Wildlife Found Around Victoria Falls

Wildlife Found Around Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, is renowned not only for its breathtaking beauty but also for its rich and diverse wildlife. Situated on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, the surrounding areas of Victoria Falls provide an excellent habitat for a variety of animal species.

This guide explores the fascinating wildlife you can expect to encounter around Victoria Falls.

Elephants

Elephants are a common sight in the national parks and game reserves near Victoria Falls, such as Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park in Zambia and Zambezi National Park in Zimbabwe. These majestic creatures often roam in large herds and are known for their intelligence and strong family bonds. Visitors can frequently see them drinking at waterholes or grazing on vegetation, providing a spectacular experience for nature enthusiasts.

Buffaloes

Buffaloes are widespread in the grasslands and forests surrounding Victoria Falls. They are often seen in large herds near water sources. Buffaloes are known for their unpredictable nature and are considered one of the most dangerous animals in Africa. Despite this, they are fascinating to observe, especially during the early morning and late afternoon when they are most active.

Lions

Lions, as apex predators, are primarily found in the larger national parks near Victoria Falls, such as Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe and Chobe National Park in Botswana, which is accessible from Victoria Falls. These majestic cats play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of their ecosystems. They are often seen resting during the day and become more active during the early morning and evening hours, providing thrilling opportunities for wildlife photographers and safari-goers.

Leopards

Leopards, though elusive and primarily nocturnal, inhabit the dense woodlands and rocky areas near Victoria Falls. Known for their stealth and strength, leopards are solitary hunters. They often drag their prey up into trees to avoid scavengers, providing a unique sighting for lucky observers. Spotting a leopard in the wild is a rare and exciting experience that adds to the allure of a safari in this region.

Cheetahs

Cheetahs, famous for their incredible speed, can be found in the open plains and savannahs around Victoria Falls, particularly in protected areas. These graceful animals are usually seen during the day, hunting in the early morning or late afternoon. They prefer open landscapes where they can use their speed to catch prey, making them a captivating sight for visitors.

Hippos

Hippos are abundant in the Zambezi River and its tributaries. These large mammals are often seen wallowing in the water during the day and grazing on land at night. Despite their seemingly docile appearance, hippos are highly territorial and can be dangerous if provoked. Observing them from a safe distance during a boat cruise on the river provides a fascinating and memorable experience.

Crocodiles

The Zambezi River is also home to a large population of Nile crocodiles. These formidable reptiles are often seen basking on riverbanks or lurking in the water. Crocodiles are ambush predators, known for their powerful jaws and stealthy hunting techniques. Watching them in their natural habitat provides a thrilling experience for visitors.

Baboons and Monkeys

Baboons and vervet monkeys are commonly seen around Victoria Falls, especially in wooded areas and near tourist spots. These primates are highly social and intelligent. Baboons are often seen in large troops, while vervet monkeys are more arboreal and agile. Their playful behavior and curious nature make them a delight to watch, especially for children.

Birds

Victoria Falls is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 400 species recorded in the area. Key birding spots include the Zambezi River, surrounding forests, and national parks. Notable species include the African fish eagle, known for its distinctive call and often seen near water hunting for fish. The rare and elusive Pel’s fishing owl is best spotted at night along the riverbanks, while the Taita falcon can be found nesting in the gorges around the falls, offering prized sightings for bird enthusiasts.

Antelopes

Various species of antelopes, including impalas, kudus, and waterbucks, roam the grasslands and forests around Victoria Falls. These graceful animals are often seen in herds, grazing on grasses and shrubs. Their presence adds to the rich tapestry of wildlife in the region, and their keen senses and graceful movements make them a delight to observe.

Smaller Mammals and Reptiles

The diverse habitats around Victoria Falls also support numerous smaller mammals and reptiles, including mongooses, porcupines, and a variety of lizards and snakes. These creatures add to the region’s rich biodiversity and can often be seen during guided nature walks and game drives, providing a fuller picture of the area’s vibrant ecosystem.

