Facts About Zambezi River

Facts About Zambezi River

The River Zambezi in Africa covers about five countries in Africa that is Zambia, Botswana, Zambezi, Angola and Mozambique. In terms of drainage basin area, the Zambezi basin occupies approximately 1390,000 square kilometers.

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Filming on the Zambezi River

The most stunning part of the River Zambezi course is the Victoria Falls one of the world’s stunning curtain of waterfalls that plunge into the plunge pool. This is one of the 7 natural wonders that the world celebrates. Along the Zambezi River is Ngonye Falls in western Zambia and Chavuma Falls between Angola and Zambia.

River Zambezi has its delta at the Indian Ocean and it is the largest River that pours into this ocean. On its course to the Indian Ocean, River Zambezi is joined by other rivers like River Luangwa, River Kafue and River Chobe. These create a water catchment area for the places close to this river.

A huge list of flora and fauna enjoy the freebies along the marshy plains of River Zambezi especially at the flooded Barotse Valley.

Where Is The Source Of Zambezi River?

The Source of Zambezi River lies at the Marshy Dambo forest in Miambo woodland. This is situated in Mwinilunga south of Ikelenge district North west province of Zambia. The course of River Zambezi river is divided into three sections that is the Upper Zambezi, Middle Zambezi and Lower Zambezi.

The Upper Zambezi covers areas from the source into Angola and this is joined by other tributaries like Chifumange and Luena this section of River Zambezi flows to the Victoria Falls plunge in.

The middle section starts from Victoria Falls plunge to the Cahora Bossa where a large lake was created after the construction of a Hydroelectricity Dam at this point

 The lower Zambezi is from Lake Cahora Bossa to the Indian Ocean.

The Delta of River Zambezi is composed of seasonal and permanent flood plains inclusive of grassland, Savannah and swamp forest

What Dams Are Built  Along River Zambezi?

The River Zambezi has so two renowned hydroelectricity power dams that are Kariba Dam with the world’s largest Lake Kariba constructed and Cahora Bossa Dam with Lake Cahora Bossa.

How Long Is the River Zambezi?

River Zambezi is the fourth longest River in the world covering about 2574 kilometers and with a basin size of about 1,390,000 square Kilometers. The mouth of River Zambezi pours its water into the Indian Ocean as its Delta.

What Fauna and Flora Is Supported By the River Zambezi Plains?

A wide variety of flora and fauna survive from the supplies of River Zambezi some of which include those that survive in the Riverine woodland like the buffaloes, herds of elephants, giraffes, waterbucks, hippos, crocodiles and others.  A number of fish species also find safe haven in the waters of River Zambezi like tiger fish, yellow fish, catfish, tilapia and others. A number of birds also seek solace in the supplies if River Zambezi like herons, lesser flamingos, Africa fish eagles, pelicans, egrets and so many others.

What tributaries pour into River Zambezi?

River Zambezi is fed by several tributaries along its course that is Upper Zambezi is fed by River Luena, River Kabompo, Luanginga River and others. The Middle Zambezi has tributaries like the Sengwa River, Kafue River, Senyati River, Panhane River and others.

Lower Zambezi has tributaries like Luia River, Shire River to mention but a few.

What activities to do on River Zambezi?

Visit The Victoria Falls

The Victoria Falls on River Zambezi is the highlight of the entire course. The Victoria Falls lie between Zambia and Zimbabwe. The stunning look of this curtain of falls makes them one of the sought after destinations in Africa. The sparkling nature of the water from Victoria Falls makes a photo perfect background.

You can catch the look of Victoria Falls from either Zambia or Zambia side. While at Victoria Falls, you may also swim to the rim of the falls but this daring attempt can best be done in the dry season when water is at the lower level. During the wet season, the speed of the Zambezi River water is high and faster.

Fishing on River Zambezi

River Zambezi hosts a variety of fish species which you can catch for sports fishing but prior arrangement needs to be done. This is in order to clear the fishing permits, organize for the boat and boat captain in advance. During the sports fishing adventure, it is a catch and release practice so as not to deplete the fish from River Zambezi. You can also do sports fishing from the Lake Kariba.

Some of the fish species you may catch in River Zambezi include yellow fish, Catfish, Tilapia, Lung fish and others. Get in touch with us.

Birding along River Zambezi

The Riverine of Zambezi provides freebies to a number of birds especially water birds. Keen birders may get the opportunity to spot birds like pelicans, herons, lesser flamingos, egrets, African fish eagles and others.

Even forest birds that survive in the forested areas along River Zambezi can be spotted.

White water rafting at the Victoria Falls

The thrill of white water rafting at the Victoria Falls plunge pool is exciting. Beating the tides and going through the tough parts of River Zambezi at this point is heartwarming. You need to trust your captain and follow the instructions they give so that you are not beaten off the tube boat.

Participate in beating the tides and you can stop at a level where you most feel comfortable. For better preparations, you need to make advance arrangements. No need to have any level of experience to do white water rafting as on ground are experienced instructors who take you through all that is necessary.

