Zambia

Experience the Zambezi

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Zambezi, Livingstone, Zambia

Dates

Taking Bookings for 2025

09 November – 22 November 2025
23 November – 06 December 2025

Our trips

III/IV Coached trip that is a perfect course for those who are already comfortable on class III+ and are looking to progress big water paddling and enjoy some of the best river around the World! It starts with learning big water techniques to later get you through some of the biggest rapids and experience our famous multi day! Fear not – you can portage every rapid that you don’t like and there are many common size rapids to enjoy for everybody!

Coaches

6-16 people

Why Zambezi?

This trip is as good as kayaking holiday get! You paddle legendary river and get introduced into all skills and secrets to make most of your stay, then you start a multiday from walking under the Victoria Falls venturing into 4 days adventure down the gorge to eventually have few days to play wherever you liked it the most! Not to mention sunset safari cruise and experiencing Africa in general! Zambezi is a lifetime must go for every kayaker!

Trip organised in partnership with

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Kayaking on the Zambezi

The Zambezi River is justifiably one of the most famous sections of white water in the world. The kayaking is located in the Batoka Gorge, directly below Victoria Falls – one of the seven natural wonders of the world.

Whether you are a confident grade 3+ paddler and it’s your first time out of the UK or you are looking to hone those big volume down river and play techniques, the Zambezi has amazing white water to help you improve.

The two week trip is run by world class kayakers and coaches who are out there loving it and living it. Their passion for the sport, technical expertise and in depth knowledge of the Zambezi River will help maximise your progression.

 Included in the trip is a raft supported four day trip through the gorge, taking us on a 60km journey from Victoria Falls.

The spectacular scenery and an African sunset whilst camping on the sandy riverside beaches at the base of the gorge tops off perfectly the full days of warm water paddling. Upon return from the multi-day trip we will go on a sunset safari boat cruise on the Upper Zambezi – spectacular wildlife, good food and a free bar to take advantage of as you see fit!

To complete the African adventure experience an optional extra is a full day’s safari in Chobe National Park near to the Zambezi. Forget National Geographic, seeing the huge animals living in their natural environment is an experience that will stick with you for a lifetime.

On this trip

  • Kayak on a two week guided trip to experience the stunning Zambezi River.
  • Top quality, low ratio coaching suited to your personal needs.
  • A 4 day raft supported trip down the Batoka Gorge.
  • A chance to view Victoria Falls from above and below.
  • A sunset safari boat cruise on the Upper Zambezi.
  • All shuttles, porters, park fees, logistics and assistance with pre-trip planning.
  • Optional extras include a safari in the legendary Chobe National Park, bungee jumps, sky dives, helicopter rides and much more!

Whitewater Kayaking Holidays

The following itinerary may change to suit the needs of the group.

Day 1 Arrival to Zambia

Welcome to Zambia! You will be collected from Livingstone airport, and driven to the Waterfront campsite and accommodation right on the banks of the upper Zambezi river. A chance to unpack, relax and acclimatise for the adventure to come!

If you are flying with a half slice boat – Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe will be a better choice but you have to remember you will need to cross a border and may need to pay extra for visa (depending on which country you are from, check your government site for advise). Saf Par can organize a transport if you choose to fly to VFA. Transfer is from VFA to Waterfront (our camping) is additionally $39 pp one way. If you need such a transfer please let us know so we can book it with you. It will be paid after arrival.

Boats can be rented for $240 for two weeks trip.

Day 2 - Rapids 21-25

We will start with rapids 21-25, an easy section of white water in order to get acclimatised to the Zambezi River and big volume paddling. We will have plenty of time for coaching and looking at improving foundation big volume technique and skills – in particular good technique whilst white water rolling.

Day 3 - Rapids 14-25

Today we will progress onto a slightly harder section of white water and we will look at refining big volume techniques and have plenty of opportunity for practising them on big volume but forgiving rapids.

Day 4 - Rapids 10-25

As we become accustomed to big volume paddling and the techniques required, we tackle some of the bigger rapids the Zambezi has to offer. We will also get the chance to try out some of the fantastic playboating on the Zambezi, ranging from small holes to huge waves. We finish this three day stint of kayaking with a sunset cruise on the upper Zambezi River, a chance to see some big game, experience an African sunset from the river and enjoy some free drinks (as many as you wish!), snacks and a meal will be included on the cruise.

