Tourist Hospitalised After Elephant Attack
A 65-year-old Japanese tourist has been hospitalised after an elephant attack near Victoria Falls. The attack occurred on the morning of 22 April 2026 along a popular tourist route, leaving the victim with severe injuries.
The Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) confirmed the incident on Thursday, 23 April 2026, stating that the tourist was alone at the time of the attack when the animal reportedly emerged from nearby bushland.
Tourist Attacked While Walking Alone
According to CITE Zimbabwe, ZimParks spokesperson Luckmore Safuli, identified the victim as Hidetoshi Matsumoto, had been staying at a local hotel in Victoria Falls before the incident.
He explained:
“A 65-year-old Japanese man by the name Hidetoshi Matsumoto, who was staying at the Rainbow Hotel in Victoria Falls, was attacked and injured by an elephant while walking along the Big Tree Road.”
Safuli added that the attack happened at approximately 8 am on Wednesday, 22 April 2026. The area is frequently used by tourists visiting the iconic Victoria Falls Big Tree.
Describing how the incident unfolded, he said:
“The circumstances surrounding the incident are that on 22 April 2026 at around 0800 hours, Hidetoshi Matsumoto was alone walking along the Big Tree Road when an elephant emerged from nowhere and attacked him.”
Victim Rushed To Hospital With Severe Injuries
Authorities confirmed that Matsumoto suffered serious injuries and was immediately taken to a private medical facility.
Safuli said:
“Hidetoshi sustained severe injuries all over his body and was immediately rushed to Health Bridge Private Hospital for medical treatment.”
At the time of publication, Matsumoto remained under medical care. No further updates on his condition had been released.
Rangers Hunt “Problem Elephant”
ZimParks confirmed that rangers have been deployed to track the elephant responsible for the attack. The animal has been classified as a “problem elephant”, a term used for wildlife that poses a threat to human life.
Safuli said:
“Meanwhile, ZimParks rangers are on the ground searching for the problem elephant.”
He added that investigations are ongoing, with more details expected as efforts to locate the animal continue.
Wildlife authorities have repeatedly warned visitors to avoid walking alone in unfenced areas near national parks. Victoria Falls and the surrounding area remain high-risk zones for close encounters with wild animals.
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