FAQ
The top questions about Victoria Falls activities, tours, safaris and the falls answered
What wildlife can be seen near Victoria Falls?
The Victoria Falls region is home to a remarkable variety of African wildlife.
Common sightings include:
White rhino
Elephant
Giraffe
Zebra
Buffalo
Wildebeest
Impala
Waterbuck
Warthog
Hippopotamus
Crocodile
Baboon
Vervet Monkey
Various antelope species
Hundreds of bird species
A big variety of snakes, scorpions and spiders
Visitors to Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park probably encounter the park's famous white rhinos, one of southern Africa's conservation success stories. [livingston...ourism.com], [fairtravels.ai]
Nearby safari destinations such as Chobe National Park and Zambezi National Park offer opportunities to see even greater concentrations of wildlife.
In our Falls & Wildlife package or our Land & Water package, we offer amazing changes to spot big game in the Victoria Falls area and Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park:
Rhinos - 99%
Hippos - 99%
Crocodiles - 99%
Giraffes - 90%
Zebra - 90%
Water buffaloe - 90%
Wildebeest - 90%
Elephants - depending on the season (April - Dec 80%)
Wildlife at Mosi-oa-Tunya
What is Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park?
Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park is a protected national park in Zambia that includes the Zambian side of Victoria Falls and a wildlife conservation area along the Zambezi River.
The name Mosi-oa-Tunya means"The Smoke That Thunders", referring to the spray and roar of Victoria Falls.
The park is famous for:
Victoria Falls viewpoints
Rhino conservation
Wildlife safaris
Birdwatching
Walking trails
River scenery
It is one of Zambia's most visited protected areas due to its accessibility from Livingstone and its combination of wildlife and natural wonder experiences.
Can you see rhinos in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park?
Yes. With an amazing spotting chance as well.
Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park is one of the best places in Zambia to see endangered white rhinos. The rhinos are carefully protected by conservation teams and anti-poaching units.
Visitors can often join guided rhino-tracking experiences that allow them to observe these magnificent animals from a safe distance while learning about ongoing conservation efforts.
Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed because rhinos roam freely within the protected area. However, Mosi-oa-Tunya generally offers one of the highest chances of rhino sightings in Zambia. You can even come close via a walking safari: a whole other level of safaris.
How much is the entrance fee to Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park?
Entrance fees vary depending on:
Visitor nationality
Residency status
Age
Activities included
Government fee adjustments
Because national park fees are periodically revised by Zambia Wildlife Authority and related tourism authorities, visitors should always consult official sources or licensed operators for current pricing. Up-to-date prices can be found via the Ministry of Tourism via Park Entry Fees: National Parks – Department of National Parks & Wildlife
The fee is included in all the activities vic-falls.org offers.
Is Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park worth visiting?
Absolutely. Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park offers a unique combination of:
Victoria Falls
Rhino tracking
Walking safaris
Wildlife viewing
Birding
Scenic river landscapes
Easy access from Livingstone
Family-friendly safari experiences
Unlike larger wilderness parks, visitors do not need to spend several days traveling to explore it. Many attractions can be enjoyed within a half-day or full-day excursion.
Next to that, the changes to see White Rhino's are amongst the highest in Africa.
For travelers with limited time, it is considered one of the most rewarding and accessible national parks in Zambia.
Unique are also the walking safaris you can do here. As invented in Zambia. A totally different kind of a safari experience.
What animals live in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park?
Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park supports a diverse range of wildlife despite its relatively compact size.
Animals commonly found in the park include:
White rhino
Elephant
Giraffe
Zebra
Buffalo
Wildebeest
Impala
Waterbuck
Warthog
Hippopotamus
Crocodile
Baboon
Vervet Monkey
Various antelope species
Hundreds of bird species
A big variety of snakes, scorpions and spiders
The park's location along the Zambezi River creates a rich ecosystem supporting both terrestrial and aquatic wildlife.
For all the 491 birds to find in Mosi-Oa-Tunya national park, please visit Avibase bird checklist - Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park
Expert note: Large predators such as lions are not a primary attraction of Mosi-oa-Tunya. Travelers specifically seeking big-cat safaris should consider larger regional parks.
Which birds live around the Victoria Falls?
Around the Victoria Falls and in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park you can find 491 different bird species. Just a few to spot when you go birding:
Rainforest and Woodland Birds
Trumpeter Hornbill: Known for its loud, laughing morning calls in the canopy.
Schalow's Turaco: Features vivid turquoise and crimson feathers.
African Paradise Flycatcher: Noticed by its bright rust-red body and long tail ribbons.
