Zambezi National Park | Africa’s Most Overlooked Safari Gem (2025–2026)

Everything You Need to Know About Zambezi National Park

If you’re planning a visit to Victoria Falls and wondering what lies beyond the spray, look no further than Zambezi National Park — one of Zimbabwe’s most accessible and rewarding wildlife destinations. Located just a few kilometers upstream from the world-famous waterfall, this hidden gem offers the chance to experience wild Africa in an intimate, uncrowded setting — all within a short drive of your luxury lodge or hotel.

So, what is Zambezi National Park, and why is it worth exploring?

Established in 1979, Zambezi National Park spans approximately 56,000 hectares (560 km²) of unspoiled wilderness along the upper Zambezi River, directly bordering Victoria Falls town. The park stretches from the falls upstream toward Kazungula, near the borders of Botswana and Zambia, forming a key part of the vast KAZA Transfrontier Conservation Area.

It’s divided into two main sections:

1. The Riverine Side – follows the Zambezi River, offering dramatic views and rich wildlife sightings along the water’s edge.
2. The Chamabondo Area – a more remote inland sector accessible from the southern side of Victoria Falls town, great for game drives.

What makes Zambezi National Park especially appealing is its accessibility and tranquility. It’s not overrun with tourists or vehicles, yet it offers authentic safari experiences just minutes from the bustle of Victoria Falls town. Whether you’re doing a half-day game drive, a sunset cruise, or staying overnight at one of the luxury lodges inside the park, you’ll feel like you’re in the heart of the wild — but without the logistical hurdles of deeper bush travel.

From elephants bathing in the river to lion sightings near sandy game tracks, Zambezi National Park offers the perfect safari extension to a Victoria Falls holiday. And with limited vehicle traffic, rich birdlife, and the mighty Zambezi always close by, it’s an ideal destination for nature lovers, photographers, and those seeking serenity in Southern Africa.

Where Exactly Is Zambezi National Park and How to Get There

So, where is Zambezi National Park in relation to major travel hubs? One of the park’s greatest strengths is its unmatched accessibility — especially for visitors already in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, or nearby Zambia and Botswana.

Zambezi National Park lies just 5 km northwest of Victoria Falls town, hugging the upper Zambezi River along the border with Zambia. Its entrance gate is located along Zambezi River Drive, and the Chamabondo area of the park is accessed via the Kazungula Road, south of the town center.

GPS Coordinates (Main Entrance – Riverine Side):

Latitude: 17°54’55.2″S
Longitude: 25°45’48.4″E

Getting to Zambezi National Park by Air

• Victoria Falls International Airport (VFA) is the closest airport, located just 20 km from the park’s entrance.
• Daily flights arrive from Johannesburg, Cape Town, Windhoek, Nairobi, and Addis Ababa.
• Private charters can also land nearby for luxury safari guests.

Access from Nearby Countries

• From Livingstone, Zambia: Cross the Victoria Falls Bridge into Zimbabwe. It’s a short 15-minute transfer to the park gate.
• From Kasane, Botswana (Chobe National Park): It’s about a 1-hour drive, with a border crossing at Kazungula. This makes Zambezi National Park an ideal continuation for Botswana safaris.
• From Hwange National Park: A great combo route — just 2–3 hours’ drive via the Bulawayo–Victoria Falls road.

Road Access & Transport

• Most visitors access Zambezi National Park using private transfers, self-drives, or guided safari vehicles from Victoria Falls town.
• The Zambezi River Drive is a graded gravel road that follows the river for around 25 km and is accessible with a 4×4 or suitable safari vehicle.
• The Chamabondo Area has deeper sand tracks and is best explored with a guide or high-clearance vehicle.

Park Accessibility at a Glance

Whether you’re staying in town, at a riverside luxury lodge, or crossing in from another country, Zambezi National Park is one of the most conveniently located safari destinations in Southern Africa — without sacrificing its wilderness feel.

