• Experience one of Africa's last great wilderness adventures on the Lower Zambezi Island Canoe Trail. This four-day canoe safari takes you deep into the heart of the Zambezi Valley, where Zambia's Lower Zambezi National Park meets Zimbabwe's renowned Mana Pools National Park.

  Guided by expert canoe safari guides, you will paddle through channels, around islands and along wildlife-rich riverbanks where elephants, hippos, crocodiles, buffalo and countless bird species thrive. Each day combines exhilarating canoeing with spectacular wildlife viewing and unforgettable scenery.

  Evenings are spent on remote river islands under a canopy of stars. Comfortable dome tents, delicious campfire meals and the sounds of the African wilderness create a truly immersive safari experience. Far from roads, crowds and mobile reception, this is Africa at its most authentic.

  Designed for adventurous travellers seeking a genuine connection with nature, the Island Canoe Trail combines exploration, wildlife encounters and island camping into an unforgettable journey on one of Africa's most iconic rivers.

Highlights

• 4 days / 3 nights on the legendary Zambezi River
• Guided canoe safari through the Lower Zambezi wilderness
• Camp on remote river islands under the stars
• Exceptional opportunities to view elephants, hippos, crocodiles and birdlife
• Small-group adventure with experienced canoe guides
• Authentic low-impact safari experience
• Freshly prepared meals served in camp
• Spectacular sunrise and sunset river scenery
• One of Africa's most immersive safari experiences
• Ideal for photographers, birders and adventure travellers
• Suitable for beginners with a reasonable level of fitness
• Available seasonally from approximately March to December, with prime wildlife viewing from May to December

Practical Information

Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights

Minimum Participants: 2 Guests

Season: March – December (best wildlife viewing May – December)

Fitness Level: Moderate fitness required. Previous canoeing experience is not necessary.

Minimum Age: 15 years (12–14 years possible on private family departures)

Accommodation: Remote island camps in dome tents

Location: Lower Zambezi Valley, Zambia

Itineraries

Day 1

Breezes River Lodge to Kakomalala Island

Your Lower Zambezi canoe adventure begins at Breezes River Lodge near Chirundu, where you will meet your professional canoe guide for a comprehensive safety briefing and introduction to the expedition. After preparing equipment and packing essentials, you launch onto the mighty Zambezi River at approximately 10:30 am.

The first section of the journey follows a scenic network of river channels winding through islands and wildlife-rich waterways. This shorter paddle of approximately 15 kilometres allows guests to settle into the rhythm of the river while learning basic canoe handling techniques and wildlife awareness.

A riverside lunch is enjoyed along the way before continuing downstream towards Kakomalala Island, your first wilderness campsite. Arriving in the late afternoon, there is ample time to relax, explore the island surroundings, and watch the sunset over the Zambezi. As darkness falls, enjoy a freshly prepared dinner around the campfire before spending your first night under Africa's spectacular star-filled sky.

Distance: Approx. 15 km
Overnight: Kakomalala Island Camp
Meals: Lunch & Dinner

Day 2

Kakomalala Island to Magurumeno or Mtondo Islands

Wake to the sounds of the African wilderness and enjoy tea, coffee and biscuits before breaking camp. Departing around 07:30 am, today's journey covers approximately 25 kilometres through some of the most beautiful sections of the Lower Zambezi ecosystem.

After a morning paddle, stop for a hearty riverside breakfast before continuing downstream. The route offers excellent opportunities to observe elephants, hippos, crocodiles, waterbirds and other wildlife that frequent the riverbanks.

During the hottest hours of the day, enjoy a relaxed lunch stop in the shade before continuing your journey. Depending on river conditions, weather and the pace of the group, the overnight camp will be established on either Magurumeno Island or Mtondo Island.

As the sun sets over the river, gather around the campfire to share stories from the day while enjoying another delicious bush dinner.

Distance: Approx. 25 km
Overnight: Magurumeno Island or Mtondo Island
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 3

Through the Lower Zambezi Floodplains to Elephant or Nyamangwe Island

Today's paddle takes you deeper into the renowned Lower Zambezi floodplain region and towards the wilderness areas bordering Zimbabwe's famous Mana Pools ecosystem. By now, most guests have become comfortable in their canoes and can fully appreciate the tranquillity and beauty of travelling at river level.

The daily routine mirrors that of the previous day, with early morning paddling, leisurely breakfast and lunch stops, and plenty of time to observe wildlife along the riverbanks. The floodplains and islands in this section often provide excellent opportunities for birdwatching and sightings of elephants, buffalo and antelope coming to the water's edge.

Depending on progress made during the day, camp will be established on either Elephant Island or Nyamangwe Island, both offering an authentic wilderness camping experience far from roads and settlements.

Distance: Approx. 20–25 km
Overnight: Elephant Island or Nyamangwe Island
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 4

Final Paddle to the Take-Out Point

Enjoy a final sunrise over the Zambezi River before breakfast is served in camp. After packing up, set off on a leisurely final paddle of approximately 5 to 7 kilometres to the expedition take-out point.

Upon arrival, the support team will meet the group to load canoes and equipment for the return journey. The drive back to Breezes River Lodge passes through wildlife areas, local villages and rural Zambian communities, offering a final glimpse into life along the Zambezi Valley.

Arrival at Breezes River Lodge is expected around 14:30 hrs. Guests may continue onward to Lusaka the same afternoon or choose to extend their stay with an additional night at the lodge overlooking the Zambezi River.

Distance: Approx. 5–7 km
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

• Professional canoe safari guide
• Safety briefing and canoeing instruction
• 3 nights island camping accommodation
• Dome tent accommodation
• All meals during the safari
• Tea, coffee and drinking water
• Canoes, paddles and safety equipment
• VAT and tourism levy
• Wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the safari

• Lower Zambezi National Park fees (currently USD 50 per person)
• Accommodation before or after the safari
• Road transfers to and from the launch point
• Alcoholic beverages
• Premium drinks and personal purchases
• Travel insurance
• Medical evacuation insurance
• Tips and gratuities
• Items of a personal nature