Day 5 - Rest Day

There is an opportunity, if you still want action, to take part in a wide range of adventurous activities (not included in the price of the trip). Optional activities include bungee jumping, gorge swinging, sky diving over Victoria Falls, helicopter rides, white water rafting, jet boating, Topo Duo the Zambezi, and hydro-speeding to name but a few. There are also options for day safaris, half-day safaris and walking safaris or to visit the crocodile sanctuary. Your LiLi guide will be happy to assist with booking these extra activities.

Day 6

After a hearty breakfast, we will make our way to the boiling pot, directly beneath Victoria Falls. Few people have the chance to venture into this region due to the inaccessibility. This involves a short portage to the top of rapid #1 and then a paddle across a large eddy to view the incredible minus rapids and Victoria falls from the base of the gorge! We will then lead you down the river scouting where necessary and showing you the best play spots and safest lines. We will have a light lunch on the river before making camp between rapid #10 and #11. Your LiLi guides will then prepare an evening meal in the gorge.

Day 7

After breakfast we will spend the day slowly making our way downstream, stopping to play at some of the world’s best play spots. A light lunch will be served on the river before making our way to the beach below rapid #25. Raft support will mean you don’t need to carry all your food and camping equipment in your kayak, and can concentrate on kayaking in a light boat! On arrival on the white sand beach at camp our guides will prepare sundowners and dinner while you relax and take in the magnificent scenery. Enjoy a camp fire in the gorge and camping out on the beach on the banks of the river.

Day 8

Breakfast on the beach will be followed by our longest river day. We will cover approximately 24km, running a variety of large and small rapids on a rarely run section of the Zambezi. Lunch will be served on the riverbank along the way. Upper Moemba is the last rapids of the day and one of the best on the entire river! Tonight, we dine and camp overlooking Lower Moemba, a truly spectacular show of power from the Zambezi.

Day 9

After a night camping next to Lower Moemba, we’ll put in just below it (when you see it, you’ll agree that’s the best plan!), then kayak down a half day section to Ghostrider rapid, iconic, rarely seen and enormous, it makes for a fantastic finish to a four day trip down the Zambezi River.

This section of river, until very recently was only accessible by helicopter, or if you were willing to travel 4 more days of flatwater down to the next road access. It is true wilderness kayaking! We begin the drive back to Livingstone through traditional villages, and get back in the afternoon tired and content after four epic days on the river. Clean up, rest up and head into town for a big slap up meal to celebrate!

Day 10

Rest Day (see activities listed on day 5 for possible activities if you are still full of energy!).

Day 11-13

The final three days will be paddling hard on the Zambezi, we will spend time exploring some of the best waves in the world and getting top quality coaching on big volume play techniques (down river and wave play).

We will also work on some more dynamic big volume down river techniques and your guides will show and guide you on lines as hard and as big as you wish to paddle.

We will also get the opportunity to view Victoria Falls from the top, an incredible sight!

Day 14

Pack up and transfer back to the airport to fly home.

Due to the nature of adventure kayaking, the above itinerary has to remain flexible. The LiLi team have coached many hundreds of people with a wide range of abilities and backgrounds on big volume across Africa and specifically on the Zambezi. This local knowledge will be used to adjust the itinerary to suit the individuals and to maximise progression over the course of the trip.

Includes

  • Shuttles to and from Livingstone Airport
  • Daily transport to and from the river
  • All National Park fees and porter fees
  • Expert guiding on and off the river
  • Emergency helicopter evacuation insurance for each day on the river (this is NOT medical insurance)
  • Quality individualised coaching, including video feedback
  • A 4-day trip down the gorge including a support raft to carry all the food and equipment whilst on the multi-day trip
  • Camping fees (upgrades to a range of more luxurious accommodations are available at an extra cost).
  • A Sunset Safari Boat Cruise
  • All accommodation
  • All food whilst on the 4-day trip and boat cruise
  • Lunches on all river days
  • Cold drinks at the top of the gorge after paddling
  • A chance to view Victoria Falls from the lip of the gorge
  • Assistance with all logistics and local knowledge on and off the river to help you get the most out of your stay
  • Advice prior to trip on the climate, equipment needed and general travel advice if desired.
  • Travel Insurance

