Zambezi National Park Safaris Tours: Victoria Falls Wildlife
Discover the wild heart of Zambia with guided safari tours through Zambezi National Park, offering incredible wildlife encounters near Victoria Falls.
Bordering the mighty Zambezi River and just a stone's throw from the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, Zambezi National Park presents a captivating safari experience for visitors seeking wildlife amidst a truly spectacular natural setting. Unlike its more expansive neighbours, this park offers a more intimate and accessible encounter with the African bush, making it an ideal addition to any trip focused on the falls. The park's relatively compact size, spanning over 56,000 hectares, means that wildlife sightings are frequent, and the diverse habitats – from dense riverine forests along the Zambezi to open woodlands and grasslands – support a rich array of fauna. Visitors can expect to see iconic African mammals such as elephants, hippos, crocodiles, buffalo, and a variety of antelope species, including the majestic kudu and the elusive sable. Birdlife is also prolific, with over 400 species recorded, making it a haven for ornithologists and casual observers alike. Guided safari tours in Zambezi National Park provide the perfect way to explore its wonders, ensuring you don't miss the best viewing opportunities. Expert guides, with their intimate knowledge of the park's terrain and animal behaviour, lead these excursions. They can interpret animal tracks, identify bird calls, and navigate the park's network of roads to maximize your chances of encountering the resident wildlife. Whether you opt for a morning game drive as the sun rises, a sunset safari as the landscape glows, or a specialized birding trip, these tours offer a structured yet flexible way to immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of the region. The proximity to Victoria Falls also means that a safari here can be seamlessly integrated into a broader itinerary, combining the thunderous roar of the falls with the serene symphony of the bush.
Featured Zambezi National Park Safaris Tours
Discover our top picks for zambezi national park safaris in Zambezi National Park
Not your average Chobe safari. Our Chobe Sunrise Leopard & Lion Safari is crafted for true wildlife lovers who know that the bush comes alive before the world wakes up. While most visitors arrive later in the morning, we cross into Botswana at dawn, giving you exclusive access to the park at the prime hunting hour — when leopards and lions are still active and the light is golden. This tour avoids the heat and crowds of midday safaris. It’s a focused experience, guided by experts who know where the predators roam and how to track them. We serve light breakfast i the bush with coffee or tea and non-alcoholic drinks. You’ll be back in Victoria Falls by 11:30 AM, just in time for lunch — with your memory card full and your heart still filled with fresh memories. If you’re after quality over quantity, fewer jeeps, and a real chance to see big cats on the move, this is the safari for you.
Why Choose Zambezi National Park Safaris in Zambezi National Park?
Proximity to Victoria Falls
Easily accessible from one of the world's most famous natural wonders, making it a perfect combination experience.
Abundant Wildlife Sightings
The park's rich habitats support diverse mammal and bird populations, offering frequent and rewarding wildlife encounters.
Scenic Zambezi River Frontage
Opportunities to observe aquatic life like hippos and crocodiles, alongside land animals drawn to the river.
Variety of Safari Experiences
From thrilling game drives to immersive walking safaris, catering to different interests and adventure levels.
Exceptional Birdlife
A prime destination for birdwatchers, with over 400 species recorded, including many sought-after African rarities.
Expert Guided Exploration
Knowledgeable guides enhance your understanding of the ecosystem, animal behaviour, and local flora.
Types of Zambezi National Park Safaris in Zambezi National Park
Zambezi National Park Game Drives
Explore the park's diverse landscapes in open-sided safari vehicles, ideal for spotting larger mammals. These tours typically follow established tracks, leading you to prime wildlife viewing areas.
Zambezi National Park Walking Safaris
Experience the bush on foot with armed guides, offering a more intimate and sensory connection with nature. This is an excellent way to learn about tracking, plants, and smaller creatures often missed from a vehicle.
Zambezi River Safaris (Boat-Based)
While not strictly within the national park's land boundaries, many tours utilize the Zambezi River as a safari platform. This offers unique perspectives for viewing hippos, crocodiles, elephants coming to drink, and abundant birdlife.
Birdwatching Tours
Dedicated tours for avid birders, led by guides specializing in identifying the park's rich avian diversity. These excursions focus on habitats known for specific species.
What to Expect on Zambezi National Park Safaris Tours
Duration
Most game drives and walking safaris range from 3 to 4 hours. Some longer full-day options or multi-day packages might be available for more in-depth exploration.
Weather
Temperatures can vary significantly. Dry season (May-October) is cooler and best for game viewing. Wet season (November-April) is hot and humid but offers lush scenery and excellent birding.
Group Size
Vehicle-based game drives typically accommodate 6-10 people. Walking safaris are usually much smaller, often with a maximum of 6 participants for safety and a better experience.
What's Included
Tours generally include park entry fees, guide services, and transportation. Some may offer refreshments or snacks. Always check the specific tour details for inclusions.
Meeting Point
Meeting points are usually at your lodge or hotel in Livingstone, or sometimes at a designated visitor centre within or near the park entrance.
