Zambezi Canoe Safari
Experience Overview
Encounter the spectacular wildlife and incredible scenery of Zambia in as intimate and active way as possible. The mighty Zambezi is an excellent location for a canoe safari. Camping on secluded beaches, the days are spent relishing magnificent scenery and abundant game, while passing the ever-present basking crocodiles and hippos. Away from the water, we have plenty of time for game walks and drives to experience the diverse wildlife and remarkable scenery this region offers.
This trip includes a few of our Citizen Science Departures. These special departures offer you the opportunity to be involved in the collection of freshwater samples during the trip. The environmental DNA information derived from this sample contributes directly to the eBioAtlas, the world’s largest repository of flora and fauna species data, contributing to the conservation and restoration of biodiversity both locally and globally. To book onto one of these special departures, see the Dates & Prices tab. For more information on these departures and the eBioAtlas, click here.
Profile
— Accommodation: 7 Simple nights (participatory camping, 4 wild camping and 3 tented camp) — Travel by open canoes on the Zambezi River — No previous experience necessary — Citizen Science departures available on this trip
At a Glance
— Accommodation: 7 Simple nights (participatory camping, 4 wild camping and 3 tented camp) — Travel by open canoes on the Zambezi River — No previous experience necessary — Citizen Science departures available on this trip
Trip For You
This trip is graded Activity Level 4 (Moderate & Challenging) with a Wildlife Rating of Four. For more information on our trip gradings, visit the Activity Level Guidelines page or our Wildlife Holidays page for more on our Wildlife Ratings. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip, please contact us.
Itinerary: This is generally a comfortable participatory safari but, as it goes through some wild country, come prepared to be flexible and expect delays or inconveniences. Travel is by Canadian-style 5.5m (18ft) two-person canoes and open-backed safari vehicle.
Fitness and experience: No previous experience is necessary but you should have a reasonable level of fitness as it is an active trip. An ability to swim is recommended.
Safety: Lifejackets are provided, which must be worn when you're in the canoe.
Eating Drinking
All breakfasts, seven lunches and seven dinners are included.
Meals are prepared for you but group members are asked to assist in preparation and washing up.
Typical meals
Breakfast: Cereals or coffee and toast plus a fried breakfast on most daysLunch: Fresh salads, cold meats, cheese, bread, condiments, fruitEvening meal (biggest meal of the day): Stews, pasta, curry, local cuisine
Vegetarians can be catered for but, given the difficulties of preparing different meals while wild camping, the variety of food may be limited.
Please indicate special dietary requirements (eg vegetarian or allergies) when booking. We supply the following drinks: fruit squash served throughout, and tea or coffee served with breakfast and dinner.
There is always a plentiful supply of chlorinated water available (sometimes even chilled!) and we encourage you to drink water throughout the day to avoid dehydration.
All other beverages are at your own expense and can be purchased at the supermarket in Lusaka prior to travelling to the river.
Transportation
Travel is by Canadian-style 5.5m (18ft) two-person canoes. Transport on land is in a minibus or Landcruiser for road transfers and safaris.
Travelling conditions
Most of the roads in Zambia are reasonably well maintained; however, some stretches have a few potholes and rough surfaces depending on the previous rainy season. Some travel is on unsurfaced roads, some of which are quite dusty and bumpy (eg during the game drives).
Safety
Exodus strive to ensure client safety and take all necessary precautions. On certain sections of this itinerary, we are likely to come into proximity of several different wildlife species. These mainly include hippos, elephants, buffalos and, occasionally, crocodiles while on the water, along with a variety of other game while on foot. As all wildlife is potentially dangerous, it is important to heed all advice given to you by the guide and to follow instructions accordingly.
Lifejackets are available for those who would like to wear them.
Joining Instructions
Key information
Start point: Lusaka Airport (LUN)
Recommended arrival time: Do not book flights arriving after midday on the first day
Airport: Lusaka Airport (LUN)
Getting to the start accommodation
On the first day, we meet as a group at Lusaka Airport for an early afternoon transfer to the Zambezi River. It is essential you join this group transfer, so please do not book flights arriving after midday on the first day.
If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.
Catching your return flight
There’s a group transfer to Lusaka on the final day, where our tour ends in the late morning. There is then a group departure transfer to Lusaka Airport (LUN) for customers who Exodus booked onto a chosen flight to London, UK. Please speak to your sales representative if you wish to join. If the group departure transfer does not suit your flight time, speak to your sales representative to arrange an alternative transfer.