Excludes

  • Flights/transport to beginning of the trip (pick up for airport available at special inquiry prior to trip).
  • Personal paddling equipment (Kayaks available at $240 per trip and paddles at $150 per trip)
  • Drinks for the duration of the trip
  • Breakfast and dinner outside of the 4 day trip
  • The cost of any optional extra activities e.g. safari, bungee jump, sky dive etc
Upcoming Trips
LAST SPOTS AVAILABLE:

10 November – 23 November 2024

24 November – 07 December 2024


Taking Bookings for 2025

09 November – 22 November 2025
23 November – 06 December 2025

Custom Trip Dates

Custom dates for this trip may be available. Please use the Contact Us form to make an enquiry.

    Submitting this form will not subscribe you to a mailing list but a member of Love it Live it will be in touch to hep you find a world class trip that suits your dates.

    Is this the right trip for me?

    This trip is for intermediate / advanced paddlers. If you have a reasonable level of fitness, a solid whitewater roll and you are confident on grade 3+ there will be plenty of fun to be had on the Zambezi.

    A minimum group size of 8 is need to be reached for this trip to go ahead.

    What ability is this trip suitable for?

    The Zambezi has a fearsome reputation, however the reality is that there are a wide range of lines and all grades of rapids. It is a great place even for complete beginners to learn to kayak. This trip is aimed at confident grade three paddlers with a good white water roll. The trip will involve some fairly strenuous walk ins and walk outs of the gorge, as well as some long paddling days, so a reasonable level of fitness is also required. If you have any doubt at all about whether you will be suited to this trip get in touch.

    What equipment do I need to bring?
    • All your personal paddling equipment – for an extra cost we can arrange for rental of kayak and paddling equipment
    • Tent, light sleeping bag and other basic camping gear (torch etc)
    • First aid kit (no need to carry this on the river)
    • Sun cream and a sun hat
    • Good footwear for hiking in and out of the gorge
    • Personal clothing and possessions

    If you have any questions at all about whether something is necessary or what equipment to bring just drop us an email and we will be happy to help.

    Can I rent the gear?
    • Kayak rental is $280 for a duration of the course for kayak based on availability. We can also rent you a paddle at $150 per trip.
    Will my possessions be safe?

    At the Waterfront accommodation there is a big safe and also lockers that you can use. There are a lot of people coming through and Zambia is a third world country – we strongly advise locking up all valuables and bringing them on a big trip obviously puts them at risk from damage/loss/theft. Bring a small combination lock with you to secure your locker.

    What vaccinations or anti-malarial will I need for the trip?

    We are not doctors and do not pretend to be… Please contact your local doctor well in advance of the trip. They will fill you in on everything that you need to know.
    Some information about vaccinations and anti-malarial drugs can be found here

    What will the weather be like?

    The weather in Zambia depends very much on the time of year. At the time of the LILI Zambezi trip it will be the beginning of the dry season / very end of the wet season. The weather is likely to be hot and dry, and the water will be warm, though you can occasionally get strong winds that cools things down a bit. Bring clothes to protect you from the sun and a long sleeved thermal or shorty cag for on the river. The temperature is pleasant in the evening and through the night. There is also the possibility that we will encounter some heavy rain – most likely at night. When it rains in Zambia, it doesn’t mess about! Expect heavy tropical rain that normally only lasts a few hours.

    Will the trip be flexible?

    Absolutely. We believe, to get the perfect trip for each individual, the trip HAS to be flexible.
    The LiLi team have coached many hundreds of people with a wide range of abilities and backgrounds on big volume across Africa and specifically on the Zambezi, so we’ll do our best to keep you happy.

    Are there crocodile or hippos!?

    In the section that we are running below the falls there are small to medium size crocodiles. There are no hippos living there.

     

    To our knowledge there has been no crocodile accident including a kayaker (opposed to rafters who went to swim in wrong area). With years of experience paddling at Zambezi we learned and developed a great understanding and safety precautions how to act in the river with wildlife like this. We take safety as our priority and very seriously approach this topic.

