Victoria Falls Rainforest temporarily restricted due to active elephant

THE Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) has announced a temporary restriction of access to the Victoria Falls Rainforest following reports of an elephant roaming in the area.

The popular tourist site, a major attraction within the renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site, has been closed as a precautionary measure to ensure public safety.

ZimParks spokesperson, Mr Luckmore Safuli, confirmed the development, saying the closure is essential to safeguard both visitors and staff.

The authority’s teams are actively monitoring the situation to manage the risk of human-wildlife conflict.
“The restriction has been instituted as a precautionary measure to safeguard visitors, staff, and wildlife, and to reduce the risk of human-wildlife conflict,” said Mr Safuli.

“ZimParks teams are closely monitoring the situation and will advise the public once it is safe to reopen access to the site.”

Members of the public and tour operators have been urged to comply with instructions from ZimParks personnel.
“Members of the public are urged not to enter the restricted area, approach the elephant, or interfere with ongoing wildlife management efforts,” Mr Safuli said.

ZimParks has reiterated its commitment to the conservation of Zimbabwe’s wildlife heritage while ensuring the safety of the public.

Further updates on the reopening of the rainforest are expected to be communicated through official ZimParks channels.