LIVINGSTONE ZAMBIA:SAFARI GAME DRIVE & RHINO WALK

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Livingstone Zambia: Safari Game Drive & Rhino Walk Review

Exploring Zambia’s wildlife on a safari might be one of the most exciting ways to connect with nature, and the Livingstone Safari Game Drive & Rhino Walk from Manjati Safaris offers just that. With impressive reviews averaging 4.9 out of 5 from 15 travelers, this tour combines thrilling wildlife sightings with a rare chance to walk alongside southern white rhinos—an experience not to be missed for adventure lovers.

What we really love about this tour is the expert guidance, stunning vistas of the Zambezi River and savannahs, and the up-close encounter with rhinos. Plus, at just $70 per person, it offers fantastic value for such an immersive experience. That said, a potential consideration is that park fees and special photography permits are not included**, so budget accordingly if you’re keen to capture every moment.

This tour is perfect for travelers who crave authentic wildlife encounters, want expert insights into animal behavior, or simply hope to see Zambia’s iconic species in their natural setting. It’s best suited for those who enjoy guided excursions that combine education with adventure — and who don’t mind a bit of a bumpy ride in a 4×4.

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Key Points

Authentic Wildlife Viewing: Get close to elephants, giraffes, zebras, and more, with expert guides providing insights along the way.
Scenic Landscape: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Zambezi River, baobab trees, and open savannahs.
Educational Experience: Guides like Louis and Dave are praised for their knowledge of animal ecology, behavior, and local customs.
Rhino Encounter: Walk among the rare southern white rhinos on a guided safari, with chances to see calves and interact safely with rangers.
Value for Price: At $70, including transportation, expert guides, and refreshments, it’s a very competitive option for Zambia safaris.
Flexible Booking: Reserve now with the freedom to pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

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What to Expect from Your Safari Experience

The Safari Game Drive

You’ll start your day in a specially equipped 4×4 open-roof vehicle, providing panoramic views of Zambia’s wilderness. Led by experienced guides from Manjati Safaris, such as Louis or Dave, the drive is designed to maximize wildlife sightings while offering educational commentary about the park’s flora and fauna.

Traveling through the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, you’ll likely encounter herds of elephants, graceful giraffes, zebras grazing across the plains, and perhaps even lions or buffalos—though sightings depend on the time of day and luck. Reviewers mention the guides’ sharp eyes, with Louis often quickly spotting animals from afar and sharing detailed explanations about their roles in the ecosystem.

Expect scenic stops at interpretive points where guides share insights about the baobab trees, acacia groves, and grasslands. These areas aren’t just picturesque but also serve as vital habitats for the park’s wildlife, making the drives educational as well as thrilling. Bottled water and light refreshments help keep you comfortable during the approximately 3-hour journey.

Rhino Walking Safari

The highlight for many guests is the guided rhino walk. Unlike typical safaris, this allows you to get relatively close to the southern white rhinos, including calves, in a controlled but natural environment. The guides and park rangers lead the walk, ensuring safety while providing fascinating insights into rhino behavior, conservation efforts, and the importance of protecting these majestic creatures.

One reviewer, Lisa, described the experience as “privileged,” noting the opportunity to chat with rangers who guard the rhinos around the clock. This walk is not just about seeing rhinos but understanding the ongoing efforts to safeguard them. The guides’ knowledge about the local flora, like medicinal plants used by indigenous communities, adds a cultural layer to the walk.

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Transportation and Group Size

Transportation is in comfortable safari vehicles with open roofs, designed for optimal viewing and photography. The group sizes tend to be manageable, allowing for personalized attention from guides. The entire tour lasts around half a day, making it suitable for travelers with limited time but a strong desire for quality wildlife encounters.

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What’s Not Included

You should be aware that park entry fees and photography permits are not included in the $70 price, which may add to your overall costs depending on your plans. Also, any personal souvenirs or additional services outside the tour are extra.

Real Experiences from Travelers

Guests consistently praise the knowledge and enthusiasm of the guides. Lisa, for example, describes Dave as “enthusiastically sharing his knowledge of animal biology, behavior, and medicinal flora,” making the experience both fun and educational. She also appreciated the chance to see multiple rhinos, including a 2-month-old calf, emphasizing how special close encounters can be.

Another reviewer, Tirrell, highlights the professionalism of the entire operation, mentioning that Louis “went above and beyond to make the drive memorable,” and that the organization “was outstanding and very helpful,” especially with border crossings and logistics.

Several travelers note that the views of the landscape truly add to the experience. Whether it’s spotting hippos in the river or observing giraffes grazing at sunset, the scenery is as captivating as the animals themselves.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This safari is ideal if you’re seeking a well-organized, guided wildlife experience with plenty of opportunities to see Zambia’s iconic animals. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate expert guides with a passion for conservation and wildlife education.

If your goal is to capture wildlife photos, the open-roof vehicles and scenic stops will help you get great shots. The rhino walk provides a rare, intimate perspective that’s perfect for animal lovers and those interested in conservation stories.

However, if you’re after a luxurious experience or exclusive access, this more affordable, group-based tour might feel a little basic. It’s a day focused on authentic encounters rather than luxury amenities.

The Bottom Line

This tour offers a fantastic value at just $70, combining a scenic game drive with a rare rhino walking experience. The knowledgeable guides and stunning landscapes make it stand out, especially for travelers eager to see wildlife in Zambia with expert commentary.

It’s best suited for wildlife enthusiasts, photography lovers, and those interested in conservation, who are comfortable in group settings and prepared for a half-day adventure. The reviews suggest that the guides’ enthusiasm and expertise are what truly elevate this experience, making it memorable and educational.

For anyone wanting a genuine, reasonably priced safari that balances adventure with learning, this tour from Manjati Safaris ticks all the boxes.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally family-friendly, it’s best to check with the operator about age restrictions, especially for the rhino walk, as it involves walking close to large animals.

What should I bring for the safari?
Bring your camera, sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, and binoculars if you have them. Light clothing, preferably neutral colors, is recommended for wildlife viewing.

Are the vehicles comfortable for long periods?
Yes, the safari vehicles are equipped with comfortable seating and designed for optimal viewing, making the drive enjoyable even during extended periods.

Can I book the tour last minute?
Yes, you can reserve your spot with the option to pay later, and cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely, solo travelers are welcome and will likely find the guided group experience engaging and friendly.

Do I need to pay additional fees to see the rhinos?
The tour price covers the guided rhino walk, but any special permits or photography fees are not included and may incur extra costs.

How long does the entire tour last?
Expect around a half-day, typically including transportation, game drive, and the rhino walk, providing a well-balanced experience.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Common sightings include elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, hippos, and a variety of bird species. The guides’ keen eyes often lead to spotting elusive animals like lions.

Is this a private or group experience?
It’s a group tour, but with small group sizes, ensuring you get plenty of attention from guides and ample opportunities for sightings.

This safari adventure offers an authentic glimpse into Zambia’s wilderness, perfectly suited for those eager to see incredible animals, learn from passionate guides, and enjoy scenic landscapes—all without breaking the bank.