How to Experience the Best of The Zambezi River

Known as the River of Life, the Zambezi river is a treasure trove of natural beauty, exhilarating adventure activities and epic wildlife encounters.

Whether you are a thrill seeking adventurer or simply looking to immerse yourself in its breathtaking scenery, the Zambezi has something for everyone. What makes this place so fascinating to visit is the many different activities that the Zambezi river plays host to during your trip, each offering their own unique way to experience this world famous waterway.

However, with so much choice knowing where to start can be a bit of a challenge. So, here are our recommendations on how to experience the very best of what this mighty river has to offer.

The Zambezi river is Africa's fourth-longest river, flowing over 2,500 km through six countries before reaching the Indian Ocean. From the heart of Zambia, it travels through Angola, Namibia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe, finishing its journey in Mozambique.

The Zambezi river originates high in the Miombo woodland forests of Zambia's North-West, about 1,500 metres above sea level. From its humble beginnings, it swells into the powerful river that gave Zambia its name, and serves as a lifeline for the diverse ecosystems and communities that thrive along its banks.

One of the quintessential Zambezi river activities is a safari river cruise and is the perfect way to soak in the atmosphere of this magnificent river. While there are a variety of options to choose from, we recommend going at sunset when much of the wildlife is at its most active and the sky transforms into stunning hues of orange and pink.

Glide down the river and take in the African landscape while enjoying a delicious evening dinner out in nature. As you gently meander down the river, the sound of birdsong, and the gentle lapping of water is sure to relax you.

Cruises start from the town of Livingstone in Zambia or Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe with both offering spectacular wildlife viewing opportunities. Expect to see herds of elephants making their way to the riverbanks for an evening drink, and maybe even a pride of lions lazing on the shores as they rest up before a night spent hunting. A sunset river cruise is one of the best ways to take in the true magic and beauty of this life-sustaining river.

Canoe safaris on the Zambezi river offer a more intimate and immersive way to explore its wonders. Paddling along the water, you almost become part of it yourself, allowing for fascinating encounters with its wildlife.

These safaris are particularly popular in the Mana Pools National Park in Zimbabwe and the Lower Zambezi National Park in Zambia. Both are known for their healthy populations of elephants along with the chance to spot lions, leopards and even African wild dogs.

As you steer through the water, you’ll encounter herds of buffalos grazing along the riverbanks and pods of hippos cooling off in the water. A canoe safari is the perfect opportunity to see the river’s ecosystem up close and is one of our most highly recommended Zambezi river activities to take part in during your trip.

Of course no visit to the Zambezi river would be complete without experiencing the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls. Known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya, or The Smoke that Thunders, Victoria Falls is one of the largest and most famous waterfalls on earth. As one of the seven natural wonders of the world, the sheer power and beauty of the falls are mesmerising, with millions of litres of water cascading over the edge every minute.

For the more adventurous, a dip in the Devil's Pool is a must. This natural infinity pool, located right on the edge of the falls in Zambia, offers one of the most thrilling experiences you can have. Here, you can take in the stunning view while feeling the full force of the river flowing past you as it plunges down to the bedrock below.

However, the most spectacular way to experience the falls is by helicopter ride. Soar through the skies on a scenic flight high above the falls, where you will witness the true might and beauty of this natural wonder.

A helicopter tour provides unparalleled panoramic views, allowing you to capture breathtaking photos and see the Zambezi river winding its way through the region from this unrivalled vantage point. A true bucket list experience, it should not be missed on your travels to the Zambezi.

For adrenaline junkies, white water rafting on the Zambezi river is an experience like no other. The river's lower section, particularly near Victoria Falls, offers some of the most challenging and exhilarating rapids in the world. As you navigate through the roaring waters of Batoka Gorge, the dramatic African landscape will leave you in awe.

Rafting trips often begin just below Victoria falls, where the river narrows and speeds up. Between the heart-pounding rapids, you'll have moments of calm to soak in the dramatic scenery including towering cliffs, lush forests, and the chance to spot wildlife such as buffalos, giraffes, zebras and impalas grazing nearby.

The Zambezi River is also a paradise for fishing enthusiasts. Its waters are home to hundreds of fish species, including the highly prized tiger fish, known for its ferocious nature and reputation as one of the hardest fighting freshwater fish in the world.

Expert fishing guides will provide you with the best tips and techniques to improve your chances of landing a prize catch. It makes for a perfect activity for those on a family trip and will be an unforgettable experience for both the young and old.

Little ones will love casting their rods out of the river and reeling in their first ever fish, while experienced anglers will relish the challenge of trying to land one of the river's large species including the aforementioned tiger fish, along with bream and catfish.

Fishing trips typically take place by boat, along the calmer sections of the river, where the water's slower pace makes for an ideal spot to cast your line and take in the beauty of nature.

As you patiently wait for a bite, you may catch sight of elephants crossing the river. The riverbanks, lined with lush vegetation, are also frequented by waterbucks and warthogs, all adding to the richness of your fishing adventure.

The Zambezi is home to numerous bird species, making it one of the best places for birdwatching in all of Africa. Birding tours are incredibly popular here and are led by expert guides who know the area exceptionally well.

Whether you choose to explore the riverbanks on foot or sail down the river by boat, you'll encounter a wealth of birdlife both in the trees overlooking the river and in the water itself. This includes sightings of such birds as the African fish eagle, giant kingfisher and African skimmer.

Ospreys can often be seen flying overhead, searching the water for fish, along with great egrets and herons wading in the shallows. Be sure to bring your binoculars to fully appreciate the array of birdlife that awaits you.

If you would like to explore this fasincating region on your very own luxury trip then get in touch with our travel experts on +44 (0) 20 3821 5994 (UK), +1 (833) 215 9353 (US) or at explore@niarratravel.com and start planning your epic adventure to the Zambezi river now.