Spend three focused hours birding the Zambezi floodplain and Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park near Livingstone. Early mornings reveal waterbirds and colorful savanna species, backed by the geology of the Victoria Falls gorge.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Dawn breaks over the Zambezi and the river wakes in thin, insistent voices: fish eagles calling from treetops, hammerkops weaving low over reedbeds. On a three-hour bird watching safari out of Livingstone you move quietly along the park tracks and river edges, binoculars up, as wetlands, woodland and mopane savanna trade species with each bend of the water.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; involves short, flat walks and occasional stepping over roots or low banks.
Wildlife
History
Mosi-oa-Tunya (Victoria Falls) and the Zambezi gorge shaped local cultures and trade routes; the park around Livingstone is both ecologically and culturally significant.
Conservation
Zambia’s park management and community programs support habitat protection; visitors should stick to trails, avoid disturbing nests and follow guide instructions to reduce impact.
Reserve your spot on the Bird Watching Safari today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Go early for best activity
Birds are most active at first light — aim for the departing tour or arrive before 8am to maximize sightings.
Bring optics and a notebook
A pair of 8–10x binoculars and a small notebook or app will help you log species and watch behavior without disturbing birds.
Wear neutral, quiet clothing
Avoid bright colors and noisy fabrics to reduce spooking; breathable layers work well in changing temperatures.
Use insect repellent and sun protection
Reedbeds and floodplains attract tsetse and mosquitoes—apply repellent and a broad-brim hat before the walk.
Binoculars (8–10x)
Essential for picking out distant or camouflaged species along the river and in treelines.
Camera with telephoto or zoom lens
Useful for documenting birds without getting too close and disturbing them.
Sturdy walking shoes
Comfortable, closed shoes for uneven park tracks and muddy riverbanks.
Insect repellent & sun hat
Protects against mosquitoes and sun during the warm, wet months when insects are most active.
summer