Dec 1, 2019 | High Water, Low Water, white water rafting, wild horizons activities, wildhorizons, zambezi rafting, Zambia, Zimbabwe
The Internet Age has come with an overload of information that can lead to confusion and misrepresentation.
We are here to dispel that by making things measurable. Not only has the Victoria Falls never dried up but last year it was the highest it has been since 2010. Every year we chart the water levels in a graph using data provided by the Zambezi River Authority, who assess water levels through a hydrometric network comprising of thirteen stations.
As you can see, seasonally there are drop offs in the dry season and rises in the wet season, this is nothing new or concerning, it is a natural fluctuation. More so, apart from this year, the river level has been above the normal average for the past five years. Please be mindful of exaggerated stories and footage that has been censored and sensationalised. We are here on the ground and we are available to answer any questions or concerns.
We have wet seasons and we have dry seasons, but the Victoria Falls is magnificent in all her forms.
The river is currently on the rise and alarmist reporting only distorts a very normal phenomenon.
Oct 30, 2017 | birding safari, Family Friendly Activity, Guides, safari guide, Things to do in Victoria Falls, wild horizons activities, wildlife encounter
A Day Trip to Chobe
Chobe National Park is renowned for its large herds of elephant that frequent the Chobe River on a daily basis. In the dry season an estimated 85,000 elephants make Chobe National Park their home, mainly in close proximity to the river. However, Chobe is also home to a plethora of other African wildlife. Game drives offer regular sightings of lion, leopard, buffalo and a whole host of antelope including sable, puku, kudu, eland and roan.
The river offers up its own incredible sightings of huge pods of hippo grazing on the swampy islands interspersed with some of the largest crocodiles in Africa basking themselves on the extensive flood plain and open sand banks. Chobe National Park is also an ornithologist’s paradise – the banks of the river are lined with the nests and holes of some of the most colourful and spectacular birds in Africa and a myriad of birds of prey call Chobe their home.
This tour departs daily to the Chobe National Park in Botswana. Clients will be transferred by bus to the Kazungula border post. They will be assisted through customs formalities by the Wild Horizons driver before being handed over to their Botswana guide. Once they have been assisted through the Botswana border formalities, Chobe Marina Lodge is the next stop for a quick bathroom break and signing of indemnity forms. Guests will proceed straight to the morning cruise where they will spend the morning game viewing along the Chobe River. All the boats offer protection from the sun. The cruise will end at around 12h30 and clients will go back to the lodge for an extensive buffet lunch. The lodge is situated on the river banks overlooking the Chobe River and the Namibian shoreline. After lunch, guests will board safari vehicles for an afternoon game drive into Chobe National Park. After the drive guests will be taken back to the Kazungula Border where they will be met by their Zimbabwean guide for their return transfer to Victoria Falls.
When considering attractions in Victoria Falls, keep in mind the magnificent Chobe National Park is very easily accessible and makes for a fabulous fun filled day!
Important details:
Times:
• 07:00 to 07:30 – Guests will be picked up from their hotel, in a closed bus, and proceed on a 70km journey on a tar road through Zambezi National park and designated safari areas to the Kazungula border.
• 08:30 – Arrival at the Kazungula Border, where guests will exit Zimbabwe/Zambia and enter Botswana. At the border guests will change vehicles and are met by their Botswana guide.
• 08:45 – Once guests have gone through Botswana immigration, they will take a short drive to Chobe Marina Lodge.
• 09:00 to 09:15 – Arrival at the lodge, where guests will have a short bathroom break, and will also be required to fill out the Park Entry form.
• 09:30 – Depart on guests’ first activity; EITHER game drive or boat cruise. If guests would like to go on a specific activity first, then they should please specify. Soft drinks, local beer and bottled water are provided on all safaris and river cruises.
• 12:30 – Return to the hotel for lunch. This will be served a buffet style lunch, with a selection of traditional and modern day meals to choose from.
• 13:30 – Depart for guests’ second activity. This will be either a game drive or a boat cruise, depending on what activity the guests did in the morning.
• 16:00 – Return from the Park and head back to the Kazungula Border to proceed with border formalities.
• 16:30 – Guests will meet their Wild Horizons bus and are transported back to their hotel.
• 17:30 – Arrive at guests’ hotel.
Duration: 11 hours
Departures: between 07h10 and 07h30
Minimum: 1
Maximum: 9 per vehicle
Age Restrictions: Children 2-11 years are half price, over 12 pay full price.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
Botswana requires an unabridged birth certificate for all minors travelling to Botswana (this has been in effect since October 2016).
The following documents are required when travelling to Botswana with minors (18 years and below):
- Valid Passport
- Valid VISA, if required
- Unabridged Birth Certificate (Birth Certificate containing the particulars of a minor and those of the parents)
- A letter of consent from the other parent should the minor be travelling with one parent
*Please note that a normal birth certificate will not be accepted.
