Upper Zambezi Canoe Trip
Take the Upper Zambezi canoe trip with Wild Horizons and get the chance to experience all that the stunning and charming Upper Zambezi River has to offer.
Clients are collected at approximately 07h00 and are transferred on a game drive in an open vehicle into the Zambezi National Park where they have the chance to see some game on the way. After tea/coffee & breakfast clients receive a thorough safety briefing which covers safety conditions of the river, rapids, canoeing instruction, and general information. Once everyone is comfortable and ready, the trip starts.
On these trips clients paddle their own canoes, following their qualified Canoe Guide as he leads the way. The trip is spent canoeing - (15kms) - downstream, running small grade one and two rapids, exploring channels, bird and game viewing whislt making their way to the dis-embarkment point where a tasty lunch and cold minerals and beers are served. Clients are back in Victoria Falls by about 14h30, allowing them enough time to do another activity in the afternoon. Routes taken on this trip can vary due to logistical, road and weather conditions.
General Information
Safety & Insurance & M.A.R.S.
We are the longest established canoe company on the Zambezi River and have off-shore Public Liability of ZAR 200 million. We have 24-hour radio back up with M.A.R.S. (Medical Air Rescue Service) and all guides carry mobile radios and vehicles are fitted with radios for safety and logistical convenience. Our canoe trips carry first aid kits, which are checked and resupplied regularly. All Wild Horizons guides have passed their National Parks Canoe Guides License under the appropriate authority and attend regular canoe safety meetings.
Difficulty
The majority of people who join trips are first time canoeists. No previous experience is required and our staff are specially trained to prepare and guide you through the day. Children from 7 upwards can canoe if accompanied by a parent and fit into a lifejacket. Management retain the right to refuse a child who they feel is unsuitable for the activity for any reason.
What to Bring
Clients are advised to bring the following with them on canoe trips:
shorts
river shoes
sun block
mosquito repellent
torch
hats
sunglasses
towels
cameras (spare film and cards!)
binoculars
warm clothing in winter months (April - September)
Boats
All canoe trips are run in self-paddle two man inflatable canoes. The Zambezi Breakfast Drift and the Zambezi Wine Route are run in 3 man fibreglass Canadian canoes with a paddler provided. Valuables - all clients are advised to leave valuables at their hotels.
Accommodation
Kalai River Camp is situated approximately 25kms upstream from Victoria Falls in the Zambezi National Park and is a mobile rustic bush camp. It is important to note that it is not a "luxury permanent lodge"! The camp is fully backed up by a team of staff that set up camp in preparation for client's arrival. The camp comprises of large walk in tents, equipped with camp beds, mattresses, sheets, pillows and duvets, camping water basin (which are filled with hot water each morning), a paraffin lantern, a bedside table and hand towels. There is also a portable toilet and hot shower in camp. The camp and dining table are set up under the stars on the riverbank with stunning views of the river. On all overnight trips limited beers and minerals (approximately 2 per person per night), wine (1 bottle per 2 pax). If clients want other alcoholic or imported drinks they must supply their own. During winter months (April, May, June, July and August), the evenings, nights and early mornings will be very cold. Clients must bring their own warm clothing. Space is limited; we suggest one carry bag per person.
