Zambezi Canoeing Safari
About This Experience
Paddle peacefully through the pristine wilderness of the upper Zambezi River on a canoeing safari that combines gentle adventure with exceptional wildlife viewing. This activity offers a unique perspective on the river ecosystem, bringing you eye-level with hippos, elephants, and countless bird species in their natural habitat.
Your safari begins upstream from Victoria Falls where the Zambezi flows calmly through channels and around islands, creating the perfect environment for canoeing. After a safety briefing and paddling instruction, you'll launch in stable two-person canoes (or single if you prefer), following your expert guide who navigates the best channels for wildlife spotting. The silent nature of paddling allows you to approach animals much closer than motorized boats, creating intimate wildlife encounters.
As you glide through the water, hippos surface near your canoe (at a safe distance), elephants wade in to drink and bathe, and crocodiles sun themselves on the banks. The birdlife is spectacular, with African fish eagles, kingfishers, herons, and countless other species visible along the riverbanks. Full-day trips include a picnic lunch on a scenic island, while half-day options focus on either morning or afternoon when wildlife is most active. The combination of gentle paddling, stunning scenery, and incredible wildlife makes this one of the most memorable ways to experience the Zambezi.
What's Included
Why This Activity is Popular
Canoeing offers the perfect balance of gentle adventure and wildlife viewing. It's active enough to feel like an adventure but calm enough for most fitness levels and ages. The close wildlife encounters and beautiful scenery create a true African safari experience from the water.
What to Expect
Canoe safaris offer a peaceful way to explore the Upper Zambezi. You'll paddle two-person canoes downstream from above Victoria Falls, gliding silently through channels and islands. Expert guides lead the group, pointing out wildlife—elephants drinking at riverbanks, hippos surfacing nearby, crocodiles basking, and abundant birdlife. The gentle current does most of the work; basic paddling skills handle steering. Full-day trips include riverside lunch and cover 15-20km. Half-day options available for shorter experiences.
Important Information
No canoeing experience necessary—guides provide instruction. Moderate fitness required for several hours of light paddling. Minimum age usually 12 years. Wear lightweight, quick-dry clothing and sun protection. Waterproof bags provided. You may get splashed but won't get soaked like rafting. Dry season (May-October) offers best wildlife viewing.
Best Time to Book
May-October (dry season) for concentrated wildlife at water sources. Early morning departures (7am) offer coolest temperatures and most active animals. November-April (wet season) has lusher scenery but more dispersed wildlife.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I've never canoed before?
Perfect for beginners! Guides provide comprehensive instruction and the Zambezi's gentle current (upstream from the falls) makes it easy. You'll paddle in two-person canoes, so you can share the work with a partner. Most time is spent drifting and enjoying wildlife.
How close do you get to hippos and crocodiles?
Guides maintain safe distances. They're experts in animal behavior and know how to approach wildlife without disturbing them or putting guests at risk. Hippos are usually at a distance; crocodiles are often on distant banks. It's thrilling but safe.
Is it tiring?
Not particularly. The current helps, and you're mostly steering rather than power-paddling. There are frequent breaks for wildlife viewing. Anyone with moderate fitness and ability to sit for extended periods can manage comfortably.
Pro Tips & Insider Advice
Sit in the front of the canoe for better wildlife viewing and photo opportunities. Bring a waterproof bag for camera/phone even though you won't get very wet—occasional splashes happen. This is the most peaceful Victoria Falls activity—perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone seeking a calmer adventure between high-adrenaline activities.
per person
Perfect For
Location
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe & Zambia border