Nestled along the banks of the mighty Zambezi River in Livingstone, Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park is one of Zambia’s most accessible and rewarding wildlife destinations. Despite covering just 66 square kilometres, the park offers an incredible combination of wildlife viewing, conservation experiences, scenic landscapes, and direct access to the world-famous Victoria Falls.
For visitors with limited time in Livingstone, Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park provides the perfect introduction to Zambia’s rich natural heritage.
What Does Mosi-oa-Tunya Mean?
“Mosi-oa-Tunya” translates to “The Smoke That Thunders,” the traditional name given to Victoria Falls by local communities long before European explorers arrived. The park was established in 1972 to protect both Victoria Falls and the surrounding wildlife ecosystem.
Why Visit Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park?
Unlike many of Zambia’s larger and more remote national parks, Mosi-oa-Tunya is located within Livingstone itself, making it easily accessible for day visitors, families, photographers, and safari enthusiasts. The park combines wildlife viewing with one of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders.
The Famous White Rhinos
One of the park’s biggest attractions is its population of Southern White Rhinos, making it one of the few places in Zambia where visitors can reliably see these magnificent animals. The rhinos are carefully protected and monitored as part of Zambia’s ongoing conservation efforts. Recent conservation updates indicate the park hosts a founder population of white rhinos and remains a key location in the country’s rhino recovery program.
Many visitors consider the guided rhino walk to be the highlight of their trip, offering a rare opportunity to observe these endangered giants at close range under the supervision of trained guides.
Wildlife You Can Expect to See
Although smaller than Zambia’s major safari parks, Mosi-oa-Tunya supports a surprising variety of wildlife.
Common sightings include:
White Rhinos
Elephants
Buffalo
Giraffes
Zebras
Wildebeest
Impala
Waterbuck
Warthogs
Baboons
Vervet Monkeys
Hippos
Crocodiles
The park is particularly popular because wildlife can often be seen within a short game drive from Livingstone town.
A Birdwatcher’s Paradise
Bird enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy. The park is home to numerous bird species, including several raptors such as peregrine falcons, Verreaux’s eagles, augur buzzards, and many water birds found along the Zambezi River.
Victoria Falls: The Crown Jewel
A visit to Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park would not be complete without experiencing Victoria Falls itself.
The falls form one of the largest curtains of falling water in the world and are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Depending on the season, visitors can witness immense spray clouds rising hundreds of metres into the sky or enjoy clearer views of the dramatic rock formations and gorges below.
Activities Inside the Park
Visitors can enjoy a variety of experiences, including:
Game Drives
Morning and afternoon game drives provide excellent opportunities to view wildlife and learn about the park’s ecosystems.
Rhino Tracking Walks
One of the most popular activities, allowing visitors to track white rhinos on foot with experienced guides.
Bird Watching
Ideal throughout the year, especially along the riverine habitats.
Photography Safaris
The combination of wildlife, river scenery, and Victoria Falls creates endless photographic opportunities.
Zambezi River Experiences
Many tours combine a park visit with a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River.
Best Time to Visit
Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park can be visited year-round.
April to July: Best views of Victoria Falls at peak flow.
August to October: Excellent wildlife viewing as animals gather near water sources.
November to March: Green season with lush landscapes and exceptional birdlife.
Perfect for Short Stays in Livingstone
One of the park’s greatest advantages is its proximity to Livingstone. Visitors who may not have time to travel to larger safari destinations such as South Luangwa or Kafue can still enjoy an authentic wildlife experience within minutes of their hotel.
Book Your Mosi-oa-Tunya Adventure with Smiles Travel & Tours
Whether you’re visiting Livingstone for a few days or planning a longer Zambian safari, Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park deserves a place on your itinerary.
At Smiles Travel & Tours, we arrange guided game drives, rhino tracking experiences, Victoria Falls tours, Zambezi cruises, and tailor-made safari packages designed to showcase the very best of Livingstone and Zambia.
Experience the beauty of The Smoke That Thunders and discover why Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park remains one of Zambia’s most treasured destinations.
Did you know that Proflight Zambia has just launched direct flights from Cape Town to Livingstone making your Victoria Falls andLivingstone Islandvisit closer to home? Whether you’re visiting Kafue or Livingstone our team are here to help plan your itinerary.
What other flights?
Cape Town to Livingstone | Thursdays and Sundays
Cape Town to Lusaka Return | Thursdays, Sundays and Saturdays
Durban to Lusaka Return |Mondays and Fridays
Johannesburg to Lusaka Return | Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays
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Location
Bordered by Livingstone town, farm land and the Zambezi River, lies the wildlife area of Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, one of Zambia’s smallest national parks.
Best Time to Visit
Best Time June to August (Best time to see the waterfall and good for wildlife viewing too)
High Season July to October (The park can become busy and high-season rates apply)
Low Season January to June (Lodges might offer better rates)
Best Weather April to September (It hardly ever rains)
Animals
In addition to the migratory elephants, white rhino, giraffe, buffalo, waterbuck, impala, wildebeest, zebra, bushbuck, warthog, monkeys, baboon, hippo and crocodiles are residents in the park year- round.
Birding
It is a great birding stop at any time of the year, mostly wet season months, from November to April – when migrants are in the park and many birds are in breeding plumage.
Weather
The weather around the falls and the Zambezi is pleasant all year round, with a sub-tropical climate. Nights and mornings on the riverfront can get chilly, 5-10°C (41-50°F) while the spray from the Falls in summer has a welcome, cooling effect when temperatures can reach 35°C (95°F)
