Thorn Tree Safaris - Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park

Thorn Tree Safaris is a guesthouse near Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park.

Location
Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, Southern Zambia & Victoria Falls, Zambia, Southern Africa
Coordinates
-17.885021, 25.861305
Activities
guesthouse

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 Safaris

The best months to visit Thorn Tree Safaris 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 vibe like at Thorn Tree Safaris, and is it a good base for exploring Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park?

We found Thorn Tree Safaris to be a wonderfully relaxed and welcoming guesthouse, a true home away from home. It’s perfectly situated for easy access to the Zambian side of Victoria Falls, and we loved being able to pop back for a refreshing dip in their pool after a morning spent marveling at the spray. The staff are incredibly knowledgeable about the park and can arrange all your activities.

Beyond the falls, what other activities does Thorn Tree Safaris offer or recommend nearby?

While the falls are undoubtedly the main draw, Thorn Tree Safaris offers more than just a bed. We highly recommend their guided walking safaris within Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park for a more intimate wildlife experience – you might spot elephants or various antelope species. They also have great connections for sunset river cruises on the Zambezi, which are simply sensational.

What kind of accommodation can we expect at Thorn Tree Safaris, and is it suitable for families?

The rooms at Thorn Tree Safaris are comfortable and clean, with a charming, understated feel that we found very appealing. While it’s not a sprawling luxury resort, the lodge feels personal and well-maintained. We think it’s a great option for families looking for a convenient and friendly base, offering a more authentic guesthouse experience than a large hotel.

When is the best time to visit Thorn Tree Safaris to experience the falls and wildlife?

We generally advise visiting during the dry season, from May to October, when the Zambezi River is lower and the wildlife congregates closer to water sources in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park. However, the falls are most powerful in the wet season, typically from February to April, though some viewing paths might be affected by the spray. Thorn Tree Safaris is open year-round, so you can choose based on your priorities.

What are the typical costs associated with staying at Thorn Tree Safaris and doing activities?

Thorn Tree Safaris offers excellent value, providing comfortable accommodation without the hefty price tag of some larger lodges. We found their rates to be very reasonable for the location and service. Expect to budget separately for park entrance fees to Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park and any activities you choose, like guided walks or boat trips, which are competitively priced through the guesthouse.

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