Story by Yolanda Moyo
ZIMBABWE’S tourism sector continues to show positive growth, with new figures indicating an increase in visitor arrivals to the Victoria Falls Rainforest during the first quarter of 2026.
Building on its recognition by Forbes as the World’s Best Country to Visit in 2025, Zimbabwe’s tourism industry is maintaining its upward trajectory.
Official first-quarter statistics released by ZimParks reveal a steady increase in visitor arrivals to the iconic Victoria Falls Rainforest, reflecting growing confidence in Zimbabwe as a preferred travel destination and the success of ongoing tourism promotion efforts.
Visitor arrivals to the rainforest rose from more than 60 000 during the first quarter of 2025 to over 64 000 during the corresponding period in 2026.
ZimParks Public Relations Manager, Mr Luckmore Safuli, said the figures demonstrate sustained growth in the destination’s appeal.
“The first-quarter statistics demonstrate growing confidence among visitors choosing Victoria Falls as their preferred destination. We are continuously improving the visitor experience while ensuring the sustainable conservation of this unique ecosystem.
“Going forward, we expect Victoria Falls to attract more visitors, thereby contributing to Zimbabwe’s tourism growth. As ZimParks, we remain committed to ensuring that all tourists visiting this UNESCO World Heritage Site enjoy a safe and premium experience,” he said.
The performance of Victoria Falls is also being closely monitored as a key indicator of Zimbabwe’s broader tourism ambitions, with the sector identified as a strategic pillar for economic growth, foreign currency generation and regional development.
Economic analyst Mr Stevenson Dlamini said continued growth in tourist arrivals has far-reaching benefits for the economy.
“What makes these numbers important is that tourism has strong multiplier effects across the economy. Every additional tourist supports employment, creates demand for local goods and services, and generates foreign currency earnings.
“Growth at Victoria Falls therefore translates into broader economic benefits for both local communities and the national economy,” he said.
With new eco-lodges opening, increased tourism activity and conservation measures being strengthened, Victoria Falls continues to cement its position as one of Africa’s premier tourism destinations.
Tourism authorities remain confident that the positive momentum will continue throughout 2026, generating increased revenue and supporting the country’s economic development goals.