Collared Palm-Thrush: Prefers dense foliage and palm-rich local pockets.
River and Gorge Raptors
African Fish Eagle: Famous for its echoing cry over the Zambezi River.
Taita Falcon: The Batoka Gorges hold one of the world's densest populations.
Pel's Fishing Owl: A rare nocturnal hunter hiding in dense riverine trees.
Verreaux's Eagle: Soars along the steep cliffs and basalt gorges.
Water and Wetland Species
African Skimmer: Breeds on seasonal sandbanks along the river.
Rock Pratincole: Frequently spotted darting right through the mist and spray of the falls.
Half-collared Kingfisher: Hunts fish from low-hanging branches above the water.
African Finfoot: Swims discreetly near quiet, reed-lined riverbanks.
For the complete list, please visit Avibase bird checklist - Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park. We have a special birdwatching activity for if you want to go birding.
What is the best time for birdwatching at Victoria Falls?
The best time for birding around Victoria Falls is during the hot and wet summer months from November to March/April. During this green season, migratory birds arrive from the northern hemisphere, resident species sport vibrant breeding plumage, and high insect activity provides abundant food.
Why the Wet Season is Ideal
Migrants arrive: Palearctic and intra-African migratory species swell the local bird count.
Breeding plumage: Resident birds display their striking seasonal colors.
Lush scenery: The rainforest and surrounding bush provide a rich, green backdrop (though paths can be humid and wet).
What to Expect in the Dry Season (May to October)
Better raptor visibility: Winter and dry months make large birds of prey and raptors more conspicuous against thinning foliage.
Easier walking: Clearer skies and dry paths make exploring the gorges and rainforest edges more comfortable.
Special sightings: Iconic local species like the Schalow’s Turaco, Rock Pratincole, and African Finfoot can still be spotted year-round.
What is the best time for safari at Victoria Falls?
All year round you can do amazing safaris in Mosi-oa-Tunya. Every period of the year offers something different by animals, vegetation and the falls.
If you would put a gun in our mouths and force us to name the best season: the best time for a safari in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park is probably the dry season from July to October. During these months, the weather is dry, vegetation is sparse for easy wildlife viewing, elephants frequently cross the Zambezi River, and waterfall mist is low enough for clear sightseeing.
Dry Season (July to October) – Best for Wildlife
July – August: Comfortably cool temperatures, low mosquito risk, minimal mist at the falls, and great visibility for game viewing.
September – October: Very hot and dry, but excellent for wildlife as animals concentrate near the Zambezi River.
Wet / Green Season (November to April) – Best for Scenery & Birds
November – December: Early thunderstorms begin, turning landscapes lush and green with newborn animals arriving.
January – March: Warm, humid weather with peak rainfall. Excellent for birdwatching due to migratory species, though heavy mist can obscure views of the waterfall.
Shoulder Season (May to June) – Best for High Waterfalls
May: The Zambezi River flow hits its peak, making Victoria Falls most dramatic, though heavy spray limits ground visibility. Vegetation is lush and green.
June: The spray begins to clear, temperatures drop, and crowds are smaller before the peak July rush. Vegetation starts to dry.
Are there hippos near Victoria Falls?
Yes. Hippopotamuses are commonly found in the Zambezi River and can often be seen during river cruises and wildlife excursions near Livingstone and Victoria Falls.
Where Can You See Hippos?
Popular locations include:
The Upper Zambezi River
Sunset cruise routes
River channels upstream of Victoria Falls
Wildlife areas within and around Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park
Important Safety Advice
Although hippos appear calm, they are considered one of Africa's most dangerous large animals and should never be approached. Guided boat tours provide the safest and best opportunities for viewing them.
Key Takeaway
Hippos are frequently seen near Victoria Falls and are a highlight of many Zambezi River cruises and safari experiences.
Are There Crocodiles Near Victoria Falls?
Yes. Nile crocodiles live throughout the Zambezi River ecosystem, including areas near Victoria Falls and within Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park.
Should Visitors Be Concerned?
Crocodiles are a natural part of the river environment. Reputable tour operators and guides carefully manage activities to minimize risk.
Visitors should:
Never swim outside designated areas.
Follow all guide instructions.
Avoid approaching riverbanks alone.
Respect wildlife at all times.
Crocodiles live in the Zambezi River, but guided tourism activities maintain strong safety procedures and should always be followed. Activities such as Devil's Pool are operated only in carefully selected locations and under professional supervision.
We can help you out here! Take a look at our Victoria Falls activities, our safaris, our Custom Made Adventures, or our all-inclusive package deals:
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Page last updated: 10-08-2026
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