Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park

Nestled alongside Livingstone town, farmland, and the mighty Zambezi River, Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park is one of Zambia’s smallest but most unique wildlife areas. Stretching from the dramatic Batoka Gorge for approximately 12 km (7.4 mi) along the river above Victoria Falls, this park is a compact yet vibrant sanctuary.

Livingstone’s location near ancient wildlife migration routes and river crossing points adds to the park’s charm. While a variety of wildlife can be spotted year-round, elephants are particularly abundant during the dry season as they follow these age-old paths into the park.

Mosi-oa-Tunya is the only park in Zambia where white rhinos can be found. Closely guarded by scouts from the Department of National Parks and Wildlife, these majestic creatures symbolize the park’s dedication to conservation. Free from predators, the park offers a safe haven for its resident animals, ensuring a stable population of giraffes, buffalo, zebras, wildebeests, warthogs, impalas, hippos, crocodiles, and more. Its mix of riverine forests, mopane woodlands, and grasslands provides diverse habitats for both wildlife and numerous bird species.

The park is steeped in history too, featuring the Old Drift Crossing Point and Cemetery, where some of Livingstone’s earliest European settlers are buried. The Old Drift was a significant site where ox-wagons were ferried across the Zambezi before the construction of the bridge.

Easily accessible from Livingstone, the park offers a range of activities. Visitors can explore by vehicle on a game drive, by foot on a guided walking safari with an armed ranger, or by boat on a Zambezi River cruise. Its close proximity makes it ideal for families, first-time safari-goers, or anyone seeking a quick escape into nature without venturing too far from town.

Despite being frequently overlooked by travelers focused on Victoria Falls, Mosi-oa-Tunya’s tranquility and under-visited nature are part of its charm. Visitors who take the time to explore will find a peaceful and beautiful slice of Zambia.

The park also incorporates the lush Eastern Cataract of Victoria Falls—called Mosi-oa-Tunya, meaning “The Smoke That Thunders” in Kololo or Lozi. This rainforest, nourished by the waterfall’s constant spray, is home to smaller antelope, warthogs, and a rich variety of flora. With its scenic setting on the banks of the Zambezi River, Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park offers a serene and intimate experience of Zambia’s natural beauty.