Weather Information
With exceptionally mild winters, Zambia is best enjoyed during the dry season. This period extends from May to early November. The days are generally dry, hot and sunny with daytime highs around 25C (77F); however, nights can be cool (down to 10C/50F). From June to August, it can be exceptionally cold. September and October are the hottest months, where daytime highs are regularly 35C (95F) and night-time temperatures can be around 23C (73F). Rainfall is generally confined between November and April. Rains normally occur as heavy showers, but they tend to clear rapidly with sunshine still predominant.
Spending Money
There is a cash-only bar at the final hotel that accepts US dollars, so bring some extra cash if you would like to make use of this service.
Tipping
Our local staff are paid well and fairly for their work. Our guides work hard and can be tipped if you feel they have done a good job. Tipping is not compulsory and should only be given (preferably in US dollars) if you feel you received exemplary service. Although entirely optional, we suggest you budget approximately US$42-US$60 in total to be broken down between:
senior river guide/tour leaderassistant guidetwo park rangerssix staff at the fly mainland camp sites and drivers
Your contribution can be placed in a tipping box at the final hotel, which we have found eases the confusion and embarrassment around the tipping process. If you do not wish to add to the tipping box, do not feel pressured.
Highlights
— Experience the peace and tranquillity of canoeing on the Zambezi — Camp under the stars on secluded islands — Game drives in Chiawa Game Management Area, renowned for elephant sightings — Game walks and canoeing in the Lower Zambezi National Park
Trip Details
Product Code: 4265
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: ear them.
Guide Language: English
Tour Operator:
Exodus Travel
Supplier Code: WZC
Starts: Lusaka, Zambezi River
Finishes: Lusaka, Zambezi River
Duration: 8 days
Departures: Not Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Unknown
Includes
— All breakfasts, seven lunches and seven dinners — All accommodation — All transport and listed activities — Tour leader throughoutAccommodation
CampingWe spend four nights camping in two-person dome tents and three nights in set-up bush camps with showers, toilets and large tents. The camping is semi-participatory. You are asked to assist with camp chores and have to put up and dismantle your own tents on the canoeing safari. Most nights are spent wild camping with no facilities provided. All camping equipment is provided.
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $3,800 ($475 /day)
Itinerary
We gather at Lusaka Airport for our transfer to the Zambezi River. Most of this journey to the start of the safari is on tar road with the last section along a bush dirt track, meaning a change to a 4x4 vehicle is necessary. Depending on the time we arrive at the Zambezi River, we cross over to our evening campsite on Nyamumba island by canoe or motorboat. Dinner is prepared by the guide. Please note: If you’re booking your own flights, do not book one arriving after midday. Accommodation: Wild camping (semi-participatory)
We canoe to the Chiawa Game Management Area, which is 11mi (18km) from the Lower Zambezi National Park, just opposite the Mana Pools, where we spend the night in our fly camp on the mainland. This is a wildlife-rich area and renowned for numerous elephant sightings. It is also home to warthogs, waterbucks, impalas, kudus and rare samango monkeys, with many riverine bird species including the lilac-breasted roller. We have an afternoon game walk or game drive through the reserve, where we hope to spot other nocturnal species such as genets, civets, hyenas, porcupines, aardvarks and, if we’re really lucky, the elusive leopard. Accommodation: Fly camp in Game Management Area
Today we canoe from the Chiawa Game Management Area into the Lower Zambezi National Park (approximately 5mi/8km downstream). We have a morning game walk with a guide, and then lunch in the park under the shade of the trees or on the banks of the Zambezi River. After lunch, we are taken on a game drive through the park back to our fly camp on the riverbanks of the Game Management Area. If river water levels are too high in winter (May-July) – which can happen when excess water is released from Lake Kariba – we may use a boat transfer as certain road crossings may be flooded. Accommodation: Fly camp in Game Management Area
We are transferred by road from our bush camp in the Game Management Area to Zambezi Breezes. Should river conditions necessitate, we may use a boat transfer where required. Accommodation: Zambezi Breezes or similar (semi-participatory)
We have an early start today. After breakfast, we transfer approximately four to five hours to Lusaka where our tour ends in the late morning. If you’d like the adventure to continue, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay.
