Livingstone: Game Drive and White Rhino Walking Safari

Traveling to Zambia and looking for a way to see its incredible wildlife without sacrificing comfort or authenticity? The Livingstone: Game Drive and White Rhino Walking Safari offers a compelling combo of safari adventure and intimate encounters with one of Africa’s most iconic animals—the white rhino. Offered by HSM Adventures, this experience promises a structured yet flexible way to explore the stunning Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, all while blending the thrill of a game drive with a rare walking safari.

What sets this tour apart? We’ve seen it praised for its close-up wildlife sightings, expert guides, and value for money. However, it’s not without considerations—like timing flexibility and limited duration—that might influence your decision. Perfect for those who want a taste of Zambia’s wilderness in a manageable timeframe, it’s especially suited for first-time visitors or wildlife lovers craving a more personal, guided experience.

Three things we love about this tour include the chance to get closer to the white rhinos on foot, the comprehensive nature of the combined activities, and the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. On the flip side, one possible drawback is the short duration, which might leave some travelers wishing for a longer or more immersive experience. Still, if you’re after a well-rounded, authentic safari that’s easy on the pocket, this tour hits many right notes.

If you’re eager to see Africa’s wildlife in a balanced way—combining the excitement of a game drive with the intimacy of walking—then this safari is likely a good fit. It’s especially ideal for first-timers or those short on time but eager for a meaningful wildlife encounter.

Good To Know

• Balanced Experience: Combines a traditional game drive with an active walking safari, offering diverse wildlife viewing opportunities.
• Close Encounters: Special focus on getting closer to white rhinos on foot—rare and memorable.
• Convenience: Includes hotel pickups, park entry fees, and transportation, making logistics smoother.
• Flexible Timing: Morning, midday, or afternoon departures allow you to choose what suits your schedule best.
• Value for Money: At $68 per person, it offers a cost-effective way to explore Zambia’s wildlife.
• Limited Duration: The total experience lasts around 2-3 hours, ideal for a quick but impactful adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Pickup

The tour begins with a pickup from one of four convenient locations—Victoria Falls, Livingstone, Radisson Blu Mosi-Oa-Tunya, Livingstone Resort, or Avani Victoria Falls Resort. This flexibility makes it easy to fit into your day without extra hassle. The driver arrives in a recognizable HSM Adventures branded white game viewer van, and you’ll be picked up 30 minutes before your chosen departure time. Travelers have noted that the process is smooth, with guides punctual and friendly.

Journey to Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park

The drive to the park should take around 15 minutes, giving you a brief chance to settle in and get excited. The park’s proximity means you’re not wasting precious safari time in long transit, which is especially appreciated by those eager to maximize their wildlife sightings.

The Game Drive: A Closer Look

Once inside the park, the adventure kicks off with a 4×4 open game vehicle, which provides excellent visibility and a feeling of being right in the action. The guide or driver, often experienced locals, will pay the park entry fees, and then it’s game on. You can expect to see a variety of species, including birds, trees, and other animals—each sighting adding depth to the experience.

Guests mention that guides are knowledgeable, with some providing interesting insights into animal behavior and park ecology. One reviewer shared, “Our guide was fantastic, pointing out birds I wouldn’t have noticed and explaining their roles in the ecosystem.” This suggests that the guides are not only good at spotting wildlife but also eager to enhance your understanding.

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The Rhinos and the Walking Safari

After about 2 hours of game viewing, depending on where the white rhinos are located that day, the group will disembark for the walking portion. This is where the experience transforms from a typical safari into something much more personal and exhilarating. Walking alongside these majestic creatures, getting as close as safely possible, offers a perspective few get to enjoy.

Travelers have praised this part of the tour for its powerful intimacy. One review states, “Getting close to the white rhinos on foot was incredible—I could see the texture of their skin and even get a few clear photos.” The guide will also carry drinks and snacks, so you can take a quick refreshment break during the walk, adding comfort to the adventure.

