Zambezi River

Tailor-made safaris that include Zambezi River.

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A 14-page guide to the icons of Southern Africa: Kruger, Victoria Falls, the Okavango Delta, and Cape Town.

Where to stay

Lodges in Zambezi River.

1 lodge across this destination, ordered by what guests pick most. Rates per person sharing, per night.

  1. Toka Leya Safari Camp
    01 Wilderness Affordable

    Toka Leya Safari Camp

    Wilderness Toka Leya Camp combines elegance and adventure, providing a luxurious riverside retreat inviting both relaxation and exploration.

    Per person sharing, per night, from

    $1,140

The basics

Why, when, and where.

Why

The Zambezi River originates from a small spring and journeys through six countries: Zambia, Angola, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique. It forms a 500km border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. Along its path, the river passes by the Lower Zambezi National Park, Mana Pools National Park, the magnificent Victoria Falls, and Lake Kariba, before eventually flowing into the Indian Ocean.

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The river's ecosystem is teeming with wildlife, including hippos, Nile crocodiles, pelicans, African fish eagles, buffalos, giraffes, and elephants. The Zambezi offers a variety of activities for all interests. Enjoy game drives, boat tours, canoeing, and birdwatching, or indulge in cultural encounters with local communities. Experience Victoria Falls from a helicopter, try bungee jumping, or go white-water rafting, or for thrill-seekers, swimming in the Devilโ€™s Pool. The river is perfect for family-friendly safaris, sunset cruises, quad biking, and microlight flights. Fishing enthusiasts can join guided tours for world-class tiger fishing.

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Wellness seekers can destress with spa treatments and yoga sessions, while romantic getaways are enhanced with private picnics and special honeymoon packages. Photographers can indulge in the guided safaris to capture stunning scenery and vibrant wildlife. Eco-tourism initiatives and volunteering opportunities allow visitors to participate in local conservation efforts as well.

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Whenโ€

Visiting the Zambezi River offers unique experiences throughout the year, depending on the season.

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The dry season from May to October offers the best wildlife viewing, as animals gather around the river and waterholes, providing excellent opportunities to see large herds of elephants, buffalo, and other wildlife. Victoria Falls is at its most visible, with lower water levels allowing for clearer views and less spray, ideal for photography and exploration.

From September to December, you can even swim in the Devilโ€™s Pool, a natural infinity pool at the edge of the falls. The weather is generally dry and pleasant, with cooler mornings and evenings, making it perfect for outdoor activities like game drives, walking safaris, and boat cruises.

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In the wet season (November-April) the Zambezi River region is transformed into a lush, green oasis, perfect for photographers and bird enthusiasts. The landscape has blooming flora and vibrant greenery, while migratory birds return, making it an ideal time for bird watching. The higher water levels bring an increase in the water activities such as white-water rafting and canoeing, offering thrilling experiences on the riverโ€™s rapids. This period also sees fewer tourists, providing a more tranquil and intimate encounter with nature and wildlife. The dramatic skies and vibrant scenery create stunning photographic opportunities, capturing the true essence of the Zambezi.

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Each season brings its unique attractions, from abundant wildlife and thrilling water activities to lush landscapes and vibrant birdlife. Whether you visit during the dry season (May to October) for optimal game viewing and clear views of Victoria Falls or during the wet season (November to April) for lush scenery and exciting river rapids, the Zambezi River promises adventure, relaxation, and stunning natural beauty at any time of the year. Plan your visit based on your interests and preferred activities to make the most of this magnificent destination.

Where

Enjoy the Zambezi River's beauty by staying at one of the many stunning lodges along its banks, where you can reconnect with nature and leave everyday stress behind.

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Toka Leya Safari Camp

Visit the luxurious riverside retreat for a stunning combination of elegance and adventure, providing access to the wildlife of Mosi-oa-Tunya and various adrenaline-pumping activities.

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Royal Chundu Zambezi River Lodge

Located upstream of Victoria Falls, this tranquil hideaway is nestled among riverine vegetation. The River Lodge is well-hidden, while the Island Lodge offers exclusive accommodation on Katombora Island.

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Discover the diverse and unforgettable experiences the Zambezi River has to offer, and create memories that will last a lifetime

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Photos from our guests

A traveller's view.

Every photo below was taken by a guest of ours on a recent trip to Zambezi River. No stock imagery, no marketing shots. What they saw, on their cameras.

One of our customers captured this unforgettable moment with the legendary elephant named Boswell in Mana Pools
One of our customers captured this unforgettable moment with the legendary elephant named Boswell in Mana Pools
One of our client embarked on an unforgettable safari at Old Drift Lodge, nestled along the Zambezi River in Zimbabwe
One of our client embarked on an unforgettable safari at Old Drift Lodge, nestled along the Zambezi River in Zimbabwe
American guests at The Elephant Camp in Zimbabwe experienced unforgettable moments interacting with elephants, including touching and connecting with these gentle giants under expert supervision
American guests at The Elephant Camp in Zimbabwe experienced unforgettable moments interacting with elephants, including touching and connecting with these gentle giants under expert supervision

Imagery

Zambezi River, in pictures.

Recent travellers

Word from people who have just been to Zambezi River.

Quotes pulled directly from Trustpilot. Where we have specific reviews mentioning Zambezi River, those come up first. Otherwise these are recent five-star notes from across the trips we have planned.

"Our travel agent Monica could not have been more helpful, we are very grateful for the effort she made to secure us a Safari at short notice. We are looking forward to travelling to Africa in September. Karen & Clive"
June 2026 ยท Verified on Trustpilot โ†—
"i will have to say i had a pleasant time on my trip, full of fun experiences, that is something that i can say that i can knock out of my bucket list"
June 2026 ยท France ยท Verified on Trustpilot โ†—
"Very easy to book with Safari.com. It looks as though it will be a fantastic trip."
June 2026 ยท United Kingdom ยท Verified on Trustpilot โ†—
"I had an amazing experience working with Monica H. from Safari.com while planning a very special family safari in South Africa. From the very beginning, she was incredibly patient, responsive, and knowledgeable. I initially felt overwhelmed trying to coordinate different lodges, dates, and availability during high season, but she helped me find the perfectโ€ฆ"
June 2026 ยท USA ยท with Monica Havemann ยท Verified on Trustpilot โ†—

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