Costs
Prices can range from approximately $45 USD for a short game drive to $150+ USD for a more specialized or private tour. Costs vary by operator, duration, and inclusions.
Expert Tips for the Best Experience
The early morning and late afternoon hours are prime times for wildlife activity, so book tours during these periods for the best viewing opportunities.
While elephants are common, don't miss looking for other species like buffalo, kudu, waterbuck, and zebras. The park also hosts a good number of predators, though sightings can be more elusive.
Bring binoculars! They are essential for spotting distant animals and identifying the diverse bird species.
Wear neutral-coloured clothing to blend in with the environment. Avoid bright colours like red or white, as they can startle animals.
Hydration is key. Always carry water, especially during the hotter months. Most tours will provide some water, but it's good to have extra.
Inform your guide if you have specific interests, such as birdwatching or photography. They can often tailor the experience to your preferences.
For walking safaris, wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes. You'll be covering ground on varied terrain.
Consider a sunset game drive; the golden hour light offers spectacular photographic opportunities and often coincides with animals becoming more active.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:What is the best time of year to visit Zambezi National Park for a safari?
A: The dry season, from May to October, is generally considered the best time for wildlife viewing as animals congregate around water sources. However, the green season (November to April) offers lush scenery and fantastic birdwatching opportunities.
Q:What kind of animals can I expect to see on a safari in Zambezi National Park?
A: You have a great chance of seeing elephants, hippos, crocodiles, buffalo, various antelope species like kudu and waterbuck, and often warthogs. While predators like lions and leopards are present, they are more elusive. Birdlife is exceptional year-round.
Q:Are Zambezi National Park safaris safe?
A: Yes, these tours are conducted by professional and experienced guides who are trained in wildlife behaviour and safety protocols. For walking safaris, armed rangers accompany the group to ensure everyone's safety.
Q:Do I need to book safari tours in advance?
A: It's highly recommended to book your safari tours in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. This ensures you secure your preferred date and time and choose from the widest selection of available tours.
Q:What should I wear on a safari in Zambezi National Park?
A: Opt for comfortable, neutral-coloured clothing (khaki, beige, green, brown) to avoid startling wildlife. Wear comfortable, closed shoes, and bring a hat and sunglasses for sun protection. Layers are a good idea as mornings can be cool.
Q:Can I combine a Zambezi National Park safari with visiting Victoria Falls?
A: Absolutely! Zambezi National Park is located very close to Victoria Falls. Many travellers combine a safari experience with a visit to the falls, often on the same day or over a couple of days, for a complete Zambian adventure.
Q:Are park fees included in the tour price?
A: Most reputable safari tours will include the park entrance fees in their advertised price. However, it's always best to confirm this with the tour operator when booking to avoid any surprises.
Q:What is the difference between a game drive and a walking safari?
A: A game drive is conducted in a vehicle, allowing you to cover more ground and see larger animals from a distance. A walking safari, led by an armed guide, offers a more intimate experience, focusing on tracking, plants, and the smaller details of the bush.
Why Visit Zambezi National Park?
Experience the untamed Zambezi River's power and abundant wildlife on a Zimbabwean safari adventure.
Witness breathtaking Victoria Falls views from the Zimbabwean side, a truly unforgettable spectacle.
Enjoy incredible game drives and walking safaris offering close encounters with diverse African fauna.
Explore the rich cultural heritage and local traditions of communities living near the Zambezi.
Embark on a thrilling sunset cruise along the Zambezi, spotting hippos and crocodiles.
Connect with raw nature and iconic African wildlife in a pristine national park setting.
Best Time to Visit
Weather
Zambezi National Park experiences a subtropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The hot, wet summer (November to April) brings lush vegetation and thunderstorms, while the cooler, dry winter (May to October) offers clearer skies and makes wildlife spotting easier as animals congregate around water sources.
Best Months
The dry season, particularly from May to October, is ideal for visiting Zambezi National Park. This period offers the best game viewing conditions as the bush thins out and animals are drawn to permanent waterholes, with pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities.
Peak Season
Peak season generally aligns with the dry winter months (July to October). Expect excellent wildlife viewing, sunny days, and cooler evenings, but also higher visitor numbers and potentially increased prices for accommodation and activities.
Off Season
The wet season, from November to April, is considered the off-season. While some roads may become challenging, it's a fantastic time for birdwatching with migratory species present, and you'll find fewer crowds and more competitive pricing.
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Plan Your Zambezi National Park Trip
Transportation Tips
Getting around Zambezi National Park is best facilitated by a 4x4 vehicle, especially for reaching more remote game viewing areas. Self-drive is an option for the adventurous, but guided tours and safari vehicles are highly recommended for safety and optimal wildlife spotting. Many lodges offer transfers and game drive services. For exploring the Zambezi River itself, boat cruises and canoeing trips are popular and often arranged through tour operators or accommodation providers. Taxis are available in Victoria Falls town for reaching the park entrance.
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Where to Stay
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Best Hotel Deals in Zambezi National Park
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