Victoria Falls, one of the world’s seven natural wonders, is more than its awe-inspiring cascades. Nestled in the heart of Zimbabwe, this UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts a diverse array of fauna and flora – delighting visitors who come for the falls, but end up enjoying far more than they originally bargained for!
Green Canopies & Colorful Blooms
As you approach Victoria Falls via the tarred walkway leading away from the park’s main gate, you’ll find yourself immersed in a lush environment teeming with plantlife.
The rainforest, as it’s become known, lines the gorge of the falls; a unique microclimate characterised by high humidity and constant mist from the cascading waters. This environment nurtures a dense canopy of trees, including mahogany, ebony, and fig trees, which tower over a rich understory of ferns, creepers, and even the forest-dwelling orchid (calanthe sylvatica), a beautiful plant that flowers in December.
The Victoria Falls rainforest is renowned for its plant diversity, hosting over 70 shrub species and 170 floral species. (And that’s excluding the trees!) One notable resident is the vegetable ivory palm, or, as we prefer to call it, the ilala palm. This tree, after which our hotel is named, is known for its hard, ivory-like seeds that have been used for centuries in crafting jewellery and ornaments.
(Read all about our special history with the ilala palm here.)
A Haven For Wildlife
Beyond its botanical wonders, Victoria Falls is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. The Zambezi River, which feeds the falls, supports a thriving ecosystem that attracts a variety of animals throughout the year. One of the most iconic inhabitants is the African elephant.
If you’ve visited Victoria Falls, you might even have seen ellies roaming the streets in town, though they do prefer to avoid human settlements where possible. Other mammals you could see in Victoria Falls National Park are warthogs, vervet monkeys, baboons, mongooses and, if you’re lucky, the elusive bushbuck!
Our hotel’s gardens, which border the park, have also been known to attract zebras and warthogs, who delight guests as they dine on the veranda of the Cassia Restaurant.
Bird-watchers will also be delighted by the many species of birds that call Victoria Falls home. From majestic African fish eagles and fork-tailed drongos to colourful malachite kingfishers darting above the water, the birdlife here is a testament to the area’s ecological richness.
Eco-Tourism At Its Best
For eco-conscious travellers, Victoria Falls offers a perfect blend of adventure and environmental education. Guided tours not only showcase the splendour of the falls, but also highlight the importance of conservation.
Walking tours through the rainforest provide an up-close look at the diverse plant life, while boat cruises on the Zambezi River offer opportunities to observe hippos, crocodiles, and the myriad of bird species in their natural habitat.
Overall, a trip to Victoria Falls isn’t just about witnessing a geological wonder; it’s about immersing yourself in a world where nature reigns supreme and doing your part to ensure conservation triumphs with effort.
Stay With Us
Ilala Lodge Hotel is a 5-star establishment located in the heart of Victoria Falls town, right on the border of the national park and within walking distance of the falls.
Stay with us and discover the beauty of the falls, as well as its surrounding fauna and flora – all of which live and thrive in the spray of the mighty Zambezi River. This is a beautiful place of adventure and awe – where the raw power of nature is evident for all to see and enjoy.
Browse our accommodation options and secure your booking by contacting us at onlinereservations@ilalalodge.com. Alternatively, feel free to make use of our online booking platform to book your dates.
Pack your bags, prepare your camera, and get ready to explore the enchanting flora and fauna of Victoria Falls!
