Zimbabwe cuts tourism fees by half to boost competitiveness

 Zimbabwe has approved sweeping reductions in tourism sector fees, licences and levies, with most charges cut by approximately 50 percent to enhance regional competitiveness.

Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Barbara Rwodzi confirmed the reforms following Tuesday’s Cabinet meeting, though the full list of revised requirements will be published later.

“We have specific fees, licences and levies that have been dropped… most of them are cutting across by about half,” Rwodzi said at the post-Cabinet briefing.

The tourism sector overhaul forms part of President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s July directive requiring ministries to implement ease-of-doing-business initiatives across 12 sectors within six months.

Health, agriculture, retail, transport, energy, manufacturing, broadcasting, telecommunications, liquor, construction and financial services are also targeted for reform.

Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube said fee reductions range from 25 to 50 percent, with some charges eliminated entirely. “We have used a very fine tooth comb… and we are sure that this will go a long way in reducing the cost of business,” he said.

The National Competitiveness Centre’s research revealed existing fees made Zimbabwe’s tourism industry uncompetitive regionally and globally, prompting the comprehensive review.

“These fees really have raised the cost of doing business. They render our industry uncompetitive regionally and also globally,” Ncube explained.

Information Minister Jenfan Muswere said Cabinet approved the removal of unjustifiable licences, streamlining of duplicative requirements and reduction of unsustainably high fees.

“The review was undertaken to remove identified unjustifiable licences and permits, levies and fees, streamline duplicative and overlapping licences and permits, and reduce unsustainably high fees and levies,” Muswere said.

The tourism reforms target multiple regulatory authorities including Zimbabwe Tourism Authority, Parks and Wildlife Authority, Roads Authority and Aviation Authority.

Industry stakeholders welcomed the changes after extensive consultations covered accommodation, hospitality, catering, tour operators, boating services and vehicle rentals.

Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries CEO Cornelius Dube called for a single licensing authority for tourism. “There should be a coordinated approach to the acquisition of all licences and permits,” he said.

The current system forces businesses to obtain multiple permits from different agencies through lengthy procedures, creating what stakeholders describe as a “choking regulatory environment.”

Zimbabwe Tourism Authority CEO Winnie Muchanyuka said rationalized costs would inspire confidence among emerging businesses owned by locals.

“The industry had become very expensive and would require lawyers to deal with licensing issues. Lower fees will also attract direct foreign investments,” Muchanyuka said.

The tourism sector contributes 12 percent of Zimbabwe’s GDP and generated $1.18 billion in 2024. Government targets $5 billion in tourism revenue by 2025.

Statistics show tourist arrivals rose 174 percent to 1,043,781 in 2022 from 380,820 in 2021 as COVID-19 restrictions eased. Most visitors came from Africa (66 percent), followed by Europe (17 percent) and Americas (10 percent).

Experts predict Zimbabwe could welcome 2.32 million visitors by 2025, exceeding pre-pandemic levels, potentially reaching 2.78 million by 2028.

The reforms align with Vision 2030 economic goals and follow similar regional initiatives. South Africa recently updated its tourism policy for the first time since 1996.

Transport sector fees affecting tourism, including Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation radio and television licences, will also be reduced, Rwodzi confirmed.

Ncube emphasized the six-month implementation timeline runs until December. While starting with 12 sectors, the review will eventually extend across the entire economy.

The comprehensive overhaul addresses longstanding complaints about Zimbabwe’s complex regulatory framework. Businesses currently face what critics call a “labyrinth of permits and fees.”

A Harare supermarket, for example, requires over 30 different licences and permits to remain compliant, creating excessive operational costs that discourage investment.

As Zimbabwe seeks to attract both leisure tourists and business visitors, the fee reductions aim to showcase the country’s natural attractions including Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park and Lake Kariba more competitively.

Source: Zimbabwe cuts tourism fees by half to boost competitiveness (27/08/2025)

Zimbabwe Tourism Industry Struggles with a Forty Million US Dollar Revenue Loss in the First Quarter of 2025

 Zimbabwe’s tourism industry is grappling with significant losses, having faced nearly US\$40 million in potential revenue cuts during the first quarter of 2025. This setback is a result of investor departures, ongoing economic instability, and a decrease in consumer spending, undermining one of the country’s most vital economic sectors.

