Victoria Falls is indeed a true natural wonder. With sparkling waterfalls and nature at its best, it is a word to describe Victoria Falls. When people imagine Africa, they often picture wild animals and exciting safaris. If you’re one of those individuals seeking the perfect safari destination, why not consider Victoria Falls? Not only is this magnificent waterfall one of the world’s seven natural wonders and a must-see for many, but it also serves as the gateway to numerous world-class Wildlife Parks, offering some of the best safari experiences in all of Africa. Below, we have outlined just a few of the incredible safari opportunities that await you near Victoria Falls. Apart from giving the breathtaking beauty of Victoria Falls, it offers some mesmerising safari options too.
Nestled at the heart of Southern Africa, Victoria Falls stands as one of the continent’s most iconic natural wonders, captivating visitors with its thundering cascades and mist-shrouded landscapes. However, the allure of this region extends far beyond the mesmerizing falls themselves. Just beyond the roar of the Zambezi River, a realm of untamed wilderness awaits, offering a safari experience that is nothing short of extraordinary. In this blog, we embark on a journey to explore the safari destinations near Victoria Falls, unlocking the secrets of the region’s diverse ecosystems and unveiling encounters with Africa’s magnificent wildlife. From the raw beauty of national parks to the tranquil waterways teeming with exotic species, this adventure beckons travelers to venture beyond the falls and immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of nature that defines this corner of the continent.
This destination attracts travelers from around the globe who are eager to witness the awe-inspiring beauty of the mighty Victoria Falls. Renowned as one of the seven natural wonders of the world, Victoria Falls is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, providing exceptional accommodations and a wide range of cultural and adventurous activities. While many visitors are unaware, Victoria Falls is situated on the border of both Zambia and Zimbabwe, which are considered two of Africa’s top safari destinations. Both countries boast incredible national parks and private wildlife sanctuaries. Here are some of the most exceptional safaris near Victoria Falls.
10 Best Safari Parks Near Victoria Falls
Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park
When people imagine Africa, they often picture wild animals and exciting safaris. If you’re one of those individuals seeking the perfect safari destination, why not consider Victoria Falls? Not only is this magnificent waterfall one of the world’s seven natural wonders and a must-see for many, but it also serves as the gateway to numerous world-class Wildlife Parks, offering some of the best safari experiences in all of Africa. Below, we have outlined just a few of the incredible safari opportunities that await you near Victoria Falls. This destination attracts travelers from around the globe who are eager to witness the awe-inspiring beauty of the mighty Victoria Falls. Renowned as one of the seven natural wonders of the world, Victoria Falls is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, providing exceptional accommodations and a wide range of cultural and adventurous activities. While many visitors are unaware, Victoria Falls is situated on the border of both Zambia and Zimbabwe, which are considered two of Africa’s top safari destinations. Both countries boast incredible national parks and private wildlife sanctuaries. Here are some of the most exceptional safaris near Victoria Falls. If you’re considering a trip to Victoria Falls and would like more information or assistance in planning your journey, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We specialize in this field and have organized countless itineraries for our clients. It brings us great joy to personalize your experience based on our extensive knowledge of the area and the country.
Recommended lodges: The Royal Livingstone, Sanctuary Sussi & Chuma Lodge, Avani Victoria Falls
Zambezi National Park
The Zambezi National Park, located near Victoria Falls, offers an exceptional safari experience due to its diverse landscape and abundant wildlife. Spanning over 140,000 acres, this pristine park is considered one of Zimbabwe’s top destinations for encountering the Big Five and exploring the thrilling adventures of Victoria Falls. The park primarily consists of woodland, but also features a small riverine area and the renowned Chamabonda Vlei, which is a popular spot for observing wildlife. In terms of wildlife, the Zambezi National Park is home to the iconic Big Five, including lions, rhinos, leopards, elephants, and buffalos. Additionally, visitors can encounter various antelope species, zebras, giraffes, 75 species of fish, and over 400 species of birds.
The park offers a range of experiences to cater to different interests. Visitors can partake in daily game drives, walking safaris, bird watching, bush picnics, upper Zambezi canoeing safaris, and guided tours of the majestic Victoria Falls. The park’s close proximity to the town center, just a 15-minute drive away, allows for easy access and stunning views of the Zambezi River. Expert guides are available for game drives, providing opportunities to witness a wide array of wildlife, including buffalos, warthogs, zebras, giraffes, elephants, hyenas, various antelope species, crocodiles, hippos, leopards, painted dogs, lions, and many more. For those seeking a more immersive experience, canoeing safaris, fishing, bird-watching, overnight camping, and picnics along the river are all options.
