Victoria Falls defies global uncertainty: Easter tourism surges early

 VICTORIA FALLS, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, is surging into the peak tourism season with remarkable energy, its waters rising earlier than expected and stealing the spotlight once more.

Even against the backdrop of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East — which has unsettled global travel patterns and disrupted flight routes — the allure of the Falls has remained resolute.

Easter holidaymakers, joined by a growing influx of Mice (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) travellers, are breathing renewed life into the resort town, reinforcing Victoria Falls’ standing as a destination that continues to draw visitors despite global uncertainty.

Across the town, hotels are reporting occupancy rates climbing beyond 70 percent, reflecting a renewed appetite for travel among both domestic and international visitors eager to witness one of nature’s most awe inspiring spectacles at its most vibrant.

The Zambezi River’s unusually early swell — typically experienced in May or June — has been driven by heavy rainfall in the upper catchment areas of Zambia and Angola. The result is a dramatic transformation of Victoria Falls into a roaring curtain of water and mist, its thunderous presence drawing tourists in large numbers as spray rises from the gorge and rainbows shimmer in the sunlight.

Tourism executive Dr Clement Mukwasi said the rapid increase in water volumes took many by surprise, but has been warmly welcomed by industry players.

“Usually, our peak water volumes occur around May or June, but this year, we are seeing the Zambezi already overflowing.

“We had to close rafting a bit earlier because of the high water, but the Falls are at their spectacular best,” he said.

Dr Mukwasi added that the timing of the early peak has worked in the industry’s favour, coinciding with an influx of domestic tourists travelling for the Christian holidays, and seamlessly blending into the traditional international peak season running from May to October.

Despite ongoing challenges posed by the Middle East conflict, which has affected some international flight connections, Dr Mukwasi said Zimbabwe’s tourism sector continues to demonstrate resilience and promise.

“Since we have the best place to visit in the world in Africa, we think 2026 shall bring very good fortune. Southern Africa has been peaceful and quiet, and we anticipate many travellers shifting from North Africa to visit Zimbabwe and Victoria Falls in particular,” he said.

Hospitality Association of Zimbabwe Matabeleland North Chapter chairperson Ms Patience Musonza echoed the optimism, saying operators are expecting strong occupancy levels over the Easter period, driven by families, leisure travellers and regional visitors seeking to reconnect with nature.

“Domestic tourism is helping to push bookings. Just walking inside the rainforest around the waterfall shows how much water there is, which is a plus for us,” she said.

Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (Zimparks) spokesperson Mr Luckmore Safuli said the high water flows are a natural phenomenon that brings benefits beyond tourism, extending into broader conservation gains.

He said the increased volumes enhance the visual grandeur of the Falls, while simultaneously transporting nutrients downstream that support aquatic ecosystems and sustain fish populations.

“Recent increases in water volumes observed at Victoria Falls are primarily a result of sustained rainfall across the upper Zambezi River catchment. The Falls are currently exhibiting higher-than-average flows for this time of year, resulting in the dramatic spectacle commonly associated with peak flow conditions,” said Mr Safuli.

Mr Safuli said Zimparks continues to work closely with tourism operators to ensure safe access for visitors, while also issuing a safety advisory.

He urged visitors to strictly adhere to posted warnings, avoid swimming or approaching fast flowing sections outside designated areas, and follow guidance from park authorities at all times.

UN Tourism Regional Director for Africa Ms Elcia Grandcourt has meanwhile singled out Zimbabwe as a standout post pandemic tourism success story, highlighting the country’s ability to diversify offerings and capture new market segments.

“Africa has been able to constantly gain centre-stage within the international tourism landscape by seizing new opportunities and demonstrating resilience. Statistics indicate that Africa’s tourism has built back better and resurged stronger,” she said.

“Against this backdrop, Zimbabwe stands out as a successful example. The country has been able to diversify its tourism offerings and products, capturing new tourism segments and shares, which contributed to confirming and further strengthening its destination brand and image.”

According to UN Tourism Barometer data, Africa welcomed 81 million international arrivals in 2025 — an eight percent increase — while Zimbabwe received 1,6 million international visitors in 2024, underlining its growing global appeal.

Last month, Zimbabwe’s rising profile was further cemented when it clinched the Destination of the Year — Natural Wonders Award at the Pacific Area Travel Writers Association Awards, held on the sidelines of ITB Berlin 2026 in Germany.

This recognition followed another major accolade, with Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Barbara Rwodzi being named Tourism Minister of the Year — Africa.

These honours reflect the tourism development agenda championed by President Mnangagwa, which has prioritised infrastructure modernisation, expansion of air connectivity, ease of doing business reforms, investment facilitation, and the maintenance of peace and security — all critical enablers in positioning Zimbabwe as an emerging and competitive destination.

The accolades also come in the wake of Zimbabwe being named by Forbes as one of the must visit destinations, further cementing its growing global appeal.

The country was recognised for its exceptional natural assets, conservation leadership and authentic visitor experiences that continue to resonate with travellers.

Anchored by the majestic Victoria Falls — stretching 1 708 metres wide and plunging 108 metres into the Zambezi Gorge — Zimbabwe’s tourism sector continues to flourish, buoyed by nearly 30 percent of the country’s land designated as protected wilderness.

With its rich natural assets, strong conservation stewardship and growing international recognition, Zimbabwe is firmly on course to leverage tourism as a key pillar of economic growth in line with Vision 2030.

Source: Victoria Falls defies global uncertainty: Easter tourism surges early (07/04/2026)