Mosi Oa Tunya National Park
Most certainly and without question, Zambia's smallest national park (66 square kilometres in total) awaits all that visit this side of the Zambezi River. What makes the national park of interest is that within her boundaries lies the mighty Zambezi, the amazing Victoria falls and the adventure-filled Batoka Gorge.
- Size: 66 square kilometres
- Location: Upstream of Victoria Falls
- Accommodation: Livingstone Lodges
Where is Mosi Oa Tunya National Park located?
The national park runs from the Batoka Gorge and continues for 12km above Victoria Falls along the Zambezi River (on the Zambian side of the river).
Information On Mosi Oa Tunya National Park
With the park being so small, it offers the ideal opportunity for relaxing game drives alongside the river banks, grasslands, riverine forests and mopane woodlands.
Wildlife includes elephants, giraffe, buffalo, waterbuck, impala, wildebeest, zebra, bushbuck, warthogs, monkeys, baboons, hippos and crocodiles. And let us not forget the rather spectacular birdlife, with birding being best in the summer months.
Of interest, Mosi Oa Tunya is one of the very few destinations in the whole of Zambia, where one can spot and photograph white rhino.
There are no predators in the park, so photographing the surrounding scenery outside of a vehicle is possible; however, just because elephants and hippos are not predators does not mean that they will not seriously injure you or take your life. Please do not get close to these animals without a professional guide to lead the way.
Best Time to Visit Mosi Oa Tunya National Park
Year-round with the following notes;
- Summer months (December to February); Hot, very hot with afternoon thunderstorms, best for birding and high water adventure activities. Victoria Falls and the Zambezi River start heading towards peak flow.
- Autumn months (March to May); slightly cooler with a little less rain, Victoria Falls and the Zambezi River are at peak flow in April (March, April and May are best for viewing the falls at full flow).
- Winter months (June to August); Almost perfect weather conditions, warm during the day and cool at night. Best time for low water Zambezi adventure activities (i.e. white water rafting).
- Spring months (September to November); Temperatures start to climb, with November being rather unpleasant. Victoria Falls and the Zambezi River are at their lowest flow points during this time.
Main Attractions Of Mosi Oa Tunya National Park
- Victoria Falls
- Zambezi River
- Batoka Gorge
- Adventure activities
- Birding
- Self-drive game drives
- Protected white rhino sightings
- Shumba Camp
Shumba Camp is situated in the northern region of the Kafue National Park, in the famed Busanga Plains area.
The Plains, covering approximately 750 square kilometres, is considered one of Zambia's most important wetlands as well as a wildlife paradise with a wealth of plains game, predators and birds.
- Puku Ridge Camp
Puku Ridge Camp offers a truly intimate atmosphere, providing guests with a unique and authentic safari experience nestled under canvas. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views that stretch over the lush South Luangwa floodplain below, immersing yourself in the beauty of nature.
Each of the seven generously sized tented suites boasts picture windows that frame the picturesque floodplain, inviting you to relax on your private viewing deck and witness the wonders of the surrounding South Luangwa wilderness.
- Luangwa River Camp
Nestled under a majestic canopy of giant ebony trees on the picturesque banks of the South Luangwa River, Luangwa River Camp welcomes guests to a haven where incredible wildlife sightings and diverse bird species await at every turn.
The camp boasts a team of highly knowledgeable and experienced guides and trackers who are passionate about showcasing the beauty of the surroundings, ensuring an unforgettable safari experience. All this is complemented by exceptional service that caters to every guest's comfort and enjoyment.
- Chindeni Bushcamp
Nestled amid the unspoiled beauty of Zambia's South Luangwa National Park, Chindeni Bushcamp offers a unique blend of adventure and luxury along the banks of the Luangwa River. This hidden gem beckons you to escape the hustle of modern life and immerse yourself in a landscape where nature sets the pace.
With its rare mix of tranquillity and thrill, Chindeni Bushcamp promises not only a vacation but also a transformative journey into the wilderness.
- Busanga Bush Camp
A Kafue bush camp the lies in the heart of the Busanga Plains, a wildlife paradise that is situated in Kafue National Park.
Busanga Bush Camp is about as 'wild' as you can get in today's world: an unfenced mosaic of expansive grassy seasonal floodplains and "dambos".
- Avani Victoria Falls Resort
At The Avani Resort, enjoy the best view of Victoria Falls. This 3-star hotel, The Avani Victoria Falls Resort, boasts adobe-style architecture and exceptional river views. Situated within Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park and just a short walk from Victoria Falls.
The resort features simple finishes with bright mosaics and fabrics, ethnic wall stencils, Zambian artworks, and timber and plaster ceilings. It consists of eight buildings housing guest rooms, restaurants, and a convention centre. The hotel stands out in the evening against the smoky vapour above.