Victoria Falls Sees Significant Rise in International Tourists in Early 2025

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe – The iconic Victoria Falls Rainforest has experienced a notable surge in international tourist arrivals during the first quarter of 2025, with 47,633 visitors making their way to the natural wonder. This marks a significant increase from the 44,110 international tourists recorded in the same period last year, highlighting the growing appeal of Zimbabwe’s premier tourist destination.

European Tourists Lead the Charge

A significant proportion of these visitors hailed from European countries, particularly the United Kingdom, Ireland, and Germany, reflecting a strong interest in the region among European travelers. This influx of international tourists comes at a time when Victoria Falls continues to build its reputation as a global tourism hotspot, known for its breathtaking views and immersive natural beauty.

According to a statement from the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks), the overall total number of tourist arrivals during the first quarter of 2025 reached 61,139, compared to 59,718 during the same period in 2024. While the number of international visitors saw a significant rise, there was a noticeable decline in local tourism numbers.

Growth in Tourism Factors

Several factors have contributed to the increased interest from international tourists. ZimParks spokesperson Tinashe Farawo pointed to the growing availability of specialized tour packages tailored to the needs of foreign visitors. These packages, coupled with the expansion of Victoria Falls Airport, which now handles more flights, including new routes directly connecting Frankfurt, Germany to Victoria Falls, have made the destination more accessible than ever before.

Furthermore, the introduction of the KAZA UniVisa, which simplifies cross-border travel between Zimbabwe and Zambia, has also been a game-changer for travelers wishing to explore both sides of the falls. This visa allows tourists to seamlessly visit both Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe and its counterpart in Livingstone, Zambia, enhancing the overall visitor experience.

Decline in Local Visitors

Despite the strong international arrivals, local tourist numbers have faced a downturn. Domestic visitors to the Victoria Falls Rainforest dropped from 15,608 in 2024 to 13,506 in 2025, reflecting broader economic challenges in Zimbabwe. The decrease in local visitation may be linked to a shrinking buying power among Zimbabweans due to the ongoing economic hardships. The rising cost of living and currency fluctuations have likely made it harder for local citizens to afford travel, especially to high-demand destinations like Victoria Falls.

What This Means for Victoria Falls

The rise in international tourists is a promising sign for Zimbabwe’s tourism industry, which has seen various challenges in recent years. The combination of better air connectivity, more appealing travel packages, and an improved visa regime has undoubtedly boosted Victoria Falls’ attractiveness to foreign tourists. However, the decline in local visitors signals a need for the tourism sector to address economic disparities and create more affordable packages for Zimbabweans, encouraging domestic tourism in the long term.

Looking Ahead

As the year progresses, it will be interesting to see how these trends continue to develop. Victoria Falls remains a top-tier tourist destination, and with the right infrastructure and targeted marketing efforts, it has the potential to keep attracting international visitors, even as local tourism faces obstacles.

With international tourists flocking to Zimbabwe’s tourism heartland, it is clear that Victoria Falls continues to capture the imagination of travelers worldwide. The destination’s growing global popularity, bolstered by convenient travel options and enhanced visitor services, positions it as a leader in African tourism, offering experiences that cannot be found elsewhere.

The continued rise in international arrivals is a testament to the resilience of Zimbabwe’s tourism industry, and the hope is that as economic conditions improve, local visitors will once again flock to the falls, experiencing the wonder that is Victoria Falls firsthand.