Furthermore, the park is home to some of the most remarkable lodges, offering comfortable accommodations within the park itself. This allows guests to enjoy day trips to Victoria Falls while maximizing their wildlife viewing opportunities. Staying in these lodges and camps provides the advantage of being the first to embark on a game drive and the last to return, ensuring ample time for wildlife sightings during the most favorable periods.
Recommended lodges: Victoria Falls River Lodge; Royal Chundu Zambezi Lodge
Victoria Falls National Park
During the months of high water season, the magnificent Victoria Falls, also known as the “smoke that thunders,” can be witnessed in all its awe-inspiring glory. Located just a short seven-minute drive from the falls, the Victoria Falls National Park in Zimbabwe is a truly exceptional place. If you have limited time and wish to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the falls and experience an authentic big five safari, then the Victoria Falls National Park is the ultimate choice. Positioned approximately six kilometers above the Victoria Falls and twelve kilometers below them, the park offers breathtaking views of this natural wonder. Encompassing a rainforest, riverine bush, and a private concession managed by Wild Horizons – Victoria Falls Private Game Reserve, the park provides a diverse and captivating environment.
In the private concession, visitors can expect to encounter large herds of elephants and buffalo, while the national park offers sightings of the Big Five, as well as various antelope, crocodiles, zebras, giraffes, and other smaller animal species. The Zambezi River is renowned for its Bream and Tiger fish, offering excellent fishing opportunities. When it comes to experiences, the options are plentiful. In the private Victoria Falls Concession, visitors can enjoy day and night game drives, walking safaris, elephant interactions, and visits to the falls. The Victoria Falls National Park offers daily game drives, walking safaris, bird watching, and visits to the falls. Additionally, the Victoria Falls Private Game Reserve, just a 15-20 minute drive from town, is a 2500 hectare private reserve teeming with a variety of wildlife. Notably, it is home to the endangered black rhino, which is diligently protected by private anti-poaching units. The Stanley and Livingstone Boutique Hotel and Ursula’s Homestead provide excellent accommodation options within this safari reserve. Engaging in a rhino search, night drive, or bush dinner are all wonderful activities to partake in here. Whether you choose to stay on the reserve or come from town for a morning or afternoon safari, these experiences are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Recommended lodges: The Elephant Camp, The Victoria Falls Hotel; Victoria Falls Safari Lodge; Stanley and Livingstone Boutique Hotel
Hwange National Park
Hwange, situated near Victoria Falls, boasts an abundance of wildlife and top-notch accommodations, making it one of the finest safari destinations. Spanning over 3.6 million acres, Hwange National Park is Zimbabwe’s largest park, offering a pristine wilderness waiting to be explored. Adjacent to Botswana’s Kalahari Desert, the park showcases an impressive variety of wildlife, with wild dogs being a prominent sight in Botswana. Hwange’s distinctive landscape, featuring mopane woodland and grasslands that transform into wetlands during the rainy season, provides unparalleled opportunities for wildlife photography and unforgettable walking safaris in Africa.
The wildlife in Hwange is truly remarkable, with 100 mammal species and 400 bird species calling the park their home. Cape wild dogs thrive here, making it one of Africa’s prime locations to observe these magnificent creatures. The park also boasts a thriving predator population, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, and hyenas. The renowned Hwange National Park’s main entrance gate is a two and a half-hour drive from Victoria Falls. With its vast expanse of 14,600 square kilometers, it is advisable to focus on exploring one area at a time. Throughout the park, there are numerous prestigious safari lodges and camps to choose from, each offering a unique experience. As part of the transfrontier park, Hwange shares its borders with Botswana, further enhancing the diversity of wildlife encounters. Hwange remains a pristine wilderness, relatively untouched by tourism, providing exceptional safari opportunities at a reasonable price.
