The Zambezi is the fourth-longest river in Africa and one of the most thrilling destinations for a genuine African adventure. This mighty river flows through a dozen countries, including Zambia and Zimbabwe, and offers a mix of wild scenery, huge waterfalls, and heavy wildlife populations. Here are the best scenic sites and areas that you must explore along the river.
The Mighty Border Region of Victoria Falls
The most famous attraction along the whole river is the spectacular section forming Victoria Falls. The wide river plunges steeply into a huge volcanic gorge, right between Zambia and Zimbabwe. One of the most iconic things to do is walking along the misty viewpoints here and getting a close-up view of the true power of the river.
The Silent Banks of the River, for Sunset Cruises
Just a few kilometers upstream from the roaring waterfall, the Zambezi River becomes a broad, calm paradise. This beautiful stretch of water is a very recommendable place to visit in the late afternoon. It is the perfect place for a relaxing boat cruise to see elephants swim across the channels and the huge hippos playing in the water.
The Wild Lower Zambezi National Park
If you’re yearning for the buzz of pristine wilderness, the Lower Zambezi region is an amazing place to explore. The river is wide and green here, flanked by huge mountains on either side. A legendary destination for adventurous Zambia tour packages, where you can hop in a canoe safari to glide past crocodiles and herds of buffalo drinking on the banks.
The Famous Mana Pools National Park
On the Zimbabwean side of the river is Mana Pools, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a top-tier choice for serious safari lovers. The river floods regularly here, forming a system of wide permanent pools. This area is famous around the world for walking safaris, where you can see giant bull elephants standing on their hind legs to reach the high branches of trees.
Great Opportunities for Wildlife Photography
No matter where you travel along the river, it remains a dream destination for photographers. Water, open skies, and heavy wildlife concentrations provide you nonstop action. As the sun sets behind the horizon, the river makes a stunning gold and purple backdrop, ideal for striking silhouette images of African wildlife.
