Canoeing Safaris

Discovering Zambia’s pristine waterways through a canoeing safari offers a unique blend of relaxation and adventure amidst some of Africa’s most breathtaking landscapes. Whether you choose the Upper Zambezi or the Lower Zambezi River, each route promises unforgettable encounters with wildlife and the natural beauty that has captivated explorers for centuries.

Canoeing On The Upper Zambezi | African Safari Blog

Upper Zambezi River Canoeing Safari

Embarking on a canoe or kayak safari on the Upper Zambezi River is a tranquil journey through scenes that inspired Dr. David Livingstone himself. This section of the river, upstream of the Victoria Falls, is renowned for its astonishingly beautiful scenery and abundant wildlife.

  • Scenic Beauty: The Upper Zambezi is dotted with picturesque islands of varying sizes, each a haven for diverse birdlife and small animals. Paddling along these serene waters, you’ll witness landscapes that seem untouched by time, echoing with the calls of exotic birds.
  • Historical Route: Dr. Livingstone’s exploration path is retraced along these banks, where he penned his awe-inspired observations of the region’s natural splendor. It’s a journey that connects you with history while immersing you in the unspoiled beauty that fascinated explorers and adventurers alike.
Canoeing
Map of Upper Zambezi River

Lower Zambezi River Canoeing Safari

For those seeking a blend of relaxed exploration and thrilling wildlife encounters, a canoeing safari on the Lower Zambezi River offers an unparalleled experience.

  • Abundant Wildlife: Flanked by national parks on both sides—Lower Zambezi on the Zambian side and Mana Pools on the Zimbabwean—the Lower Zambezi is teeming with wildlife. As you leisurely paddle downstream, guided by experienced river guides, you’ll have ample opportunities to spot hippos, elephants, zebras, pukus, impalas, buffalos, kudus, waterbucks, baboons, and crocodiles along the banks.
  • Comfort and Adventure: Operators offer multi-day trips where you overnight in comfortable bush camps on the riverbanks, enjoying delicious meals and proper beds under the star-studded African sky. For a more hands-on adventure, participatory canoeing trips involve setting up camps on islands along the way, fostering a deeper connection with the wilderness and camaraderie among fellow adventurers.
Canoeing
Map showing Lower Zambezi river

South Luangwa Additions

If you prefer a shorter aquatic adventure without sacrificing the thrill of wildlife sightings, lodges in South Luangwa also offer canoeing as a morning or afternoon activity. The Luangwa River, while more unpredictable, still offers stable kayaking conditions suitable for observing riverine wildlife in their natural habitat.Zambezi River Challenge: Paddle challenge to Zambia

Conclusion

Zambia’s canoeing safaris are not just about navigating through stunning landscapes or encountering diverse wildlife; they’re about immersing yourself in the rhythms of Africa’s great rivers. Whether you’re tracing Livingstone’s historic journey on the Upper Zambezi or drifting through wildlife-rich waters on the Lower Zambezi, each paddle stroke brings you closer to the heart of this remarkable continent.

So, pack your sense of adventure and embark on a canoeing safari in Zambia—where relaxation meets excitement and every bend of the river reveals a new marvel of nature waiting to be captured and cherished.

OUR PACKAGES

1-Day Victoria Falls Tour: Must-See Spots
13 Days Luxury Zimbabwe Safari
Victoria Falls Honeymoon Itinerary: Romantic Escapes
13 Days Luxury Zimbabwe Safari
9 Days Victoria Falls, Hwange, Matobo
3 Days Victoria Falls Adventure
5 Days Victoria Falls and Hwange
4 Day Victoria Falls Fly-in Safari
Victoria Falls Honeymoon Itinerary: Romantic Escapes

Contact Us

Top Selling Packages

3-Day Victoria Falls Adventure

3-Day Makuni Big 5 Safari Adventure

13 Days Luxury Zimbabwe Safari

10 Days Zambezi and Victoria Falls

9 Days Zimbabwe Victoria Falls Safari

3 Days Victoria Falls Adventure

5 Days Victoria Falls and Hwange

Victoria Falls Honeymoon Itinerary: Romantic Escapes

7-Day Tour: Exploring Victoria Falls

9 Days Victoria Falls and Okavango

12 Days Zambia Family Holiday

6 Days Victoria Falls and Hwange

9 Days Hwange and Victoria Falls

7 Days Victoria Falls, Hwange NP

Packages with Gorilla trekking Experience

9 Days Victoria Falls, Hwange, Matobo

5 Days Victoria Falls  and Gorilla

 9 Days Luxury Namibia and Gorilla Trekking

12 Days Kruger Reserves and Gorilla

3 Days Uganda Gorilla Trekking

South Africa Packages

12 Days Exclusive Safari and Cape Splendor

10 Days Kruger Private Reserves & Cape Town

12 Days Kruger Reserves and Gorilla Trekking Safari

6 Days Panorama Route Tour

4 Days Tremisana Lodge Kruger Park Safari

3 Days Kruger and Swaziland Cultural Tour

3 Days Kruger National Park Camping Safari

10 Days Kruger Private Reserves & Cape Town

Namibia Packages

9 Days Luxury Namibia and Gorilla Trekking Safari

6 Days Etosha, Swakopmund & Sossusvlei (Camping)

5 Days Taste of Etosha

3 Days Etosha Guided Camping Safari

7 Days Namibia Luxury Safari

7 Days Best of Namibia

Zimbabwe Packages

6 Days Zimbabwe Private Tour

5 Days Victoria Falls and Hwange National Park Safari

4 Day Victoria Falls Fly-in Safari

3 Days Victoria Falls Experience Staying at Phezulu Lodge

3 Days Kariba Sailing Safari (Self-Drive Add-on)

1 Day Victoria Falls, Game Drive with Bush Dinner

9 Days Hwange and Victoria Falls Safari

8 Days Chobe and Victoria Falls Tour

7 Days Victoria Falls, Hwange NP and Matobo NP Experience

Uganda Packages with Gorilla Trekking Experience