Considered Zimbabwe’s largest and most popular game reserve, Hwange National Park is undeniably the country’s ultimate safari destination. It boasts an impressive elephant population, one of the largest in Africa, along with other iconic wildlife such as lions, leopards, and wild dogs. Visitors can also catch a glimpse of rare species like the sable antelope and the bat-eared fox. To reach Hwange National Park, one can embark on a well-maintained road journey of approximately 200 kilometers from Victoria Falls or opt for flights from Johannesburg to Victoria Falls Airport (VFA). For added convenience, lodges within the park offer chartered flights.
Experiences not to miss: Cultural visits, daily game drives, walking safaris, bird watching, sleep-out experiences, and visits to Victoria Falls.
Recommended lodges: Davison’s Camp; Somalisa Camp
Matetsi Private Game Reserve
Indulge in the breathtaking river views while lounging by the swimming pool at Matetsi River Lodge – undoubtedly one of the finest safari destinations near Victoria Falls. Offering an exclusive and luxurious safari experience, the expansive Matetsi Private Game Reserve, spanning over 123,552 acres, is conveniently situated 40 kilometers away from the bustling city, allowing you to escape the chaos while still having easy access to a plethora of thrilling adventure activities. With its vast floodplain and woodland, Matetsi provides an exceptional opportunity to witness the remarkable African wild dog, an endangered species, in its natural habitat. What makes Matetsi truly remarkable is its transformation from a hunting ground to a flourishing wildlife sanctuary, thanks to the dedicated efforts of the conservation organization &Beyond. Situated along an elephant migration route, Matetsi Private Game Reserve offers unparalleled wildlife encounters, particularly during the winter season. Within the reserve’s boundaries, you can encounter majestic lions, elusive leopards, endangered African wild dogs, cunning spotted hyenas, and an array of other captivating creatures.
Experiences not to miss: Daily game drives, boat cruises, walking safaris, upper Zambezi canoeing, bird watching, fishing, horseback safaris, and visits to Victoria Falls.
Recommended lodges: Matetsi River Lodge
Matobo National Park
Matobo National Park, situated in Zimbabwe, is a remarkable destination where one can marvel at the presence of both black and white rhinos, two endangered species found in Africa. This iconic park holds immense significance due to its rich history and commendable efforts in safeguarding these magnificent creatures. Spanning over 109,961 acres, Matobo National Park proudly holds the title of being the oldest park in Africa, established back in 1926 as the Rhodes Matopos National Park, in honor of Cecil John Rhodes. What sets this park apart from the rest is its unique landscape, adorned with granite kopjes and woodlands that provide an ideal habitat for the elusive leopard.
When it comes to wildlife, Matobo National Park boasts an impressive array of 88 mammal species, including hyenas, hippos, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, sand ostriches, and the coveted leopard. Additionally, the park serves as an excellent destination for birdwatching enthusiasts, with a recorded count of 175 bird species, including the highest concentration of black eagles in the world. The experiences offered within the park are diverse and captivating. Visitors can embark on visits to the renowned balancing rocks known as “Mother and Child Kopje,” explore the ancient San rock painting sites, partake in daily game drives, indulge in nature walks, conquer mountain hikes, enjoy bird watching, engage in serene boat cruises, experience the thrill of fishing, or even embark on exhilarating horse-riding adventures.
Recommended lodges: Amalinda Lodge, Khayelitsha House
Chobe National Park
Chobe, located near Victoria Falls, is a haven for game viewing enthusiasts, offering breathtaking encounters with elephants, crocodiles, and hippos. Undoubtedly, Chobe National Park stands among the finest game viewing destinations worldwide. The park owes its allure to the Chobe River, which serves as a vital water source for the park’s wildlife. Consequently, visitors can witness a remarkable concentration of animals, particularly elephants, gathering along the river’s edge. With both land and water activities available, Chobe is unquestionably one of the top safari experiences near Victoria Falls.
In terms of wildlife, Chobe is renowned for its exceptional elephant sightings, attracting large herds that congregate by the river or indulge in refreshing baths during the scorching heat of the day. Additionally, the Chobe National Park is home to the remaining members of the Big Five, as well as wildebeest, zebras, giraffes, hippos, hyenas, and occasionally cheetahs, among other smaller animal species. Notably, Chobe National Park, located just an hour’s drive from Victoria Falls in Botswana, offers an abundance of wildlife along its riverbanks. Whether you opt for accommodations within or outside the park, or even a luxurious houseboat experience, there are numerous options for extended safaris. Alternatively, day trips from Victoria Falls to Chobe are immensely popular, featuring a morning boat cruise along the Chobe River, a delectable lunch at Chobe Safari Lodge, and a thrilling game drive before returning to your accommodation in Victoria Falls as the evening sets in.
