The Best Water Activities in Zambia

White-Water Rafting on the Zambezi River

The Experience

The Zambezi River’s white-water rafting section starts just below the mighty Victoria Falls, carving its way through the dramatic Batoka Gorge. This region is a geographical marvel, with cliffs over 100 meters (328 feet) high near the falls, deepening to more than 200 meters (656 feet) by the end of the rafting route. The river serves as a natural border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, and its steep basalt walls create one of the most breathtaking river corridors in the world. The Zambezi is widely regarded as one of the most thrilling commercial rafting rivers on the planet, with rapids classified as Grade 5—the highest level navigable by commercial rafting tours.

Experience Highlights

The prime season for white-water rafting on the Zambezi is during the low-water months, particularly from June to September. This period offers the most intense and numerous rapids, making it a paradise for adventure seekers. Experienced rafters will appreciate the 24-kilometer (15-mile) stretch featuring 18 exhilarating rapids. From June onwards, the visibility improves, and the mist from Victoria Falls decreases, enhancing the rafting experience. During the high-water months, especially in April, rafting may be restricted or suspended due to extreme water levels.

Practical Information

Several reputable operators offer rafting tours on the Zambezi, including Shearwater Adventures, Shockwave Adventures, and Safpar White Water Rafting. Safety is a top priority, with all tours including thorough safety briefings, life jackets, helmets, and support from rescue kayakers. Most excursions start in the morning, and many include lunch and refreshments. Depending on water levels, travelers can choose between half-day or full-day tours. Due to the steep climb out of the gorge, good physical fitness is recommended. Participants must be at least 13 years old and have basic swimming skills. Keep in mind that during the high-water season, particularly in April, rafting may be temporarily unavailable.

Boat Tours to Victoria Falls

The Experience

One of the most iconic ways to experience Victoria Falls is by boat, with sunset cruises on the mighty Zambezi River ranking among the most popular activities. These tours offer a breathtaking perspective of the river’s dramatic landscape while providing the chance to spot wildlife such as crocodiles, hippos, and elephants along the shoreline. The geological features of the area, including striking rock formations and the transition from the river’s broad upper course to its narrower midsection, make these cruises truly unforgettable. The Zambezi flows over a 305-meter-thick (1,000-foot) basalt bed, riddled with natural cracks and fissures, creating a spectacular backdrop for this serene yet exhilarating experience.

Experience Highlights

The best time for boat tours to Victoria Falls is from June to August, when the water levels strike the perfect balance between impressive flow and optimal visibility. During this period, the mist from the falls is reduced, allowing for clearer views while still maintaining a dramatic water volume. Wildlife viewing is also at its peak. May and September are alternative good months, as the water levels remain high but the mist continues to subside. During the rainy season from March to May, stronger currents and heavy mist can make boat tours more adventurous but also more challenging. In the dry season, from June to October, the river is calmer, offering a more comfortable cruising experience and better opportunities to spot wildlife along the banks.

Practical Information

Sunset cruises are the most popular boat tours, typically lasting 2–3 hours and providing breathtaking views of the river and its wildlife. For a more luxurious experience, dinner cruises are available, offering a four-course meal and premium beverages as you glide along the Zambezi. Those seeking an exclusive adventure can opt for smaller boats with fewer passengers, allowing for a more intimate and closer approach to the falls. Safety measures include life jackets for all passengers, experienced captains and guides, and regular boat maintenance. However, it’s important to consider seasonal restrictions—some activities, such as visiting Devil’s Pool, are only possible during lower water levels.

Canoeing in Lower Zambezi National Park

The Experience

Canoeing in Lower Zambezi National Park is a one-of-a-kind adventure, taking place on the Zambezi River, which forms the park’s southern boundary and stretches over 120 kilometers (75 miles) along the shoreline. This region is known for its breathtaking scenery, framed by the towering cliffs of the Zambezi Escarpment and the wide river valley below. As you paddle through these pristine waters, you'll have the opportunity to observe a stunning variety of wildlife, including elephants, hippos, crocodiles, antelope, and an incredible array of bird species. The peaceful nature of canoeing allows for an intimate, immersive experience in the heart of Zambia’s wilderness.

