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Zambezi National Park wilderness guide
National Park · Matabeleland North, Zimbabwe

Zambezi National Park

Zambezi National Park, located near Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, offers a pristine wilderness experience with abundant wildlife and diverse landscapes.

National Park139,9204+ Trails

Designation

National Park

Total Wilderness Area

139,920

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Zambezi National Park

Zambezi National Park, located near Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, offers a pristine wilderness experience with abundant wildlife and diverse landscapes.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Zambezi National Park is a spectacular wilderness area spanning over 56,593 hectares in western Zimbabwe. It is situated adjacent to the renowned Victoria Falls, offering tourists a unique opportunity to combine wildlife viewing with one of the world's natural wonders. The park is divided into two main sections, the Chamabondo Vlei and the Zambezi River sections, each with its own unique features. The Zambezi River section is famous for its rugged terrain, dramatic gorges, and the meandering river, which supports diverse ecosystems. Visitors can see iconic wildlife such as elephants, lions, buffaloes, and a variety of antelope species. The Chamabondo Vlei is known for its open grasslands, which attract a range of species and are ideal for game drives. Historically, the park has played a crucial role in conservation efforts, aiming to protect its wildlife from poaching and habitat loss. Visitors can engage in various recreational activities including fishing, canoeing, and guided walking safaris, providing a comprehensive wildlife experience.

Field Guide · National Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Zambezi National Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Waterfall Wonder: Devil's Cataract★ 9.2⌖ 0 miSightseeing
Devil's Cataract

Waterfall Wonder: Devil's Cataract

Experience the majestic Devil's Cataract at Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. Part of the UNESCO World Heritage site, it's ideal for sightseeing and birdwatching. Best visited June to September, this natural wonder is perfect for adventure seekers.

SightseeingView Details→
Majestic Waters: Victoria Falls★ 9.7⌖ 0 miWaterfall Viewing
Victoria Falls, Water Fall, Rain Forest Main Entrance

Majestic Waters: Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers breathtaking views and thrilling activities like bungee jumping and rafting. Best visited August to January, this highly visited park is a must-see for adventure seekers.

Waterfall ViewingView Details→
White Water Adventure at Victoria Falls★ 9.5⌖ 1 miWhite-Water Rafting
Victoria Falls Rafting

White Water Adventure at Victoria Falls

Experience an exhilarating white-water adventure at Victoria Falls Rafting. Tackle some of the world's best Class V rapids on the Zambezi River. This destination is known for its stunning views, diverse wildlife, and rich history.

White-Water RaftingView Details→
Majestic Wonder: Victoria Falls★ 9.8⌖ 1 miSightseeing
Victoria Falls

Majestic Wonder: Victoria Falls

Visit the captivating Victoria Falls, straddling the Zambia-Zimbabwe border. Experience the awe of its massive cascades on a scenic adventure, including helicopter tours and thrilling white-water rafting. The area is teeming with wildlife, offering a must-see sight for photographers.

SightseeingView Details→
A Breathtaking Encounter: Victoria Falls Bridge★ 9.7⌖ 1 miBungee Jumping
Victoria Falls Bridge

A Breathtaking Encounter: Victoria Falls Bridge

Explore the iconic Victoria Falls Bridge linking Zimbabwe and Zambia. Experience thrilling bungee jumping and challenging Zambezi River rafting. Visit during spring or fall for optimal conditions and wildlife viewing in the surrounding lush landscapes.

Bungee JumpingView Details→
Historic Elegance at The Victoria Falls Hotel⌖ 1 miLandmark Exploration
The Victoria Falls Hotel

Historic Elegance at The Victoria Falls Hotel

Experience the historic elegance of The Victoria Falls Hotel in Zimbabwe, near the majestic falls. Enjoy easy access to thrilling activities like rafting and safaris. Partially accessible; spring is the ideal season for visits.

Landmark ExplorationView Details→

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ The majestic Victoria Falls, located nearby, enhance the park experience.✦ The Zambezi River offers boating and canoeing for close encounters with aquatic and terrestrial wildlife.✦ The Chamabondo Vlei is perfect for game drives to see large herds of elephants and other wildlife.✦ Picnicking along the river allows visitors to enjoy the serene environment and view hippos and crocodiles.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Zambezi National Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Zambezi National Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Zambezi National Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Zambezi National Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Zambezi National Park
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Zambezi National Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Zambezi National Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Zambezi National Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Entrance fees are required; details available at the park entrance or via tour operators.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Zambezi National Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Zambezi River Camp

Located along the Zambezi River, known for its stunning views and access to fishing.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Zambezi National Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Victoria Falls
⌖ 1.96 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

A thrilling destination offering epic waterfalls, adrenaline sports, and a gateway to African wilderness adventures.

May to SeptemberExplore Town
Victoria Falls
⌖ 1.96 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Victoria Falls, Matabeleland North

An iconic adventure destination centered around one of the world’s largest and most spectacular waterfalls, offering thrilling activities on land and water in a rugged African wilderness setting.

May to October (dry season)Explore Town
Livingstone
⌖ 4.89 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Livingstone, Zambia

A bustling gateway to the remarkable landscapes of Southern Africa, perfect for thrill-seekers and adventurers alike.

May to SeptemberExplore Town
Livingstone
⌖ 4.89 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Livingstone, Southern Province

A gateway to some of Africa’s most iconic natural wonders, Livingstone offers vibrant river landscapes and rugged adventure close to Victoria Falls and Zambezi National Park.

May to October (dry season)Explore Town
Kazungula
⌖ 38.89 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Kazungula, Zambia

A riverfront gateway town at the meeting point of four countries, offering unique water-based and wildlife adventures in a less crowded setting.

Dry season (May to October)Explore Town
Kazungula
⌖ 40.77 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Kazungula, Botswana

A gateway town on the Zambezi River offering a mix of water-based adventures and cross-border exploration in a remote, natural setting.

May to September (Dry Season)Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Zambezi National Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Zambezi River Whitewater Rafting: Full & Half-Stretch Rafting from Victoria FallsVictoria Falls, Matabeleland North · 0.44 mi away
All Adventures· Victoria Falls Activities Centre

Zambezi River Whitewater Rafting: Full & Half-Stretch Rafting from Victoria Falls

Punching through the Batoka Gorge, Zambezi whitewater rafting serves up 16–24 km of world-class rapids between calm pools and sheer basalt walls. Whether you run the half or full stretch, expect a rigorous safety briefing, warm water, and a day-long river experience with buffet lunch included.

4–6 hours

Check dates & book

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.