Official reports indicate a substantial 16% drop in tourism revenue, with receipts declining from US\$241 million in the same period last year to US\$202 million. This translates to a daily revenue loss of over US\$440,000, marking the worst performance since the pandemic halted global travel. The sharp decline raises doubts about Zimbabwe’s goal of reaching US\$5 billion in annual tourism revenue, as investor confidence continues to falter, and funding for local tourism operators remains scarce.

The Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) reported a 9% decrease in international arrivals, with the number of foreign visitors dropping to 336,369. Domestic tourism also experienced a significant 18% decline, falling from nearly two million last year to 1.6 million. The situation worsens with a US\$2 million decline in new tourism investments, as operators struggle with high interest rates and a reduced consumer spending power.

The 16% decline in tourism revenue has had a direct impact on the country’s GDP, lowering it by 0.09%. With the tourism sector’s multiplier effect estimated at 3.2, the economy is potentially losing up to US$125 million, which represents approximately 0.3% of GDP. This downturn threatens Zimbabwe’s 2025 GDP growth target of 5%, with projections suggesting it could fall to 3.8% if the trend continues.

Amid the national downturn, Victoria Falls remains a bright spot. The region saw only a slight decline in performance, with hotel occupancy rates dropping by less than 2% compared to the previous year. Both large-scale hotels and smaller businesses reported positive results.

Nevertheless, overall national hotel occupancy has fallen to 37%, a decline from 39% last year, signaling a reduction in demand across the country. ZTA data further highlights stark regional differences. European arrivals dropped by 35%, with even steeper declines from Nordic countries (65%), Switzerland (46%), and Italy (43%). Visitors from Oceania, primarily Australia and New Zealand, also saw a significant 51% reduction, possibly linked to challenges in air travel connectivity.

In contrast, Asia showed positive growth. The number of tourists from Malaysia rose by 135%, Japan saw an 86% increase, and China/Hong Kong experienced a 26% boost. These gains may be due to improved bilateral relations or the resumption of direct flights between Zimbabwe and key Asian nations.

The decline in tourism reflects deeper structural issues that need to be addressed. High visa fees, negative perceptions of the country, expensive travel costs, and underdeveloped infrastructure are significant barriers to tourism growth. While improvements to airports are important, factors such as safety, clean water, reliable electricity, and good governance are critical to fostering a successful tourism sector.

This tourism downturn is part of a broader economic struggle. Despite an increase in mining output, foreign exchange earnings from the sector fell by 27% in the first quarter of 2025, leading to a loss of US\$204 million in potential inflows. Weak global commodity prices and logistical challenges are contributing factors to this decline.

Business sentiment is also deteriorating, with companies expressing frustration over the high cost of credit and the scarcity of affordable financing. Reports indicate that lending rates ranging from 40% to 47% are putting a strain on businesses, exacerbating the economic challenges.

As neighboring countries like South Africa experience a rebound in tourism, Zimbabwe faces the risk of falling further behind unless immediate reforms are enacted.

Zimbabwe’s tourism sector is at a crossroads, navigating a tough period with an uncertain road to recovery ahead. The challenges remain significant, and only time will tell if the country can overcome this economic turbulence.

Source: Zimbabwe Tourism Industry Strorty Million US Dollar Revenue Loss in the First Quarter of 2025, as Economic Turmoil and Investor Exodus Threaten Future Growth (07/07/25)

Zida courts investors for US$150m Victoria Falls project

 The Zimbabwe Investment and Development Agency (ZIDA) is actively seeking both local and international investors to participate in the development of Lot 1 of Jafuta Estate, a flagship project within the Masuwe Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Victoria Falls. This ambitious initiative, owned by the Mosi oa Tunya Development Company, covers 271.5 hectares and was officially declared a Special Economic Zone on September 28, 2018, with the aim of establishing a world-class tourism and financial services hub.

The Masuwe SEZ is designed to enhance tourism-related activities by integrating tourism, recreational, and sporting facilities with commercial, medical, and conference centres, alongside an international finance centre and other complementary developments. Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe's premier tourism destination, offers an ideal backdrop for this project, which seeks to address the current shortage of high-quality amenities needed to support the growing tourism sector.

The development of Lot 1 involves extensive infrastructure work, including the construction of roads, water and sewer systems, power grids, and telecommunication networks to support the growth of the zone. Plans also include the building of new villas, lodges, and holiday homes, as well as a tourism and hospitality school aimed at nurturing local talent in the sector.

