Zambia attraction

Lower Zambezi National Park

Canoe safaris on a river full of life.

About this place

Lower Zambezi runs along the river opposite Mana Pools (Zimbabwe side), with the same cathedral riverine forest and the same enormous elephant. The park's specialty is multi-day canoe safaris: paddle down the river with a guide, camp on islands, pass elephant and hippo at close range.

What to do

Canoe safaris (half-day to 4-day options)

Boat-based game viewing along the river bank

Walking safaris with licensed guides

Tiger fishing (catch and release)

Game drives in the inland park sections

Practical information

Park opens May to November. Fly-in from Lusaka is the standard route. Premium camps include Chiawa, Sausage Tree, and Old Mondoro. 3-night minimum recommended.

Combine with

Mana Pools (same river, Zimbabwe side)

South Luangwa

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Experiences here

All experiences
4-Day Lower Zambezi safari Experience
multiday 1.6K views

4-Day Lower Zambezi safari Experience

Paddle along the Zambezi and walk with wildlife

  • Canoe equipment
  • Camping gear
  • Meals
★ 4.9 4 Days / 3 Nights
$1300.00
5 Days / 4 Nights Livingstone & Lower Zambezi
multiday 546 views

5 Days / 4 Nights Livingstone & Lower Zambezi

Mosi-oa-Tunya World Heritage Site, Lower Zambezi National Park, Zambezi River.

  • Accommodation as per tier
  • all meals
  • house drinks at camp (except premium cellar)
★ 0.0 5 Days / 4 Nights
$1950.00
Questions answered

Frequently asked questions

The local name is "Mosi-oa-Tunya" meaning "The Smoke That Thunders" in the Kololo language. This name predates David Livingstone's "discovery" and is still used officially in Zambia. It perfectly describes the spray and sound of the falls.

Victoria Falls International Airport (VFA) serves the Zimbabwe side and Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport (LVI) serves Livingstone, Zambia. Both have basic facilities including currency exchange, car rentals, and transfers to hotels. VFA has recently been upgraded with improved terminals and amenities.

Zimbabwe side: VFA (Victoria Falls International Airport). Zambia side: LVI (Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport, Livingstone). These codes are used for flight bookings and airport identification.

The Zambia side offers: Closer access to the Eastern Cataract, Knife Edge Bridge, Livingstone Island, Devil's Pool (dry season), and unique angled views. Livingstone town has good amenities. Entrance: $20 for international visitors.

It depends: Zimbabwe has more viewpoints and better overall views. Zambia offers unique experiences like Devil's Pool and closer waterfall access. Most visitors recommend seeing both sides if possible. Zimbabwe is better for first-time visitors wanting comprehensive views.

There are several licensed operators including: Batoka Sky, Zambezi Helicopter Company, and United Air Charters. All follow strict safety regulations. Flights depart from both Zimbabwe and Zambia sides, with similar pricing and routes.
Editorial

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