OPINION: When most people hear about Zimbabwe’s “big tree,” their minds immediately turn to the famous Khaya anthotheca of Chirinda Forest in Chipinge. Yet Victoria Falls boasts its very own natural giant, the majestic Adansonia digitata, more commonly known as the baobab tree.

Whilst millions of tourists flock to Victoria Falls for its World Heritage Site status, many nature walks now end at this irresistible marvel. Standing before the tree is an experience in itself, especially with the map and information boards that explain its various fascinating attributes. Its branches sprout from a massive trunk so wide that, if hollowed out, it could easily serve as a shelter. The tree’s sheer size and ancient presence make it one of Victoria Falls’ most remarkable natural features.

The baobab is no ordinary tree. It can live for more than a thousand years, ensuring that this excursion is as timeless as it is unforgettable. Beyond its stature, the baobab has immense cultural and economic value. Beverage lovers will recognize it as a key ingredient in Amarula, while in Zimbabwe, its fruit — known locally as mauyu, is celebrated for its nutritional value. Rich in Vitamin C, it is used in juices such as Dairyboard’s popular baobab-flavoured Cascade. Mauyu is a household favorite, cherished for its unique taste and health benefits.

The fruit itself is large, oval-shaped, with a hard, velvety shell and a crumbly pulp filled with seeds. Every part of the tree has a use: as food, traditional medicine, or even cosmetics. Importantly, harvesting baobab fruit is sustainable and does not harm the tree, making it an environmentally friendly resource.

Though the Victoria Falls itinerary often prioritizes adrenaline-pumping activities like bungee jumping and white-water rafting, the “Big Tree” is emerging as a game-changer. It offers visitors a slower, more soulful encounter with Zimbabwe’s natural heritage, an experience enriched by cultural storytelling and even some tasty freebies.

In short, the Adansonia digitata is more than just a tree; it is a living monument, a superfood source, and a magnet for tourists. It is helping to redefine the Victoria Falls experience and ensuring that Zimbabwe’s natural wonders continue to inspire awe for generations to come.

Travel. Explore. Discover Destination Zimbabwe.