Big Tree Baobab
Marvel at the Big Baobab, an ancient giant over 1,000 years old, a symbol of resilience near Victoria Falls. Explore local crafts and be mindful of wi...

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Softer light, fewer crowds
Big Tree Baobab
Best Time
Softer light, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Marvel at the Big Baobab, an ancient giant over 1,000 years old, a symbol of resilience near Victoria Falls. Explore local crafts and be mindful of wildlife.
"Visiting the Big Baobab Tree in Victoria Falls is truly unbeleafable! 10/10 baobabsolutely breathtaking."
🚶♀️ Walk with Caution
The walk to the tree can be a bit long. Locals advise being aware of wildlife, especially elephants.
🌳 Respect the Tree
The Big Baobab is fenced off to protect it. Please refrain from carving names or damaging the bark.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Majestic Big Baobab Tree
Near Victoria Falls
Stand in awe of this ancient giant, estimated to be over 1,000 years old. A true symbol of resilience and natural wonder.

Local Craft Markets
Adjacent to the Big Baobab
Browse unique, handmade souvenirs and crafts created by local artisans. Perfect for finding a memento of your visit.

Wildlife Spotting Opportunities
Zambezi Road
Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including elephants, as you approach the tree. Always follow local advice for safety.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to the Big Baobab
Respecting the Baobab and Its Surroundings
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk with Caution
The walk to the tree can be a bit long. Locals advise being aware of wildlife, especially elephants.
🌳 Respect the Tree
The Big Baobab is fenced off to protect it. Please refrain from carving names or damaging the bark.
🛍️ Souvenir Shopping
Small markets offer handmade crafts. A great way to support local artisans.
📸 Capture the Grandeur
The sheer size of the Big Baobab is impressive. Early or late light offers the best photo opportunities.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk with Caution
The walk to the tree can be a bit long. Locals advise being aware of wildlife, especially elephants.
🌳 Respect the Tree
The Big Baobab is fenced off to protect it. Please refrain from carving names or damaging the bark.
🛍️ Souvenir Shopping
Small markets offer handmade crafts. A great way to support local artisans.
📸 Capture the Grandeur
The sheer size of the Big Baobab is impressive. Early or late light offers the best photo opportunities.
🐘 Wildlife Awareness
Be mindful of potential wildlife encounters on Zambezi Road. Listen to local advice.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently impressed by the sheer size and ancient nature of the Big Baobab, often describing it as a 'tree-mendous' and 'unbeleafable' experience. The opportunity to purchase local crafts and the potential for wildlife sightings add to its appeal, though some note the tree is fenced off and the walk requires awareness of surroundings.
"The oldest baobab in Africa. Amazing tree with funny story on the poster abut growing upside down. Next to, there is small market that you can buy handmade souvenirs. And On the Zambezi Road you can find many animals around, be careful with elephants."
Monika Karlińska
"A bit of a walk but worth it! Magnificent Baobob tree! Locals say be careful for wild animals because the walk is in the country. We didn’t see anything worrisome!"
Mona Goodwin
"It's a big Baobab, you will see lots of them, but this one is big. Apparently 1,400 years old. Sadly fenced off because morons can't be trusted not to carve their names into it. Small souvenir shops with the usual stuff in them. Short walk from the edge of town, possible to bump into wildlife there so take advice of locals and passing drivers of they warn you of an elephant up ahead or something (they can run faster than humans!)."
Arthur N
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Big Baobab is located a short distance from Victoria Falls town. It's often accessible via a walk or a short drive along Zambezi Road. Some visitors mention it's a bit of a walk from the edge of town.
Information on dedicated parking is limited, but it's generally accessible by road. It's advisable to check with local tour operators or accommodation for the best transport options.
Yes, it's possible to walk to the Big Baobab from the edge of Victoria Falls town. However, be aware that the walk is through a natural area where wildlife may be present.
Many visitors opt for a guided tour which often includes transport, or they arrange local transport. This ensures safety and provides insights from local guides.
The Big Baobab is often found along Zambezi Road. Following this road will lead you towards the general vicinity of the tree.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is an entrance fee to access the Big Baobab area, often around R50 (South African Rand), though this can vary.
The Big Baobab is generally accessible during daylight hours. It's best to visit during the day to fully appreciate its scale and surroundings.
While generally accessible, it's always a good idea to confirm local operating hours, especially during any public holidays or specific seasons.