Experiences not to miss: Mobile safaris, daily game drives, boat cruises, walking safaris, bird watching, and day visits to Victoria Falls.
Recommended lodges: Chobe Game Lodge, Chobe Bush Lodge, Sanctuary Chobe Chilwero
South Luangwa National Park, Zambia
Situated in the northeastern part of Zambia, South Luangwa National Park is nestled in the valley of the Luangwa River. This park is renowned for its abundant population of leopards and is also home to other majestic big cats like lions and cheetahs. Visitors to the park can also witness the magnificent presence of elephants, hippos, and a diverse array of bird species.
To reach South Luangwa National Park, one can either undertake a road journey of approximately 321 km from Lilongwe, which takes around 5.5 hours, or opt for Mfuwe Airport, with varying distances to different camps within the park. Moving on to Akagera National Park in Rwanda, this captivating destination is home to a wide range of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and giraffes. Visitors also have the opportunity to catch a glimpse of rare species such as the sitatunga antelope and the shoebill stork. To access Akagera National Park, the most likely entry point is Kigali International Airport (KGL). The park is located 110 km east of Kigali, and can be reached through a scenic road journey of approximately two and a half hours or a quick 20-minute flight.
South Luangwa National Park stands as the highlight of eastern Zambia, affectionately referred to by locals as ‘the South Park’. Its origins trace back to 1904 when it was established as the Luangwa Game Park, later converted into one of three game reserves in 1938. Encompassing a vast area of approximately 9050 square kilometers on the Luangwa Valley floor, the park ranges from 500 meters to 800 meters above sea level. With the Muchinga Escarpment forming its western and northwestern boundary, and the meandering Luangwa River defining its southern border, this awe-inspiring park boasts dramatic and captivating topography. Unspoiled by human interference, this remarkable natural wonderland invites you to embark on a journey through time and immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of Zambia’s lush valleys, shimmering plains, dynamic waterways, and abundant wildlife. Upon arrival at Mfuwe Airport, which is a small airport complete with customs and immigration facilities, lodges in the park will arrange for your pickup and transportation. Mfuwe Airport is easily accessible from Lusaka and Lower Zambezi.
Recommended Lodges: Kaingo Camp, Flatdogs Camp, Nsefu Camp
Kafue National Park
Located in the heart of western Zambia, Kafue stands as the oldest and largest national park in the country, sprawling across an impressive 22,400 km² / 8,650 mi². Established in the 1920s and officially designated as a national park in the 1950s by the renowned Norman Carr, Kafue is a vast reserve that ranks among Africa’s largest. Despite its substantial size and convenient proximity to Livingstone, just a two-hour drive away, it remains relatively unknown and largely unexplored, with vast stretches of untouched wilderness. Thanks to its expansive dimensions and diverse range of habitats, Kafue boasts an extraordinary array of wildlife. In recent years, the park has experienced a well-managed increase in the number of safari camps and lodges operating within and around its borders. This surge of interest has brought more visitors and investment to the area, resulting in improved infrastructure, including well-graded roads and airstrips.
As a result of this growing interest and the benefits it brings, the Zambian Wildlife Authority (ZAWA) has been able to provide increased protection for the park’s wildlife, with the support and collaboration of the operators within and adjacent to the park. Established in 1950, the park is teeming with natural diversity, boasting an impressive variety of flora and fauna. It is home to approximately 158 mammal species and over 515 identified bird species. Kafue is one of the few places in Zambia where cheetahs can be spotted, and other iconic species include elephants, elands, roans, sables, buffalos, wild dogs, lions, leopards, and hyenas. With 11 distinct major vegetation types, the park offers an unparalleled range of experiences and environments. Known simply as “The Kafue,” it stands as one of Africa’s largest, most pristine, and ecologically significant wilderness areas. To assist visitors in navigating the Kafue National Park, the park has been divided into four tourism areas: the Northwest, Northeast, Central, and Southern regions. This division allows visitors to plan their trips accordingly.
