Mosi-oa-Thunya National Park lies along the Zambezi River near Victoria Falls

Mosi-oa-Thunya National Park, Livingstone

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Mosi-oa-Thunya National Park, Livingstone

Discover Mosi-ao-Tunya in Zambia

Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park is one of Zambia’s most iconic protected areas, combining spectacular natural scenery with rewarding wildlife encounters. Situated on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River near Livingstone, the park protects the Zambian side of the world-famous Victoria Falls, known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya, meaning “The Smoke That Thunders.”

Although it is one of Zambia’s smallest national parks, Mosi-oa-Tunya offers a remarkable diversity of experiences. Visitors can admire one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, enjoy exciting game drives, track endangered white rhino on foot, and explore beautiful riverine landscapes, all within easy reach of Livingstone. Additionally, the park combines wildlife, adventure, and history, making it an excellent addition to any Zambia itinerary.

Spectacular Landscapes

Mosi-oa-Tunya is defined by the Zambezi River, dramatic gorges, riverine forests, and open woodland that support a surprising variety of wildlife and birdlife.

The park features:

  • Victoria Falls
  • The Zambezi River
  • Riverine forests
  • Open grasslands
  • Batoka Gorge
  • Scenic viewpoints

As a result, visitors enjoy an impressive mix of wildlife viewing and breathtaking scenery within a relatively compact reserve.

Wildlife in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park

While Victoria Falls is the park’s biggest attraction, the wildlife area offers excellent game viewing and one of Zambia’s most successful rhino conservation programmes.

Wildlife commonly seen includes:

  • White rhino
  • Elephant
  • Buffalo
  • Giraffe
  • Zebra
  • Warthog
  • Impala
  • Kudu
  • Bushbuck
  • Crocodile

Furthermore, the park provides one of the few opportunities in Zambia to see white rhino on foot with experienced guides.

Why Visit Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park?

  • Home to the Zambian side of Victoria Falls
  • Guided white rhino tracking
  • Scenic game drives
  • Beautiful Zambezi River setting
  • Excellent birdwatching
  • Easy access from Livingstone
  • Ideal for combining wildlife and adventure
  • Perfect addition to a Victoria Falls holiday

Its unique combination of natural wonder and wildlife makes Mosi-oa-Tunya one of Zambia’s most accessible and rewarding national parks

Accommodation Near Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park

Visitors can choose from a wide range of accommodation in and around Livingstone, from boutique lodges to luxury riverside hotels. Additionally, many properties offer easy access to both Victoria Falls and the park’s wildlife experiences.

Sussi & Chuma

Sussi & Chuma Lodge is an exclusive retreat nestled among ebony trees beside the Zambezi River, just 12 km upstream from Victoria Falls. Guests stay in charming treehouse suites—or two secluded Chuma Houses with plunge pools—linked by raised walkways. Activities include Victoria Falls tours, river cruises, cultural visits, and guided lodges with elevated comfort amid wilderness charm.

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Thorntree River Lodge

Thorntree River Lodge is an eco-conscious, luxury tented camp nestled along the Zambezi River in Zambia’s Mosi‑oa‑Tunya National Park, just minutes from Victoria Falls. With eight standalone suites, two family units, private plunge pools, and both indoor and outdoor bathrooms, the lodge offers exquisite river-facing views, spa, gym, sundowner cruises, and guided rhino walks.

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Safari Experiences in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park

Game Drives
Morning and afternoon game drives explore the park’s woodlands and riverfront habitats, offering opportunities to encounter giraffe, buffalo, zebra, antelope, elephants, and a variety of bird species. The relatively open terrain provides excellent visibility throughout much of the year.

Rhino Tracking
One of the park’s signature experiences is a guided walk to observe endangered white rhino. Accompanied by experienced guides and park scouts, visitors enjoy an unforgettable opportunity to see these magnificent animals in their natural habitat. Consequently, rhino tracking has become one of the most popular wildlife experiences in Livingstone.

Victoria Falls
The Zambian side of Victoria Falls offers spectacular viewpoints overlooking the world’s largest curtain of falling water. Walking trails wind through rainforest sustained by the spray from the falls, providing breathtaking views throughout the year. During the peak water season, the rising mist can be seen from many kilometres away.

Birdwatching
The park’s combination of river, woodland, and open grassland supports an impressive variety of birdlife. African fish eagles, kingfishers, bee-eaters, hornbills, herons, and numerous raptors are regularly recorded throughout the park. Additionally, the Zambezi River creates excellent opportunities for wildlife and bird photography.

Best Time to Visit Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park

High Water Season (February to May)

  • Spectacular Victoria Falls
  • Powerful spray and mist
  • Beautiful rainforest
  • Dramatic scenery

Dry Season (June to October)

  • Excellent wildlife viewing
  • Rhino tracking
  • Comfortable temperatures
  • Ideal safari conditions

Each season offers a different perspective, making Mosi-oa-Tunya a rewarding destination throughout the year

Explore More Zambia Safari Experiences

Many travellers combine Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park with:

Experience Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park

Whether standing before the mighty Victoria Falls, tracking white rhino on foot, cruising the Zambezi River, or exploring the park’s peaceful woodlands, Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park offers one of Zambia’s most memorable travel experiences.

For travellers seeking spectacular scenery, remarkable wildlife, and the opportunity to experience one of Africa’s greatest natural wonders, Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park is an essential stop on any Zambia safari.

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