Exploring Victoria Falls with Nextgen Safaris

Nextgen Safaris offers expertly curated tours and safaris that provide the best opportunities to experience the incredible wildlife around Victoria Falls. Our knowledgeable guides ensure that you and your family have a safe, informative, and unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re exploring the falls, embarking on a game drive, or taking a river cruise, we tailor each experience to maximize your wildlife sightings and enjoyment.

Plan Your Wildlife Adventure with Nextgen Safaris

Discover the wonders of Victoria Falls and its surrounding wildlife with Nextgen Safaris. Contact us today to start planning your dream safari, and let us help you create memories that will last a lifetime.

This comprehensive guide to the wildlife species found around Victoria Falls provides an in-depth look at the diverse and fascinating creatures you can encounter. With Nextgen Safaris, you can explore this natural wonder with confidence, knowing that every detail of your wildlife adventure is expertly managed.

GENERAL INFORMATION

All visitors to Victoria Falls must have a valid passport with at least 4 consecutive blanks pages. The Government of Tanzania has rolled out an online Visa application portal accessible on internet. Any applicable visa and/or relevant documentation are the responsibility of the traveler. For further information on Visa requirements visitors are advised to contact their nearest Respective Embassy or Consulate.

LANGUAGE: English

TIME: GMT +3

CLIMATE: Southern Africa climate is predominantly tropical. The long rains are from mid-March to late May and the short rains from November to January. The hottest months are from October to February and the coolest months are June to August.

VOLTAGE: 220 Volts/AC50Hz. Sockets are UK style, 3 pin square plugs. Power is from the National Grid in the city/major towns and generator with inverter back up in the Safari Lodges and Camps.

CURRENCY: Foreign currency must be changed at the Bank, Bureau de Change, and Hotel/Safari lodge/Camp/Resort. Major Credit Cards, Master card, Visa, American Express, are usually accepted throughout the country. Where credit cards are accepted, the payment will normally be recorded in US$ regardless of the card’s default currency. However, US$ older than 2009 are only accepted

CLOTHING: Dress is mainly informal and should be comfortable as well as practical. Something warm should be brought along for early morning and evenings. Safari clothes are available from hotels/lodges/camps.

BAGGAGE: Where possible, travel light. Baggage space on safari is limited to medium suitcase or soft bag per person plus reasonable amount of hand luggage. There is 15 Kilogram per person limit on all flights to the wildlife sanctuaries. Excess luggage must be stored in your arrival hotel.

WATER: You will find many different of opinion of what is safe and what is not. We recommend for peace of mind, to drink local Bottled Mineral water. It is important to drink plenty of water especially during the hotter months. We would recommend that guests drink at least 2 to 3 litres of water per day to limit the effects of dehydration.

HEALTH: Southern Africa is a safe and secure destination; however, it is a good idea to take a few precautions. Kindly consult your GP or local doctor at least 6 weeks before you travel, with regards:

Malaria prophylactics. East Africa is a known malaria area and preventive measures are essential. You are advised to take one of the recommended anti-malarial drugs. Be sure to wear long sleeved shorts and trousers after sunset and spray the exposed parts of your body with a mosquito repellent spray. The hotels provide mosquito repellent sachets as part of the room’s amenities in all our locations.

Remember to protect yourself from direct sun rays with sunscreen cream or safari hat.

DIETARY REQUIREMENTS: For those guests with specific dietary requirement, please ensure Imbasa is notified prior to travel so that the respective Hotels and Lodges are informed

GRATUITIES: As a guideline and dependent on how happy you are, we would suggest the following:

The General Hotel/Lodge/Camp Staff – Approximately U$ 10.00 per person per day

Driver Guides – Approximately US$ 15.00 to US$ 20.00 per person per day

PHOTOGRAPHY: Please be careful when photographing public buildings, airports, bridges, the national flag and people in uniform. Ensure that you have sought permission before photographing local people and their villages. If in doubt, please check with your guide.

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