Zambezi National Park
Explore abundant wildlife, including lions and elephants, along the mighty Zambezi River in this stunning national park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Animals are most active
Zambezi National Park
Best Time
Animals are most active
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore abundant wildlife, including lions and elephants, along the mighty Zambezi River in this stunning national park.
"The number of animals seen was unbelievable, the best national park I've visited so far!"
🎯 Plan for Chilly Mornings
July mornings can be very cold; dress in layers for early game drives. :snowflake:
💰 Budget for Activities
Park entry and guide fees add up. Factor these into your travel budget. :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Abundant Wildlife
Throughout the park
Witness elephants, lions, leopards, giraffes, zebras, and more in their natural habitat.
Zambezi River Frontage
Along the Zambezi River
The Zambezi River is a vital waterhole, attracting diverse animals and offering scenic views.
Night Safari Thrills
Throughout the park
Experience the park after dark for a chance to see nocturnal animals and witness a lion hunt.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Time for Animal Sightings
Park Entry and Safari Costs
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Plan for Chilly Mornings
July mornings can be very cold; dress in layers for early game drives. :snowflake:
💰 Budget for Activities
Park entry and guide fees add up. Factor these into your travel budget. :moneybag:
🦁 Aim for Peak Viewing Times
Animals are most visible at dawn and dusk when they drink from the Zambezi. :sunrise:
🌃 Experience a Night Safari
A night safari offers a thrilling chance to see nocturnal wildlife in action. :moon:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Plan for Chilly Mornings
July mornings can be very cold; dress in layers for early game drives. :snowflake:
💰 Budget for Activities
Park entry and guide fees add up. Factor these into your travel budget. :moneybag:
🦁 Aim for Peak Viewing Times
Animals are most visible at dawn and dusk when they drink from the Zambezi. :sunrise:
🌃 Experience a Night Safari
A night safari offers a thrilling chance to see nocturnal wildlife in action. :moon:
🚗 Consider a Ranger's Help
Rangers can significantly enhance your chances of spotting elusive animals like leopards. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Zambezi National Park for its incredible wildlife density and the thrilling experience of spotting animals like lions and leopards. The Zambezi River's role as a vital waterhole is a highlight, and many recommend the unique adventure of a night safari. However, some note that early morning visits can be very cold, and the cost of activities is a significant factor for many travelers.
"The park is beautiful, and I could see some animals (elephants, giraffes, gazelles, birds, hyenas, zebras, baboons, etc). However, early morning in July was very, very cold! Apparently, having a game drive in late afternoon would be better because it's when the animals come to drink water. I would have loved to stay longer in the park because we only saw animals at the end of the safari."
Monica Kobayashi
"The largest national wildlife park in Victoria Falls area. Went there on an evening safari. The lovely Zambezi River runs all along the park and is an important waterhole for wildlife. Entry and guide fees apply. We saw lots of elephants, Waterbucks, Impalas, hippos, kudus, baboons, giraffes , maribu storks. If you have some hours to spare while in Victoria Falls, this place is recommended."
s vivekananda
"Nothing to fault!
The number of animals seen was unbelievable, the best national park I've visited so far, we even had the luck of a ranger jumping in our car to help us find rhinos! We got to see a leopard 🐆 too! Definitely recommend that if you are travelling or live nearby, I won't put too many photos to spoil the moments you'll experience, but it's so worth it!"
Laura Rose
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Zambezi National Park is conveniently located near Victoria Falls. Many visitors access it via organized game drives or by hiring a taxi from Victoria Falls town. The park entrance is easily reachable by road.
Zambezi National Park is located on the Zimbabwean side of Victoria Falls. While the falls themselves can be viewed from both countries, the national park itself is within Zimbabwe. +1
You can book game drives through your lodge or a local tour operator. Many offer pick-up and drop-off services directly from your accommodation.
Yes, you can drive your own vehicle into the park, but hiring a guide is highly recommended for better animal spotting and safety.