Boat ride on River Zambezi

Sightseeing is exciting on River Zambezi where you may get the opportunity to spot a number of animals like elephants, buffaloes, that move to the River to quench thirst. The flood plains of River Zambezi are a magnet to several birds. As you relax in the boat, you enjoy the stunning scenery around the River banks and much more

The Delta of River Zambezi provides are great coastal life the river spreads out into countless of mangroves. You must be in company of a guide in case you are to explore the mangroves or else you may get lost because they are over 100 of them.

Game Drive along River Zambezi

Places like Barotse flood plains have some of the rewarding destinations to do walking safaris in Africa. These are situated closer to the source of River Zambezi. From River Zambezi, you may take an excursion to the Predator rich area of Botswana in the northern area, Liuwa migration to mention but a few.

For a great game viewing experience, the countries served River Zambezi right from Zambia to Botswana to Zimbabwe, Mozambique and others, this is game rich area. In this area, you have chance to encounter safari destinations like Chobe National Park, Lower Zambezi National Park, Lake Kariba and others. Contact us for more information.

When is the best time to Visit River Zambezi?

Every time is Zambezi River Time every season of the year is unique. The dry season that is May to October Opens more chances to engage in activities along the Zambezi River since majority are out door. The tracks in the game parks loser to the Zambezi River are quicker to navigate and so are activities like canoeing which require the river to be calm.

Most of the sightings along River Zambezi are better in the dry season when the sun shines bright and the water sparkles. The animals that make their way to quench thirst from River Zambezi may be easier to spot in the dry season. This is the peak season too where demand for safaris to countries along the River Zambezi is high so most of logistics like accommodations to use while on safari sell out.

To be on the safe side, you need to book in advance some of the necessary logistics to be used during the safari. Contact our team to book your safari in advance.

The wet season that is normally March to April is also a super time to do a safari closer to River Zambezi with chances of spotting more water racing down the different falls along the River. The rich green vegetation along River Zambezi is more pronounced in the wet season so creating a natural look along the banks of the river

This being low tourism season attracts less crowds who participate in this African safari along the Zambezi River. For those who wish to be in the company of less crowds can take advantage of this period to Visit the River Zambezi.

The low season may also come with opportunities for some service providers to lower their costs. This is also a chance for those who are budget cautious to travel as enjoy the beauties of River Zambezi.

How Much Is The Cost Of Safari To River Zambezi?

The cost of a safari to River Zambezi varies with the package you choose. At Encounter Africa Safaris, we package our safaris according to Up-Market , Mid-range and basic. For destinations where you have to pay park fees, you need to pay this cost like at the game parks as this is one way to contribute to the conservation of the destinations along the Zambezi River. The park entrance fees vary from one country to another.

At Encounter Africa Safaris, we work with our clients to plan African safaris to the destination sharing River Zambezi based on your interest, holiday time and budget. We can help you prepare all the necessary logistics related to your African safari.

Can Children Do A Safari To River Zambezi?

The Zambezi River is endowed with a variety of activities however, there are some where children may not be comfortable engaging in like white water rafting, Swimming to the pool brim of Victoria Falls. The children can engage in other activities like sightseeing, game drives, Boat ride and others.

While on this African safari, you need to keep children under your supervision all the time so that they do not wonder into the wilderness or closer to this rapid river. It is best to brief the children about what is to happen while on safari so that they are not shocked while on ground.

Is It Safe To Do A Safari on River Zambezi?

Most of the countries along River Zambezi are safe for an African safari. You need to follow the guidelines of each of these safari destinations in order not to fall. You need a guide with experience and knowledge about these destinations in order not to land into the dangerous parts.

 Using a 4×4 wheel drive vehicle helps you to navigate the area faster and better even when the roads are known to be bumpy and dusty.

What to Pack For a Safari to River Zambezi?

• A Camera to keep memories of the holiday experience.
• Binoculars to bring closer the far ranging features in the park and the beaches.
• Rack sack or backpack to carry with your belongings and keep them from scattering.
• Raincoat or waterproof gear in case it is the rainy season
• First aid kit with properly prescribed medication in case of an emergency.
• Warm clothes as temperatures get colder in the morning and late afternoons.
•  A torch to use for lighting in the night in case power runs out
•  Extra fully charged batteries in case one runs out of power
• Travel adapter and charger in case you need to recharge your gadgets
• Some cash in case you need on ground purchases
• Water bottle to carry drinking water in case you need it.
• Safari shoes to protect your feet from the harsh conditions in the jungle in case you choose a walking safari
•  Insect repellent to keep away stinging insects that may hurt your skin.
• Large brim safari hat to protect your head from buzzing insects.
• Toiletries in case your lodge doesn’t supply them
• Some cash in case you need on ground purchases
•  Beachwear
• Sunglasses to use while relaxing at the beach
• Sunscreen to apply to your skin while sunbathing.
• Flip flops to change into after a long day on the beach or while on game drive
•  Extra clothes to change into after a long day on safari

Contact us for more information about Zambezi River.