Shall we continue with Section 3: What Wildlife Can You See in Zambezi National Park, where we focus on big game, birdlife, and the safari experience that makes the park special?

What Wildlife Can You See in Zambezi National Park?

While Victoria Falls may be the main attraction in this region, the real safari magic happens just upstream — inside the wilderness of Zambezi National Park. Covering over 56,000 hectares, this park is a thriving habitat for iconic African wildlife, making it a must-visit for nature lovers, birders, photographers, and anyone seeking a Big Five–adjacent experience without the crowds.

So what animals can you expect to see in Zambezi National Park?

Elephants Along the Zambezi River

Elephants are among the most commonly sighted animals in Zambezi National Park, particularly along the riverine road. They often bathe in the Zambezi, drink from the riverbank, or amble gracefully along game tracks. Herds vary in size and are most active in the dry season (June to October).

Buffalo, Giraffe, Zebra & Antelope

The park is rich in plains game, including:

• Cape buffalo
• Giraffe (especially in the Chamabondo Area)
• Burchell’s zebra
• Waterbuck, impala, kudu, wildebeest, bushbuck, and elands

These species are frequently spotted during game drives and often congregate near water sources — especially in the dry season.

Big Cats & Predators

Although less common than in Hwange or Chobe, Zambezi National Park does host several apex predators, including:

• Lions – occasionally seen, mostly in the more remote Chamabondo side
• Leopards – shy, nocturnal, and more commonly spotted on night drives
• Hyenas – heard more often than seen, especially in early mornings
• Cheetahs – very rare, but not impossible in open areas
• African wild dogs – rare sightings reported seasonally

For travelers asking “Is Zambezi National Park good for predators?” — the answer is yes, especially when combined with expert guiding and patience.

Crocodiles & Hippos in the River

A highlight of Zambezi National Park safaris is observing large hippo pods and Nile crocodiles in their natural environment. These animals dominate the riverbanks and oxbow lagoons, making them easy to spot on both game drives and boat safaris.

Over 400 Bird Species – A Birder’s Paradise

Birdlife in Zambezi National Park is world-class. The park’s combination of riverine forest, woodland, and savannah attracts over 400 recorded bird species, including:

• African fish eagle
• Goliath heron
• African skimmer
• Carmine bee-eater (seasonal colonies)
• Pel’s fishing owl (very rare)
• Lilac-breasted roller
• Woodland kingfisher

The dry season offers better visibility, while the green season brings in migratory species and vibrant breeding plumage.

Safari Tip: Best Areas for Wildlife

Is Zambezi National Park a Big Five Destination?

Technically, no — rhinos are not present in Zambezi National Park. However, four of the Big Five (elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard) are all found here. Travelers who want the full Big Five experience often combine Zambezi with Chobe National Park or Mosi-oa-Tunya in Zambia, where white rhino can be tracked on foot.

In summary, Zambezi National Park is one of Zimbabwe’s best-kept safari secrets. While not as famous as Hwange or Kruger, it delivers raw beauty, real wildlife sightings, and peaceful safari moments just minutes from the world’s greatest waterfall.

Safari Activities in Zambezi National Park

One of the reasons Zambezi National Park is such a unique destination is the diversity of safari activities available within minutes of Victoria Falls. From classic game drives and peaceful boat cruises to adventurous walking safaris and private photographic tours, the park offers an uncrowded, immersive experience that can rival even bigger national parks.

Here’s how you can explore Zambezi National Park on safari:

1. Guided Game Drives (Morning, Afternoon & Full-Day)

Game drives are the most popular way to explore Zambezi National Park, and the park’s network of gravel roads along the Zambezi River and through inland bush offers ideal terrain for wildlife viewing.

What to expect on a game drive:

• Departures in the early morning (6:00–6:30 AM) or late afternoon (3:30–4:00 PM)
• Experienced guides help you spot elephants, buffalo, giraffe, antelope, and possibly predators
• Stops at scenic picnic sites or lookouts along the river

Full-day game drives are available for serious wildlife enthusiasts and often include a packed brunch or sundowner setup at a secluded viewpoint.

