Zambezi River 2.5 Day Rafting Adventure

Thrills and Spills on the Zambezi: A 2.5-Day White Water Rafting Adventure with Try Rafting Co.

Duration

time of activity

2.5 days

Difficulty

activity difficulty level

Minimum age

age

7+

Price

price

$900

Overview

Tackling the Rapids

Pack a day bag with essentials and prepare for your first day on the river.

Rafting Trip

Day 1
Embark on an unforgettable white water rafting journey through the Zambezi River. Encounter a series of heart-pounding rapids, including the famous "Stairway to Heaven" and "The Overland Truck Eater."

Lunch
Take a break on a secluded riverbank for a picnic lunch while soaking in the incredible landscapes. Afternoon Continue your exhilarating rafting adventure, navigating through challenging rapids and witnessing the stunning gorges that define the Zambezi.

Evening
Set up camp for a well-deserved dinner and recount the day's adventures with your fellow rafters.

Day 2
Conquering the Zambezi's Best Rapids

Morning
Another day of thrilling white water rafting begins with a hearty breakfast. Gear up and prepare for the day ahead. Rafting Expedition Challenge some of the most intense rapids the Zambezi has to offer, including the notorious "The Terminator" and "Oblivion."

Lunch
Pause for a scenic lunch break on the riverbanks, where you can enjoy the breathtaking views and reflect on your incredible journey.

Afternoon
Conclude your white water rafting adventure, making your way through the final set of rapids. Take in the tranquility of the river as you float along the calmer sections of the Zambezi.

Day 3
Morning
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before packing your belongings and bidding farewell to the Zambezi River.

Transport Back to Victoria Falls or Airport

Your adventure comes to an end, but the memories of the thrill, beauty, and camaraderie of your white water rafting trip with Try Rafting Co. on the Zambezi River will stay with you forever.

Highlights

  • Challenge some of the most intense rapids the Zambezi has to offer
  • Witness the stunning gorges that define the Zambezi River
  • View Victoria Falls from Batoka Gorge
  • Camping riverside on the beautiful white sand beaches of the Zambezi River

Additional Information

  • Includes

    • All Meals during trip
    • Drinks 
    • Pickup and drop-off 
    • Water during rafting
    • Professional local guide 
    • All rafting gear: life vets, helmets and paddles
    • Tent
  • Excludes

    • National park fees $10 per person (paid in cash on day of departure)
    • Photos and videos (available upon confirmation before the trip)
    • Tips & gratuities
    • Sleeping bag or blanket (sleeping bag available for an additional fee)
    • Pillow
  • What to Bring

    • Sunscreen 
    • Medication.  Our guides can keep it safe and dry inside our first aid kits and dry bags.
    • Towel and dry dlothes 
    • Sleeping bag and pillow
    • Bug dpray
    • Reusable water bottle
    • Sweatshirt or jacket for the evenings
    • Head lamp or flashlight
    • Flip flops or sandals for around camp
  • What to wear

    • Nylon swim trunks, swimsuits
    • Quick dry, light weight long sleeve shirt for sun protection
    • Sport sandals or old tennis shoes are great for rafting.
    • Hat
    • Sunglasses with secure strap
    • Please note: Cotton WILL NOT keep you warm when it is wet.
  • Difficulty

    Medium

frequently Asked questions

  • What grade are the rapids on the Zambezi River?

    The Zambezi River below Victoria Falls features primarily Grade IV and Grade V whitewater rapids, making it one of the most challenging and exciting one-day rafting rivers in the world.

  • What makes rafting the Zambezi River so special?

    Rafting the Zambezi below Victoria Falls is considered one of the best one-day whitewater rafting experiences on Earth. Deep basalt gorges, warm water, and legendary rapids combine to deliver a rare mix of scenery, adrenaline, and pure fun.

  • Do I need previous rafting experience?

    No previous rafting experience is required. Many guests are first-time rafters. Professional guides provide a full safety briefing, equipment, and on-river coaching before and during the trip.

  • Is Zambezi River rafting safe?

    Whitewater rafting always involves some risk, but reputable operators follow strict safety standards. Trips are led by certified guides, and all guests receive proper safety gear and a detailed briefing before entering the river. A reasonable level of fitness and confidence in water is recommended.

  • What is the best time of year to raft the Zambezi River?

    The best time for high-adventure rafting is during low water season (August to December), when most rapids are open and wave action is at its biggest. During high water season (January to July), some rapids may be closed and operators run modified routes depending on conditions. The river remains warm year-round.

  • How long does a Zambezi River rafting trip take?

    A full-day rafting trip typically covers 19 to 25 km (12 to 15 miles) of river and lasts most of the day. This includes the safety briefing, rafting time, the steep gorge hike in and out, lunch, and return transport.

  • How much does Zambezi River rafting cost?

    Prices vary by season, water levels, and operator, but most full-day rafting trips cost several hundred US dollars per person. Rates usually include professional guides, rafting equipment, lunch, and transfers.

  • How physically demanding is the rafting trip?

    Rafting requires moderate fitness, the ability to paddle, and comfort in moving water. The steep hike in and out of the Batoka Gorge is often the most physically demanding part of the experience.

  • Will I fall out of the raft?

    It is possible. The Zambezi is a big-volume river with powerful rapids, and “out-of-raft experiences” can happen. Guides thoroughly prepare guests on what to do if this occurs and are always close by for assistance.

  • Can non-swimmers join the rafting trip?

    Some operators allow confident non-swimmers to participate, but being comfortable in water is strongly recommended. All guests wear personal flotation devices (life jackets) throughout the trip.

  • What should I bring for Zambezi River rafting?

    Bring swimwear, lightweight quick-dry clothing, secure sandals or water shoes, sunscreen, and a change of clothes for after the trip. All rafting equipment, including helmets, paddles, and life jackets, is provided.

  • Are meals or drinks included?

    Yes. Full-day rafting trips typically include lunch and drinks at the end of the day.

  • What is the minimum age for rafting the Zambezi River?

    Minimum age requirements vary by trip type and water levels. Family-friendly rafting options are available on calmer sections of the river, while high-adventure trips are usually restricted to older participants.

  • Can I bring a camera or phone?

    Hands-free cameras such as GoPros are allowed and capture incredible action. Helmet and raft mounts are available. Handheld phones and cameras are not recommended during rapids, but professional photographers can be arranged in advance.

  • Should I tip my rafting guide?

    Tipping is always appreciated but never required. If you feel your guide provided an excellent, safe, and entertaining experience, a tip is a great way to say thank you.

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