Zimbabwe & Zambia Open Twenty‑Hour Border At Victoria Falls: Game‑Changer for Regional Tourism

Published on November 22, 2025

The world-renowned Victoria Falls, one of Africa’s most iconic tourist attractions, is now even more accessible. Starting in November 2025, the border post between Zimbabwe and Zambia at Victoria Falls has transitioned to a 24-hour operation. This change is set to boost regional tourism, improve cross-border trade, and increase opportunities for adventure seekers and businesses alike.

This landmark shift in border operations between Zimbabwe and Zambia signifies a new era for travellers looking to explore both sides of Victoria Falls, and it opens the door for a seamless cross-border tourism experience. In the past, travellers had to work around the traditional 6:00 am to 6:00 pm border operating hours, limiting their flexibility when visiting both the Zimbabwean and Zambian sides of the falls. Now, visitors can easily enjoy all the wonders of Victoria Falls at any time of the day or night.

Why 24-Hour Border Access is Important for Regional Tourism

The Victoria Falls border post is one of the busiest in Southern Africa due to its status as a premier tourist destination. However, the restricted operating hours often caused delays for both tourists and traders. With the new 24-hour access, this is set to change dramatically. For visitors, this means much greater flexibility when planning their trips.

No longer will tourists need to rush to make it across the border before 6:00 pm. They can now cross freely between Zimbabwe and Zambia, experiencing the full range of activities on both sides, such as bungee jumping, white-water rafting, game drives, and visiting the falls themselves, at any time of day or night. With this new access, there’s no need to limit your itinerary based on border timings.

Moreover, the extended border hours will benefit not only tourists but also local businesses and the economy. The smooth flow of people and goods will lead to increased trade and commerce across the region. For example, local transport operators, hotels, and tour guides can now operate on a 24-hour schedule, meeting the demands of a growing influx of international visitors.

Tourism Benefits: Easier Travel Between Two Countries

The Victoria Falls border serves as a gateway to more than just the falls; it’s also a route to several key wildlife reserves, national parks, and cultural experiences. With the new 24-hour border post, travellers can easily hop between Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park and Zambia’s Kafue National Park, explore more of the Zambezi River, and take advantage of the shared history and culture of both nations.

Cross-border tourism just became a whole lot easier. Visitors can now plan seamless itineraries that include iconic activities on both sides of the border, like rafting on the Zambezi, scenic flights over the falls, and exploring the rainforest on both the Zimbabwean and Zambian sides. These enhanced travel opportunities will make Victoria Falls a more integrated and accessible destination for those interested in exploring both countries.

Boosting Regional Integration and Economic Growth

The decision to open the border 24 hours a day is more than just a convenience for tourists. It is part of a larger push towards regional integration in Southern Africa. According to regional officials, the move aligns with broader African Union goals aimed at improving cross-border movement, trade, and tourism. This development fits into the ongoing regional push to simplify travel within Southern Africa and promote economic growth.

The new border hours will also help strengthen local businesses that rely on tourism. Local operators, such as tour companies, transport services, and accommodations, will be able to offer better services to tourists who are no longer bound by restrictive opening hours. This will enhance the overall visitor experience and make Victoria Falls an even more attractive option for tourists looking for an easy, flexible itinerary.

What This Means for Businesses and Tour Operators

The extended border access will undoubtedly boost businesses on both sides of the border. For local operators in Zimbabwe and Zambia, the new border access offers a more efficient way to meet the growing demand for tourism services. With the ability to plan tours and transport services around a 24-hour schedule, tour operators and hoteliers can cater to international tourists with greater ease.

Additionally, the move helps regional economies by fostering cross-border trade. Goods and services that rely on movement between Zimbabwe and Zambia, including agricultural products and local crafts, can now travel more smoothly, which could lead to better economic integration between the two countries.

Challenges and Considerations for the Future

While the 24-hour border post is a step forward for tourism and business, it’s not without its challenges. Increased traffic at the border could place pressure on infrastructure, such as border facilities, customs, and immigration services. It will be crucial for both Zimbabwean and Zambian authorities to invest in improving these services to avoid congestion or delays.

Furthermore, the growing number of tourists may put a strain on the environment around Victoria Falls. It will be important for the local government and tourism authorities to ensure that the region’s delicate ecosystem remains protected as more visitors flock to the area.

When to Visit Victoria Falls: Ideal Times to Explore

With the border post now open 24 hours, you can visit Victoria Falls any time of year. However, the best times to experience the falls are generally from April to June, when the falls are at their fullest following the rainy season. For those looking for a quieter time, the low season (November to March) offers a more peaceful experience, with fewer tourists and lower prices.

It’s also important to plan your trip with flexibility in mind. Whether you want to visit the falls in the early morning for a peaceful experience or enjoy a late-night boat ride along the Zambezi, the 24-hour border post offers the freedom to make your visit as leisurely as you like.

Final Thoughts: A New Era for Victoria Falls

The introduction of 24-hour access to the Victoria Falls border is a game-changer for tourism and trade in the region. It not only enhances the travel experience for tourists but also promotes regional economic growth and cross-border cooperation between Zimbabwe and Zambia. If you’ve been considering a visit to one of the world’s most stunning natural wonders, now is the time to plan. With easy access to both sides of the falls, a seamless travel experience, and plenty of activities to enjoy, Victoria Falls is waiting for you to explore at any hour of the day or night.