Victoria Falls: Zambezi River rafting with local guide

Summary

Paddle through wild rapids below Victoria Falls with a local crew

You’ll feel every rush as you paddle through wild Zambezi rapids below Victoria Falls with an expert local guide. Expect steep climbs into (and out of) the gorge, teamwork on wild water, laughter between rapids, and a simple lunch with views you’ll remember long after you’ve dried off.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the sound — not just the rush of the Zambezi River, but this low, echoing roar bouncing off the gorge walls as we stood at the top, helmets in hand. Our guide, Blessing (yes, that’s really his name), grinned and told us to take our time on the way down. The path was steep and a little muddy from last night’s rain. I could smell wet earth and something sharp in the air — maybe riverweed? My legs were already shaky before we even saw the water.

We got split into groups at the bottom, six of us plus Blessing in our raft. He showed us how to paddle together so we wouldn’t spin out or flip (though honestly, I was sure we’d end up in the river at least once). The first rapid hit fast — it felt like being inside a washing machine for about thirty seconds, then suddenly everything calmed down. There’s this weird silence after each rapid where you just float and catch your breath, and everyone looks at each other like “Did that really just happen?”

I tried to ask Blessing what some of the rapids’ names meant in Shona but probably butchered every word — he laughed anyway. The sun came out halfway through and made these crazy patterns on the black rocks along the gorge. At one point I caught a whiff of sunscreen mixed with river spray and realized my heart was pounding so hard I could hear it over everything else. We didn’t lose anyone to the river (not for long anyway), but pulling people back in is harder than it looks.

The climb out was brutal — 320 meters straight up, legs burning, shirts stuck to our backs. But there was cold juice waiting at the top and lunch under a faded canvas tent. I still think about that view looking back down into the gorge while my hands shook from adrenaline and hunger. Hard to explain exactly why it sticks with me, but it does.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — White Water Rafting Adventure

• Hotel pickup and transfer to briefing
• Safety briefing and gear fitting
• Descend into gorge
• Rafting practice with guides
• Navigate Zambezi rapids
• Climb out of gorge
• Lunch and drinks served
• Transfer back to town and hotels

Top questions

How long does white water rafting on the Zambezi River take?

The full-day trip includes hotel pickup, safety briefing, rafting several rapids below Victoria Falls, lunch at the top of the gorge, and return transfer.

Is swimming ability required for Zambezi River rafting?

No swimming ability is necessary; special high flotation life jackets are supplied for all participants.

How difficult is the walk into and out of Batoka Gorge?

The descent is steep (110–200m) and can be slippery; climbing out is around 320m uphill and requires moderate fitness.

Are meals included during the day trip?

Yes, lunch and drinks are served at the top of the gorge after rafting.

What should I bring for Zambezi white water rafting?

Wear comfortable clothes that can get wet; all safety gear is provided by guides.

Are there any health restrictions for this tour?

This activity isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or cardiovascular issues.

Is hotel pickup included for this experience?

Yes, travelers are collected from their hotels in Zimbabwe before heading to check-in.

Do I need to pay any extra fees on site?

The National Parks fee ($10 per person) must be paid in cash separately from your booking.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup in Zimbabwe, all safety equipment (life jackets, helmets), guidance from experienced local river guides throughout your Zambezi white water rafting adventure below Victoria Falls, a simple lunch with drinks at the top of Batoka Gorge after climbing out, plus return transport back to your hotel—just bring cash for park fees.