The Zambezi River is a world renowned 2574 kilometer long river prominent in the countries of Zimbabwe and Zambia. It is the longest east-flowing river in Africa, flowing into the Indian Ocean. It is an impressive water body and for guests to properly experience the sheer beauty and magnificence of the river, they can partake in a range of adventure activities from any of the camps situated on the River in Zimbabwe and Zambia. Activities on offer include boating, sunset boat cruises, canoeing, and if that is not enough you can enjoy exhilarating river rafting or a guided tour of the magnificent Victoria Falls.
Boat cruises are an ideal way to slowly enjoy the river, the surrounding landscape and the wildlife which calls this area home. From your comfy seat on board you will have a front seat to some of the best scenery and wildlife sightings in Africa. Depending on sightings, the cruise may last for approximately 1-2 hours.
Departing from Ruckomechi Camp (Mana Pools) on your sunset cruise your boat guide will first take you upstream where you will move slowly along the riverbank and between islands. You will have the opportunity to see a variety of water birds, herds of elephants, hippo, antelope and even crocodiles on the riverbank and islands. Upstream from camp you may stop at the breeding site of Carmine Bee-eaters on the riverbank (depending on the season). These birds are migrants and migrate to this area every year for their annual breeding season. The nests are situated in holes in the riverbank and it’s amazing to watch the feeding and flying frenzy at the nesting site while the male birds work to feed the females. Sundowners will be enjoyed on the boat which gives you ample opportunity for that special sunset photograph on the Zambezi.
Sunset cruises on the Zambezi are also offered at Toka Leya Camp (Livingstone) which is situated upstream from the Victoria Falls. Here a qualified guide will steer the boat upstream and through a few rapids (exciting!) to calmer waters. From your comfy seat on board you have an impressive and expansive view of the mighty waters of the Zambezi. Here you are surrounded by the lush green trees on the riverbank, pods of hippo and many different species of water birds. You may even be so lucky as to spot a giraffe or bushbuck from the boat. The cruise is slow and relaxed and throughout it your guide will educate and inform you on the various species seen. As this area is a renowned area for tourists the river is quite busy with various types and sizes of boats moving up and downstream during sunset. Before heading back to camp you will be treated with drinks and snacks on board while watching the sun set on another beautiful day in Africa.
Canoeing takes place either in the morning or afternoon from Ruckomechi Camp. Experienced canoe guides lead you on this activity in 2-person canoes. They know the river (and its wildlife and bird life) extremely well. Your guide will do most of the rowing, while you have the chance to enjoy the immense beauty of the surrounding water and mountains. You will pass by herds of elephants, pods of hippo and crocodiles and your guide will show you special water birds too. Canoeing is extremely safe and your guide is well-trained in the precise way to manoeuvre the canoe between pods of hippos and herds of elephants.
Being so close to the water and the wildlife you will feel an amazing calm and peacefulness descend on you. This is truly the best way to experience the wonder of the Zambezi and all it has to offer. The trip usually lasts for about 1-2 hours where after you will be spoiled by sundowners at a pre-chosen spot. After my last canoeing trip we were treated to a sighting of wild dogs and buffalo not far away from where we were enjoying our drinks. From here you will enjoy a short night-drive back to camp and you may even be so lucky as to spot some predators along the way.