Commercial and financial services form a major part of the project, with the establishment of a commercial centre featuring retail spaces, office buildings, and an international financial services centre designed to attract global businesses. The project further incorporates two medical centres, a golf course, and a multi-purpose international cricket stadium, with construction of the stadium already underway.

The total estimated cost of the project is approximately US$150 million. Core infrastructure is expected to cost about US$81.6 million, while medical centres will require US$15.9 million. The construction of villas and holiday homes is projected at US$7.8 million, and the commercial and financial services centre will need around US$17 million. The tourism and hospitality school is estimated at US$10.7 million, the golf course at US$10 million, and the cricket stadium at US$7.5 million.

ZIDA is highlighting the project's potential to create significant employment opportunities, boost local economies, and position Zimbabwe as a competitive player in the global tourism and financial services markets. To attract investors, the agency is offering various incentives, including tax breaks, streamlined regulatory processes, and guaranteed repatriation of profits.

With its strategic location, comprehensive development plan, and strong financial incentives, Lot 1 of Jafuta Estate presents a prime opportunity for investors seeking to capitalise on Zimbabwe's expanding tourism and financial sectors.

Source: Zida courts investors for US$150m Victoria Falls project (01/06/2025)

Rainforest records over 2% increase in visitors

 THE Victoria Falls Rainforest has recorded notable increase in tourist arrivals during the first quarter of 2025, welcoming more than 60 000 visitors, up from just above 50 000 during the same period last year.

According to the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (Zimparks), the increase is largely driven by a significant rise in international arrivals, which reached over 47 000 in 2025, compared to about 44 000 the previous year.

However, domestic tourism saw a decline, dropping from over 15 000 last year to about 13 000 this year.

Key international source markets contributing to this growth include Europe, with strong numbers from the United Kingdom, Ireland, and Germany, owing largely to the availability of tailored tour packages.

“Enhanced accessibility through the expansion of Victoria Falls Airport, along with the introduction of new flight routes, including direct flights from Frankfurt, Germany, has greatly improved connectivity. The KAZA UniVisa, which simplifies cross-border travel between Zimbabwe and Zambia, has also played a pivotal role in enhancing the visitor experience, making it easier for tourists to explore both sides of the Falls,” Zimparks Spokesperson, Mr Tinashe Farawo said.

This news crew caught up with some visitors, drenched from the rainforest mist, who shared their excitement and awe at the natural wonder nestled in the heart of the Wetland City.

“The river is full, there’s rain inside! We’ve been soaked, and it’s amazing!” a tourist said.

“Victoria Falls is beautiful. This is breathtaking. Everyone needs to visit this place,” another tourist said.

“I’ve visited before, but I’ve never seen a place quite like this. I’ll definitely spread the word about this incredible destination,” a tourist added.

Regionally, South Africa remains the leading source of visitors, followed closely by Botswana, further contributing to the growing tourism ecosystem in Victoria Falls.

As Zimbabwe’s tourism sector continues its post-pandemic recovery, the positive momentum is being fuelled by enhanced marketing, increased infrastructure investment and rising confidence among both international and local travellers.

Source: Rainforest records over 2% increase in visitors (05/05/2025)

Vic Falls thunders: Tourists flock despite misleading reports

 VICTORIA Falls, the thunderous heart of Zimbabwe, pulsated with life as the festive season unfolded.

Despite persistent rumours of the majestic falls drying up, tourists from across the globe, along with a wave of returning locals, flocked to witness its awe-inspiring beauty.

The Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry anticipated a record-breaking year, with visitor numbers expected to surge close to three million, fuelled largely by the homecoming of Zimbabweans from the Diaspora.

From adrenaline-pumping adventures like bungee jumping, gorge swings, and the Flight of Angels, to serene game drives, wildlife interactions, tours of the Falls, and tranquil moments surrounded by breath-taking beauty—these have been the experiences of tourists this festive season.

Tourists enjoyed an array of experiences, from bungee jumping and gorge swings to the thrilling “Flight of Angels” helicopter ride.

Others took in game drives, interacted with wildlife, or simply marvelled at the magnificent waterfalls.

Victoria Falls delivered something for everyone – whether it was adrenaline or relaxation.

Victoria Falls proved once more why it remains a top destination for holidaymakers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

The resort city welcomed a mix of visitors including groups, families, schools, and individuals.

Home to one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, known locally as “Mosi-oa-Tunya” (The Smoke That Thunders), Victoria Falls boasts unparalleled natural beauty, wildlife, and adventure opportunities.

In recent months, misleading reports have circulated, claiming the waterfall is drying up.

However, these claims don’t reflect the true picture.

The Zambezi River, which feeds the Victoria Falls, experiences seasonal fluctuations and while water levels are lower between October and January, this is completely natural.

According to the Zambezi River Authority (ZRA), water levels are expected to rise again in February, bringing the Victoria Falls back to its thunderous grandeur just in time for the rainy season.

Though water levels were lower this season due to the effects of climate change and El Niño, Victoria Falls remained a vibrant, thriving destination.

Despite recent negative publicity suggesting that the Falls are dry, these claims are misleading, considering the Zambezi River’s seasonal flow patterns and the influx of tourists.

Visitors were undeterred by the reduced flow, continuing to flock to the area to enjoy the lush landscapes, abundant wildlife, and thrilling experiences.

Victoria Falls continues to draw visitors year-round, offering unforgettable experiences that highlight its enduring magnificence.

According to the ZRA, the amount of water falling down Victoria Falls is low between October and January as part of its natural cycle.

The Zambezi River, Africa’s fourth-longest, flows through Zambia, Angola, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique.

Victoria Falls, the world’s largest curtain of falling water, sees its flow down the waterfall dip below 1,000 cubic metres per second during the dry season extending between October and January, with levels expected to rise again by late February.

The worst seasons were 2016-2017 and 2023-2024 as a result of the devastating climate change and El Niño-induced drought, with this year’s levels in the same range.

The 2008-2009 season had the highest low levels compared to other years during the period October to January.

Water levels are expected to pick up next month and reach a peak at the end of February when the river will be full until May when it will start falling again.

The long-term mean was highest in the 1961-1962 rainy season when water flowing down the waterfall between March and May reached a peak of more than 8,000 cubic metres per second.

Every year there is less than 1,000 cubic metres per second of water falling the between October and December.

Current water levels on the Zambezi River are 475,83 metres compared to 477,16 metres last year during the same period, according to the ZRA.

The dry season, which occurs annually, is a natural part of the Victoria Falls’ seasonal cycle which tourists flock to witness while enjoying the lush green landscapes and abundant wildlife within the Victoria Falls National Park.

During the rainy season, the waterfall returns to its thundering grandeur, with its mist visible from miles away—an experience that continues to leave visitors in awe.

Despite these natural fluctuations and the misleading reports, Victoria Falls remains a bustling hub of activity.

Visitors have not been deterred as hotels and lodges on either side of the river reported steady bookings, and tour operators were busier than ever, showing that the destination offers much more than just its water levels.

Ephias Mambume, president of the Employers Association for the Tourism and Safari Operators, highlighted the surge in local and regional tourists during the festive season.

“We have experienced a healthy percentage around 80 to 90 percent occupancy,” he said, noting significant bookings in AirBnBs and a bustling rainforest area with regional visitors.

Popular activities included sunset cruises and tours of the Victoria Falls, with operators fully booked, said Mr Mambume.

He implored the Government to urgently rehabilitate the Bulawayo-Victoria Falls Road for seamless travel.

Elephant and Cheetah Experience marketing manager Janice Ncube noted that the majority of clients this season were locals eager to interact and walk with cheetahs and elephants.

“The local market has been awesome. If it wasn’t for the local market, December would be a low season for us,” she said.

Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Barbara Rwodzi, who spent nearly a week in Victoria Falls until Christmas Eve, affirmed that the influx of visitors was a result of vigorous marketing and President Mnangagwa’s policy of engagement and re-engagement.

“It shows that people love Zimbabwe and they have been waiting to hear what’s good about Zimbabwe.

“The foreign policy that President Mnangagwa has been running with for the past seven years, ‘Zimbabwe is Open to Business,’ is paying dividends,” she said.

The festive season’s vibrancy in Victoria Falls demonstrated the destination’s resilience and enduring appeal, ensuring it remains a top choice for holidaymakers from around the globe.

Source: Vic Falls thunders: Tourists flock despite misleading reports (28/12/2024)

Vic Falls still pulling tourists despite the drought (Zambia)

 (December 2024)

Despite the negative impact of climate change on the Victoria Falls in Livingstone, the world heritage site recorded an increase in visitations in the first  three quarters of this year compared to last year.

Tourism Minister RODNEY SIKUMBA told ZNBC News that 80,000 visitations were recorded by the third quarter of this compared to the 57,000 visitations recorded the same period last year.

Mr SIKUMBA said by end of the third quarter, the country recorded 1.7 million tourist visitations.

He said despite challenges occasioned by the drought, Zambia has continued to host important conferences and meetings which contribute positively to the country’s tourism.

Source: Vic Falls still pulling tourists despite the drought (17/12/24)

Victoria Falls tourist numbers surge 30pc (Zimbabwe)

DESPITE the challenges posed by the El Niño-induced drought, tour operators and industry authorities in Victoria Falls are reporting a remarkable surge in business.

Contrary to alarming social media claims that one of the Seven Wonders of the World is drying up, both the iconic water curtain at the main falls and upstream boat cruise activities have seen significant increases in visitor numbers over the past few months.

The Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Authority (ZimParks), responsible for the Victoria Falls rainforest and Zambezi National Park, has revealed an impressive 30 percent rise in visitors over the last three months compared to the same period last year.

This surge underscores the enduring allure of Victoria Falls, as tourists continue to flock to this natural marvel, defying the drought’s impact and reinforcing its status as a premier travel destination.

(November 2024)

Statistics released by the Zimparks show that about 1 300 visitors have been touring the rainforest daily in the past three months, representing a 30 percent increase from last year’s figures.

From August, September and October comparing the 2023 and the 2024 statistics, they show that on a daily average, 1 000 people were visiting Victoria Falls in 2023 as compared to an average of 1 300 visiting in 2024.

Tourism Executive and Shearwater Adventures Public Relations Manager, Dr Clement Mukwasi said it is normal that the Victoria Falls goes through various seasons, with the current period referred to as the low water season.

However, Dr Mukwasi said the city and the tourism business is doing well with upstream activities and the curtain of water still giving visitors the much anticipated spectacular experience.

“The water levels in the Zambezi River change from season to season. We are in what is called the low water level where we do not do activities such as rafting in the lower Zambezi. However, above the falls, the sunset cruise business is booming. We have multitudes enjoying the cruises on the Zambezi. The water depth that allows us to do cruises is more than 20 metres along the whole stretch where the activity is done.

“However, the speed at which such water plunges over the falls becomes very slow during the low water period. The curtain of water on the main falls is still there on the Zimbabwe side. On the Zambian side, the terrain is a bit higher and during this period, tourists go there to see the basalt rocks and access other top of the gorge areas that are naturally not accessible during the high water period,” said Dr Mukwasi.

Tourism Business Council of Zimbabwe Regional representative, Mrs Barbara Murasiranwa-Hughes also weighed in saying the falls are not dry.

“The Falls are not dry. They are still thundering. Every year, the Zambian side of the falls dries up, which is not new to this year and that is why people walk on dry rocks to enjoy the devil’s pool activity on the Zambian side.

This year, maybe because of the drought, there has been less water coming from the catchment area, so comparing year on year, the curtain has been smaller. “Tourism is doing great and activities like boat cruises are happening daily to show that there is water on the Zambezi River. International, regional and local tourists are still coming to view and enjoy the falls. “It is business as usual and we encourage all to come and see for themselves,” said Mrs Murasiranwa- Hughes.

Source: Victoria Falls tourist numbers surge 30pc  (03/11/24)

Zimbabwe Tourism Industry has achieved 2025 US$5 billion target

 Leonard Ncube – leonard.ncube@chronicle.co.zw

GOVERNMENT believes the tourism industry has achieved its US$5 billion target set for 2025 and is working on a digital system that will help monitor and account for every transaction to close leakages and guarantee the sector’s contribution to the national economy.

Government set a target to achieve a US$5 billion tourism industry by 2025 spearheaded by arrivals and developments in the sector.

Speaking in Victoria Falls this Saturday, Tourism and Hospitality Industry Deputy Minister Tongai Mnangagwa said the tourism industry had surpassed its target for a US$5 billion industry by 2025 but was being hampered by under-declaring of transaction by operators.

Dep Minister Mnangagwa said arrivals and bookings over the years show that the US$5 billion target had been met.

