Upgraded access boosts tourism outlook at Victoria Falls

Improved air access is lifting Zimbabwe’s tourism outlook, with Victoria Falls drawing renewed interest as a gateway for travel across Southern Africa.

Operators say easier connections are already supporting bookings as more visitors plan trips that combine several destinations in one journey. 

The planned return of a direct Harare–London route is expected to deepen that recovery.

The link would reconnect Zimbabwe to a key European market and make it simpler for long-haul travelers to reach one of Africa’s most visited natural attractions. 

At the same time, stronger regional air links are improving access from within Africa.

More flights into Zimbabwe and nearby hubs are helping spread demand across the year, reducing the reliance on peak travel seasons. 

Travel companies say the change reflects a broader shift. Visitors are no longer staying in one place.

Instead, they are building itineraries that move across borders, combining wildlife, cities and coastal destinations. 

“The UK used to be our top source market. This route could help bring that back,” said Anald Musonza, head of sales and marketing at Victoria Falls Safari Lodge.

He added that interest from Europe remains steady despite global uncertainty.

Regional access improves travel flow 

Victoria Falls sits within an hour of three airports—Livingstone in Zambia, Kasane in Botswana and Victoria Falls Airport in Zimbabwe.

Operators often refer to this network as a “golden triangle” because it allows visitors to move easily between countries. 

The move to 24-hour border operations has made a difference.

Travelers arriving on late flights can now cross between Zimbabwe, Zambia and Botswana without long delays, making short stays and business travel more practical. 

Lower airfares are also shaping decisions. Many visitors choose to fly into Zambia, where tickets can be cheaper, then drive across the border into Zimbabwe.

Industry estimates suggest about half of arrivals follow this route.

Multi-country trips gain ground 

Multi-stop travel remains popular. Well-known routes link Victoria Falls with Kruger National Park and Cape Town, while others combine Zambia, Zimbabwe and Botswana in one trip.

There is also growing interest in adding Hwange National Park for a longer safari experience. 

Looking ahead, operators expect major events to bring further demand.

The 2027 Cricket World Cup, to be hosted by Zimbabwe, South Africa and Namibia, could prompt airlines to add more direct flights, including from markets such as India and Pakistan. 

For Zimbabwe’s tourism sector, the outlook is improving as access becomes easier.

Victoria Falls remains at the center of that progress.