Note: Self-drive is allowed with a 4×4, but guided drives are strongly recommended to improve wildlife sightings and park navigation.

2. Zambezi River Cruises (Outside Park, with Access to Wildlife)

Although the Zambezi River inside the park is not used for public cruises, many luxury lodges on the park boundary offer river-based safaris that provide a front-row seat to crocodiles, hippos, elephants, and riverside birds.

What makes it special:

• Ideal for photographers and birders
• Peaceful, low-impact, and unique perspective on wildlife
• Often includes drinks and snacks (sunset cruises are a favorite)

Luxury Victoria Falls Safaris often include private or semi-private river cruises that border or view into Zambezi National Park.

3. Walking Safaris in Chamabondo Area

One of the most intimate ways to experience Zambezi National Park is on foot. Walking safaris (available with select guides and operators) allow guests to explore tracks, vegetation, insects, and smaller animals often missed on drives.

Why it’s unforgettable:

• Get close to nature — silently, respectfully, and without vehicles
• Learn how to track animals by prints, dung, and calls
• Experience the silence and scale of the African bush

Walking safaris are often arranged as morning activities and require advance booking through licensed professional guides.

4. Birding Safaris – Over 400 Species Await

For birdwatchers, Zambezi National Park is a goldmine. Specialized birding safaris with local experts can be arranged to seek out rare and endemic species, especially along the river and in mopane woodland.

What birding safaris include:

• Spotting scopes and binoculars provided (or bring your own)
• Expert guides who know bird calls, migration patterns, and nesting behavior
• Focus on key targets like the African skimmer, Pel’s fishing owl, and Goliath heron

Green season (Nov–March) is ideal for migratory and breeding activity.

5. Private and Photographic Safaris

For guests staying at luxury lodges inside or near Zambezi National Park, private safari vehicles with custom setups for photographers are available.

Features:

• Modified vehicles with swivel seats or camera mounts
• Expert guides trained in lighting, angles, and positioning
• Flexible schedules to follow light and animal movement

These are perfect for honeymooners, families, or professional wildlife photographers.

6. Cultural Extensions from the Park

While not technically inside Zambezi National Park, several safari operators offer cultural village visits and local interactions that can be added to a half-day in the park. These include:

• Visits to nearby rural villages
• Traditional craft demonstrations
• Community-run projects that support conservation

It’s a meaningful way to connect your Zambezi National Park safari to the people who live near it.

Whether you want to explore the Zambezi by vehicle, foot, or boat, this park offers real diversity without the crowds. Most guests are surprised by how wild, scenic, and peaceful it feels — just minutes from Victoria Falls.

Where to Stay – Lodges and Camps Near Zambezi National Park

Whether you’re looking for riverside elegance, a family-friendly safari lodge, or an affordable base to explore Zambezi National Park, this area offers accommodation for every kind of traveler. Many properties are located inside the park, while others sit just outside its boundaries but still offer game drive access, Zambezi views, and seamless links to Victoria Falls.

Here’s your complete guide to the best places to stay near Zambezi National Park, categorized by budget and experience.

1. Luxury Lodges in and Around Zambezi National Park

Perfect for honeymooners, wildlife photographers, and guests seeking exclusive safari experiences. These lodges often include full-board, private guides, and spa treatments.

2. Midrange Safari Lodges and Tented Camps

These lodges offer a balance of comfort and price, often including safari activities, cozy rooms, and great access to the park without the ultra-premium price tag.

3. Budget-Friendly Lodges & Camps

While Zambezi National Park is best explored with a guide, budget travelers can still stay nearby and book activities à la carte. These accommodations offer clean comfort and access to the park via day trips.

