Zimbabwe park fee hike signals tourism upgrade

Zimbabwe is raising park entry fees at some of its most visited attractions, a move that signals a strategic pivot toward high-value tourism and stronger conservation funding.

The fee increases, led by the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority, take effect in 2026 and introduce value-added tax (VAT) across key tourism services. 

The changes will be felt most sharply at Victoria Falls, one of Africa’s top travel destinations and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

As global tourism rebounds, Zimbabwe is repositioning itself as a premium safari and adventure market, aligning with a broader trend toward sustainable, low-volume travel. 

For tour operators, travel advisors and luxury safari planners, the updated tariff structure requires immediate recalculations.

While the increases may appear incremental, they compound quickly across multi-day itineraries, particularly for families and high-end travelers booking curated experiences. 

The government says the VAT-backed pricing model will help fund conservation, infrastructure upgrades and anti-poaching efforts, reinforcing Zimbabwe’s standing in Africa’s competitive tourism market.

Victoria Falls sees notable increases 

International visitors entering the Victoria Falls Rainforest will now pay $58 per person, up from $50.

Premium experiences have also risen. VIP Gate access increases to $174 from $150, while the sought-after Moonlight or “Moonbow” tour climbs to $116 from $100. 

These experiences, popular with luxury travelers and photographers, are now priced to reflect exclusivity and limited access.

Industry analysts say the adjustments bring Zimbabwe closer to other high-end safari markets that emphasize conservation-driven tourism revenue.

Safari destinations follow suit 

Beyond Victoria Falls, daily conservation fees at Mana Pools National Park and surrounding safari areas rise to $24 per person for international guests.

Multi-day safaris will therefore see noticeable package cost increases. 

Officials argue the higher fees will improve park facilities, support wildlife protection and reduce environmental strain linked to mass tourism.

The strategy mirrors policies adopted in parts of East and Southern Africa, where governments prioritize sustainable tourism growth over visitor volume.

Zambia remains competitive alternative 

Across the border, Zambia continues to offer comparatively lower entry fees on its side of Victoria Falls.

This creates an opportunity for cross-border itineraries that balance cost with premium experiences. 

For travelers, the message is clear: Zimbabwe is betting on quality over quantity.

For the travel industry, transparency around the new park fees will be critical as the country strengthens its position as a leading African safari destination.