The park entrance is a short drive from Victoria Falls town, typically around 10-15 minutes, making it easily accessible for a half-day or full-day excursion.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are park entry fees, and these are separate from any safari guide fees. It's advisable to check the latest fee structure upon arrival or with your tour operator.
Booking game drives in advance is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and ensure availability.
Zambezi National Park is primarily visited for day game drives. Overnight stays are typically at lodges located within or adjacent to the park, which have their own booking procedures.
The park entry fee grants you access to the park's roads and general areas. It does not typically include the services of a guide or specific activities like night safaris.
Your passport is for border crossings if you are coming from another country. For park entry, you will pay the local park fees.
🎫 🦁 Onsite Experience
You have a high chance of seeing elephants, lions, leopards, giraffes, zebras, impalas, kudus, waterbucks, and various bird species. +1
Early mornings and late afternoons/evenings are best as animals come to the Zambezi River to drink. Night safaris are also highly recommended. +1
Both guided tours and self-drive options are available. However, guides significantly increase your chances of spotting wildlife and provide valuable insights.
The park is generally safe when following the guidance of rangers and tour operators. Avoid approaching wild animals and stay within designated areas.
Wear comfortable, neutral-colored clothing to blend in with the environment. Layers are recommended, especially for early morning drives, as it can get cold.
📸 📸 Photography
The riverbanks of the Zambezi offer stunning opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset. Keep your camera ready at all times for unexpected wildlife encounters.
A telephoto lens (e.g., 70-200mm or longer) is highly recommended to capture clear shots of animals from a distance.
Generally, photography is allowed, but always be respectful of the wildlife and avoid using flash photography that might disturb them.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – provide the best natural light for photography, creating beautiful warm tones.
It's polite to ask for permission before taking photos of people, including rangers and guides.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Opting for a mid-morning or early afternoon game drive can be more comfortable for children, avoiding the coldest parts of the day. Consider booking a family-friendly lodge that offers easy access to the park and may have child-focused activities. Ensure your chosen safari operator is experienced with families and can tailor the experience to keep children engaged and safe. The sheer excitement of spotting animals can create lasting memories for the whole family.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons when prices for accommodation and some activities might be lower. Packing your own snacks and water can also help reduce daily expenses. Prioritize one or two key safari experiences, like a well-timed game drive, to get the most value for your money.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Be prepared for early mornings and late evenings, as these are prime times for animal activity. Consider booking a specialized photography safari if available, as these often have guides trained to assist photographers and may use open-top vehicles for better angles. Remember to pack extra batteries and memory cards – you won't want to miss a shot!
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Thrill of the Game Drive
Timing is crucial for maximizing your chances. Animals are most active during the cooler parts of the day, congregating at the Zambezi River for water. Night safaris, in particular, offer a unique perspective, revealing the park's nocturnal inhabitants and the drama of the wild after dark.
When booking your drive, consider the expertise of your guide. A knowledgeable ranger can significantly enhance your experience, not only by helping you find animals but also by sharing fascinating insights into their behavior and the park's ecosystem.
Zambezi National Park vs. Victoria Falls
Visitors often combine a trip to the falls with a game drive in the national park. The park is located on the Zimbabwean side, offering a different perspective and experience compared to viewing the falls from Zambia.
While the falls are about the sheer power and majesty of water, the national park is about the quiet observation of animals in their natural environment. Both offer unforgettable experiences, but they cater to different interests – the awe-inspiring force of nature versus the subtle beauty of the wild.
Navigating the Costs of a Victoria Falls Safari
Beyond the park entry fees, which are standard for national parks, the cost of guided game drives, especially specialized ones like night safaris, can add up. It's essential to research and budget for these expenses in advance to avoid surprises.
When planning, consider that while the park itself offers incredible natural beauty, the curated experiences like guided safaris come with a price tag. Comparing prices from different tour operators and lodges can help you find the best value for your safari adventure.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit