Infrastructure, reforms fuel Vic Falls tourism surge

 ZIMBABWE’s tourism revival under the Second Republic continues to gather momentum, with Victoria Falls reaffirming its position as the country’s premier tourism gateway after immigration authorities cleared more than 1,2 million travellers through the north-western region in 2025.

The milestone reflects the tangible gains of the Government’s infrastructure modernisation, ease-of-doing-business reforms and deliberate re-engagement drive, which have strengthened the country’s attractiveness as a regional and international destination.

Official figures indicate that 1 225 167 travellers passed through the region last year, marking a 7,87 percent increase from the 1 135 759 recorded in 2024, a performance that underscores sustained growth in visitor arrivals and confidence in Zimbabwe’s tourism sector.

The upward trend highlights the country’s accelerated post-Covid-19 recovery, buoyed by strategic investments in airports, roads and border management systems rolled out under the Second Republic, as well as enhanced destination marketing efforts.

Growth was most pronounced during peak travel periods, particularly the festive season, when tourism activity traditionally surges due to holiday travel and regional movement.

In December 2025 alone, more than 95 000 travellers were processed across the north-western borders, representing a 6,74 percent increase from the over 89 000 travellers recorded during the same period in 2024.

The figures were confirmed by the Department of Immigration’s Chief Director, Ms Respect Gono, in response to questions from Zimpapers.

“A total of 1 225 167 travellers were cleared in the region during the year 2025, compared to 1 135 759 the previous year, reflecting an overall increase of 7,87 percent,” said Ms Gono.

“In December 2025, over 95 000 travellers were recorded across the north-western borders, reflecting a 6,74 percent increase compared to the same period in 2024.”

She said the Victoria Falls Border Post recorded the highest traffic, clearing 52 644 travellers in December 2025, up from 47 550 during the same period in 2024.

The Victoria Falls International Airport registered the second-highest movement, handling 25 561 travellers, compared to 23 404 in December 2024.

Ms Gono attributed the sustained growth to deliberate Government-led interventions aimed at modernising border management systems, improving tourism infrastructure and enhancing Zimbabwe’s global tourism brand.

The north-western region, anchored by the world-renowned Victoria Falls, remains the heartbeat of the country’s tourism industry. It is served by four strategic land ports of entry — Victoria Falls, Kazungula, Pandamatenga and Kasambabezi — as well as the Victoria Falls International Airport, forming a critical gateway for both regional and long-haul international travellers.

Ms Gono said the Second Republic’s drive to modernise border operations has been a key enabler of increased visitor flows.

“The automation and digitisation of immigration services have significantly improved efficiency,” she said. “The Online Border Management System, which includes e-visas, e-permits and e-gates, has drastically reduced clearance times and improved the traveller experience.

“Ours remains to facilitate movement and business. These initiatives will continue to position Zimbabwe as a must-visit destination in 2026 and beyond.”

Beyond policy reforms, natural and logistical factors have also boosted arrivals.

Improved water levels in the Zambezi River have enhanced the visual spectacle of the Victoria Falls, reigniting international interest following years of subdued travel during the Covid-19 pandemic.

At the same time, expanded direct flight connectivity from key global and regional markets has improved access, making Victoria Falls more reachable for international tourists.

A major milestone was the commissioning of the 24-hour operational Victoria Falls Border Post on December 31, a move expected to significantly boost cross-border tourism, trade and night-time travel convenience.

Ms Gono said the development complements the country’s broader efforts to position itself as a competitive tourism hub.

“Zimbabwe’s recognition as the top travel destination in 2025 by Forbes is a major endorsement of our national image and has the potential to further drive traffic to our ports of entry,” she said.

December traffic figures showed  the Victoria Falls Border Post leading with 52 644 movements, followed by Victoria Falls Airport (25 561), Kazungula (15 454), Kasambabezi (1 403) and Pandamatenga (258).

Source: Infrastructure, reforms fuel Vic Falls tourism surge (01/02/2026)