• Overview

  Embark on a thrilling 3-day, 2-night Zambezi Canoe Adventure in the heart of Zambia’s dramatic Lower Zambezi National Park. This immersive water safari combines serene canoe paddling through remote waterways with up-close wildlife viewing and overnight island camping. Skilled guides lead you through tranquil channels, where elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and abundant birdlife frequently appear along the riverbanks. Between paddling sessions, relax on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River and sleep under a vaulted African sky.

Highlights

• Wildlife-Rich Canoe Safari: Paddle peaceful river channels alongside hippos, elephants, buffalo, and diverse birdlife in a low-impact, intimate setting.

• Scenic River Journey: Navigate calm waters framed by natural vegetation and dramatic landscapes of the Lower Zambezi Valley.

• Sunset Cruise: Enjoy a late-afternoon river cruise around Kanyemba Island with spectacular colors and wildlife.

• Island Camping: Experience one night on a secluded river island with all camp facilities prepared for you.

• Expert Guides: Local canoeing guides provide safe navigation, wildlife insights, and interpretive expertise throughout.

Itineraries

Day 1

Arrival & Sunset Cruise

Your adventure begins with a scenic 3-4-hour drive from Lusaka to the Lower Zambezi, travelling on well-maintained roads through rural landscapes. On arrival at Kiambi Safari Lodge, settle into your air-conditioned thatched tented chalet, offering beautiful views over the Zambezi River.

In the afternoon, enjoy your included Zambezi sunset boat cruise around Kanyemba Island. This relaxed cruise provides opportunities to observe hippos, crocodiles, and a wide range of birdlife as the river glows with the warm colours of the setting sun.

Dinner & Overnight: Thatched Tented Chalets

Day 2

Canoeing Safari, Overnight on Buffalo Beans Island

Prepare for an exhilarating day on the river following a restful night’s sleep. Your morning begins with a hearty breakfast at 07:30, setting the perfect tone for the day. Soon after, meet your canoeing guide for a comprehensive briefing covering the day’s route, possible wildlife encounters, essential safety procedures on the river and at camp, and proper canoeing techniques.

Depart from the jetty and travel to the canoe launch point. Along the way, the back-up boat arranges a welcome tea break, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable start to the journey. A freshly prepared lunch, also provided by the back-up boat, will give you the energy needed for the continued downstream adventure.

Following lunch, the back-up boat moves ahead to set up your campsite, ensuring everything is in place for your arrival. In the late afternoon, you will reach Buffalo Beans Island, where your scenic riverside camp awaits.

Full board & Overnight: Camping

Day 3

Breakfast, Return by Boat to Kiambi & Drive to Lusaka

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at your island campsite before boarding the motorboat for a cheerful transfer back to Kiambi Safari Lodge. On arrival, sit down for a scrumptious lunch before beginning your scenic 3-4 hours drive back to Lusaka.

• Road transfers between Lusaka and Kiambi Safari Lodge

• One night accommodation in thatched tented, air-conditioned chalet

• One night fully supported island camping

• Sunset cruise

• Guided canoe safari with professional river guides

• All meals (as per itinerary)

• Tea break and lunch on Day 2 by back-up boat

• Boat transfer from island back to Kiambi on Day 3

• All camping equipment

• Drinks (alcoholic and soft drinks unless stated)

• Lunch on Day 1 (if arrival is early)

• Items of a personal nature (laundry, curio purchases, etc.)

• Staff gratuities

• Additional transfers outside the standard itinerary