Physical Features Of The River

The Zambezi River is classified as a high volume, pool-drop river i.e. there is little exposed rock either in the rapids or the pools below the rapids. The distance between rapids varies from 100 metres (328 feet) to 2 kms (1.2 miles). The Gorge itself is approximately 400ft (121.9 metres) deep at the put-in point and 750ft (228.6 metres) at the take out point. The river drops about 400ft (121.9 metres) over the 24km (14.9 miles) covered in the one-day raft trip and the depth of the river can reach 200ft (60.9 metres).

The British Canoe Union has classified the river Grade 5 “extremely difficult, long and violent rapids, steep gradients, big drops and pressure areas”. Nearly half of the rapids negotiated are Grade 5. (Grade 6 is unrunable - rapid number 9, “Commercial Suicide” is a Grade 6 rapid and we porter around this rapid).

Wildlife

Due to the steepness of the Gorge, wildlife is not abundant. On occasion Klipspringer, Rock Hyrax, Vervet Monkeys and Baboon are spotted. However, the birdlife is far more spectacular. Black Eagle, Augur Buzzard, Black Stork, Pied and giant Kingfisher and red winged starling are some of the birds normally seen during the trips and sightings of the very rare Taita Falcon are not uncommon. There are Crocodile in the river, but they are small due to the unsuitability of the area for their habitation.

Rafting Options

Minimum and Maximum PAX

4 pax minimum. Large groups on request.

Age Restriction

The minimum age is 15 years. The maximum age limit is dependent on the individual’s general state of health and physical fitness.

Food & Drinks Supplied

Tea and coffee is supplied at the meeting point, prior to departure on the Zimbabwe side. Full English breakfast, tea and coffee is served at the Waterfront meeting point, prior to departure on the Zambian side. On the river each raft carries water. A light lunch consisting of cold meats and salads is provided at a picturesque spot on the banks of the river. At the top of the Gorge, at the end of the trip, complimentary soft drinks, cordials and beers are enjoyed. On the Zambian side the clients are transferred to the Waterfront for a Braai / Barbeque at the auditorium where shortly afterwards the video is shown. It is recommended that clients take their credit card or cash with them, when rafting in Zambia only, so as to purchase merchandise and drinks at the braai.

Departure Times & Meeting Places

ZAMBIA - THE WATERFRONT