Victoria Falls is a small but fast-growing city located in the northwest corner of Zimbabwe within the Zambezi Valley. Renowned globally for its majestic waterfall the iconic Victoria Falls it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The waterfall forms the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia and draws tourists from across the globe.
Natural Beauty and Location
The city lies within the wider Victoria Falls National Park, with the Zambezi National Park just upstream. Victoria Falls is a rare destination where humans and wildlife co-exist, offering a unique living and tourism experience in Zimbabwe.
Tourism Growth and Accommodation
Tourism continues to fuel Victoria Falls’ transformation into one of Africa’s premier destinations. In response to increased visitor numbers and growing global appeal, the city has seen a surge in the construction of hospitality and commercial infrastructure.
Visitors can choose from a broad spectrum of accommodation options, including:
- Camping grounds
- Bed and breakfast lodgings
- Self-catering apartments
- Luxury resort hotels
- Safari lodges
Some of Zimbabwe’s and Southern Africa’s best hospitality properties are located here, enhancing the destination’s reputation as a top-tier travel hotspot.
Rapid Urban Growth and Investment
-
The population has grown from around 35,000 in 2012 to over 100,000 today.
-
Victoria Falls was officially granted city status in 2020, reflecting its expanding urban footprint and economic significance.
-
The city is central to the Victoria Falls Area Tourism Development Plan and the Special Economic Zone (SEZ) corridor, which includes Masuwe Stateland, Batoka City, Mlibizi, Binga Centre, Hwange Hinterland, and Gwayi Shangani.
These strategic plans are designed to expand tourism, infrastructure, investment, and population capacity in and around Victoria Falls.
Property and Land Demand
-
The city continues to experience high demand for housing as the population grows.
-
Commercial land remains scarce and highly sought-after due to Victoria Falls’ international prominence and limited space.
-
Property values are expected to increase steadily as demand and development activity continue to rise.
Retail, Infrastructure, and Financial Development
Victoria Falls is already home to several major shopping centers, including:
- Elephant Walk
- Sawanga Shopping Mall
- Victoria Falls Shopping Centre
- Phumula Centre
Other key infrastructure includes:
-
A modern International Airport that links Victoria Falls to key cities across the region
-
The Victoria Falls Stock Exchange (VFEX), which positions the city as a budding International Financial Hub
Hotel Developments and Economic Impact
Recent and upcoming hotel projects show growing investor confidence in the city’s future:
-
The Zambezi Sun Hotel (opened in 2021): A 4-star hotel with 150 rooms and suites, spa, pool, and multiple dining options, located on the Zambezi River.
-
Palm River Hotel: Situated 4 km from the falls on the riverbank, surrounded by indigenous trees, offering a luxurious riverside experience.
-
Victoria Falls Waterfront: An ambitious mixed-use project under construction, featuring a hotel, casino, shopping mall, and residential units.
-
Cresta Hotels 4-Star Project: In partnership with the ZESA Electricity Industry Pension Fund, Cresta is set to operate a 180-room 4-star hotel with conference and entertainment facilities.
Conclusion
Victoria Falls is no longer just a tourist stop it is evolving into a vibrant urban center and investment magnet. Driven by strong tourism demand, government support, international recognition, and robust infrastructure, the city is poised for sustained growth. As new developments rise, the local economy benefits from increased job opportunities and improved services for residents and visitors alike.
Whether you’re a tourist, investor, or future resident, Victoria Falls offers a unique blend of natural wonder, economic opportunity, and lifestyle appeal.