Ngonye Falls Bush Break
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Escape the crowds and journey into one of Zambia’s most remote and spectacular landscapes on the Ngonye Falls Bush Break. This 3-day, 2-night camping safari takes you from Livingstone into the heart of Western Province, following the Zambezi River upstream to the impressive Ngonye Falls and Sioma Rapids.
Often described as the Zambezi’s second-largest waterfall, Ngonye Falls stretches for over one kilometre as the river spills across a dramatic horseshoe-shaped basalt ridge. While the drop is only 10–20 metres, the sheer volume of water and thunderous energy create a raw, immersive spectacle—particularly powerful after the rains.
Unlike its famous downstream counterpart, Victoria Falls, Ngonye Falls remains refreshingly untouched by mass tourism. The surrounding landscape of Kalahari woodland, riverine forest, and sandy floodplains offers an authentic off-the-beaten-path experience, rich in birdlife and cultural heritage.
You’ll camp at the Ngonye Falls Community Partnership Park campsite, a simple yet well-maintained riverside camp managed in collaboration with local communities. Guided walks to the falls and the dramatic Sioma Rapids reveal both the natural beauty and the cultural significance of this sacred stretch of the Zambezi to the Lozi people.
This safari is ideal for travellers seeking a short wilderness escape, photographers, birders, and those who value community-based tourism and genuine exploration.
SAFARI SUMMARY
| Day | Accommodation | Destination | Meals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Ngonye Falls Community Campsite | Ngonye Falls | L, D |
| Day 2 | Ngonye Falls Community Campsite | Ngonye Falls | B, L, D |
| Day 3 | — | Return to Livingstone | B, L |
HIGHLIGHTS
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🌊 Ngonye Falls (Sioma Falls) – Experience the raw power of the Zambezi’s vast horseshoe-shaped waterfall
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🚣 Sioma Rapids – Dramatic white-water rapids carving through ancient sandstone and basalt
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🏕️ Authentic Bush Camping – Riverside camping in a community-managed conservation area
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👣 Guided Walks – Explore the falls and riverbanks on foot with knowledgeable local guides
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🦅 Excellent Birding – Fish eagles, kingfishers, herons, and seasonal migratory species
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🤝 Community Tourism – Directly supports local conservation and livelihoods
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🛤️ Remote & Uncrowded – A true alternative to mainstream Zambezi destinations
Itineraries
Day 1
Livingstone → Ngonye Falls
Depart Livingstone early in the morning and travel northwest toward Ngonye Falls in Western Province. The journey takes approximately 6–7 hours, passing through rural villages, open floodplains, and Kalahari woodland—an excellent introduction to this remote part of Zambia.
A picnic lunch is enjoyed en route at a scenic stop along the way.
Arrival at Ngonye Falls is in the mid to late afternoon. Upon arrival, you will register at the Ngonye Falls Community Partnership Park Visitor Centre, where your guide completes formalities and provides a short orientation to the area.
Proceed to the community campsite, where you’ll set up camp on the banks of the Zambezi River. The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure—time to relax, explore the immediate surroundings, enjoy the river views, or simply unwind after the journey.
As the day cools, settle into camp and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this remote riverside setting.
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Ngonye Falls Community Campsite
Driving Time: ± 6–7 hours
Day 2
Ngonye Falls & Sioma Rapids
After breakfast, spend the day exploring the falls and surrounding riverine landscapes on foot. Depending on water levels, you may approach different viewpoints, feeling the vibration of the river as it surges over the basalt ridge.
Later, visit the Sioma Rapids, where the wide Zambezi funnels into churning white water. This area is excellent for photography and birding, with frequent sightings of African fish eagles and other water-dependent species.
Enjoy a picnic lunch on a white sand river beach before returning to camp for a relaxed afternoon. As night falls, gather around the campfire for dinner and stargazing beneath clear African skies.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Ngonye Falls Community Campsite
Day 3
Ngonye Falls → Livingstone
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at camp, with time to take in the early morning atmosphere along the Zambezi River before departure. After breaking camp, begin the return journey to Livingstone.
The drive back takes approximately 6–7 hours, retracing the scenic route through Western Province and rural Zambia. A picnic lunch is enjoyed at a suitable stop along the way, offering a final chance to relax and reflect on the experience.
Arrival in Livingstone is expected in the late afternoon, where the Ngonye Falls Bush Break concludes at your lodge or onward travel point.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Driving Time: ± 6–7 hours
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Transport in a 4x4 safari vehicle
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Professional guide, driver, and camp chef
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2 nights camping at Ngonye Falls Community Park campsite
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All meals as specified
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Tea, coffee, and drinking water
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Park entry and conservation fees
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Guided walks to Ngonye Falls and Sioma Rapids
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Camping equipment (tents, mats, chairs)
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Visa fees
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Travel insurance (mandatory)
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Alcoholic & soft drinks
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Personal expenses & gratuities
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Sleeping bag hire (available on request)
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Optional activities not listed
The best time to visit Ngonye Falls when water levels are at their lowest is during the late dry season, from September to November.
During this period, the Zambezi River drops significantly, allowing:
Easier and safer access to viewpoints near Ngonye Falls
Clear views of the basalt rock formations and channels beneath the falls
Improved walking conditions along the riverbanks
Excellent opportunities for photography and exploration
Reduced spray and mist compared to peak flow months
While the volume of water is less dramatic than during the post-rainy season, the low-water period offers a more intimate and exploratory experience, making it ideal for travelers who prefer walking, photography, and close-up interaction with the landscape.
This is an easy to moderate bush break suitable for most travelers. Walking activities are short and on relatively flat terrain. The main physical element is the 6–7 hour drive each way. No prior safari or camping experience is required.
There is mobile phone coverage at Ngonye Falls, but it is limited and unreliable. While basic communication may be possible, this safari is best enjoyed as a digital detox, allowing guests to fully disconnect and immerse themselves in nature.
While this is not a classic big-game safari, wildlife sightings are possible. Hippos and crocodiles inhabit the Zambezi River, elephants occasionally pass through the area, and various antelope species occur in surrounding woodland. The area is also a good spot to observe otters fishing, particularly along quieter sections of the river. Birdlife is excellent throughout the year.
Yes. The Ngonye Falls Bush Break is suitable for children aged 6 years and older. Activities are educational, nature-focused, and conducted with close supervision, especially near the river and falls.
Recommended items include comfortable walking shoes, hat and sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars, camera with spare batteries, torch or headlamp, warm layers for evenings, personal toiletries, and a sleeping bag (or arrange hire in advance).
Yes. This bush break can be fully customized. Options include additional nights, extended time at Ngonye Falls, specialist birding or photography focus, or combining the trip with Livingstone or longer Zamsato safari itineraries.
Ngonye Falls is managed under a community partnership model, where park and camping fees directly benefit surrounding Lozi communities. Your visit contributes to conservation, employment, and sustainable tourism in Western Zambia.
The safari operates in all weather conditions. Rain enhances the drama of the falls and surrounding landscapes. Activities may be adjusted for safety and comfort, but the experience remains rewarding year-round.
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