What You’ll See and Experience

Throughout the game drive, expect to see a variety of wildlife, including birds, trees, and perhaps larger animals like elephants or buffalo, depending on the day. The guides are skilled at finding animals and providing informative commentary, making each sighting meaningful. The walking safari is more focused, allowing you to observe the white rhinos in a more natural setting—closer than you could on a vehicle, but always with safety as a priority.

Return and Drop-off

After completing the activities, the guide will drive you back for drop-off at your hotel or preferred location. The total experience lasts roughly 2-3 hours, including travel time, which makes it perfect for a half-day adventure.

Pricing and Value

At $68 per person, this tour offers a lot for the price. You’re paying for a well-organized transportation, park entry, a guided game drive, and a walking safari that’s often cited as the highlight. Reviews consistently point out that the guides are knowledgeable, and the experience provides a solid introduction to Zambia’s wildlife without a hefty price tag.

However, keep in mind that this is a shorter experience—if you’re craving a full-day or multi-day safari, this might only scratch the surface. Still, for its price, it delivers a balanced, authentic safari with enough time to see plenty of animals and enjoy a memorable walk with white rhinos.

Practical Tips for Booking

• Choose your departure time based on your schedule—mornings, midday, or afternoons are available.
• Be sure to arrive 30 minutes early for pickup to ensure a smooth start.
• Carry your camera, but note that sunscreen and hats are not included, so bring your essentials.
• The tour includes snacks, drinks, and park fees, but you might want to bring extra water or personal items.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This safari is best suited for wildlife enthusiasts, first-time visitors, or those on a tight schedule but craving a genuine safari experience. It offers a great introduction to Zambia’s wildlife, especially the chance to see white rhinos on foot, which is a rare opportunity. Families or small groups will appreciate the personalized feel and the ease of booking.

If you’re seeking a more immersive, longer safari, you might want to consider other options. But for a quick, impactful, and affordable wildlife fix, this tour delivers.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The total experience lasts about 2-3 hours, including travel time, game drive, and walking safari.

Can I choose my preferred departure time?
Yes, departures are available in the morning, midday, and afternoon—just select your preferred slot when booking.

Are park entry fees included?
Yes, the guide will cover park entry fees as part of the tour.

What should I bring?
While drinks and snacks are provided, it’s wise to bring your camera, sunscreen, hats, and personal identification.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The description doesn’t specify age restrictions, but generally, walking safaris are best for older children who can handle a 2-hour walk and potential wildlife encounters.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at designated locations are included in the package.

What wildlife might I see?
Expect to see various birds, trees, and animals like elephants or buffalo, with the highlight being the close sighting of white rhinos.

Are guides experienced?
Yes, guides are knowledgeable and friendly, often providing insightful commentary during the game drive and walk.

How close can I get to the white rhinos?
You will have the opportunity to get close enough for good photos—the exact distance depends on animal behavior and safety guidelines.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance.

This Livingstone: Game Drive and White Rhino Walking Safari offers a neat, budget-friendly way to encounter Zambia’s wildlife. With a mix of vehicle-based game viewing and an up-close walking experience, it balances excitement with safety, guided by local experts who know the land. The inclusion of hotel pickup, park fees, and snacks makes it a hassle-free choice, especially if you’re short on time but eager for a meaningful wildlife encounter.

While the experience is relatively short, it packs a punch—particularly if seeing white rhinos on foot is a bucket-list item for you. Its affordability, combined with the chance to learn and observe in a natural setting, makes it a smart pick for travelers wanting genuine value without sacrificing authenticity.

This safari is best suited for wildlife lovers, first-timers, or anyone looking for a quick, engaging taste of Zambia’s incredible wilderness. Its blend of adventure, guided expertise, and proximity to nature creates memories that will stick long after you leave the park.

Note: For similar experiences, check out other options like the Chobe Day Trip or Victoria Falls river safaris, which might add more variety or longer durations depending on your interests.

You can check if your dates are available here: