The Upper Zambezi lies far from tourist hubs, offering beautiful scenery, peaceful atmospheres and fantastic wildlife viewing.
The mighty Zambezi River has its origins in Zambia, and is Africa’s fourth largest waterway, forming the country’s border with Zimbabwe. It is a lifeline for many communities as well as for a wealth of bird and animal life.
The Upper Zambezi region lies a little west of the river’s best known feature – Victoria Falls – towards Botswana. This area is particularly scenic, and offers some seriously good bird-watching, whilst hippo, elephant and buffalo are commonly seen in and around the river and its tributaries.
Safari lodges in the Upper Zambezi offer a very relaxed and peaceful experience, far from the hustle and bustle of tourist hubs such as Victoria Falls. Boating is an integral part of any holiday in this area, whilst game drives can also be undertaken in the incredibly varied habitat – ranging from forest to grasslands – in search of the plentiful plains game and predators that rely on the Zambezi’s waters for survival.
Highlights
- A very scenic area set far from busy tourist hubs
- Offering peace, quiet and fantastic wildlife viewing
- A wide range of activities from game drives to walks
- Cruises on the Zambezi River
- Excellent safari lodges with quality guides
Activities
The dry season (June-October) is the best time for game viewing as the bush dries out and game congregates at the river’s edge as well as other precious remaining waterholes. The shoulder seasons – April, May and November – can also offer good game viewing. Birding during the rainy season (December-March) is excellent, however game viewing is difficult at this time as wildlife disperses.
Location
Zimbabwe Safaris & Tours
The following itineraries are just some of the many experiences that we can design for you. All of our tours are private, independent and tailor-made to your personal travelling requirements. Please contact us to begin creating your personalised Zimbabwe experience.
Best of Zimbabwe
This safari explores three of Zimbabwe's greatest highlights: Hwange National Park, breathtaking Mana Pools National Park and Victoria Falls.
Gems of Zimbabwe
When you book and travel on our 9-day Gems of Zimbabwe up until 15 November 2024 & from 1 April to 20 November 2025, and save $2,662 per person twin share*.
Mana Pools Canoe and Walking Trail
This thrilling safari provides incredibly close encounters with wildlife either from your canoe or on foot in Zimbabwe's stunning Mana Pools National Park.
Wonders of Zimbabwe
Explore the Wonders of Zimbabwe, including iconic Victoria Falls, spectacular Hwange National Park and Lake Kariba set against the Zambezi Escarpment.
Zambezi Canoeing Safari
Experience the excitement of canoeing down Zimbabwe's mighty Zambezi River encountering magnificent wildlife set against a backdrop of stunning landscapes.
Zimbabwe & Botswana
This trip combines Zimbabwes's stunning Victoria Falls and iconic Hwange National Park with Botswana's magnificent Okavango and Linyanti regions.
Accommodation in the Upper Zambezi
The following are some of the lodges that we recommend in the Upper Zambezi. For information on additional accommodation not featured, please contact us.
Imbabala Zambezi Safari Lodge
Established in 1988, Imbabala Zambezi Safari Lodge boasts 14 kilometres of exclusive Zambezi River frontage and borders Botswana’s elephant-rich Chobe Forest Reserve.
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