Experience Highlights

The best time for canoeing in Lower Zambezi National Park is during the dry season from June to September and the transitional period from April to May. During these months, lower water levels create ideal conditions for wildlife viewing, as animals gather along the riverbanks to drink and feed. The temperatures are pleasant, and the visibility of sandbanks and islands is optimal. The months from June to September are particularly ideal for combining canoeing with top-tier wildlife encounters. While the rainy season (March to May) brings higher water levels and stronger currents, making canoeing more challenging, tours remain possible for those seeking an adventurous experience.

Practical Information

Canoeing excursions in Lower Zambezi National Park range from single-day trips to multi-day expeditions, catering to different levels of adventure seekers. Experienced guides accompany every tour, ensuring both safety and an informative experience. Before setting out, participants receive a thorough safety briefing, including instructions on how to react when encountering wildlife such as hippos and crocodiles. Tours are conducted in small groups to enhance the experience and ensure safety. A minimum age of 14 is recommended, and participants should have a basic level of fitness to manage the physical demands of paddling. Most canoeing trips start early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and ensure a smoother, safer navigation experience.

Fishing Adventures on Lake Kariba

The Experience

Lake Kariba is a premier destination for fishing enthusiasts, offering unparalleled angling opportunities in a breathtaking natural setting. As one of the largest man-made lakes in the world, it spans approximately 5,000 square kilometers (1,930 square miles) along the Zambia-Zimbabwe border. The lake is renowned for its diverse fish species, particularly the highly sought-after tigerfish, known for its strength and challenging fight. Anglers can also reel in freshwater bream, catfish, and the impressive vundu catfish. The combination of shallow areas and steep drop-offs creates the perfect conditions for a variety of predatory fish. One of the best spots for fishing is within Matusadona National Park, located on the southern shore of the lake, where visitors can combine fishing with incredible wildlife viewing.

Experience Highlights

The dry season from May to October offers the best fishing conditions on Lake Kariba. During these months, lower water levels concentrate fish in specific areas, increasing the chances of a successful catch. The temperatures are more comfortable, and humidity levels are lower, making for a more enjoyable fishing experience. Tigerfish, in particular, are most active in these months, as the warmer waters drive them to hunt more aggressively. While the rainy season from November to April has its advantages—such as warmer water temperatures and increased food supply—the higher water levels can make fishing more challenging, and frequent thunderstorms may disrupt excursions. For the most rewarding fishing experience, the dry season provides stable weather conditions and heightened fish activity.

Practical Information

Numerous experienced local guides and fishing lodges around Lake Kariba offer customized tours and angling opportunities. Visitors should ensure they have a valid fishing permit and any required licenses for the area. Safety precautions include wearing a life jacket, using appropriate safety gear on board, and carrying a fully charged mobile phone in a waterproof pouch. Keeping an eye on the weather is essential, as conditions can change rapidly. Consulting local experts ensures a safe, enjoyable fishing trip while also adhering to conservation regulations and sustainable fishing practices.

Unforgettable Experiences on Zambia’s Waters

Zambia’s diverse water adventures offer an unparalleled way to experience the country from a fresh perspective. Whether it’s white-water rafting on the Zambezi River, a boat tour to Victoria Falls, canoeing through the Lower Zambezi National Park, or a fishing trip on Lake Kariba—each activity promises thrilling experiences, breathtaking landscapes, and the opportunity to immerse yourself in Africa’s untamed wilderness. With the right preparation and timing, adventurers and nature lovers can make the most of Zambia’s incredible water activities. For those seeking both excitement and natural beauty, an unforgettable journey awaits in this extraordinary destination.