    Experience the Zambezi River – Zambia

    $2,899

    Reserve your place with just $689 deposit!

    How much is this in other currencies:

    USD$2,899
    EUR2,809
    GBP£2,339

    Payment options in variety of currencies are available.

    Please select your currency

    Clear
    Categories: , SKU: LILI_002

    Discover Our Trips

    Overview

    Kayaking on the Zambezi

    The Zambezi River is justifiably one of the most famous sections of white water in the world. The kayaking is located in the Batoka Gorge, directly below Victoria Falls – one of the seven natural wonders of the world.

    Whether you are a confident grade 3+ paddler and it’s your first time out of the UK or you are looking to hone those big volume down river and play techniques, the Zambezi has amazing white water to help you improve.

    The two week trip is run by world class kayakers and coaches who are out there loving it and living it. Their passion for the sport, technical expertise and in depth knowledge of the Zambezi River will help maximise your progression.

 Included in the trip is a raft supported four day trip through the gorge, taking us on a 60km journey from Victoria Falls.

    The spectacular scenery and an African sunset whilst camping on the sandy riverside beaches at the base of the gorge tops off perfectly the full days of warm water paddling. Upon return from the multi-day trip we will go on a sunset safari boat cruise on the Upper Zambezi – spectacular wildlife, good food and a free bar to take advantage of as you see fit!

    To complete the African adventure experience an optional extra is a full day’s safari in Chobe National Park near to the Zambezi. Forget National Geographic, seeing the huge animals living in their natural environment is an experience that will stick with you for a lifetime.

    On this trip

    • Kayak on a two week guided trip to experience the stunning Zambezi River.
    • Top quality, low ratio coaching suited to your personal needs.
    • A 4 day raft supported trip down the Batoka Gorge.
    • A chance to view Victoria Falls from above and below.
    • A sunset safari boat cruise on the Upper Zambezi.
    • All shuttles, porters, park fees, logistics and assistance with pre-trip planning.
    • Optional extras include a safari in the legendary Chobe National Park, bungee jumps, sky dives, helicopter rides and much more!
    Itinerary

    Whitewater Kayaking Holidays

    The following itinerary may change to suit the needs of the group.

    Day 1 Arrival to Zambia

    Welcome to Zambia! You will be collected from Livingstone airport, and driven to the Waterfront campsite and accommodation right on the banks of the upper Zambezi river. A chance to unpack, relax and acclimatise for the adventure to come!

    If you are flying with a half slice boat – Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe will be a better choice but you have to remember you will need to cross a border and may need to pay extra for visa (depending on which country you are from, check your government site for advise). Saf Par can organize a transport if you choose to fly to VFA. Transfer is from VFA to Waterfront (our camping) is additionally $39 pp one way. If you need such a transfer please let us know so we can book it with you. It will be paid after arrival.

    Boats can be rented for $240 for two weeks trip.

    Day 2 - Rapids 21-25

    We will start with rapids 21-25, an easy section of white water in order to get acclimatised to the Zambezi River and big volume paddling. We will have plenty of time for coaching and looking at improving foundation big volume technique and skills – in particular good technique whilst white water rolling.

    Day 3 - Rapids 14-25

    Today we will progress onto a slightly harder section of white water and we will look at refining big volume techniques and have plenty of opportunity for practising them on big volume but forgiving rapids.

    Day 4 - Rapids 10-25

    As we become accustomed to big volume paddling and the techniques required, we tackle some of the bigger rapids the Zambezi has to offer. We will also get the chance to try out some of the fantastic playboating on the Zambezi, ranging from small holes to huge waves. We finish this three day stint of kayaking with a sunset cruise on the upper Zambezi River, a chance to see some big game, experience an African sunset from the river and enjoy some free drinks (as many as you wish!), snacks and a meal will be included on the cruise.

    Day 5 - Rest Day

    There is an opportunity, if you still want action, to take part in a wide range of adventurous activities (not included in the price of the trip). Optional activities include bungee jumping, gorge swinging, sky diving over Victoria Falls, helicopter rides, white water rafting, jet boating, Topo Duo the Zambezi, and hydro-speeding to name but a few. There are also options for day safaris, half-day safaris and walking safaris or to visit the crocodile sanctuary. Your LiLi guide will be happy to assist with booking these extra activities.

