Thorn Tree House and Tented Camp - Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park

Thorn Tree House and Tented Camp is a hotel near Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park.

Location
Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, Southern Zambia & Victoria Falls, Zambia, Southern Africa
Coordinates
-17.884872, 25.861444
Activities
hotel

PlnrScore: 29/100

Wildlife Near This Lodge

1681 species observed within 20 km, 57 mammals, 337 birds.

  • Chacma Baboon (Mammalia, 365 observations)
  • Southern Bushbuck (Mammalia, 286 observations)
  • Common Warthog (Mammalia, 277 observations)
  • Common Hippopotamus (Mammalia, 251 observations)
  • Wahlberg’s Striped Skink (Reptilia, 251 observations)
  • Vervet Monkey (Mammalia, 250 observations)
  • Chobe Dwarf Gecko (Reptilia, 233 observations)
  • Nile Crocodile (Reptilia, 230 observations)
  • White-fronted Bee-eater (Aves, 222 observations)
  • African Savanna Elephant (Mammalia, 219 observations)

Best Time to Visit Thorn Tree House and Tented Camp

The best months to visit Thorn Tree House and Tented Camp are August, September, October, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Good, temperature 23.2°C, rainfall 243.1mm, sunshine 9.1 hrs, humidity 79.6%
  • February: Great, temperature 24.07°C, rainfall 132.4mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 73.2%
  • March: Great, temperature 23.84°C, rainfall 48.7mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 70.1%
  • April: Great, temperature 22.56°C, rainfall 18mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 63.3%
  • May: Great, temperature 20.41°C, rainfall 0mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 48.9%
  • June: Great, temperature 18.15°C, rainfall 0.1mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 46.1%
  • July: Great, temperature 17.94°C, rainfall 0.2mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 41.3%
  • August: Great, temperature 21.39°C, rainfall 0mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 34.7%
  • September: Great, temperature 25.52°C, rainfall 0mm, sunshine 11.5 hrs, humidity 30%
  • October: Great, temperature 28.15°C, rainfall 3.4mm, sunshine 11.7 hrs, humidity 31.5%
  • November: Great, temperature 27.42°C, rainfall 50.8mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 49.9%
  • December: Great, temperature 25.47°C, rainfall 182.3mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 65.9%

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best way to experience Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park from Thorn Tree House?

We love starting our days with a guided walking safari directly from the lodge into the park. It’s the most intimate way to connect with the bush, and the guides share incredible insights you’d miss from a vehicle. Afterwards, we recommend returning for a leisurely breakfast before heading out for a boat cruise on the Zambezi River.

Beyond the falls, what other activities does Thorn Tree House offer?

While the falls are spectacular, we find the true magic lies in the smaller moments. Thorn Tree House offers fantastic birding walks right on the property, and we highly recommend an evening sundowner cruise on the Zambezi. Seeing hippos surface and elephants come to drink as the sun dips below the horizon is simply unforgettable.

What kind of wildlife can we realistically expect to see near Thorn Tree House?

You'll definitely encounter elephants, hippos, and a dazzling array of birdlife along the riverbanks and in the park. While lion sightings are less common here compared to some other reserves, we've had wonderful encounters with buffalo herds and various antelope species. The focus here is more on the sheer beauty of the landscape and the mighty falls.

What's the vibe like at Thorn Tree House – is it rustic or more upscale?

We find Thorn Tree House strikes a perfect balance. The tented camp offers a wonderfully authentic bush experience, while the main house feels luxurious and timeless, with comfortable lounges and excellent food. It’s sophisticated without being stuffy, a place where you can truly relax after a day of exploring.

When is the ideal time to visit Thorn Tree House and what should we pack?

We recommend visiting during the dry season, from May to October, for the best wildlife viewing and comfortable temperatures. Pack light, breathable clothing, a good hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Don't forget a swimsuit for the pool and a warm layer for cooler evenings, especially in June and July.

Other Safari Lodges in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park

Parks in Southern Zambia & Victoria Falls

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Zambia

Travel advisory for Zambia