He was speaking soon after leading a ceremonial tee-off at the 2024 Sterling Group International Pairs Golf Tournament National Finals being played at Elephant Hills Golf Course in Victoria Falls.

More than 120 amateur golfers from across the country were expected to participate at the tournament for a chance to progress to the World Finals in Tenerife, Spain next month.

Sterling Group of Hotels are sponsoring the tournament in partnership with Albatross Golf Safaris and Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) with the sporting event coming in as one of the activities aimed at drumming up the brand Zimbabwe campaign, and complementing the Vision 2030.

“Just for these two days we are looking at about US$200 000 spent by people who came, looking at occupancy. In the long run we are saying we want to push domestic tourism as people move to play golf so that the US$5 billion industry is achieved very easy.

“In my personal capacity we have actually passed the US$5 billion industry. The Challenge is that our operators don’t declare actual figures on occupancy because they want to cut down that 2 percent that they remit to Zimbabwe Tourism Authority but if you look at numbers we have actually surpassed the target,” he said.

Dep Minister Mnangagwa said domestic tourism was more important than to wait for international tourists.

He said for any economy to move there is need for spending and creation of employment which helps in growth towards attaining vision 2030.

“We are going to surpass mining and agriculture and soon we will be number 1 contributor to the gross domestic product. What we are saying about under-declaring is, we are coming up with a system or software where every organisation will be made to adhere to and we will be using it to calculate automatically who came in and how many days spent.

“So it is going to be very easy. It will be digital, that is where the world is going. His Excellency President Mnangagwa is pushing towards that and as a Ministry we found it prudent that we also go in that line where every calculation is done and we are able to predict,” said the Dep Minister.

With reference to the ongoing Sadc Heads of State Summit, Dep Minister Mnangagwa said it is a key development that drives tourism as all 16 member States are closely following the event which on its own is advertising for the whole region to recognise that Zimbabwe is there and is a good destination to visit.

Source:  Zimbabwe Tourism Industry has achieved 2025 US$5 billion target (17/08/24)

Victoria Falls Safari Lodge celebrates 30 years

 To mark its 30th anniversary this year, Victoria Falls Safari Lodge – one of Zimbabwe’s most celebrated establishments – is chronicling its vibrant history and looking towards a new era of innovation.

Since its inception on December 14, 1994, the luxury lodge has drawn  travellers from around the globe, becoming synonymous with the world-famous Victoria Falls. Accolades have poured in. The lodge was awarded the Best Resort Hotel in Zimbabwe for 25 years in succession by the Association of Zimbabwe Travel Agents, and was recently listed among the Top 10% of hotels around the world in the TripAdvisor Travellers' Choice Awards.

As part of the milestone anniversary, the lodge will produce of a series of short films and a coffee-table book capturing the lodge's history and the people at the centre of it, its commitment to conservation, and the beauty of one of Africa’ most iconic destinations.

Co-Founder and Director Ross Kennedy said the occasion would usher in a new era for the lodge.

“It is with great pride and gratitude that we celebrate 30 years of Victoria Falls Safari Lodge.  As we celebrate, we stand at the threshold of an exciting new chapter. We are committed to exploring innovative avenues for development that will not only enhance our guests' experiences but also contribute positively to the local community and the environment in which we operate, and we look forward to unveiling these exciting developments.”

Community and conservation

MD Nigel Frost said long-term success in the evolving marketplace had hinged on hospitality excellence and commitment to the conservation and communities of the region. 

“Our 30th anniversary is not just a celebration of milestones achieved, but it is also a testament to the resilience, dedication, and passion of everyone who has been a part of this incredible journey.  Despite the challenges we've faced, we have emerged stronger and more determined than ever to continue our mission of being a catalyst for positive change in the region and a trailblazer in the tourism landscape.”

Through various initiatives and partnerships, including the Victoria Falls Anti-Poaching Unit and the Wildlife Conservation Coalition, the Victoria Falls Recycling project and the Vulture Culture Experience, the lodge continues to make an impact by supporting local communities and wildlife conservation efforts, ensuring that the beauty of Victoria Falls is preserved.

Victoria Falls Safari Lodge is the flagship property of Zimbabwean hospitality group, Africa Albida Tourism. Other properties in the group’s portfolio include Victoria Falls Safari Club, Victoria Falls Safari Suites, Lokuthula Lodges, Victoria Falls Safari Spa and The Boma – Dinner & Drum Show, all located on the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge estate, 4km from the Victoria Falls.

