Online Reporter
Rutendo Nyeveb [email protected]
THE Victoria Falls Rainforest has reopened to visitors following a temporary closure that lasted approximately two and a half hours after two elephants wandered into the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) confirmed the reopening on Tuesday, saying that normal operations have resumed at one of Zimbabwe’s premier natural attractions.
ZimParks spokesperson Mr Luckmore Safuli confirmed that the area has been assessed and declared safe for public access.
“During the operation, it was established that two elephants were in the area, contrary to the initial report of one. Both animals have since been moved away from the Rainforest, and the area has been assessed and declared safe for public access,” said Mr Safuli.
The temporary closure was instituted as a precautionary safety measure after the elephants entered the Rainforest area.
ZimParks teams closely monitored the animals’ movements and safely guided them out of the site.
The authority has also commenced necessary repairs to sections that sustained damage during the incident to ensure the continued safety, comfort and enjoyment of visitors.
Mr Safuli extended appreciation to visitors and tourism stakeholders for their cooperation during the temporary restriction.
“We extend our sincere appreciation to visitors, tourism stakeholders and members of the public for their patience, understanding and cooperation during the temporary restriction,” he said.
ZimParks reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring public safety while promoting the conservation and sustainable management of Zimbabwe’s wildlife heritage.
The Victoria Falls Rainforest is a major tourist attraction within the Victoria Falls World Heritage Site and provides visitors with vantage points from which to view the spectacular Victoria Falls, one of the world’s seven natural wonders.
The rainforest is sustained by the spray generated by the Zambezi River as it plunges over the falls, creating a unique ecosystem with lush vegetation and supporting a variety of plant and animal species.
