Mosi oa Tunya Game Drive and Rhino Walking Safari

When it comes to spotting wildlife and experiencing the sprawling beauty of Zambia’s nature, the Mosi oa Tunya Game Drive and Rhino Walking Safari offers a compelling mix of scenery, animals, and local insights. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the reviews and details paint a pretty clear picture of an activity that combines excitement, education, and a touch of adventure — all for a reasonable price.

What we love about this experience are the expert guides, the opportunity to see rare rhino sightings, and the chance to enjoy breathtaking views along the Zambezi River. That said, it’s also worth noting that the tour’s small size and limited time in the park could be a consideration for some travelers. It’s best suited for those who value authentic wildlife encounters, appreciate local expertise, and want a flexible, budget-friendly outing.

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Key Points

Wildlife Encounters: Spot elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffalo, and sometimes rhinos in their natural habitat.
Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with local insights and ensure you don’t miss the highlights.
Scenic Views: Drive along the Zambezi River for stunning vistas and potential water-based animal sightings.
Affordable Value: At $75 per person, this tour offers a balanced mix of experience and value.
Small Group Atmosphere: Usually limited to small groups, providing a more personalized experience.
Potential Drawback: Limited park access for self-driving, and some reviews mention booking complications.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

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Starting Point and Logistics

Your adventure begins with a hotel pickup within Livingstone, a convenient start that saves the hassle of self-arranging transport. The tour is operated by Maano Adventures, a local provider known for friendly, informative guides. After getting picked up, your small group heads toward Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park, a park that’s both a protected wildlife area and a natural extension of the famous Victoria Falls.

The park itself spans 66 square kilometers along the Zambezi Riverbank, offering a manageable size that keeps game viewing intimate and lively. It features two main sections—a wildlife area at the northwest end and a part adjacent to Victoria Falls—so you get a sense of the diverse landscape and ecosystem.

What to Expect During the Drive

Soon after entering, you’ll notice the park’s abundant birdlife, its palm forests, and the open grasslands that are perfect for spotting larger animals. The guides are well-versed in animal behavior and will point out species such as buffalo, impalas, wildebeests, giraffes, and elephants.

One of the highlights is driving along the Zambezi River, where you’ll often see hippos and elephants taking advantage of the water during the dry season. The river views are stunning, and the chance to observe wildlife quenching their thirst adds an extra layer of authenticity to the experience.

Rhino Spotting and Walking Safari

A key feature of this tour is the rare opportunity to see the few remaining rhinos. These majestic creatures are under constant threat from poaching, making their sighting particularly special. According to reviews, guides like Maano are adept at locating these elusive animals, sometimes even allowing guests to take short walking safaris with park rangers for a closer view.

One reviewer mentioned, “we stayed inside the park for three hours with two guides and saw even the rhinos during a short walk,” which highlights the personalized and close-up nature of this safari. This part of the experience offers a blend of education and adventure, with rangers ensuring safety and providing fascinating context about rhino conservation.

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The Guides and Their Knowledge

Travelers consistently praise the guides’ expertise—they’re described as very knowledgeable about the local fauna and the ecosystem. As one reviewer shared, “The drive was good, and our guide was very familiar with the area and animals,” emphasizing the value of good leadership in wildlife safaris.

Good guides not only point out animals but also share stories about their behaviors, the park’s history, and conservation efforts. This adds depth to the experience beyond just animal spotting.

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Food, Tips, and Practicalities

While the tour covers entrance fees and includes hotel pickups, food is not included, so packing snacks or planning a meal beforehand might be wise. The tour provides recommendations for places to eat, which helps if you want to extend your visit afterward.

Tips are appreciated and often expected, reflecting the good service provided by guides. The tour is designed for small groups, typically keeping it personalized and avoiding the often overwhelming crowds found in larger safaris.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This safari suits adventurers who want an authentic, intimate wildlife experience without breaking the bank. It’s perfect for nature lovers, first-time visitors eager to see Africa’s Big Five (though rhinos are the highlight here), and those who appreciate knowledgeable guides who can enrich the experience with local insights.

While it’s a shorter, more affordable option compared to larger safaris, it still offers a meaningful glimpse into Zambia’s incredible biodiversity. If you’re staying in Livingstone and want to combine wildlife viewing with your Victoria Falls visit, this tour fits perfectly into an action-packed itinerary.

Final Thoughts

The Mosi oa Tunya Game Drive and Rhino Walking Safari offers a balanced combination of wildlife sightings, scenic river views, and expert guidance, all at an accessible price point. The personal touch of small group size and knowledgeable guides makes the experience memorable, especially with the rare chance to see endangered rhinos up close.

It’s a great choice for travelers who prioritize authenticity, value, and wildlife diversity. While some may find the tour’s limited park access a slight drawback, the overall experience delivers a genuine taste of Zambia’s natural beauty. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or simply seeking a meaningful outdoor adventure, this safari can provide lasting memories of your time in Southern Zambia.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, hotel pick-up and drop-off within Livingstone are included, making it very convenient and hassle-free.

Can I book this tour from Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe?
Yes, but there is an extra cost for pick-up from Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. The standard option covers Livingstone hotels.

How much does the tour cost?
The tour costs $75 per person, offering good value for a wildlife safari that includes park entrance fees and guiding.

What animals can I expect to see?
You are likely to see elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffalo, impalas, wildebeests, and possibly rhinos. Hippos can also be seen in the river.

Are meals included?
No, food is not included, but the tour offers recommendations for places to eat afterward.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The experience is generally suitable for most ages, especially those comfortable with outdoor safaris and walking safaris with rangers.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, and your camera. Large bags or pets are not allowed on the tour.

What is the group size?
The tour is designed for small groups, which enhances the chances of a more personalized and intimate experience.

Whether you’re looking to tick off an exciting wildlife experience or simply want to enjoy Zambia’s natural beauty from a comfortable vehicle, the Mosi oa Tunya Game Drive and Rhino Walking Safari offers a compelling, value-packed adventure that’s worth considering during your stay in Livingstone.