Key Considerations When Choosing Accommodation

• Inside the park vs outside: Staying inside offers instant access to wildlife and riverfront privacy. Outside gives you flexibility to explore town activities too.
• Transfers & safaris: Many lodges offer bundled safari drives and transfers. Always ask what’s included.
• Park entrance fees: Not all lodges include park fees in their nightly rate. Expect ~$15–$20 per day for foreign visitors.
• Electricity & Wi-Fi: Remote lodges may rely on solar and have limited connectivity — part of the charm, but good to know in advance.

Whether you’re traveling on a budget or seeking a top-tier escape, Zambezi National Park offers a wide spectrum of lodges that combine safari access, comfort, and proximity to Victoria Falls. You can enjoy world-class wildlife, stay by the river, and still be close enough to visit the falls or cross into Botswana or Zambia.

Best Time to Visit Zambezi National Park

If you’re wondering when to go on safari in Zambezi National Park, the good news is — the park is open year-round, and each season offers a unique experience. However, depending on what you want to see and how you want to travel, some months are better suited for wildlife viewing, birdwatching, photography, or combining your safari with Victoria Falls adventures.

Here’s everything you need to know about the best time to visit Zambezi National Park:

June to October – Dry Season (Peak Safari Time)

This is widely considered the best time to visit Zambezi National Park for game viewing.

Why?

• Wildlife congregates near the Zambezi River and waterholes
• Sparse vegetation makes animals easier to spot
• Low risk of rain, clear skies, and cooler evenings
• Excellent for game drives and photographic safaris

Conditions:

• Daytime temperatures: 26–30°C
• Nights can get cool (especially June–August)
• Dusty roads, dry landscapes, golden lighting for photography

Ideal for:

• First-time safari visitors
• Wildlife enthusiasts
• Multi-park trips including Hwange or Chobe

November to March – Green Season (Lush & Quiet)

Also called the rainy season, this is when Zambezi National Park transforms into a lush, green paradise. It’s the low season for tourists — but not for birds or beauty.

Why consider this time?

• Birdwatching is at its best with migratory species present
• Verdant landscapes, flowering trees, dramatic skies
• Fewer tourists = more exclusive safari feel
• Lodges often offer discounted rates

Challenges:

• Rainfall may affect road conditions (especially Chamabondo area)
• Game is harder to spot in dense bush
• Some remote tracks may become inaccessible

Ideal for:

• Birders and photographers
• Travelers who want privacy or lower rates
• Green season safari packages

April to May – Shoulder Season (Waterfall + Wildlife Combo)

This short window offers a great balance: the rains have ended, the bush is still green, and the falls are at their fullest.

Why it’s special:

• Victoria Falls is at its most powerful
• Zambezi National Park is green but navigable
• Less dust, moderate temperatures, excellent for mixed activities

Tip:
This is a good time to combine a stay in Victoria Falls town with game drives into Zambezi National Park and even a day-trip to Chobe National Park in Botswana.

Seasonal Highlights at a Glance

When Is the Best Time to Visit Zambezi National Park?

For classic safaris with great visibility and dry trails:
June to October is unbeatable.

For birders, photographers, or honeymooners seeking quiet:
November to March offers green beauty and deals.

For waterfall chasers combining the park with Victoria Falls views:
April to May gives you the best of both.

No matter the season, Zambezi National Park delivers wild beauty and true African safari experiences — just minutes from Victoria Falls. And with expert guidance, the right lodge, and local insight, your visit can be tailored perfectly to the season.

Zambezi National Park FAQs – Entry Fees, Safety, Self-Drives & More

How much is the entry fee for Zambezi National Park?

As of 2025, the entry fee for Zambezi National Park is approximately:

• International visitors: USD $15 per person per day
• Regional (SADC) visitors: USD $10 per person
• Zimbabwean residents: USD $5–$7
• Children (under 12): Usually 50% of adult fee

Fees are paid at the park gate or included in some guided tour packages. Always confirm current prices before visiting.

Is Zambezi National Park safe to visit?

Yes — Zambezi National Park is safe for tourists when basic safety rules are followed. Game drives, guided walks, and boat tours are led by professionals trained in wildlife behavior.