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Tour Operator
Exodus Travel
It’s all about adventure That is what Exodus was founded upon 50 years ago, and what the company is still all about. Discovering countries, cultures, environments, cities, mountain ranges, deserts, coasts and jungles; exploring this amazing planet we all live on. At Exodus, we know what makes you tick when it comes to holidays. It’s a desire shared by so many others. A yearning to visit new places and come home with a real sense of what they’re all about. This means delving into local traditions, cultures, cuisine, lifestyles – anything that contributes to its unique identity. At the same time, we always remember that we are only guests. So we travel courteously and respectfully, in smaller groups to minimise our impact, to ensure that every Exodus holiday is a beneficial experience for everyone involved. This is a philosophy we take with us around the world, helping you reach some incredible destinations on 500 itineraries across over 90 separate countries. We also strive to provide as much flexibility and choice as we possibly can, making it simple for you to experience a very different holiday. Exodus started life on 4 February 1974 when two friends got together to provide an overland truck to travel to the Minaret of Jam, deep in the heart of the Hindu Kush, the most inaccessible of the world’s great monuments. See our history page for more details about how we began and how we have grown over the past 50 years. Never travelled with Exodus before? Visit our New to Exodus page for some useful, first-timer information.
In Business Since 1974
Reviews
Caroline Bissell - Traveled, July 2023
Amazing This trip is suitable for all regardless of canoeing or camping experience. The proximity to the wildlife is far superior to any previous safari’s I have been on. The pace was relaxed, excellent comping equipment, great guide, good food and scenery/wildlife was amazing Most Inspirational Moment The sunrises and sunsets - beautiful Thoughts on Group Leader Put our safety and wellbeing first, but was always happy to laugh and joke with us :-) Advice for Potential Travellers Just enjoy it
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/24/2023
Barry Holmes - Traveled, November 2022
A true adventure This was a brilliant trip for seeing so much wildlife, and getting so close to it, particularly the elephants and hippopotami. Whilst we couldn’t believe how many elephants we saw, we also saw lesser numbers of lions, crocodiles, water buffalo and a miscellanea of birdlife. Insect life was also plentiful, colourful dragonflies by day and fireflies by night. Most Inspirational Moment The fact that you could get safely so close to wild animals like elephants, which you could never do on land. It was magical to go to sleep in your tent knowing elephants and hippos would wander past during the night. Thoughts on Group Leader Our group leader was very friendly, knowledgeable and helpful, one of the best. There were 13 people and six canoes, so one canoe had to take three and we ended up in the canoe with the guide. This was great as he did most of the paddling, making ours a premium adventure! The trip has its' potential hazards; at one stage a large crocodile sallied forth towards us, but our guide got us to splash the water with our paddles which drove it away; he would keep a close eye on us and get us to move back if we were getting potentially too close to elephants in the water.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/30/2022
Katherine Burke - Traveled, August 2022
Wildlife galore!! I’ve just got back from canoeing the Zambezi Valley- what a trip!! We saw hippos, elephants, crocodile, monkeys, baboons, Impala, Kudu, warthogs and even a porcupine and a leopard!! The tents provided were really good- tall enough to stand up in, with mesh panels so you could look out if you wished. The stars at night were beautiful so I’d really recommend that. The canoeing was at a steady pace and suitable for all abilities- the hardest part was often getting in and out of the boat!! If you haven’t camped or kayaked before, don’t be put off, the pace was just right and the support from the leader and assistant leader was great. We also had a couple of game walks and a night game drive. The food was simple, but tasty and there was plenty of it. Most Inspirational Moment Seeing all the wildlife- I loved the hippos and we even had an elephant join us for lunch one day! Thoughts on Group Leader CB was a very good leader- knowledgeable and quick to help with any problems. He definitely had a sense of humour as well! Evans, the assistant leader, was quieter, but always on hand to help. Advice for Potential Travellers Tips- you definitely need a torch and a camera! There are no shops on the trip so if you want snacks or alcohol, buy it on the way to the campsite from the airport. This is not the trip for anyone who likes a lie-in! We had breakfast at 7 every day.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/07/2022
Christopher Bailey - Traveled, August 2019
