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Lower Zambezi & The Mighty Zambezi River

Trade the dusty tracks for wild river channels, tracking wildlife on foot and drifting past wallowing hippos.

Zambezi | Canoeing | Boat trip | Walking Safaris | Night game drive | Frequently Asked Queustions
Zambezi | Canoeing | Boat trip | Walking Safaris | Night game drive | FAQs

Life Along the Zambezi River

The Lower Zambezi feels different to most safari destinations in Zambia. Located around 170 kilometres south-east of Lusaka and sitting directly on the border with Zimbabwe, this is a region where the river takes centre stage. Unlike many parks where everything revolves around game drives, life here revolves around the Zambezi River. One minute you're cruising past a pod of hippos, the next you're watching elephants splash their way between islands or spotting a lion wandering along the riverbank.

The river shapes everything here, creating a network of channels, floodplains and islands that are best explored by boat, canoe and on foot. Combined with relatively low visitor numbers and a huge variety of activities, it's the kind of place where it's very easy to spend a few days and wish you'd booked a few more.

Activities in Lower Zambezi & Zambezi River

Step off the safari vehicle and dive into the ultimate river-based adventure in Africa’s most dynamic water wilderness.

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Canoeing the Zambezi River

The Zambezi was made for canoeing. Sitting low on the water with an experienced local guide, you'll slowly make your way through channels and around islands that many visitors never reach. The perspective from a canoe is completely different to a game drive. You're at eye level with the river, drifting quietly past elephants feeding along the banks, pods of hippos surfacing nearby and kingfishers darting between the reeds.

The wildlife often feels surprisingly close, and because you're moving with the flow of the river rather than against it, animals tend to carry on with their day around you. One minute you're floating through a quiet channel shaded by giant winterthorn trees, the next you're rounding a corner to find a herd of elephants crossing between islands. It's one of the most memorable ways to experience the Lower Zambezi.

Sunset Boat Cruises

A classic Zambezi boat cruise is one of the best ways to spend an evening in the Lower Zambezi. With a cold sundowner drink in hand, you'll head out onto the river just as the day begins winding down and wildlife starts becoming more active along the banks. Elephants often come down to drink, hippos begin emerging from the water and crocodiles line the sandbanks catching the last warmth of the day.

The changing colours of an African sunset reflected on the river are reason enough to be there, but it's the combination of wildlife, open water and the relaxed pace of the experience that makes these cruises so popular. A pretty good way to end a safari day, if you ask us.

Walking Safaris in the Lower Zambezi

Every now and then it's worth leaving the vehicle behind and experiencing the bush on foot. Together with an experienced guide and armed scout, you'll walk through the riverine forests and along the banks of the Zambezi, following people who know this landscape like the back of their hand. The real magic of a walking safari is that everything suddenly feels much closer.

Fresh tracks in the sand become clues, alarm calls start making sense and wildlife encounters feel completely different when you're standing on the same ground as the animals. Coming across elephants feeding nearby or watching a herd of buffalo move through the bush while on foot is equal parts exciting and humbling. It's one of the most immersive ways to experience the Lower Zambezi and often becomes the story people tell most when they get home.

Night Game Drives

A lot happens in the Lower Zambezi after dark. While the heat in the middle of the day sends many animals looking for shade, the cooler evening hours are when predators start moving. Lions become more active, hyenas begin patrolling and leopards leave the cover of the riverine forest to hunt.

Heading out on a night drive gives you the chance to witness a side of the bush that most visitors never see. With a spotlight scanning the darkness ahead, every pair of glowing eyes becomes a potential sighting. One moment it's a bushbaby bouncing through the trees, the next it could be a leopard stalking through the grass. The excitement comes from knowing that anything could happen and that the bush is at its busiest while most people are asleep.

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All frequently asked questions about Lower Zambezi & Zambezi river

What is the best time of year to visit the Lower Zambezi?

The best time to visit is during the dry season, from May to October. During these months, vegetation is thin and water sources dry up inland, forcing large concentrations of wildlife to gather along the banks of the Zambezi River. July to October offers the absolute peak game-viewing conditions.

Is it safe to go canoeing on a river filled with hippos and crocodiles?

Yes, canoeing safaris are highly safe when conducted with our professional, certified river guides. These guides possess years of experience and deep knowledge of river safety, knowing exactly how to read animal behavior and navigate the channels while keeping a safe, respectful distance from hippos and crocodiles.

How do I get to Lower Zambezi National Park?

Most travelers take a scenic domestic flight from Lusaka (Zambia's capital) to local bush airstrips like Jeki or Royal. From there, a game drive or boat transfer brings you directly to your lodge. Alternatively, adventurous travelers can opt for a road transfer combined with a scenic boat ride down the river.

Can I visit the Lower Zambezi as part of a family vacation?

Absolutely. Many safari camps welcome families and offer specialized activities. However, due to safety regulations on the water, canoeing safaris and walking safaris usually have a minimum age limit of 12 to 14 years. Traditional game drives and boat cruises are perfect for all ages.

What should I pack for a Lower Zambezi safari?

Pack lightweight, neutral-colored clothing (khaki, beige, green), a wide-brimmed hat, polarized sunglasses, sunscreen, and effective insect repellent. Since much of your time is spent on the water, a waterproof bag for your camera and binoculars is highly recommended, along with a warm fleece for cool morning boat rides.

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