Upper Zambezi Canoeing

Setting out on a canoeing trip along the Upper Zambezi offers a chance to see Zimbabwe’s wildlife in a truly intimate way. While I haven’t personally paddled these waters, our research and guest reviews paint a vivid picture of an adventure that balances thrilling wildlife encounters with the peacefulness of being on the river.

What really draws people in are the expert guides, the delicious included meals, and the chance to get close to animals like elephants, hippos, and crocodiles—all while enjoying a scenic, small-group experience. One thing to keep in mind is that this tour does require a reasonable level of physical fitness, but no prior canoeing experience is necessary.

This tour is best suited for nature lovers, adventure seekers who enjoy gentle paddling, and anyone keen to combine wildlife spotting with a relaxing day on the river. If you’re looking for a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and authentic wildlife encounters, this could be just the experience you’re after.

Key Points

• Small group size enhances personal attention from guides and a more intimate experience.
• All meals (breakfast and lunch) are included, offering great value in a scenic setting.
• Expert guides are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and safety focus.
• Wildlife sightings include elephants, buffalo, hippos, crocodiles, and possibly leopards, with some reviewers noting surprisingly close encounters.
• Convenient pickups from Victoria Falls hotels make logistics straightforward.
• Good weather sensitivity means the tour can be canceled if conditions aren’t suitable, with options to reschedule or get a refund.

An In-Depth Look at the Upper Zambezi Canoeing Tour

What the Experience Looks Like

Starting early in the morning between 07:00 and 07:30, you’ll be picked up from your Victoria Falls accommodation. The small group atmosphere—often capped at 15 guests—means you’ll get personal attention, especially from guides like Prince, Z, and their team, who have been lauded for their friendliness and wealth of knowledge.

Your day begins with a brief safety talk and paddle demonstration at the launch site, where inflatable canoes await you. No prior paddling experience is needed, but expect a moderate physical effort. The guides help ensure everyone feels comfortable on the water, which is especially reassuring if you’re new to canoeing.

Once on the river, you’ll paddle through scenic channels, surrounded by lush vegetation and a backdrop of wildlife. The variety of animals you might see includes waterbuck, zebra, giraffe, and the big game—buffalo, elephants, and even cats—though the latter are less frequently spotted. Guests often mention how close they felt to the animals, with some noting that hippos and crocodiles make delightful but safe sightings along the way.

The Wildlife Encounters

Guests consistently highlight the rich biodiversity of the Zambezi River and its banks. One reviewer shared, “Close encounters with elephants, hippos, and crocodiles were unforgettable,” which really captures the thrill of this trip. Guides like Prince and Z are credited for helping keep guests at a safe distance while providing fascinating insights into the animals’ behaviors.

The guides’ expertise is a major part of why this tour feels both safe and rewarding. Many reviews mention how guides, besides being friendly, actively help guests spot wildlife, sometimes pointing out animals that might be hidden from view. This shared knowledge makes the experience more meaningful and educative.

Meals and Refreshments in Scenic Settings

One of the standout features is the included meals, which are served in beautiful locations along the river. Guests rave about the delicious breakfast—continental style with coffee and tea—served at the launch site. After paddling, a well-prepared lunch featuring salads, rice, pasta, and options of chicken or beef keeps everyone satisfied. Beers and soft drinks are included, turning the trip into a relaxed, social occasion.

Guests like Patricia, who appreciated the “nice breakfast and lunch provided by the river,” find that these meals add great value, especially considering the remote location. The food quality and the idyllic setting contribute significantly to the overall enjoyment.

The Return Journey

After lunch, the group packs up and heads back to Victoria Falls, arriving around 14:00. The drive back offers one last chance to reflect on the morning’s wildlife sightings and scenic views, often complemented by small game drives through the park that guests appreciate—adding extra excitement to the day.

Logistics and Value

The tour includes round-trip transfers, making it hassle-free and comfortable. The price of $180 per person is very competitive when you consider the included meals, guide expertise, and the unique opportunity to see wildlife from the water—something that on-land safaris can’t quite match.

You should note that park and river usage fees are not included in the base price, which is common for safaris and excursions in national parks. Planning ahead for these fees will help avoid surprises.

What to Keep in Mind

While many guests praise the tour for safety and enjoyment, a few review comments point out that the price might seem high for the duration—about three hours of canoeing with meals included. However, when you factor in the expert guidance, wildlife encounters, and scenic meals, most agree that the experience offers excellent value.

Also, the tour operates only under good weather conditions. If poor weather cancels the trip, guests are offered alternative dates or full refunds, providing peace of mind.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers eager to combine wildlife viewing with a relaxing day on the water. It’s ideal for those who appreciate small-group tours and want to avoid large crowds. Families with children as young as ten find the guides especially attentive, making this a memorable outing for kids as well.

Adventure seekers should note the moderate physical fitness requirement; if you’re comfortable paddling and walking, you’ll find this trip manageable. If you’re after a high-adrenaline experience, this might not be the right fit, but if tranquility, wildlife, and scenic beauty are your goals, you’ll be very pleased.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is prior canoeing experience needed? No, you don’t need any canoeing experience. The guides will give a safety briefing and paddle demonstration to ensure everyone feels confident.

What animals can I expect to see? Common sightings include elephants, buffalo, hippos, crocodiles, waterbuck, zebra, giraffe, and occasionally cats. Some guests report close encounters with elephants and hippos.

Are meals included? Yes, breakfast and lunch are provided, featuring continental options for breakfast and salads, rice, pasta, chicken or beef for lunch. Drinks like beer and soft drinks are also included.

Where does the tour start? The tour begins at the Victoria Falls Hotel, 1 Mallet Drive, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.

How long is the tour? The entire experience lasts around 7 hours, from pickup in the morning to return by mid-afternoon.

What is the group size? The tour caps at 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Are there any additional fees? Yes, park fees and river usage fees are not included in the ticket price and need to be paid separately.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad? Yes, the tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Is this suitable for children? Yes, children as young as 10 have enjoyed the trip, especially with attentive guides ensuring their safety.

Final Thoughts

The Upper Zambezi Canoeing tour offers a rare glimpse into Zimbabwe’s wildlife and landscapes through the serene lens of a canoe. With knowledgeable guides, delicious meals, and close encounters with iconic animals, it creates a memorable adventure that balances relaxation with excitement.

While the cost might seem steep for some, the value lies in the personalized experience, scenic beauty, and wildlife insights that make it worth considering. This trip suits travelers looking for an authentic, intimate nature experience—perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, families, or anyone wanting a peaceful day on the river surrounded by Africa’s majestic creatures.

Whether you’re seeking a gentle adventure or a photographic safari from the water, this tour delivers in every aspect. Just remember to pack your sense of curiosity and a good pair of binoculars!