    Day 6

    After a hearty breakfast, we will make our way to the boiling pot, directly beneath Victoria Falls. Few people have the chance to venture into this region due to the inaccessibility. This involves a short portage to the top of rapid #1 and then a paddle across a large eddy to view the incredible minus rapids and Victoria falls from the base of the gorge! We will then lead you down the river scouting where necessary and showing you the best play spots and safest lines. We will have a light lunch on the river before making camp between rapid #10 and #11. Your LiLi guides will then prepare an evening meal in the gorge.

    Day 7

    After breakfast we will spend the day slowly making our way downstream, stopping to play at some of the world’s best play spots. A light lunch will be served on the river before making our way to the beach below rapid #25. Raft support will mean you don’t need to carry all your food and camping equipment in your kayak, and can concentrate on kayaking in a light boat! On arrival on the white sand beach at camp our guides will prepare sundowners and dinner while you relax and take in the magnificent scenery. Enjoy a camp fire in the gorge and camping out on the beach on the banks of the river.

    Day 8

    Breakfast on the beach will be followed by our longest river day. We will cover approximately 24km, running a variety of large and small rapids on a rarely run section of the Zambezi. Lunch will be served on the riverbank along the way. Upper Moemba is the last rapids of the day and one of the best on the entire river! Tonight, we dine and camp overlooking Lower Moemba, a truly spectacular show of power from the Zambezi.

    Day 9

    After a night camping next to Lower Moemba, we’ll put in just below it (when you see it, you’ll agree that’s the best plan!), then kayak down a half day section to Ghostrider rapid, iconic, rarely seen and enormous, it makes for a fantastic finish to a four day trip down the Zambezi River.

    This section of river, until very recently was only accessible by helicopter, or if you were willing to travel 4 more days of flatwater down to the next road access. It is true wilderness kayaking! We begin the drive back to Livingstone through traditional villages, and get back in the afternoon tired and content after four epic days on the river. Clean up, rest up and head into town for a big slap up meal to celebrate!

    Day 10

    Rest Day (see activities listed on day 5 for possible activities if you are still full of energy!).

    Day 11-13

    The final three days will be paddling hard on the Zambezi, we will spend time exploring some of the best waves in the world and getting top quality coaching on big volume play techniques (down river and wave play).

    We will also work on some more dynamic big volume down river techniques and your guides will show and guide you on lines as hard and as big as you wish to paddle.

    We will also get the opportunity to view Victoria Falls from the top, an incredible sight!

    Day 14

    Pack up and transfer back to the airport to fly home.

    Due to the nature of adventure kayaking, the above itinerary has to remain flexible. The LiLi team have coached many hundreds of people with a wide range of abilities and backgrounds on big volume across Africa and specifically on the Zambezi. This local knowledge will be used to adjust the itinerary to suit the individuals and to maximise progression over the course of the trip.

    Includes / Excludes

    Includes

    • Shuttles to and from Livingstone Airport
    • Daily transport to and from the river
    • All National Park fees and porter fees
    • Expert guiding on and off the river
    • Emergency helicopter evacuation insurance for each day on the river (this is NOT medical insurance)
    • Quality individualised coaching, including video feedback
    • A 4-day trip down the gorge including a support raft to carry all the food and equipment whilst on the multi-day trip
    • Camping fees (upgrades to a range of more luxurious accommodations are available at an extra cost).
    • A Sunset Safari Boat Cruise
    • All accommodation
    • All food whilst on the 4-day trip and boat cruise
    • Lunches on all river days
    • Cold drinks at the top of the gorge after paddling
    • A chance to view Victoria Falls from the lip of the gorge
    • Assistance with all logistics and local knowledge on and off the river to help you get the most out of your stay
    • Advice prior to trip on the climate, equipment needed and general travel advice if desired.
    • Travel Insurance

    Excludes

    • Flights/transport to beginning of the trip (pick up for airport available at special inquiry prior to trip).
    • Personal paddling equipment (Kayaks available at $240 per trip and paddles at $150 per trip)
    • Drinks for the duration of the trip
    • Breakfast and dinner outside of the 4 day trip
    • The cost of any optional extra activities e.g. safari, bungee jump, sky dive etc
    Dates
    Upcoming Trips
    LAST SPOTS AVAILABLE:

    10 November – 23 November 2024

    24 November – 07 December 2024


    Taking Bookings for 2025

    09 November – 22 November 2025
    23 November – 06 December 2025

    Custom Trip Dates

    Custom dates for this trip may be available. Please use the Contact Us form to make an enquiry.

