The Big Tree (Baobab) - Image 1
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Big Tree Baobab

4.4
·187 reviews·Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

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

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Softer light, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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The Big Tree (Baobab) - Image 1

Big Tree Baobab

Best Time

Early mornings

Softer light, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

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.

4.4
(187 reviews)

"Visiting the Big Baobab Tree in Victoria Falls is truly unbeleafable! 10/10 baobabsolutely breathtaking."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Majestic Big Baobab Tree

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

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

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.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit to the Big Baobab

The Big Baobab is a natural wonder, and while it's accessible year-round, consider visiting during the cooler, drier months for a more comfortable experience. Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light for photos and fewer crowds.

Respecting the Baobab and Its Surroundings

This ancient tree is a protected natural monument. Visitors are advised to stay within designated paths and not to carve into the bark. Be aware of local wildlife, as the area is part of a national park.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Softer light, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Cooler, dry months
Why
Comfortable exploration
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Sabías que puedes nadar al borde de una de las cataratas más grandes del mundo? 🌊 Existe!!! Y lo hice, y fue una de las mejores experiencias de mi vida 😭😭😭😭 Guarda esto para tu bucket list 📌🌎 #devilspool #victoriafalls #zambia #zambiantiktok🇿🇲 #bucketlist #viajes #africa #destinos #travel #fyp
@janeidialv
3.1M likes • 42.9M views

🚶‍♀️ Walk with Caution

The walk to the tree can be a bit long. Locals advise being aware of wildlife, especially elephants. Reddit

🌳 Respect the Tree

The Big Baobab is fenced off to protect it. Please refrain from carving names or damaging the bark. Reddit

We all have our own versions of fun 📍Victoria Falls #solotravel #victoriafalls #solofemaletraveler
@wander.more.search.less
1.5M likes • 23.8M views
ต้นเบาบับสายพันธุ์ทึีหายาก#outdoor#naturelovers#outdooractivities#ScenicViews#baobab#bigtree
happy_baobab_garden_
5 likes • 175 views

🛍️ Souvenir Shopping

Small markets offer handmade crafts. A great way to support local artisans. Reddit

📸 Capture the Grandeur

The sheer size of the Big Baobab is impressive. Early or late light offers the best photo opportunities. Instagram

Hadzabe tribe use the cave of the baobab trees 🌳 called (Meleka) or under the caves of big rocks as a home during heavy rainfall as their temporary huts percolate water. The man is talking in the baobab tree
africanremotesexplorer
7K likes • 456K views

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. Reddit

🌳 Respect the Tree

The Big Baobab is fenced off to protect it. Please refrain from carving names or damaging the bark. Reddit

🛍️ Souvenir Shopping

Small markets offer handmade crafts. A great way to support local artisans. Reddit

📸 Capture the Grandeur

The sheer size of the Big Baobab is impressive. Early or late light offers the best photo opportunities. Instagram

🐘 Wildlife Awareness

Be mindful of potential wildlife encounters on Zambezi Road. Listen to local advice. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(187 reviews)

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

Immense size and age
Unique natural wonder
Local souvenir markets

What People Dislike

Fenced off area
Need for wildlife caution

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

The Big Baobab is often found along Zambezi Road. Following this road will lead you towards the general vicinity of the tree. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is an entrance fee to access the Big Baobab area, often around R50 (South African Rand), though this can vary. Instagram

The Big Baobab is generally accessible during daylight hours. It's best to visit during the day to fully appreciate its scale and surroundings. Reddit

While generally accessible, it's always a good idea to confirm local operating hours, especially during any public holidays or specific seasons. Reddit

Information on discounts is not widely available. It's recommended to inquire locally or with tour operators if you are part of a group. Instagram

You can visit independently, but a guide can enhance the experience by sharing local stories and ensuring safety regarding wildlife. Reddit

🎫 🌳 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. InstagramReddit+1

Its immense size and age make it a remarkable natural monument. It's considered one of the largest and oldest baobab trees in Africa. InstagramReddit

No, the tree is fenced off to protect it from damage. Visitors are asked to admire it from the designated viewing areas. Reddit

The area is within a national park, so you might encounter animals like elephants. It's important to be cautious and follow local guidance. Reddit

Basic facilities might be available, but it's advisable to check beforehand or come prepared. Reddit

🍽️ 🛍️ 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. Reddit

Bringing your own water and snacks is a good idea, especially if you plan to spend some time exploring the area. Reddit

Victoria Falls town offers a variety of restaurants and cafes catering to different tastes and budgets. Reddit

Exploring local cuisine in Victoria Falls town will give you a taste of Zimbabwean dishes. Reddit

It's generally safer to eat at established restaurants in town. If you do try street food, ensure it's prepared hygienically. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, creating a warm glow on the tree. Instagram

Generally, photography is allowed, but be respectful of other visitors and the natural environment. TikTok

Wide-angle shots are great for capturing its immense scale. Consider including people for a sense of proportion. Instagram

Drone usage may be restricted in national parks or protected areas. It's essential to check local regulations before flying a drone. TikTok

The area around the tree provides several angles. Experiment with different positions to capture its grandeur. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Visiting the Big Baobab can be an educational and awe-inspiring experience for families. The sheer size of the tree is captivating for children, offering a tangible connection to nature's wonders. While the walk to the tree might require some stamina, it's generally manageable for most families. Reddit

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. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers

The Big Baobab is a fantastic destination for solo travelers looking for a unique natural attraction. The site is generally safe, and the presence of other visitors and local vendors can provide a sense of security. TikTokReddit

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. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, the Big Baobab offers a dramatic subject. Its immense scale and unique silhouette make for striking images. The best times for photography are during the golden hours of early morning and late afternoon, when the light is soft and warm, enhancing the tree's texture and form. Instagram

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. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Ancient Majesty of the Big Baobab

The Big Baobab tree is more than just a large tree; it's a living monument with an estimated age of 1,000 to 1,500 years, and some sources even suggest it could be as old as 3,000 years. This ancient giant, a species of Adansonia digitata, is a symbol of resilience and survival in the African landscape. Its massive trunk, which can be hundreds of years old, stores thousands of liters of water, allowing it to thrive in arid conditions. The tree's imposing presence makes visitors feel a profound connection to nature and history. InstagramReddit+1

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. Reddit

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. Instagram+1

Wildlife Encounters and Safety

The Big Baobab is situated in an area that is part of a national park, meaning that visitors should be aware of the potential for wildlife encounters. Elephants are known to frequent the area, and local advice often includes warnings about their presence. It's crucial to heed the advice of locals and passing drivers who may alert you to any animals ahead. Reddit+1

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Local Crafts and Souvenirs

Adjacent to the Big Baobab, you'll find small markets where local artisans sell a variety of handmade souvenirs. These stalls offer a chance to purchase unique items that reflect local culture and craftsmanship. From carved wooden figures to textiles and jewelry, there's a range of products to choose from. Reddit

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

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