Safety tips:

• Always stay in the vehicle during game drives
• Avoid self-driving without a high-clearance vehicle
• Do not approach wildlife on foot
• Respect lodge safety briefings (especially at night)

Can I self-drive in Zambezi National Park?

Yes, self-driving is permitted in Zambezi National Park, especially along the Zambezi River Drive and parts of the Chamabondo area. However:

• A 4×4 vehicle is highly recommended, especially during or after the rainy season
• Maps are available at the entrance, but signage can be limited
• Wildlife can be unpredictable — drive cautiously and be aware

Tip: If you’re not an experienced safari driver, consider booking a guided tour instead.

What are the opening hours for Zambezi National Park?

Zambezi National Park is generally open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times for game viewing are early morning and late afternoon. Night drives are only permitted with authorized operators.

Is Zambezi National Park a Big Five destination?

Zambezi National Park is home to four of the Big Five:

• Elephant
• Buffalo
• Lion
• Leopard

However, rhinos are not present in the park. For travelers seeking the complete Big Five experience, Zambezi is best combined with Chobe (Botswana) or Mosi-oa-Tunya (Zambia) where rhino tracking is possible.

How far is Zambezi National Park from Victoria Falls?

Zambezi National Park is just 5 kilometers from Victoria Falls town, making it one of the most accessible safari parks in Africa. Most lodges and tour operators offer direct transfers in under 15 minutes.

Are there lodges inside Zambezi National Park?

Yes. Several high-end and midrange lodges are located within the park boundaries or along the river, including:

• Victoria Falls River Lodge
• Old Drift Lodge
• Zambezi Sands River Camp
• Chundu Island Lodge

Staying inside the park offers a more immersive safari experience and often includes game drives or river safaris.

What kind of safari vehicles are used in the park?

Professional operators in Zambezi National Park use open-sided 4×4 vehicles with canopy tops. These are designed for maximum visibility and comfort, and often include amenities like cold drinks, blankets, and camera rests.

Can I visit Zambezi National Park for a half-day safari?

Absolutely. Half-day safaris are one of the most popular options for visitors to Victoria Falls. These typically include:

• Early morning or afternoon game drive (3–4 hours)
• Park entrance fees
• Pick-up and drop-off from your lodge or hotel

Perfect for guests with limited time or those combining their safari with a tour of the falls.

Final Thoughts – Why Zambezi National Park Is Victoria Falls’ Best Kept Safari Secret

In a region defined by the roar of Victoria Falls, it’s easy to overlook the silent power of the surrounding wilderness — but Zambezi National Park is exactly where Africa slows down, opens up, and invites you in.

Just minutes from one of the world’s most iconic waterfalls, Zambezi National Park offers the safari experience many travelers never expect — uncrowded game drives, close-up elephant sightings, riverside sunsets, and the kind of wild beauty that makes you feel like the only person on earth.

It’s not the biggest or most famous park in Southern Africa. But that’s exactly why it’s special.

Whether you’re staying at a luxury lodge along the river, camping under the stars, or driving the winding tracks in search of wildlife, Zambezi National Park delivers what so many others promise: raw, real Africa with the comfort of accessibility.

It’s a perfect complement to Victoria Falls — and for many, the most memorable part of the trip.

Plan Your Zambezi National Park Safari with Confidence

At VictoriaFallsAfrica.com, we connect you to the best lodges, tour operators, and experiences in and around Zambezi National Park. Whether you’re planning a half-day safari or a luxury lodge-based escape, we’ve got insider knowledge, verified guides, and tailored recommendations waiting for you.

Ready to discover the best-kept secret near Victoria Falls?

Visit VictoriaFallsAfrica.com to:

• Explore top safari packages in Zambezi National Park
• Compare lodge options from budget to luxury
• Get local advice and book with trusted experts

Because Africa’s wild heart is closer than you think — and Zambezi National Park is where it begins.