Zambezi River Safari in Livingstone: Hippos, elephants, birds

Two hours on shallow Zambezi waters where big boats can't reach

A guided river safari on the Zambezi near Livingstone that navigates shallow waters and hidden islands inaccessible to larger vessels, bringing you face-to-face with hippos, elephants, crocodiles and bird species in their natural habitat. You choose between breakfast, lunch or sunset departure times. The tour includes national park fees, return transfer from your hotel, and snacks and beverages. A live English-speaking guide leads the boat.

Step-by-step itinerary

Zambezi River Safari Experience

• Board special river safari boat
• Sail along shallow waters and riverbanks
• Observe hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and birds
• Visit hidden islands and navigate rapids
• Listen to expert guide's wildlife insights

The experience

The boat sails close to the riverbanks and through shallow waters where standard safari vessels can't navigate, reaching hidden islands and navigating rapids with ease. You'll see hippos, elephants, crocodiles and countless bird species in their natural habitat along the Zambezi. The guide shares insights about the river's ecosystem, its wildlife and the local culture that thrives along its banks: turning each sighting into a story rather than a checklist.

You pick your timing: breakfast, lunch or sunset safari slots, each one a different window into the river's rhythms. The two-hour experience includes national park fees, snacks and beverages, and return transfer from your hotel, so the logistics are settled before you board. Children from age 5 are welcome. Infants sit on an adult's lap.

What’s included

• National park fees.
• return hotel transfer.
• snacks and beverages during the safari.
• live English-speaking guide.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDepartures at 08:00, 11:30 and 16:00

Book up toStart time

AgesAdult (12 and older) · Child (5 to 11 years) · Under 5: can't be included in the booking

GroupUp to 14

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup included.You can choose from 40 pickup points.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 5 days ago

Good to know

Easy physical levelWheelchair accessiblePublic transport nearbyNot for heart conditionsInfants must sit on laps

Operated by BUSH WILDERNESS SAFARIS

Is this one for you?The boat's shallow-draft design is what unlocks access to hidden islands and rapids where bigger safari vessels can't go, so if you want close-up wildlife encounters rather than distant viewing from a standard tour boat, this format delivers them. Breakfast, lunch and sunset departures let you pick the time that fits your day in Livingstone.

Traveler reviews

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (5 to 11 years). Under 5: they can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What animals will I actually see on the Zambezi River safari?

Hippos, elephants, crocodiles and a variety of bird species inhabit the shallow waters and riverbanks the boat reaches. The guide points out wildlife as it appears and explains the river's ecosystem, so you understand what you're looking at.

Can I choose what time of day I go on this safari?

Yes, you select breakfast, lunch or sunset safari slots at checkout, each one offering a different perspective on the river and its wildlife.

Does the tour price include the national park entry fee?

National park fees are included in the tour price, along with return transfer from your hotel and snacks and beverages during the two hours on the water.

How does the boat reach places where bigger safari boats can't go?

The boat is designed to navigate shallow waters and rapids, allowing it to sail close to riverbanks and access hidden islands that standard larger vessels cannot reach.