Canoeing down the Zambezi Go on this trip. Yes, it involves wild camping (no toilets, showers, etc) but the rewards are immense. Close encounters with wild animals, beautiful scenery. The trip is well organised, food is good, and guides are great. Most Inspirational Moment We had visited Kruger Park earlier this year and seen many animals but it was not the same as seeing then close up and personal on this trip. Many close encounters. Highlights include elephants gatecrashing my birthday celebrations, close up views of hippos, crocs, and numerous antelope. Apart from the wildlife, sunrises and sunsets over the Zambezi were pretty impressive. Thoughts on Group Leader Our leader CB exuded a sense of calm and always seemed in control of situations which included persuading elephants to leave our camp. He and his assistant Best looked after us and cooked wonderful meals. It is difficult to praise them too highly. Advice for Potential Travellers Travel light. You do not need that extra t-shirt. Make sure you have sufficient sun cream. Take a camera. Suggestions I have been on a number of adventure holidays. This has got to be one of the best.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/10/2019
John Hirons - Traveled, November 2018
Kayaking the Lower Zambezi This was definitely a trip to get me out of my comfort zone (wild camping and kayaks instead of hotels and minibuses) and certainly did not disappoint. The fact you get so close to the wildlife far outweighed the fact you are wild camping (which I though I would struggle with). The sense of achievement at the end of the week was overwhelming, having travelled such a long distance in a kayak. The safari element far exceeded anything you would imagine and felt far more real than if you were in the back of a safari jeep (which I have done in South Africa). Animals spotted included elephants, hippos, lions, warthogs, buffalo, impala, zebra, baboons (and other monkeys), fish eagle, kingfisher and lots of others too much to mention. The group I was with was amazing and everyone got on so well and helped each other. The food was good throughout the week and we even had a celebratory BBQ on the last night. All in all I can safely say if I can do this holiday (and enjoy it) then anyone can! Most Inspirational Moment Getting so close to the elephants (which is the main reason I chose the holiday). the sense of achievement for actually getting to the end without breaking! Thoughts on Group Leader CB was amazing. Very knowledgeable, humorous, kind, professional and clearly enjoyed his job. It is no wonder he is an award winner. Best made the perfect assistant guide and is clearly learning a great deal from CB. Both together looked after us so well and work brilliantly as a team. Advice for Potential Travellers sunscreen. I ran out of 2 tubs (although half of one ended up at the bottom of the safari truck). Deet - I had 2 and ran out although I was probably the one with more bites than anyone else. Bite cream offers a major relief for the bites. Head torch (with a red light), gloves for the rowing. Prepare for no showers until the comfortable camping half way through but we were able to cool off and kind of clean off in the river a couple of times. It is proper wild camping so there are no toilets until the comfortable camp but the views you get when behind the bushes are literally stunning :-) If you can, add on a quick trip to Livingstone for the Victoria Falls. You are so close it would be a shame to miss it. As well as bringing a load of school supplies bring an extra suncream with you if you can. They give any spare suncream to a charity looking after albino children as it is prohibitively expensive in Zambia. Suggestions Bring your sense of adventure with you and you will not go wrong.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/21/2018
Lynne Bateman - Traveled, October 2018
Best. holiday. ever Best. Holiday. Ever. I cannot recommend enough. CB is bloody amazing as a leader and guide. He’s one guide I will always remember – most guides on adventure holidays are great but instantly forgettable. But his humour and patience meant I felt like he was a friend! Great knowledge and communication skills. A really well organised trip. Group size perfect too. Tents and mattresses perfect. Plenty of water and fruit. We were pleased that upon arrival we didn’t hop directly in the canoes – we stayed at the mainland campsite (sunrise! Honking hippos!). This was fab because there is a shower block there and you are hot and dusty from the transfer/flight. The canoeing is awesome. The campsites were perfect. The food brilliant (I’m veggie). But the animals! My god! So many incredible experiences. I don’t know if we struck lucky but every day got more amazing than the last. It’s so much better to see animals from a canoe than from a Dusty 4×4. Lastly- the group were brilliant!! Tips: We got a kaza visa online, no drama – but you only need this is you are travelling after to Zimbabwe. You need a sticker in your passport not just a stamp! (Our first mistake). By the way, Livingstone is well worth a visit and CB organised a local bus for us. You need minimum kit – we washed in the river every day. As suggested, carry your canoe stuff ready to go in hand luggage. Bring a red light torch (for bugs) gloves (just in case) and definitely binoculars (We were so stupid!) And a zoom lens. And a bottle of rum?! We took a 10 litre dry bag each for clothes and another for the sleeping bag and then shared a camera bag. Most Inspirational Moment The animals! Thoughts on Group Leader He was just wonderful.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/11/2018
Phill Dixon - Traveled, October 2018
Paddling adventure into nature This is a great active safari that will get you close to nature and sleeping out under the stars. We saw lions, birdlife galore, paddled past hippos and were able to stop the canoes and get close to herds of elephant. The canoes are the perfect vehicle for the journey, yes you need to be relatively fit and have a bit of knowledge about a canoe ( they can provide advice or in uk go on a simple paddle start of 1 star canoe intro), but you get so close to animals and they were often relaxed. Also you have great fields of view across the water front. Yes the campsites are basic – pitch a tent on a sandy island but the food is great and plentiful, you don’t need a shower you can dip in the safer shallows of the Zambezi, and you get to wake up to beautiful African sunrises. You do have early starts and early nights but what you get back is worth it. Advice is to have plenty of drybags and try and get a paddle suitable for your height. But anyone with a sense of adventure, a desire to see wildlife and reasonable fitness will enjoy this. Most Inspirational Moment Paddling to one of the islands to watch the gorgeous sunset with elephants eating 50m away. Then listening to them as drift off to sleep. Seeing a pride of 5 lions on a game drive was also pretty special. Thoughts on Group Leader CB was well liked by everyone, right combination of humour, knowledge and always there with advice or a calming reassurance. He clearly loves the job and all the guests agreed he was as much like a friend on the tour as well as never stopping in looking after us. If you needed it then CB would have it or find a way to get it for you. First class guide and especially nice to see him teaching Best the assistant guide in any downtime. Advice for Potential Travellers Packlight but bring an extra t-shirt or top. Antibacterial soap can wash hardwearing clothes if want to do that too. Plenty of bug spray and sunscreen as you will use it. Bring a good point and shoot as well as dslr as in the canoe wielding a big lens isn't always practical. Change about $50 at the airport and get a few bonus items at the shop on the way - you will need about 1 - 2l for the drive in the heat. Try and find a right sized paddle Lastly have most of your stuff for the first 3 nights ready to go in a separate daysack in your softbag. When you reach the 1st camp it is often dark and you don't have much time. Suggestions This is an incredible adventure and feels like a true old style safari up river. It isn't for people who want air con lodges and to be sat 200m from the animals, but if you can skimp on the mod cons it is worth every penny
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/15/2018
Sally and Tony Chewter - Traveled, September 2018
AMAZING! One of the best wildlife experiences ever – to get so close to the hippos and elephants on the river in the canoes was incredible Most Inspirational Moment Sat in the front of the canoe looking a huge male elephant in the eye just 19 feet away Thoughts on Group Leader TK and his assistant Beste were fantastic - helpful, knowledgeable, encouraging, great cooks and brilliant sense of humour. Advice for Potential Travellers Take rowing gloves to prevent blisters Suggestions You do get very close to the wildlife and the hippos and elephants graze and walk through the camps at night - magical moments but not for the faint hearted. And this really is wild camping - no creature comforts but absolutely brilliant .
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/03/2018
Andrew Hankinson - Traveled, July 2018
Just Wow! Since coming back from this trip, I am finding it extremely difficult to put into words just how amazing it really was, so writing a review is going to be even harder. The wildlife is exceptional and not in short supply. The scenery both in the day and in the night is just phenomenal. And finally the whole experience is once in a lifetime! Most Inspirational Moment Jumping out of the minibus just hours after we landed, in the pitch black night, and looking towards the sky to see the brightest sky I have ever witnessed Thoughts on Group Leader CB and Besty were amazing group leaders. We did not have to lift a finger at all over the 6 days. Advice for Potential Travellers I wouldn't worry about taking too many clothes as everyone is in the same boat (excuse the pun!) I would take shoes that you don't mind getting reasonably wet or ones which are easily dried Buy your alcohol at the store on the way to the first campsite (For a 6pk it is around 80 Kwacha) Suggestions Just go and enjoy it!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/23/2018
Francesca Woodman - Traveled, May 2018
An amazing camping and canoeing trip This trip was a truly wonderful experience, canoeing on the Zambezi and camping out under the Milky Way on sandy islands in the middle of the river. We saw very few people and it almost seemed like we had the mighty river to ourselves – only sharing it with hippos, crocodiles, elephants and birds. Paddling downstream with the current the route varied between wide stretches of river and between reed beds on narrower channels, which enabled us to get close to the wildlife. A great group, great guides and a fantastic trip. Most Inspirational Moment Camping on the islands under the stars surrounded by the river and wildlife. Thoughts on Group Leader Excellent Advice for Potential Travellers This is not for people who want constant social media contact or a hot shower every day.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/04/2018
Chrissie Coyle - Traveled, August 2017
Zambezi Valley - Awesome This really was roughing it for 4 days and nights wild camping and canoeing, 2 days in a fly camp with comfortable beds and showers/toilets and 1 night at Zambezi Breezers with a Bar! An awesome trip with great people and a fantastic guide and assistant guide. Most Inspirational Moment Watching and experiencing wildlife as it should be. Hippos, elephants, antelope and deer, warthogs, a variety of exotic birds, just amazing. Being outdoors and on the river, experiencing sunrise and sunsets which photos just can't do justice. Waking up and looking out of your tents to see wildlife wandering nearby. Drifting along with the river, soaking up the sun, breeze, atmosphere, scenery was simply bliss. Thoughts on Group Leader CB (Cuthbert) was truly amazing, he worked like a trojan, was knowledgeable, looked after us all extremely well, kept 12 novice canoeists safe and all with a brilliant sense of humour. His assistant Best, whilst quietly spoken, worked extremely hard and with CB made sure we were very well looked after. Advice for Potential Travellers There isn't much time to re-arrange bags and it could be dark when you arrive so pack enough for 4 days in one bag and pack light, you don't need loads of stuff. Be prepared for long transfers. Suggestions We canoed for 4 to 5 hours a day for 4 days and met a lot of headwinds and so it was really tough but definitely worth it.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/20/2017
Daniel Otto - Traveled, October 2016
The Zambezi Valley Great adventure with loads of hippos (did not expect to see that many), elephants, birds and many others. Canoeing was more a bit harder in some areas than what some of us expected for a leisurely/moderate trip. I would say the trip is at least moderate. Most Inspirational Moment Whilst we had lunch on the 3rd part an elephant herd passed us by, including a what we were told a 1 year old baby elephant. Furthermore, seeing most the animals in harmony with each other made us wonder sometimes why humanity cannot do this. Thoughts on Group Leader Both leader were great and brought a lot of fun to the trip. They were very easy on changing the plans (for example to go swimming) to suit what we would like to do, which was great. Organisational wise (only real downside), I would have hoped for us getting told at the airport to prepare our bags. Packing bags in the darkness, which we had to do and not knowing what we expect in the camps would have been beneficial. I packed far too much of the wrong things, because I didn't know what to pack in the darkness. Advice for Potential Travellers Pack you bags (for the canoe trip) at the airport when you arrive!!! It is the last time you have light. Bigger bag for clothes and things, small bag for thing you need to walk around when you stop (majorly water) - possibly large water bottle is actually enough + dry sack with camera. Water is available the minute you arrive on the campsite, so no need to buy loads of water like on other trips. Money: You actually only need money for tipping and on the first/last day, otherwise there is no possibility to use your money. Suggestions Fantastic trip, really enjoyed it :-)
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/12/2016
John Young - Traveled, September 2016
Exhilirating -- and a little bit exhausting! This is the one for you if you’re happy to rough it, leave the comfort zone, sleep in tents for seven nights on the trot, go without much booze, but gulp down the thrill of knowing you’re transported yourself along a gentle giant of a river and gazed at game from a breathtakingly short distance. Most Inspirational Moment Waking at dawn to see the sun rise over the Zambezi, knowing the day held in store a manageable physical challenge, a sense of manageable danger, and every chance of watching elephant, hippo and crocs at very close quarters. Thoughts on Group Leader Cuthbert was exceptional. Tireless. Talented. Wise. A great cook, manager of people, reader of moods. And above all, he knew where the boundaries lay between safety and danger. Advice for Potential Travellers Be ready to rough it -- seven nights under canvass are indeed seven nights under canvass, and four of them really are without any washing or toilet facilities at all -- though the Zambezi itself makes a wonderful alternative to a shower. And if you feel a beer or glass of wine over dinner is fair reward for five or so hours on a canoe -- insist that your driver stops so you can stock up before you rich the river on day one. Otherwise this becomes a six day detox you may not have bargained for. Suggestions Stock up in your luggage with as many things as you can for the school you visit on day six. It needn't be expensive -- raid the Pound Shop for pens, pencils, calculators, crayons -- we regretted not bringing more when we saw the reality of how little the children have.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/08/2016
Yvette Fernley - Traveled, October 2016
The Zambezi River An excellent trip, one of the best holidays we’ve had Most Inspirational Moment Prepare to leave your comfort zone and enter the world of the Zambezi with its currents and wind taking you so close to its wildlife that you feel that you've entered their world. Relaxing and tranquil but with plenty of excitement and wonder: hippos swimming under the canoes, crocs slipping off the bank into the water as we passed by, an elephant mother and youngster feeding only feet away from us. Not to mention frequent stops for cooling swims in the very clean water. And the Zambezi is big, and wide, banks with only sparse evidence of human habitation and desert islands for our overnight stops, add to a complete sense of wilderness. All in all an unparalleled experience. Although to be fair, if its big cats or the herds of the plains you want to see, or if you crave the luxury of the game lodge. this may not be the trip for you. Thoughts on Group Leader Of our guide, CB, Cuthbert, what a guy! Expert on game, great cook, kept us safe, exemplary leadership skills, and massive fun. Not for one moment did he stop trying to give us the experience of a lifetime. All at a comfortable pace. African time. Pole pole. Coupled with an excellent guide, we had an awesome group which provided endless fun and memories to cherish. Advice for Potential Travellers Buy plenty of beer or wine at the shop outside Lusaka. We made a mistake and didn't provide enough to accompany the simple but excellent food prepared by the guides. Early October was hot with strong sun, so be prepared. Not bad on the mozzy front and the tents are insect-proof, but of course Deet is essential. Those with plenty of painkillers for injuries and sore muscles proved popular! Changes of clothing seem to become less and less important as you go, so save on packing and chill! Suggestions Do take as much as you can for the school orphanage. We all have so much and they have so little and they need and deserve all the help they can get.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/23/2016
Joanna Graham - Traveled, August 2016
The Zambezi Valley Have just returned from this amazing trip- my first visit to Africa and it was better than I hoped for. Loved looking up at the night sky through the tent mosquito netting. So many hippos, crocs and elephants. Although it was hot there was always a lovely breeze on the water Most Inspirational Moment Sitting in our jeep on safari watching a male and female lion resting in the heat of the day or because they were full up from eating part of the nearby buffalo carcass. The female started teasing the male who then mounted her !! Then a little later several elephants turned up , trumpeting, ears flapping, dust everywhere and the lions ran off . Thoughts on Group Leader CB was great. Wicked sense of humour. He and Best (the other guide) cooked us tasty meals and really looked after us. Advice for Potential Travellers Take walking sandals as they dry well after getting wet every time you get in and out of the canoe. Binoculars are very useful. Line your day rucksack with a waterproof liner as the water was quite choppy on occasions which led to water lying in the base of the canoe. Our sleeping mats also functioned as cushions in the canoe so perfectly comfortable Suggestions The canoeing was fine when the water was calm but tough going when water rough . Be prepared to paddle from about 8am to 5pm with a mid morning break and a long lunch break. Remember a head torch. You probably only need one 1 litre water bottle as we were able to top up our bottles at lunchtime. Cycling gloves saved me from blistered hands . Maybe do some homework before going to get some tips on how to paddle a canoe
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/15/2016
Andy&angela Lewis&balding - Traveled, October 2015
Lower zambesi Did this last October, best value safari ever, and I’ve done a few. Excellent guide in TK, knows his way round those hippo pods. The boy Benjamin was fun too, and if I do this again I will ask for these two. Plenty game as the rains were due the following week so the beasts had to come to the river. Group size was perfect, 6 punters& 2 guides. Do it! Most Inspirational Moment Having to repel an Elephant raid on the camp at night. I think someone had forgotten their instructions and left out some smelly orange peel. Thoughts on Group Leader Very knowledgeable. Kept us safe without feeling bossed about. Plenty good fireside tales, fine bush cook, all round decent guy. Advice for Potential Travellers Buy a couple of crates of beer at the supermarket when you stop outside Lusaka. It's dirt cheap. And anything else you might need because it's the last shop you visit for a few days. Suggestions Take a hat. And those adventure shoes/ sandals things. And minimum luggage, if I wore the same clothes every day it wouldn't matter. Everything you take you have to fit in your canoe.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/25/2016
Elaine Newton - Traveled, August 2016
Frisky lions!!! Awesome trip – simply has to be done! Most Inspirational Moment Highlight for me has to be seeing some very 'frisky' lions who were resting with full tummies after a kill, and then out of the blue they were suddenly chased away by 4-5 charging trumpeting elephants, including an 'ikkle baby one!!! Like being on a live set of a nature program! Thoughts on Group Leader Cuthbert (aka CB) and his sidekick Best were simply the best!!! Attentive at all times, very helpful, very polite and always there with a smile. Joined in with the group, ready for a laugh but were serious and very professional when circumstances demanded it. Advice for Potential Travellers You will be separated from your main luggage for the first 3 days so pack everything you'll need for those 3 days separately and before getting there as you will arrive in the dark. Use a bag you don't mind getting dirty and thrown about. I took a separate 40L backpack for this purpose. Also take a small dry bag to keep close to hand while canoeing for things like suncream, camera bits and bobs as your '3 day' bag will be tied up and not easily accessible while you are canoeing. Suggestions Relax! Go with flow! Enjoy! It is over too quickly!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/25/2016
