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Bucket list experience:

Last updated: 06 November, 2022
Expert travel writer: Richard Holmes

Rampant poaching has had a devastating impact on Africa’s rhinoceros populations, which makes these guided bush walks in Zambia’s Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park all the more memorable.

Led by a professional guide and park rangers, you’ll enjoy close-up encounters with the endangered white rhinoceros, as well as the opportunity to spot other impressive beasts, including hippo, buffalo, kudu, impala, warthog and more. The lush summer months also offer fantastic birding.

Price from: £82
Minimum age: 14
Age suitable: 14+
When: All year around
Duration: 2 or 4 hours

Getting there & doing it

The Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park is conveniently located a short drive from Livingstone, with transfers, refreshments and park fees included in the cost of the activity. Morning and afternoon departures are available, with morning walks best if you’re sensitive to heat.

There are two walk options – one to specifically see rhino, the other to see all wildlife.

When to do it

The dry winter months (July-October) are ideal for game viewing, with the grass short and wildlife drawn to the waterholes. If you’re a keen birder, aim for the summer months of November-February, but be prepared for hot and humid days.

Recommended itineraries by our writers that include this experience

Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first

Victoria Falls River Lodge

Zambezi National Park, Matabeleland North, Central African Republic (CAR)[2.2 miles]

A contemporary, luxury lodge in an enviable location on the banks of the Zambezi River, a short way upstream from the Victoria Falls.

Official star rating:

Victoria Falls Safari Lodge

Victoria Falls Town, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe[5.4 miles]

Modern safari-themed lodge offering easy access to the falls, and plenty of peace and quiet.

Official star rating:

Sussi & Chuma

Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park , Southern Province, Zambia[6.3 miles]

Stylish luxury safari lodge offering in a pristine wilderness setting on the Zambezi, with a villa for families and uber-romantic treehouse suites. 20 minutes from Victoria Falls.

Official star rating:

Ilala Lodge Hotel

Victoria Falls Town, Matabeleland North, Zimbabwe[6.9 miles]

Cosy boutique hotel with an authentic African feel, right on the doorstep of the Victoria Falls.

Official star rating:

Destination guides including or relevant to this experience

Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

The world-famous Victoria Falls is also Africa’s adventure playground, offering an array of brilliant adrenalin-packed adventure activities plus Big Five safaris.

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Our writer’s recommendations of other bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first

Cruise on the Zambezi

Victoria Falls Town, Matabeleland North, Zimbabwe[3.5 miles]

Scenic cruises and game spotting on one of Africa’s greatest rivers, just made for sundowners.

Best for ages: 4+ | £35 | 1+ hours

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Royal Livingstone Express

Livingstone, Southern Province, Zambia[4.7 miles]

Fine-dining aboard a lovely colonial-era steam train as it chuffs for 15km through the game-rich Zambian bush.

Best for ages: 13+ | £150 | 4 hours

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Safaris around Victoria Falls

Zimbabwe[7 miles]

Visiting Victoria Falls is not just about the Falls. Take the opportunity to experience a Big Five safari and get a taste of the real African bush.

Best for ages: 5+ | £120 | 3-4 hours

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Other worthwhile experiences near this experience if you have time or interest..

Golf course next to the Zambezi river with hippos in the water
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Golf at Elephant Hills

Victoria Falls Town, Matabeleland North, Zimbabwe[4.7 miles]

Designed by golfing legend Gary Player, the 18-hole Elephant Hills course upstream from the Falls is one of the wildest golf courses in Africa, and players will have to mind the antelope and crocodiles as carefully as the water hazards.

Best for ages: 13+ | £10 | 2-4 hours

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The outside of the David Livingstone Museum
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David Livingstone Museum

Livingstone, Southern Province, Zambia[5.3 miles]

There’s not much to recommend the town of Livingstone, but Zambia’s largest and oldest museum is certainly worth a visit for its collection of original David Livingstone artefacts, including tools, journals and maps.

Best for ages: 18+ | £5

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Traditional African wooden masks
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Dambwa Market

Livingstone, Southern Province, Zambia[5.6 miles]

Enjoy a taste of local living at the Dambwa market in Livingstone. This is where locals come to shop, and you’ll find everything from fresh produce to wooden carvings. Guided tours are available if you’re unsure about exploring on your own.

Best for ages: 13+ | Free

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The famous afternoon tea stand with sweet treats
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Afternoon tea at the Victoria Falls Hotel

Victoria Falls Town, Matabeleland North, Central African Republic (CAR)[7.4 miles]

Dating back to 1904, The Victoria Falls Hotel occupies a dramatic promontory above the Batoka Gorge. It’s a view best enjoyed over the decadent platters served for afternoon tea, a much-loved tradition.

Best for ages: 13+ | £15 | 1-2 hours

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