Minimum age: We accept children younger than 2 years but on a private trip basis.
Maximum age: N.A
Language: English (French, German, Italian & Spanish available on private tours, at supplement cost – subject to availability)
Transfers: Included from hotels in Victoria Falls Town
Please note: the order of the activities are subject to change without prior notice.
Jun 13, 2016 | Guides, Low Water, rafting, Victoria Falls, white water rafting, Wild Horizons Activites, wild horizons activities, Wild Horizons Staff, zambezi rafting, Zambezi river
The Guides
While our team of world-class guides will safely guide you through the rapids on our self supported expedition and explain the geology and fascinating history of this area.
Each day, you’ll take away a wealth of information about this special place. Perhaps even more impressive than their knowledge of the Zambezi is their genuine, heartfelt connection to the river. With Wild Horizons’ guides having an average of over 19 years experience you are truly in good hands.
Meals just taste better when they’re made outdoors. When rafting down the river, your guides will prepare delicious hearty meals seemingly out of thin air. Plus, with advance notice, they are happy to accommodate any dietary restrictions and requests. There’s nothing better than rising as the sun illuminates the towering walls above, to the smell of bacon and eggs on the fire.
The Beaches
Two words ‘beach campsite’! There is something wonderful about ending the day and setting up camp on a private, white sandy beach overlooking the beautiful river.
You probably don’t think about beaches in Zimbabwe, but they’re here. Sink your toes in the sand, crack open a cold beverage, and go over the day’s adventures in your mind as the canyon walls turn gold with the setting sun.
No Technology
Within minutes of being on the river you are a world away from the buzz of Victoria Falls and modern life. Having no cell phones, internet or distractions allows you to connect with the environment and people around you.
You’ll find yourself completely connected to the moment you are in and the new smells, sounds and sights that surround you. If you want to escape on a “real holiday” where there are no phones, computers or stress, this is the perfect vacation for you.
The Wildlife and Scenery
Sheer rock walls arise hundreds of meters above the river. On longer journeys basalt rocks give way to grassy banks and the grunts of vocal hippopotamus carry across the water. Rapids are interceded by calm stretches of crystal clear water where you can take a relaxing swim and watch the spectacular gorges, thick with vegetation. The Songwe gorges, home to the threatened Taita falcons, are incredibly beautiful and seen by few tourists.
The Camraderie
There’s something about a shared experience outdoors that lends itself to friendships. Perhaps it’s the quiet nights spent chatting around the campfire whilst stars twinkle overhead, or the excitement and teamwork that comes with navigating a class 5 rapid together but few people leave without exchanging details. And if you travel with friends or family you’ll find those connections strengthened by the time spent together and unique memories made.
In 2016 Wild Horizons has added set departures to our multi day rafting trips, perfect for solo travellers and smaller groups.
2017 SET DEPARTURE DATES (2 day 2 night Multi Day Rafting trails)
In: 2nd October Out: 4th October
In: 16th October Out: 18th October
In: 23rd October Out: 25th October
For more information on the various itineraries available click here or email info@wildhorizons.co.zw
Apr 14, 2016 | Family Friendly, Family Friendly Activity, Guides, safari guide, Safaris, Things to do in Victoria Falls, Victoria Falls, Wild Horizons Activites, wild horizons activities, Wildlife
The muggy afternoon heat was beginning to dissipate as Mike, our incredibly knowledgeable and charming guide, arrived to collect us from The Stanley and Livingstone. Almost immediately we saw a herd of zebra. This fairly common sighting suddenly became an interesting study in how zebra stripes act as a private air conditioning system, allowing them to stay blissfully cool in the heat of a Zimbabwean afternoon. Equally fascinating, although less romantic, we learnt that within the first few days of being born, baby zebras eat their mother’s dung. This provides them with roughage and ample bacteria to fight off infection during their vulnerable first days.
Suddenly we were startled by a warthog whose impressive size and demeanor was somewhat diminished by the very obvious lack of his tail. Mike explained to us that it is common to see warthogs with no tails on the 6000-acre reserve, as there is fierce competition between warthogs and hyenas for the limited number of burrows. About 70% of the warthogs have lost their tails from reversing into a burrow and finding it occupied by sharp fanged rivals!
Alerted by the smell, we were thrilled to see a pile of rhino faeces on the road. Mike explained to us how rhino have a unique system of detecting the presence of other rhino in the area. Male rhino ensure that after defecating they leave traces of urine and faeces on their back legs. These ‘calling cards’ drop off as he walks, clearly demarcating his area for other would-be trespassers! Female rhino dung can indicate an increase in oestrogen for potential suitors in the area.
Much like we humans will sniff a glass of wine trying to discern different scents and notes, so a rhino employs a similar, albeit rudimentary method to glean information. So the next time you raise a glass of wine to your nose and inhale deeply, think of the rhinos, one of which could be doing exactly the same thing at the same time. Cheers to you both!
