Victoria Falls & Zambezi National Park

Victoria Falls — Mosi-oa-Tunya, “the Smoke that Thunders” — is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World and the beating heart of Zimbabwe’s tourism. Beyond the spectacle of the Falls, the adjoining Zambezi National Park protects riverfront teeming with elephant, buffalo, hippo and antelope, best seen on a sunset river cruise. It is also Southern Africa’s adventure capital: white-water rafting, bungee, helicopter flights and sundowners on the great river.

Ratings

Wildlife Density: ★★★★☆    Infrastructure: ★★★★☆    Photography: ★★★★☆
Adventure: ★★★★★    Exclusivity: ★★☆☆☆    Value for Money: ★★★★☆    Scenery: ★★★★★

Location: Northwestern Zimbabwe; Victoria Falls town (cross-border with Zambia’s Mosi-oa-Tunya)
Key wildlife: Elephant, buffalo, hippo, lion, sable; the Falls
Best for: First-timers, adventure activities, river cruises, safari gateway
Best time: Falls fullest February–May; game viewing best August–October

More about Victoria Falls — activities, the rainforest walk and lodges — will be added here over time.