Canoeing Safari | 7H

Escape the crowds and experience the Zambezi River as few travelers ever do.

The Upper Zambezi Canoe Safari is one of the most peaceful, scenic and rewarding activities around Victoria Falls. Paddle through crystal-clear channels, drift past hidden islands, and explore one of Africa's greatest rivers before it plunges over Victoria Falls.

Surrounded by the untouched wilderness of Zambezi National Park, this unforgettable canoeing adventure combines wildlife viewing, birdwatching, river exploration and breathtaking scenery into one incredible experience.

Keep watch along the riverbanks for elephants, buffalo, giraffe, zebra, waterbuck, crocodiles and hippos, while overhead African Fish Eagles, kingfishers and countless other bird species complete the soundtrack to your adventure.

Whether you are a nature lover, photographer, birdwatcher, family or simply looking for a unique way to experience Victoria Falls, this safari offers a completely different side of Africa's most famous destination.

Why Choose a Zambezi Canoe Safari?

Explore the Upper Zambezi River above Victoria Falls
Spot elephants, hippos, crocodiles and abundant wildlife
Incredible birdwatching opportunities

Discover untouched islands and hidden river channels
Guided by experienced professional river guides
Suitable for beginners and first-time paddlers
Includes game drive, breakfast and riverside lunch
One of the most scenic activities in Victoria Falls

Unlike motorized tours, canoeing allows you to experience the river quietly and naturally, bringing you closer to Africa's wildlife and wilderness.

What to Expect

Your day begins with an early morning transfer and game drive through the spectacular Zambezi National Park, where wildlife sightings often start before you even reach the river.

After a light breakfast and safety briefing, you'll board your stable canoe and begin drifting through the magnificent Upper Zambezi.

The river here is calm and tranquil, flowing through a maze of channels, islands and riverine forests. Along the way, your guide will share fascinating insights about the river's ecosystem, local wildlife and rich birdlife.

You may encounter:

• Elephants drinking at the water's edge

• Hippo pods resting in sheltered channels

• Crocodiles basking along sandy banks

• Buffalo crossing the river

• Giraffe, zebra and antelope along the shoreline

• African Fish Eagles, kingfishers and hundreds of bird species

Midway through the journey, you'll stop for a local riverside lunch before continuing your safari. The experience concludes with a scenic return through the national park, often providing even more wildlife sightings.

Nature, Wildlife & Birdwatching Paradise

The Upper Zambezi is widely regarded as one of Southern Africa's premier birding destinations.

Bird enthusiasts regularly spot:

• African Finfoot

• Half-Collared Kingfisher

• African Fish Eagle

• Collared Palm Thrush

• Herons

• Bee-eaters

• Cormorants

• Egrets

For photographers and wildlife lovers, every bend of the river presents a new opportunity.

No Experience Required

Never paddled before?

No problem.

The Upper Zambezi Canoe Safari is designed for beginners and casual adventurers. Full instruction is provided before departure, and your guide remains with the group throughout the experience.

Modern inflatable canoes are stable, comfortable and self-draining, making the trip accessible for most guests with reasonable mobility.

Canoe Safari Quick Facts

• Location: Upper Zambezi River, above Victoria Falls

• Duration: 6 to 7 hours

• Minimum Age: 7 Years

• Experience Required: None

• Fitness Level: Moderate, but being able to swim

• Wildlife: Elephant, hippo, crocodile, buffalo, giraffe, zebra and more

• Birdlife: Hundreds of species including African Fish Eagle and Kingfishers

• Included: Transfers, canoe equipment, life jacket, snacks, lunch and guide

• Photo Friendly: Dry bags available for cameras and valuables

A Hidden Gem Among Victoria Falls Activities

When most visitors think of Victoria Falls, they picture the waterfall itself. Few realise that just upstream lies one of Africa's most beautiful wilderness experiences.

The Upper Zambezi Canoe Safari offers a rare chance to slow down, disconnect and immerse yourself in nature. It's peaceful, authentic and incredibly rewarding, making it one of the best-kept secrets in Victoria Falls.

Watch elephants wander the riverbanks.

Listen to Fish Eagles calling overhead.

Drift through untouched wilderness.

Experience the Zambezi the way nature intended.

What to Bring

• Comfortable quick-dry clothing that cover you from the sun

• Hat with a wide brim

• Sunglasses

• Sunscreen

• Insect repellent

• Secure sandals or river shoes

• Camera

• Lightweight jacket during winter months

• Passport

• Payment in cash (USD or Kwacha)

Included:

✔ All transport

✔ Water and a small selection of soft-drinks during the day

✔ snacks and a packed lunch (local)

✔ Park fees

*Please be aware that tips are not included in this part of the world. Giving a tip is always voluntary.

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