Information on discounts is not widely available. It's recommended to inquire locally or with tour operators if you are part of a group.
You can visit independently, but a guide can enhance the experience by sharing local stories and ensuring safety regarding wildlife.
🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience
The Big Baobab is estimated to be between 1,000 and 1,500 years old, with some sources suggesting it could be as old as 3,000 years.
Its immense size and age make it a remarkable natural monument. It's considered one of the largest and oldest baobab trees in Africa.
No, the tree is fenced off to protect it from damage. Visitors are asked to admire it from the designated viewing areas.
The area is within a national park, so you might encounter animals like elephants. It's important to be cautious and follow local guidance.
Basic facilities might be available, but it's advisable to check beforehand or come prepared.
🍽️ 🛍️ Food & Dining
While there are small souvenir shops, dedicated dining facilities directly at the Big Baobab are limited. You'll find more options in Victoria Falls town.
Bringing your own water and snacks is a good idea, especially if you plan to spend some time exploring the area.
Victoria Falls town offers a variety of restaurants and cafes catering to different tastes and budgets.
Exploring local cuisine in Victoria Falls town will give you a taste of Zimbabwean dishes.
It's generally safer to eat at established restaurants in town. If you do try street food, ensure it's prepared hygienically.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, creating a warm glow on the tree.
Generally, photography is allowed, but be respectful of other visitors and the natural environment.
Wide-angle shots are great for capturing its immense scale. Consider including people for a sense of proportion.
Drone usage may be restricted in national parks or protected areas. It's essential to check local regulations before flying a drone.
The area around the tree provides several angles. Experiment with different positions to capture its grandeur.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's advisable to bring plenty of water and snacks, as facilities are limited. Keep children close and attentive to their surroundings, especially regarding potential wildlife. The souvenir markets offer a chance for kids to pick out a small memento, and the stories behind the baobab can spark their imagination.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Consider joining a guided tour for added insights and to potentially meet other travelers. This also ensures you have a knowledgeable guide who can share interesting facts about the tree and the local area, including safety tips regarding wildlife.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Experiment with different angles and compositions. Wide-angle lenses are excellent for capturing the tree's full grandeur, while including a person in the frame can provide a sense of scale. Be mindful of the fenced-off area, but explore various viewpoints around it to find the most compelling shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ancient Majesty of the Big Baobab
Unfortunately, due to past vandalism where visitors carved their names into the bark, the Big Baobab is now fenced off by ZimParks. This measure, while regrettable, is necessary to preserve this natural wonder for future generations. Visitors are encouraged to admire the tree from the designated viewing areas and respect its protected status. The story of its survival against the odds is as captivating as its physical presence.
Beyond its age and size, the Big Baobab holds cultural significance. In some traditions, baobab trees are considered sacred and are associated with local folklore and medicinal uses. While this specific tree is a tourist attraction, its existence is a testament to the enduring power of nature and the importance of conservation efforts.
Wildlife Encounters and Safety
While the experience of seeing wildlife can be thrilling, safety is paramount. The advice to be careful and aware of your surroundings is repeated across visitor accounts. The walk to the tree, though potentially short, is through a natural habitat. Visitors are reminded that these animals are wild and should be observed from a safe distance.
It's worth noting that not all visitors report seeing wildlife, but the possibility exists. The presence of animals adds to the authentic African experience, but it also underscores the importance of respecting the natural environment and following all safety guidelines provided by local authorities and guides.
Local Crafts and Souvenirs
Shopping at these markets is not only a way to find mementos of your trip but also a direct way to support the local community. The items are often made with traditional techniques and materials, offering a genuine piece of the region's artistic heritage.
When browsing, take your time to appreciate the detail and effort put into each piece. It's a great opportunity to interact with the vendors and learn more about their craft.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit