Unveiling the Majesty: A Deep Dive into Victoria Falls National Park

Introduction

Victoria Falls National Park, situated on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, is home to one of the world’s largest and most spectacular waterfalls, Victoria Falls. This comprehensive guide is tailored for both Zimbabweans and non-Zimbabweans seeking detailed information about the town of Victoria Falls National Park. From its weather and historical significance to practical travel tips and things to do, this article aims to provide a comprehensive overview.

Weather in Victoria Falls National Park

Victoria Falls experiences a distinct wet and dry season. The rainy season from late November to early April brings the annual flood season, while the dry season lasts the rest of the year. During the wet season, the falls are at their fullest, creating a breathtaking spectacle with spray rising over 400 meters. In contrast, the dry season allows for clearer views, revealing the rocky face of the falls.

Location and GPS Coordinates

Victoria Falls National Park is located on the Zambezi River, forming the natural border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. The GPS coordinates are approximately 17.9244° S latitude and 25.8579° E longitude.

History of Victoria Falls National Park

David Livingstone, the Scottish missionary and explorer, first recorded the falls on November 16, 1855. He named them Victoria Falls in honor of Queen Victoria, but the local name, Mosi-oa-Tunya, meaning “The Smoke That Thunders,” is still widely used. The falls have a rich history and have been a source of tourism since the mid-20th century.

Size & Population

image credit: Animals.NET

The national park covers an area of 9 square miles (23.4 sq km). While the town of Victoria Falls is relatively small, the site attracts a significant number of tourists, contributing to the local economy.

Also Read: Beyond Waterfalls: Mtarazi Falls – Zimbabwe’s Best-Kept Secret Revealed

Distance from Harare City Centre to Victoria Falls National Park

The distance from Harare to Victoria Falls is approximately 700 kilometers. Traveling by car takes around 8 to 9 hours, and there are also flights available.

Distance from Victoria Falls National Park to Hwange

Hwange, known for its wildlife, is approximately 200 kilometers from Victoria Falls. The journey by road takes about 2 to 3 hours.

Travel Time from Mtarazi Falls to Hwange

Mtarazi Falls is located in the Eastern Highlands, over 800 kilometers away from Hwange. Traveling between these two destinations by car may take around 10 to 12 hours.

Town Council Contact Details

Unfortunately, there isn’t a “Victoria Falls National Park Town Council.” While Victoria Falls town itself has a council, the national park operates under the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks). Here are some relevant contact details for your trip planning:

ZimParks Main Office:

• Phone: +263 24 274 8211
• Website: https://www.zimparks.org.zw/

Victoria Falls Office:

• Phone: +263 13 412 617

Additionally:

• Victoria Falls Town Council:
  • Phone: +263 83 284 4311
  • Website: https://vfcc.co.zw/index.php/our-mission-vision/
• Emergency Services:
  • Fire & Ambulances: +263 83 28 44400 / Toll Free: 993

Schools in Victoria Falls National Park

1. Victoria Falls Primary School:
   • This is a primary school in Victoria Falls, providing education for younger students.
2. Victoria Falls High School:
   • It is common for towns to have both primary and high schools. Victoria Falls High School would likely cater to older students.

Colleges and Universities in or near Victoria Falls National Park

Here are some universities and colleges in the broader vicinity:

1. National University of Science and Technology (NUST):
   • Located in Bulawayo, which is not far from Victoria Falls, NUST is a prominent university in Zimbabwe offering various undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
2. University of Zimbabwe:
   • The main campus is in Harare, the capital city of Zimbabwe. It’s a leading institution in the country and offers a range of academic programs.
3. Hwange Colliery Training Centre:
   • While not a university, this training center in Hwange may offer specialized courses. Hwange is relatively close to Victoria Falls.
4. Victoria Falls Hotel School:
   • There might be local institutions or training centers in Victoria Falls that provide courses related to the hospitality industry, given the town’s importance as a tourist destination.

Lodges In Victoria Falls National Park

While there are no lodges located directly within Victoria Falls National Park due to its focus on conservation, there are many fantastic options surrounding the park in both Zimbabwe and Zambia that offer stunning views, comfortable accommodations, and easy access to the falls and other attractions. Here are a few highly-rated choices:

Zimbabwe:

1. The Kingdom Hotel: This luxurious hotel boasts a prime location right next to the Victoria Falls, offering breathtaking views and direct access to the rainforest.

2. Elephant Camp Victoria Falls: Nestled amongst ancient baobab trees on the banks of the Zambezi River, this tented camp provides a unique and immersive experience with a focus on sustainability and wildlife conservation.

3. Ilala Lodge:

• This lodge is conveniently located near the Victoria Falls. It offers a range of accommodation options, a pool, and a renowned on-site restaurant.

4. Victoria Falls Safari Lodge:

• Located on the edge of the Zambezi National Park, this lodge offers spectacular views of the bushveld and a waterhole, attracting wildlife. It’s about 4 km from Victoria Falls.

image credit: TourRadar

Things to Do in Victoria Falls National Park

1. Marvel at the Falls: Witness the sheer grandeur of Victoria Falls from various viewpoints.
2. Helicopter Tour: Experience an aerial view of the falls for a breathtaking perspective.
3. Sunset Dinner Cruise: Enjoy a leisurely cruise along the Zambezi River with a scenic sunset backdrop.
4. Walking Safaris: Explore the national park on foot, taking in the diverse flora and fauna.
5. White Water Rafting: For the adventurous, tackle the exciting rapids of the Zambezi River.
6. Devil’s Pool: During the dry season, take a guided tour to this natural rock pool atop the falls.

Trivia

• World’s Largest Waterfall: Victoria Falls is recognized as the largest waterfall globally, with a width of 1,708 meters and a height of 108 meters.
• Dual Names: Known as Mosi-oa-Tunya in Lozi and Shungu Namutitima in Tonga, the falls officially bear both European and local names.
• Precipitation Variability: Research suggests that climate change may impact the falls’ character due to precipitation variability.Also Read: Mazowe: Your Ultimate Guide to Zimbabwe’s Serene Gem

References

1. Wikipedia – Victoria Falls
2. Torn Tackies – Victoria Falls National Park
3. National Parks – Victoria Falls