Our glorious afternoon was complete when suddenly we came across not one, but five Black Rhino! Unperturbed by our presence and obvious excitement, these magnificent creatures strolled leisurely up to our vehicle, sniffing (of course) the air inquisitively and coolly regarding their star struck visitors. We realized how supremely privileged we were to see these 5 rhino (the herd comprises 7 in total) when Mike pointed out that the total black rhino population in the world stands now at a mere 1500. Depressing news indeed! For this reason the rhino on the reserve are regularly de-horned to deter poachers.
After the privilege of watching these incredible creatures, we made our way to the dam. Progress was delayed firstly by a herd of elephants waiting patiently for the babies to stop gambolling on the road and then by an enormous herd of buffalo whose progress indicated that they too were feeling the lethargy and peacefulness of the early evening. After a glorious sunset, accompanied by perfectly made gin and tonics, delicious nibbles and a myriad of bird activity, we reluctantly left this stunning display of nature to make our way home, all of us enriched by an incredible afternoon in the capable hands of Mike.
TIPS:
- Wear neutral coloured clothing, a hat and sunglasses.
- Take cameras and binoculars- there’s plenty to see!
Dec 11, 2015 | Family Friendly Activity, Sunset Cruise, Victoria Falls, Victoria Falls Activity, Wild Horizons Activites, wild horizons activities, wildhorizons, wildlife encounter, Zambezi river, Zambezi River Cruise
I recently had the opportunity to partake in a Wild Horizons’ Sunset cruise. The cruises depart daily from a jetty on the banks of the wide and calm upper Zambezi above the Victoria Falls. The river here is so broad it splits onto three channels and it’s calm belies the thundering spectacle mere kilometres downstream. At this time of year the spray from the falls is a mere smudge on the horizon and the roar of the falls registers as a background vibration from a distance. The scene couldn’t be calmer. Pods of hippos, graceful dragonflies, cormorants, darters, splashing kingfishers, and gliding crocodiles grace the calm waters. As we take off from the jetty engines purring there’s nothing to do but relax and take in the beauty that surrounds- an experience better conveyed through images from the day, enjoy!
Sep 28, 2015 | cultural Victoria Falls, Family Friendly Activity, Home Hosted Meals, Things to do in Victoria Falls, Victoria Falls, Victoria Falls Activity, wild horizons activities, Zimbabwean Culture
Zimbabwe’s hospitality & culture are legendary and sadly something many visitors miss experiencing. Adventure activities and wildlife watching are complimented greatly by meeting the country’s people and experiencing their culture.
There are opportunities to give back to those less fortunate in Zimbabwe. A humbling and eye-opening experience that gives you the opportunity to make a real difference while also encouraging a feeling of appreciation in those of us who have the time and money available to go on holiday. Whether you pay for an experience such as a village visit, choose to make a donation to a charity or simply spend time in one of Zimbabwe’s craft or food markets ensure you are also taking the time to stop and talk to Zimbabweans and find out about their lives, you won’t regret it.
- Cultural tourism in Zimbabwe is generally a very inexpensive option with costs often simply covering the expenses
- The proceeds from Cultural Tourism have a direct positive effect on the communities visited.
- These activities are fantastic learning experiences for both young and old making them a great option for families. During any of these, your children will likely get to meet and interact with local children while learning about their culture.
Some options on offer in Victoria Falls include:
A rural village tour: You get to visit rural homes, watch fields being tended and possibly get the chance to help in some of the day-to-day chores. Guests are able to gain an insight into Zimbabwean rural life and to see how vastly different it is from life in town- most rural Zimbabweans still practise subsistence farming, few have access to electricity or running water and life is at a far slower pace.
A township tour: The majority of people in Victoria Falls live in the Chinotimba township, which has a population of approximately 60 000 people. During this tour, guests will have an opportunity to observe township-life – from the oldest houses to the taverns, the local market and churches. During a visit to the Chinotimba Primary School clients are introduced to the school headmaster – he or someone assigned, will take the guests on a tour of the school.
A home hosted meal: The concept is a simple one; your host cooks and shares a traditional meal with you, at his or her place… I did this and you can read about my experience on a home hosted dinner here. It was a delightful evening and an experience I would recommend to anyone visiting Zimbabwe. The experience is so genuine. You have an interaction that is deceptively simple, yet somehow meaningful; the sharing of a meal.
The ‘Pay it forward Experience’ This is an experience where guests can really give back to the community, and enjoy a fun, challenging exploration of the markets and town of Victoria Falls. You choose an organization you would like to support from a list and are then given a “wish list” from the chosen charity. You then go on a mission to source the items before delivering them to your chosen charity and meeting the people benefiting from your donation.
* On these experiences guests are welcome to bring along second-hand clothing and footwear, stationery such as exercise books, crayons, pens, pencils, rulers, sharpeners, erasers etc as a donation should they wish to. These items can be invaluable in rural or disadvantaged schools and communities.