Zambezi Canoe Safari Escape

We meet at Lusaka Airport and begin the transfer to the Zambezi – a four to six hour journey depending on traffic, mostly on tar road with a final stretch along a bumpy dirt track. En route we stop at a supermarket, where you can pick up snacks and drinks for the days ahead – there are no shops on the wild banks of the river. Our tour leader prepares a welcome dinner and we gather as a group to get to know one another and hear about the adventure ahead. If you are booking your own flights, do not choose one that arrives after 1.30pm. If you would like more time in Zambia, you can arrange extra nights through your sales representative.

We begin three glorious days of canoeing on the Zambezi, a true safari adventure where we often pass hippo pods in deeper water, watch elephants feeding on the banks, and spot basking crocodiles and numerous colourful birds, including the magnificent African fish eagle. We start early each day to avoid the hottest hours and to catch the easterly headwind at its weakest. The pace is moderate – perfect for making the most of every wildlife sighting. Breakfasts and lunches are taken on islands or riverbanks, and at night we settle into wild camps, gazing at the African sky and sharing stories from the day.

This morning we paddle to our fly camp in the Chiawa Game Management Area. After three days of wild camping, hot showers and the chance to unwind are very welcome. The site overlooks the Mana Pools, where wildlife regularly comes to drink – there is even a lookout point for superb views. After sunset we set out on a 4x4 game drive, hoping to spot nocturnal creatures such as genets, civets, hyenas, porcupines, aardvarks and, if we are really lucky, an elusive leopard.

We either continue by canoe or hop into a motorboat – depending on wind and river conditions – and cruise along the river to Lower Zambezi National Park. Here we join a local ranger for an insightful nature walk, following a loop as our guides share their knowledge of animal tracks, plant life and local wildlife. After lunch we return to our fly camp and enjoy a relaxed afternoon, watching animals that come to drink at the Mana Pools.

We bid farewell to our fly camp hosts and take the motorboat to Zambezi Breezes. Our new camp enjoys a lovely riverside setting, with a cash bar serving cold drinks, a swimming pool and a toilet and shower block. It is the ideal spot for our final evening as we gather with the group to relive the adventures we have shared – and perhaps start planning the next. If you prefer more comfort, you can upgrade to a chalet with a private bathroom today – speak to your sales representative for details.

We have canoed a long stretch of the Zambezi, gazed at the twinkling Zambian night sky and spotted countless animals, but today the journey ends as we transfer four to five hours back to Lusaka Airport to catch onward flights. If you would like to extend your adventure, you can speak to your sales representative to discuss the range of extension options.