      Submitting this form will not subscribe you to a mailing list but a member of Love it Live it will be in touch to hep you find a world class trip that suits your dates.

      F.A.Q.
      Is this the right trip for me?

      This trip is for intermediate / advanced paddlers. If you have a reasonable level of fitness, a solid whitewater roll and you are confident on grade 3+ there will be plenty of fun to be had on the Zambezi.

      A minimum group size of 8 is need to be reached for this trip to go ahead.

      What ability is this trip suitable for?

      The Zambezi has a fearsome reputation, however the reality is that there are a wide range of lines and all grades of rapids. It is a great place even for complete beginners to learn to kayak. This trip is aimed at confident grade three paddlers with a good white water roll. The trip will involve some fairly strenuous walk ins and walk outs of the gorge, as well as some long paddling days, so a reasonable level of fitness is also required. If you have any doubt at all about whether you will be suited to this trip get in touch.

      What equipment do I need to bring?
      • All your personal paddling equipment – for an extra cost we can arrange for rental of kayak and paddling equipment
      • Tent, light sleeping bag and other basic camping gear (torch etc)
      • First aid kit (no need to carry this on the river)
      • Sun cream and a sun hat
      • Good footwear for hiking in and out of the gorge
      • Personal clothing and possessions

      If you have any questions at all about whether something is necessary or what equipment to bring just drop us an email and we will be happy to help.

      Can I rent the gear?
      • Kayak rental is $280 for a duration of the course for kayak based on availability. We can also rent you a paddle at $150 per trip.
      Will my possessions be safe?

      At the Waterfront accommodation there is a big safe and also lockers that you can use. There are a lot of people coming through and Zambia is a third world country – we strongly advise locking up all valuables and bringing them on a big trip obviously puts them at risk from damage/loss/theft. Bring a small combination lock with you to secure your locker.

      What vaccinations or anti-malarial will I need for the trip?

      We are not doctors and do not pretend to be… Please contact your local doctor well in advance of the trip. They will fill you in on everything that you need to know.
      Some information about vaccinations and anti-malarial drugs can be found here

      What will the weather be like?

      The weather in Zambia depends very much on the time of year. At the time of the LILI Zambezi trip it will be the beginning of the dry season / very end of the wet season. The weather is likely to be hot and dry, and the water will be warm, though you can occasionally get strong winds that cools things down a bit. Bring clothes to protect you from the sun and a long sleeved thermal or shorty cag for on the river. The temperature is pleasant in the evening and through the night. There is also the possibility that we will encounter some heavy rain – most likely at night. When it rains in Zambia, it doesn’t mess about! Expect heavy tropical rain that normally only lasts a few hours.

      Will the trip be flexible?

      Absolutely. We believe, to get the perfect trip for each individual, the trip HAS to be flexible.
      The LiLi team have coached many hundreds of people with a wide range of abilities and backgrounds on big volume across Africa and specifically on the Zambezi, so we’ll do our best to keep you happy.

      Are there crocodile or hippos!?

      In the section that we are running below the falls there are small to medium size crocodiles. There are no hippos living there.

       

      To our knowledge there has been no crocodile accident including a kayaker (opposed to rafters who went to swim in wrong area). With years of experience paddling at Zambezi we learned and developed a great understanding and safety precautions how to act in the river with wildlife like this. We take safety as our priority and very seriously approach this topic.

      Photos
      Pricing & Book Now

      Experience the Zambezi River – Zambia

      $2,899

      Reserve your place with just $689 deposit!

      How much is this in other currencies:

      USD$2,899
      EUR2,809
      GBP£2,339

      Payment options in variety of currencies are available.

      Please select your currency

      Clear
      Categories: , SKU: LILI_002

      Discover Our Trips