Recommended Lodges – Kafwala Rapids Camp (Busanga Trails), Old Palm Tree Safari Lodge Central, Nanzhila Safaris (Plains Camp)
Bangweulu Wetlands
Nestled in the northeastern region of Zambia, lies the Bangweulu Wetland, an extraordinary and diverse ecosystem that stands as one of Africa’s most significant wetlands. This protected area, owned by the local community, not only serves as a lifeline for a wide array of wildlife, including the rare black lechwe and numerous bird species, but also sustains the lives of the 60,000 people who call this place home. With its unique status as a community-owned protected area, Bangweulu Wetlands has become a renowned birding destination in Zambia, primarily due to the presence of the elusive and highly sought-after shoebill. Embarking on a mokoro expedition, gliding through the heart of the wetlands, offers an extraordinary opportunity to witness these ancient-looking birds in their natural habitat. Additionally, this adventure allows for meaningful interactions with the local communities as they engage in traditional fishing and beekeeping practices.
While Bangweulu may not fit the traditional mold of a wildlife destination, it is undeniably the primary sanctuary for the endemic black lechwe, a graceful semi-aquatic antelope that can be observed in massive herds. Recently reintroduced cheetahs also roam these floodplains, utilizing the perfect hunting grounds provided by the wetlands. However, the true allure for most visitors lies in the abundance of birdlife. Bangweulu, aptly named “where the water meets the sky,” stretches across an extensive wetland situated in a shallow depression, nourished by the flow of 17 rivers. The water level in the central region fluctuates between 1m and 2m (3.3ft and 6.6ft), causing the wetland’s perimeter to expand and contract over a distance of 40km/25mi throughout the seasons. This seasonal floodplain serves as a vital habitat for the endangered black lechwe and numerous other creatures. Bangweulu experiences a tropical climate, characterized by consistent daytime temperatures for the majority of the year. The transition from the Dry season (May to October) to the Wet season (November to April) brings a slight increase in temperatures. However, both rainfall and heat diminish during the drier months.
Why Africa Incoming
If you’re considering a trip to Victoria Falls and would like more information or assistance in planning your journey, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We specialize in this field and have organized countless itineraries for our clients. It brings us great joy to personalize your experience based on our extensive knowledge of the area and the country.
FAQs
Q1. Which safari parks are near Victoria Falls?
There are several safari parks in close proximity to Victoria Falls, offering diverse wildlife experiences. Some notable ones include Zambezi National Park (Zimbabwe), Chobe National Park (Botswana), and Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park (Zambia).
Q2. What wildlife can be spotted in the safari parks near Victoria Falls?
The safari parks around Victoria Falls are home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, hippos, and various antelope species. Birdwatchers will also appreciate the rich birdlife in the region.
Q3.How far are the safari parks from Victoria Falls town?
The distance varies depending on the specific park, but generally, the safari parks are within a relatively short drive from Victoria Falls town. Zambezi National Park, for example, is just a short distance away on the Zimbabwean side.
Q4. What is the best time of year to visit these safari parks?
The dry season (from May to October) is often considered the best time for safari excursions near Victoria Falls. During this period, wildlife congregates around water sources, making it easier to spot them. However, Victoria Falls itself is most impressive during the wet season, from November to April.
Q5.Are there guided safari tours available, and how can I book one?
Yes, many tour operators offer guided safari tours in the Victoria Falls region. These tours typically include experienced guides, comfortable vehicles, and sometimes even boat safaris. You can book these tours through local travel agencies, online platforms, or your accommodation provider.
Q6. Do I need a visa to visit multiple safari parks in different countries near Victoria Falls?
Yes, it’s essential to check visa requirements for each country you plan to visit. While Zambia and Zimbabwe often offer a common visa for tourists visiting both sides of Victoria Falls, if you plan to venture into Botswana for parks like Chobe, a separate visa may be necessary.
Q7.Are there family-friendly safari options near Victoria Falls?
Absolutely! Many safari parks near Victoria Falls cater to families, offering child-friendly activities and accommodations. Some parks even have specialized family safari packages that include educational programs and safe wildlife viewing experiences for children of all ages.
Q8. In which country can Victoria Falls be found?
Victoria Falls is situated in the Livingstone region, bordering Zambia and Zimbabwe in Southern Africa. While the Zambia side is more popular and easily accessible, both sides offer exceptional opportunities to view the falls and indulge in luxurious accommodations.
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