Victoria Falls Rainforest temporarily closed after elephant activity

Update (21 July 2026): The Victoria Falls Rainforest has reopened to visitors after a temporary precautionary closure earlier today. According to the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks), the closure lasted around 2½ hours while wildlife teams safely guided two elephants—rather than the single animal initially reported—out of the rainforest and away from the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The area has since been inspected, declared safe and normal visitor access has resumed. ZimParks is also repairing sections of the rainforest that were damaged during the incident to ensure the continued safety and enjoyment of visitors. 

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Travellers visiting Victoria Falls should be aware that access to the Victoria Falls Rainforest has been temporarily restricted following reports of an elephant active in the area. The Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) announced the precautionary closure on 21 July 2026 to ensure the safety of visitors, staff and wildlife.

The Victoria Falls Rainforest is one of the highlights of a visit to the Zimbabwean side of the falls. Located within Victoria Falls National Park, the rainforest lies in the permanent spray zone created by the Zambezi River as it plunges over the falls. The result is a unique green environment with lush vegetation, impressive viewpoints and a cooler, mist-filled atmosphere that contrasts sharply with the surrounding dry woodland.

Wildlife encounters are part of the experience at Victoria Falls, and elephants occasionally move through areas around the falls. ZimParks teams are currently monitoring the situation and will reopen access once it is considered safe for visitors.

Travellers and tour operators are advised not to enter restricted areas, approach the elephant or interfere with wildlife management activities. Anyone planning to visit Victoria Falls should check the latest local updates with their accommodation or tour operator before heading to the rainforest.

The temporary closure only affects access to the rainforest area. Victoria Falls remains one of Southern Africa’s most spectacular natural attractions, with viewpoints, activities and other visitor experiences available in the surrounding area.

 

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