As the sun rises over the Zambezi River, a distant roar can be heard in the distance. It’s the sound of the Victoria Falls, one of the world’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders.
But the Victoria Falls is more than just a waterfall. It’s also home to a lush rainforest that surrounds the falls, creating a unique ecosystem that is teeming with life.
In this blog post, I will take you on a journey through the Victoria Falls rainforest, exploring its hidden treasures and uncovering the secrets of this magical place through the misty trails, listening to the sounds of the forest and marveling at the beauty of this natural wonder.
Nestled within the borders of Zimbabwe, the Victoria Falls Rainforest is a verdant, vibrant paradise that boasts an unparalleled diversity of flora and fauna. It is a place where the mist from the mighty Zambezi River dances in the air, creating a mystical and otherworldly atmosphere.
As you make your way through the winding paths of the rainforest, you will be struck by the sheer beauty and power of nature. The roar of the Falls echoes through the trees, as the mist settles on your skin and the sun breaks through the canopy above. You will be transported to a world of wonder and magic, where the natural world is at its most magnificent.
Formation Of The Victoria Falls Rainforest
The Victoria Falls Rainforest is a geological wonder that was formed over millions of years. The Zambezi River, which flows through the area, carved a deep gorge in the earth’s crust, exposing layers of rock that date back hundreds of millions of years. The rainforest itself was created by the constant mist and spray created by the falls, which nourishes the plant life and creates a unique microclimate.
Over time, the plants and trees adapted to the wet conditions, growing in abundance and creating a lush, vibrant ecosystem that is home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna. Today, the Victoria Falls Rainforest stands as a testament to the power and beauty of nature, a living reminder of the Earth’s incredible ability to shape and create.
The Victoria Falls Rainforest Scenic Viewpoints
The Victoria Falls Rainforest is full of scenic viewpoints that offer visitors a breathtaking glimpse into the natural wonder of the area. Viewpoints 1 to 15 are on the Zimbabwean side with 16 to 19 on the Zambian side of the waterfall.
One of the most popular viewpoints is the view point 8 of the mainfalls. From here, visitors can watch as the mighty Zambezi River cascades over the cliff face, creating a spectacular display of mist and spray.
Another popular viewpoint is the Danger Point, which provides a stunning view of the sheer drop that the river takes as it plummets into the gorge below. This viewpoint is not for the faint of heart, but the dramatic scenery is well worth the risk.
No matter which viewpoint you choose, the scenic beauty of the Victoria Falls Rainforest is sure to leave a lasting impression. The power and majesty of the falls and the surrounding landscape are truly unparalleled, making this one of the most unforgettable experiences in all of Africa.
David Livingstone Statue
The David Livingstone statue is an iconic landmark in the Victoria Falls Rainforest, paying tribute to the Scottish explorer who first discovered the falls in 1855. The statue is located near the entrance of the rainforest and depicts Livingstone gazing out towards the falls, as if captivated by their beauty and power.
It’s a powerful symbol of the connection between man and nature, and a reminder of the role that Livingstone played in bringing the falls to the attention of the world.
The statue itself is a work of art, crafted with incredible attention to detail and skill. The bronze figure of Livingstone is lifelike and expressive, with every fold of his clothing and every strand of his hair perfectly rendered. The statue is set against a backdrop of the rainforest, adding to its beauty and grandeur.
Visitors to the rainforest often stop at the statue to pay their respects to Livingstone, and to take a moment to contemplate the incredible natural wonder that he helped bring to light.
Flora and Fauna in The Victoria Falls Rainforest
The Victoria Falls Rainforest is a veritable treasure trove of flora and fauna, a true haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. From the towering mahogany trees that stretch towards the sky to the delicate orchids that bloom in the understory, the rainforest is home to a remarkable diversity of plant life.
Wandering through the maze of winding paths, you’ll encounter everything from ferns and creepers to towering palms and towering fig trees. And in the midst of all this vibrant plant life, you will find colourful birdlife that flits amongst the branches, monkeys swinging from tree to tree and baboons foraging for food.
Tree Species in The Victoria Falls Rainforest
In the lush Victoria rainforest, two dominant species of trees reign supreme, making up nearly 80% of the verdant canopy. These towering trees are the waterberry, known scientifically as Syzygium Guineense and Syzygium Cordatum. Aptly named, these majestic trees are always found near water sources, and their striking beauty belies their practical purpose in the ecosystem.
Growing abundantly along riverbanks above waterfalls, the waterberry trees produce oval-shaped berries that range in color from dark red to purple. These slightly acidic fruits are a favorite of monkeys and birds.
The second species, the Mimusops Zeyheri or Red Milkwood, is a native of Africa and a popular choice for baboons, monkeys, and birds. With its sprawling evergreen canopy providing ample shade, the Red Milkwood is a vital part of the rainforest’s delicate balance.
