, is a sanctuary for the world's largest waterfall: Victoria Falls. 

This natural wonder, standing at an awe-inspiring 3,002 feet (915 m) above mean sea level, stretching 5,604 feet (1,708 m) wide, and with an average depth of 328 feet (100 m), is a sight to behold. 

Sprays from this goliath can be seen from up to 19 miles (30 km) from Lusaka Road in Zambia and 31 miles (50 km) from Bulawayo Road in Zimbabwe. 

Direct views of the waterfall are possible from both countries; however, the Zimbabwean side is arguably the more spectacular option! 

The falls comprises five minor falls: four on the Zimbabwean side and the fifth on the Zambian side of the border. These falls are known as: 

• Devil's Cataract (also known as Devil’s Pool)

• Main Falls

• Rainbow Falls

• Horseshoe Falls

• Eastern Cataract (Zambia side) 

Victoria Falls National Park, a cherished part of Zimbabwe's protected areas, is crucial in safeguarding the majestic Victoria Falls, which it shares with Zambia's Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park.

Due to its colossal size, exquisite beauty, and cultural significance, Victoria Falls was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1989 and is listed as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Dr David Livingstone first saw this astonishing natural wonder in 1855. 

The Indigenous name for the Falls is Mosi-oa-Tunya, meaning "the smoke that thunders," and Livingstone named it after the British Monarch at the time: Queen Victoria. 

The national park spans 9 square miles (23,4 km²) and is characterized by riverine bush, woodlands, and a dense rainforest. The predicted palms, ferns, and water-adapted vegetation can be found protruding from the spray of the falls. 

The source of the falls is the mighty Zambezi River, which feeds the cascading sheet of water that plummets into a narrow gorge, creating the world's most jaw-dropping natural landmark. 

Visitors can view the Big Five , various antelopes such as eland, greater kudu and impala and an array of bird species.  However, the park's small size only makes for a somewhat extensive safari adventure. 

The region has more renowned (and much bigger) national parks that are only a short drive away, and we suggest combining your visit with some of the following parks: 

• Chobe National Park

• Hwange National Park

• Zambezi National Park

• Kazuma Pan National Park 

Contact one of these expert tour operators for all the information needed to organize the perfect travel plan!