Andy Stroud - Traveled, June 2018
What an adventure This trip was awesome. Canoeing, walking and wild camping. Surrounded by all the wild life and beautiful scenery. You get so close to the animals so you will get some great photos and memory’s that will last a lifetime. As you are working as a team with the group and the two guides you will quickly become good friends with everyone. Most Inspirational Moment Getting so close to wild elephants. They are so powerful but pretty gentle. Also going to the school was great. These kids don't have much but are all so happy Thoughts on Group Leader Our group leader (TK) was brilliant. Very friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. Advice for Potential Travellers The canoeing isn't to hard but can be a bit of a challenge if it gets windy. The wild camping is great but be prepared, it is wild camping so its basic. You get a tent and food cooked on a camp fire. Also get up a little early and sit my the fire and watch the sunrise and listen to the wildlife, such a relaxing experience. Suggestions You should defiantly do this trip, you'll love it.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/25/2016
Angela Horner - Traveled, May 2016
Rowing the Lower Zambezi 10.06.16 We canoed down the Lower Zambezi river a party of 8 with two guides Cuthbert & Ahmed – what a fantastic experience watching Hippos, crocodiles, elephants, buffalo, to name but a few of the animals we were able to see. Both Cuthbert & Ahmed had so much knowledge and experience and could answer all our questions about the animals and the area and knew how to keep us safe. Most Inspirational Moment There are too many to single one out - the scenery, the animals, the sunsets ! Thoughts on Group Leader Our group leader was excellent and was extremely knowledgeable regarding the area and the animals and also our safety - he made our trip even more enjoyable with his hard work, information and humor. Advice for Potential Travellers Just do it ! - Take a travel pillow with you. The rowing can be pretty easy or it can be quite tough depending on how strong the head wind is so I think you need a reasonable level of fitness & upper body strength. Suggestions Again what a fantastic holiday & thank you to both Cuthbert & Ahmed for all your hard work & information & humor.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/22/2016
Elizabeth Jones - Traveled, May 2016
An amazing adventure on the Zambezi This trip far exceeded my expectations in every way. The wildlife encounters were amazing, hippos everywhere, crocs, birds, impala, kudus, waterbuck, buffalo etc etc. On the second day I was beginning to worry that I would not see an elephant, then they were everywhere and being on the water allowed us to see them from a different perspective as well as on foot, at the campsite and on 4 wheels. Most Inspirational Moment There were so many - falling asleep to the sounds of Africa and hippos 'laughing' - Rafting all the canoes together to cross the river with a group of elephants - Arriving at the fly site to be welcomed by countless elephants of all sizes having a drink ( far too many to fit in a photo) - Getting a new found respect for termites and learning about the little things that are easy to miss on the game walks - Watching the sun rise and set over the water - Waking to the sound of lions roaring at 5am even if we didn't see them Thoughts on Group Leader Cuthbert (CB) was brilliant his knowledge of everything was second to none, he had a great sense of humour and spent time getting to know everyone. He and Ahmed looked after us so well and whilst we set up the tents would have a fire lit and dinner cooking, they always seemed to overestimate how much food we needed, there was no chance of ever going hungry. Our safety was always priority and as well as pointing out the wildlife they were always ensuring we were all ok and quickly getting us out the way when hippo encounters became a bit too close for comfort. Advice for Potential Travellers This is a brilliant trip and I would recommend it without reservation, a few tips: - pack what you need for the first few days ready to grab as we arrived rather late at the river on the first day and sorting out luggage by torchlight can be a bit of a challenge before canoeing across the river in the dark. - I was a little apprehensive about the no toilets/ washing facilities during wild camping, it was not a problem at all and baby wipes became our version of a shower. - It does get cold at night so make sure you have enough warm clothes to sleep in - The wind can get up and was never in our favour which, particularly on the first day made it hard going
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/10/2019
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