At 2,574km (1,599 miles) long, the Zambezi River is the 4th longest river in Africa. Its source is in the aptly named Zambezi Source Forest Reserve to the north west of Zambia and it curves its way round through Angola and back into Zambia down to the south. Here it becomes the border for around 500km between Zambia and it’s neighbours – Namibia and Zimbabwe. It then comes crashing over Victoria Falls before continuing its epic journey through Lake Kariba, Lower Zambezi National Park and out towards the Indian Ocean via Mozambique. Quite a journey!
Throughout the dry season, the Zambezi is the focus point of a significant migration of the area’s game – the river is the only source of water for large elephant and buffalo herds. With the water well over a kilometre wide at points, boat safaris on the Zambezi are among the finest in Africa. However, there is something about the power and sheer size of the river that makes boat safaris here the best of all.
Where to stay at the River Zambezi?
We recommend canoe safaris from a range of different camps, as well as standard boat safaris on the Zambezi. Chongwe is a great luxurious option, but one that still offers great value. However, our favourite camps for a Zambezi safari, are Chiawa and Old Mondoro. These two lodges are quite simply our office favourites.