A visit to Victoria Falls is unforgettable on its own, but if you’re looking to extend your stay and dive deeper into Africa’s incredible landscapes and wildlife, you’re in for a treat. The area surrounding Victoria Falls offers some of the best safari destinations in southern Africa, with opportunities to witness the Big Five, explore vast national parks, and enjoy river safaris along the Zambezi. Here are the top safari destinations near Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Botswana for an adventure-packed getaway.
1. Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe
Just a two-hour drive from Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park is Zimbabwe’s largest and oldest national park. Known for its incredible elephant population, Hwange is home to over 40,000 elephants, making it one of the best places in Africa to see these majestic animals in large numbers. Beyond elephants, the park boasts a diverse ecosystem with over 100 mammal species and more than 400 bird species.
- Top Highlights:
- Spot the Big Five: lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and buffalo.
- Visit the park’s waterholes, which attract a variety of animals, especially during the dry season from June to October.
- Enjoy unique sightings of rare species such as African wild dogs, sable antelope, and bat-eared foxes.
- Recommended Activities:
Game drives, walking safaris, and night drives (to spot nocturnal wildlife).
2. Chobe National Park, Botswana
Only an hour from Victoria Falls, across the border into Botswana, Chobe National Park is famous for its spectacular riverfront and dense elephant population. The Chobe River forms the northern boundary of the park and serves as a lifeline for animals, particularly during the dry season. Known as one of Botswana’s top wildlife destinations, Chobe offers diverse habitats, ranging from floodplains to woodlands, which support a variety of wildlife.
- Top Highlights:
- Witness massive herds of elephants, often seen drinking, playing, and bathing along the Chobe River.
- Spot large buffalo herds, hippos, and crocodiles along the riverbanks.
- The Savuti area, known for its predator population, offers chances to see lions, leopards, and hyenas.
- Recommended Activities:
River safaris along the Chobe River provide a unique perspective of wildlife from the water, while game drives through the park allow you to explore different terrains and ecosystems.
3. Zambezi National Park, Zimbabwe
Located right outside Victoria Falls, Zambezi National Park is one of the easiest and most convenient safari options for those short on time. The park stretches along the banks of the Zambezi River, providing visitors with scenic views and a peaceful safari experience. Despite its proximity to Victoria Falls, the park remains relatively undisturbed, making it a perfect destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
- Top Highlights:
- Spot elephants, giraffes, zebras, and a variety of antelope species.
- Enjoy beautiful river views, especially at sunset, when wildlife gathers near the water’s edge.
- Birdwatchers will appreciate the park’s abundant birdlife, with species such as the African fish eagle and pied kingfisher.
- Recommended Activities:
Game drives, river cruises, and fishing excursions are popular activities, with opportunities to spot wildlife along the water.
4. Lower Zambezi National Park, Zambia
For a more remote and immersive safari experience, the Lower Zambezi National Park in Zambia is a hidden gem. Located further from Victoria Falls than other options (approximately a short flight from Livingstone or Lusaka), this park is known for its unspoiled landscapes, with a mix of woodlands, riverine forests, and floodplains. The Lower Zambezi is one of Africa’s best-kept secrets for safaris, offering a tranquil escape with abundant wildlife.
- Top Highlights:
- Discover a diverse array of animals, including elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and zebras.
- Experience close encounters with wildlife, often seen gathering along the banks of the Zambezi River.
- Marvel at the park’s stunning landscapes, with the river providing a breathtaking backdrop to animal sightings.
- Recommended Activities:
Canoe safaris, boat safaris, and guided walking safaris allow you to experience wildlife up close while exploring the serene river environment.
5. Kafue National Park, Zambia
One of Africa’s largest national parks, Kafue National Park in Zambia is another incredible option for travellers interested in an extended safari. Though slightly farther afield from Victoria Falls, it’s a top choice for those who crave an authentic, less-crowded wilderness experience. The park has diverse habitats, from wetlands to dense forests, creating a haven for a variety of wildlife species.
- Top Highlights:
- Encounter a mix of classic safari animals, including elephants, lions, leopards, and cheetahs.
- Explore the Busanga Plains, a seasonal floodplain that transforms into a lush haven for antelopes, zebras, and other grazers during the dry season.
- Birdwatchers will find Kafue particularly rewarding, with over 400 bird species in the park.
- Recommended Activities:
Game drives and guided bush walks offer unique ways to explore the different landscapes of the park, while boat trips along the Kafue River are perfect for a relaxing safari experience.
6. Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, Zambia
Located near Livingstone, just a stone’s throw from Victoria Falls, Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park offers a small but exciting safari option that is perfect for travellers who want a short game-viewing experience. The park is home to a small population of white rhinos, providing a unique opportunity to see these rare animals up close, as well as other classic African wildlife.
- Top Highlights:
- Observe the white rhino population, which is protected in the park.
- Enjoy sightings of elephants, buffalo, giraffes, and various antelope species.
- The park is a convenient option for a short morning or afternoon safari, allowing you to combine it with a day at Victoria Falls.
- Recommended Activities:
Game drives and guided walking safaris to view rhinos are popular in Mosi-oa-Tunya. The park’s proximity to the falls makes it a great add-on to any Victoria Falls itinerary.
Final Thoughts: Choose Your Safari Adventure
Whether you’re seeking thrilling game drives, tranquil river safaris, or up-close encounters with elephants and rhinos, the safari destinations around Victoria Falls offer something for everyone. By extending your trip to explore these parks, you’ll be treated to some of the most unforgettable wildlife experiences Africa has to offer, set against the backdrop of stunning landscapes and iconic waterways.
No matter which park you choose, these destinations around Victoria Falls will enhance your African adventure, ensuring you leave with memories that last a lifetime. So, pack your binoculars, ready your camera, and prepare for an incredible journey into the heart of southern Africa’s wild beauty!
