Victoria Falls foreign entry fees rise as VAT takes effect

Victoria Falls just got pricier for foreigners, VAT is the villain, locals skate free, and other parks quietly hike fees.

New price shock at Victoria Falls

• Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority rolled out higher entry costs.
• International visitors pay US$58 to enter the rainforest.
• The update kicked in immediately.
• The change lands under the 2026 tariff plan.

Why did the numbers jump

• Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority blamed the Value Added Tax.
• VAT pushed the foreign day rate up from US$50.
• Fees used to sit at US$30 years back.
• The climb has been steady and noticeable.

Breakdown by gate and experience

• International guests pay US$58 at the main rainforest gate.
• The V.I.P gate charges US$174.
• Moonlight viewing costs foreigners US$116.
• Each option rose from earlier rates.

Locals dodged the increase

• Zimbabwean citizens kept the existing Victoria Falls prices.
• Main gate access stays at US$7.
• V.I.P gate entry remains US$30.
• Moonlight viewing holds at US$15.

Other parks feel the squeeze

• Mana Pools raised conservation fees.
• Sapi and Chewore followed suit.
• Locals pay US$8 at those parks.
• International visitors there pay US$24.