Source: Victoria Falls Safari Lodge celebrates 30 years (21/05/2024)

Investments to bear fruit for Zimbabwe’s tourism in 2024

 Zimbabwe's tourism industry is expected to reap rewards this year as the country continues to invest in its tourism establishments following the COVID-19 pandemic.

The expectations come on the back of a 24% increase in tourism receipts for the third quarter of 2023 (July-September), up to US$272 million from $219m in Q3 2022.

According to the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe’s (RBZ) quarterly economic review for the quarter, tourist arrivals increased by 41.9% to 494 878, compared with 348 559 for the same period in 2022.

"The increase in tourist arrivals was attributed to the ongoing recovery in global tourism, improved transportation infrastructure, and marketing and promotion initiatives by players in the tourism industry," said the RBZ.

Investments in the local tourism industry in 2023 came from both local and foreign investors, with $300 million channelled into restaurants, hotels, lodges, safaris and game parks, reported Zimbabwean state-owned daily newspaper The Herald.

"We have seen a number of investments in the sector, be it new resorts or upgrading of the existing ones in order to stay abreast with the current trends. We have seen new lodges around the country and many game parks have also been upgraded," said Paul Matamisa, CEO of the Tourism Business Council of Zimbabwe.

We Are Victoria Falls, the destination management partnership for Victoria Falls, provided Tourism Update with the following examples of recent investment and developments in the country’s tourism sector during 2023:

• Africa Albida Tourism conducted a refurbishment of the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge property.
• The Courtney Lodge opened in Victoria Falls.
• The Bayete Collection expanded its portfolio to include The Victorian Manor, Zimbara and Hwange Siding.
• Inzila Safaris launched mobile safaris in Hwange.
• Malachite Lodge, part of the Zambezi Crescent operations, opened in Zambezi National Park, Victoria Falls.
• The Victoria Falls Distillery Company opened in December.
• Simunye Theatre was launched in Victoria Falls.
• Baines Restaurant was launched in Victoria Falls.
• Woodlands Community Reserve was launched on the outskirts of Victoria Falls.

Zimbabwe also achieved improved regional air access last year, with FlySafair launching flights between Johannesburg and Victoria Falls, and Airlink launching flights between Mbombela (Nelspruit) and Victoria Falls.

Additionally, FlyNamibia will begin flying from Windhoek to Victoria Falls in April this year.

“We have fully recovered and grown our seat capacity to Victoria Falls. This is all thanks to the efficiency of our new Air Services Development Programme spearheaded by Airports Company of Zimbabwe,” said Shelley Cox, current Co-ordinator for We Are Victoria Falls.

Airports Company of Zimbabwe provided the following aircraft carrying capacity numbers into Victoria Falls International Airport:

Victoria Falls leads the charge

Natasha Dixon, PR & Internal Communications Specialist at African Bush Camps, told Tourism Update that recovery in Zimbabwe had been limited to Victoria Falls.

“We haven’t seen the same demand for Hwange or Mana Pools yet. Arrivals are still behind those of 2019.”

However, she did mention that some of its Zimbabwe camps continued to shine as some of its best-selling options.

Lodges at the Victoria Falls are optimistic that 2024 will herald record-breaking tourist numbers on the back of healthy occupancies during the second half of 2023.

“Accommodation occupancies are showing positive projections for the year. This year will see us strengthening our destination brand and roll out some exciting new campaigns to attract more families and young people, as well as our traditional and local visitors,” said Cox, highlighting that Zimbabwe was well-positioned to capitalise on the evolving interests of travellers.

“People feel a growing connection with nature and wilderness, and are looking for stillness, transformation and meaning. This has been accelerated by the pandemic and we are seeing greater interest in wellness, creativity, intergenerational trips, food, health and fitness.

“Our traditional markets have always been delighted by our wilderness, wildlife and charm, but our newer markets are increasingly thrilled by our spirit and the hearts of our people – manifesting through experiences like immersive e-biking, riverside yoga and locally crafted gin distilling and tours that utilise local ingredients and allow for interactions with members of our community.”

Source: Investments to bear fruit for Zimbabwe’s tourism in 2024 (05/02/2024)