LIVINGSTONE — Tourist arrivals at Victoria Falls grew 18 percent year-on-year in the first quarter of 2026, according to Zambia Tourism Agency statistics, buoyed by expanded air connectivity and marketing campaigns in Europe and the Gulf.
Livingstone hoteliers reported average occupancy of 72 percent between January and March, compared with 61 percent in the same period last year. Proflight Zambia and Ethiopian Airlines added frequencies from Lusaka and Nairobi, shortening travel times for regional visitors.
Zambia Tourism Agency chief executive officer Matongo Matamwandi said collaborative promotions with Zimbabwean operators encouraged dual-destination packages spanning both sides of the falls. Adventure tourism activities, including microlight flights and gorge swings, saw record bookings.
Community guides in Mukuni Village said revenue-sharing agreements with tour companies had improved livelihoods, though some residents called for greater transparency in levy distribution. Environmentalists urged caps on helicopter tour numbers to protect wildlife in Zambezi National Park.
Analysts cautioned that Kwacha volatility affects pricing for international tourists comparing packages with South African rand-denominated offers. Government plans a K35 million upgrade of Harry Mwaanga Nkumbula International Airport terminal facilities.