These fruit trees play a crucial role in fostering the diverse array of birds and monkeys that dwell within the rainforest. As you embark on your walk through this remarkable ecosystem, keep an eye out for these magnificent trees and the creatures they attract.
In addition to the waterberry and Red Milkwood, there are several other types of trees that make up the remaining 20% of the tropical rainforest’s canopy. These include the Wild Date Palm (Phoenix Reclinata), African Olive (Olea Africana), Natal Mahogany (Trichilia Emetica), Cape Fig (Ficus Capensis), and African Ebony (Diospyros Mespiliformis).
Each of these trees bring unique qualities and play a vital role in the rainforest’s ecosystem, providing habitat, food, and shelter for an array of creatures. Together, these trees form a vibrant tapestry of life, creating a wondrous and awe-inspiring environment that teems with biodiversity.
The Flowers In The rainforest
The Victoria Falls rainforest is not only home to a variety of tree species but also boasts an impressive array of vibrant and exotic flowers. The flame lily, with its fiery orange petals and distinctively shaped flowers, is one of the most recognizable flowers in the area. The Flame Lily is a symbol of both purity and beauty all around the world and it is the national flower of Zimbabwe.
The black arum, with its black spadix and green hood-like spathe, is another striking plant that can be found in the rainforest. The fireballs, as their name suggests, are small, round, fiery red flowers that add a pop of color to the forest floor. Visitors may also spot the ground orchid, with its delicate pink or purple flowers, and the wild gentian, with its deep blue petals.
The shaving brush combretum, with its bright red, brush-like flowers that resemble shaving brushes, is another notable species. Finally, the hibiscus, with its large, showy flowers in shades of pink, red, and yellow, adds to the colorful display of flowers in the Victoria Falls rainforest.
The Victoria Falls Rainforest Birdlife
Deep within the rainforest, a diverse and vibrant community of birds thrives amidst the lush greenery. Livingstone’s Tauraco can be spotted with their distinctive blue and green plumage and bright red bills. The Grey-headed Bush Shrike perches atop nearby trees, scanning the underbrush for prey with its striking black and white markings.
The cheerful notes of the Tropical Bou Bou’s distinctive call add to the chorus of birdsong that fills the forest. The White-browed Robin Chat darts amongst the ferns and vines, its bright eyes scanning the forest floor for insects. The Trumpeter Thornbill flits from flower to flower, sipping nectar with its delicate beak and iridescent feathers.
And among the fallen leaves and twigs, the Arrow-marked Babblers blend perfectly with the forest floor with their brown and white plumage as they forage for food. Together, these birds create a vibrant and thriving ecosystem in the Victoria Falls rainforest, a true marvel of the natural world.
Butterfly Species In The Rainforest
The Victoria Falls rainforest is a haven for butterfly enthusiasts, with a wide variety of species to admire. The Blue Charaxes, Guinea Fowl, and Green-banded Swallowtail are just a few of the many butterfly species that call this forest home.
The Blue Charaxes, with its striking blue coloration, stands out against the green foliage and is a sight to behold in flight. The Guinea Fowl butterfly, with its intricate patterns and bold spots, is another popular species among visitors.
And the Green-banded Swallowtail, with its beautiful green and black wings, is a true natural wonder. These butterflies not only add beauty to the forest but also play a vital role in pollination and the ecosystem as a whole.
As visitors journey through the forest, they can witness these delicate creatures in their natural habitat, creating a truly magical experience.
The Victoria Falls Rainforest Mammals
As visitors make their way through the Victoria Falls rainforest, they may catch a glimpse of several different animal species. The bushbuck, with its distinctive reddish-brown coat and white spots, is a common sight, often seen grazing on vegetation.
The vervet monkey, with its black face and greyish-brown fur, can often be spotted jumping from tree to tree or foraging on the ground for food. The banded mongoose, easily identified by its striped fur, may also be seen scurrying across the forest floor. The warthog, with its distinctive tusks and bristly coat, is another animal that visitors may encounter.
Finally, the baboons, known for their intelligence and social behavior, are often seen in groups, foraging for food or grooming one another. These animals add to the vibrant ecosystem of the Victoria Falls rainforest, making it a unique and exciting place to explore.
Time Spent In The Victoria Falls Rainforest
Walking through the Victoria Falls Rainforest is a journey of discovery and wonder that can take anywhere from a few hours to an entire day. The rainforest is home to a maze of winding paths that crisscross through the lush vegetation, offering visitors a chance to explore the many different corners of this remarkable ecosystem.
For those who are short on time, a quick walk through the rainforest can take as little as an hour, providing a glimpse of the falls and some of the more popular viewpoints. But for those who want to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of the area, a longer walk is recommended.
Taking the time to explore the many different paths and trails that wind through the rainforest can take several hours or even a full day. After a long walk, one can take a breather at the Rainforest Café and munch on some snacks or even order a full proper meal before heading out of the rainforest.
Regardless of how long you choose to spend in the rainforest, every step is sure to be filled with wonder and amazement. The beauty and power of the Victoria Falls and the surrounding landscape are truly unparalleled, making this one of the most unforgettable experiences in all of Africa.
The Rainforest Cafè
The Rainforest Cafe is a one-of-a-kind dining experience that brings the magic of the Victoria Falls Rainforest to life. Located near the entrance to the rainforest, the restaurant is designed to transport guests to a lush, tropical world, complete with thundering waterfalls, tropical birds, and exotic animals.
Inside the Rainforest Cafe, guests are surrounded by a vibrant, colourful world of sights and sounds, with animatronic animals and realistic jungle scenes that make you feel like you’ve been transported to the heart of the rainforest. The menu is equally impressive, offering a wide range of delicious dishes inspired by the flavours of Africa and beyond.
Whether you’re looking for a quick bite before heading out to explore the rainforest, or you’re looking for a full evening of dining and entertainment, the Rainforest Cafe is the perfect destination. With its vibrant atmosphere and delicious cuisine, it’s a dining experience that you won’t soon forget, and one that perfectly captures the spirit and beauty of the Victoria Falls Rainforest.
The Victoria Falls Rainforest Entrance Fees
On the left-hand side of the road you will find the entrance to the rainforest, and visitors must check in at the booth located on the left side of the gate. To gain entry, visitors are required to present their passport or identification card.
The park’s cashier will inform visitors of the charges applicable, which cover a single entry to Victoria Falls. It is important to note that if you exit the park, you will have to pay again to re-enter. Payment can be made in cash or via credit/debit card, with MasterCard or Visa being the accepted options.
See below table for rainforest entrance fees.
| Category | Entrance Fee |
| International Visitors | US$50 |
| SADC Visitors | US$30 |
| Zimbabweans | US$7 |
| Lunar Tour (All) | US$100 |
*All children between 6 and 12 years old pay 50% of the adult fee, and children under 6 enter free of charge
* These fees are for a single entry, if you exit you have to pay again. Your day ticket does not cover your night entry fees
Victoria Falls Rainforest Entrance Times
During the summer season, which runs from the 1st of September to the 30th of April, the gate to the park opens at 06h00 and closes at 18h00.
Meanwhile, in the winter season that spans from the 1st of May to the 31st of August, the gate opens at 06h30 and closes at 18h00. These times ensure that visitors have ample time to explore the park and take in the beauty of Victoria Falls during daylight hours.
Victoria Falls Rainforest’s Dos and Don’ts
Visiting the Victoria Falls Rainforest is an unforgettable experience, but it’s important to be mindful of a few key dos and don’ts to ensure that everyone can enjoy the area safely and responsibly.
Dos:
- Do stay on the marked paths and trails to avoid damaging the fragile ecosystem of the rainforest.
- Do wear comfortable, sturdy shoes and dress appropriately for the weather conditions.
- Do bring a waterproof camera or protective covering for electronic devices to protect them from the mist and spray of the falls.
- Do carry plenty of water and stay hydrated throughout your visit.
- Do respect the wildlife and refrain from feeding or disturbing any animals that you may encounter.
Don’ts:
- Don’t climb on any rocks or venture off the marked paths, as this can be dangerous and harmful to the environment.
- Don’t litter or leave any trash behind in the rainforest.
- Don’t attempt to swim or enter the water at or near the falls, as this can be extremely dangerous.
- Don’t use drones or other flying devices in the rainforest, as this is not permitted and can disturb the wildlife and other visitors.
- Do not feed any wild animals in the Park
- Domestic animals are not allowed in the Park
- Bicycles are not allowed in the Park
- Do not pick anything in the Park (flowers, plants etc)
- Do not cause fires
By following these simple dos and don’ts, visitors to the Victoria Falls Rainforest can ensure that everyone can enjoy the beauty and majesty of the area in a safe and responsible manner.
Conclusion
The Victoria Falls Rainforest is truly one of the most magical and awe-inspiring destinations in the world. With its lush vegetation, incredible wildlife, and the powerful beauty of the Victoria Falls themselves, it is an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime.
Whether you are an adventurous explorer or a nature lover seeking a peaceful escape, the rainforest offers something for everyone. From the breathtaking views to the vibrant atmosphere of the Rainforest Cafe, there’s always something new and exciting to discover around every corner.
So why not make your next trip an adventure to the Victoria Falls Rainforest? With its unparalleled beauty and rich history, it’s a destination that’s sure to leave you spellbound and inspired. Book your trip today and discover the magic of this incredible natural wonder for yourself!
