From Livingstone & Victoria Falls: Zambezi Half-Day Rafting

Southern Zambia, Zimbabwe



Raft one of the best sections of whitewater rafting in the Zambezi River with this tour from Livingstone. Paddle over thrilling rapids like Morning Glory, Stairway to Heaven, and Washing Machine.

Experience half-day white water rafting on the Zambezi River through Batoka Gorge, suitable for beginners and those with limited time at Victoria Falls.

Highlights

  • Half-day rafting on rapids 14 to 25, Class 4 and 5
  • Named rapids include Stairway to Heaven, Morning Glory, Washing Machine
  • Expert captain and dedicated safety kayaker accompany you
  • 2 to 3 hours on the river, ideal for first-timers or short itineraries
  • Lunch, photos, and video included

Description

This half-day rafting trip covers rapids 14 through 25 of the Zambezi River inside Batoka Gorge, below Victoria Falls. The challenging Class 4 and Class 5 rapids include Stairway to Heaven, Morning Glory, and Washing Machine. A professional captain and safety kayaker guide the raft throughout, selecting the best lines and ensuring your safety.

You will spend 2 to 3 hours on the river navigating 10 to 13 rapids. After the final rapid, you will hike out of the gorge to a riverside lunch. Soft drinks and bottled water are provided with the activity, while lunch drinks are not included. Photos and video of your rafting experience are supplied at no extra cost.

Maano Adventures is Zambia’s only locally owned rafting operator on the Zambezi. All guides and crew members live in communities above the gorge. Hotel pickup and drop-off are available from Livingstone (Zambia), Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe), and Kasane (Botswana).

Includes

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off from Livingstone, Zambia; Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe; Kasane, Botswana
  • Safety briefing and equipment fitting at the gorge entrance
  • Approximately 15-minute hike down into Batoka Gorge
  • 2 to 3 hours rafting on rapids 14 to 25, Class 4 and 5
  • Hike out of the gorge after rafting
  • Riverside lunch (drinks not included with lunch; soft drinks and water included with the activity)
  • All rafting equipment provided: raft, paddle, life jacket, helmet
  • Professional captain and dedicated safety kayaker
  • Photos and video of the full experience included at no extra cost

Excludes

  • National park fees (US$10)
  • Gratuities
  • $40 transfer fee for Kasane bookings covering cross-border logistics
  • Visa fees if applicable

Important Information

  • A $40 transfer fee applies to hotel pickups and drop-offs in Kasane, Botswana, covering cross-border logistics, driver, and fuel costs
  • Expect to get wet: wear quick-dry clothing and bring a change of clothes
  • The hike into and out of Batoka Gorge is steep; wear sturdy closed-toe shoes
  • Free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the experience

Easy Cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Book this rafting trip during the dry season for optimal river conditions. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and a waterproof camera. Confirm your hotel pickup location when booking.

Frequently Asked Questions

The trip covers Class 4 and 5 rapids, including Stairway to Heaven, Morning Glory, and Washing Machine.
The rafting runs on the Zambezi River below Victoria Falls, deep within Zimbabwe's Batoka Gorge.
The rafting experience lasts between 2 to 3 hours on the river, navigating 10 to 13 rapids.
Each trip is led by an expert professional captain with a dedicated safety kayaker throughout the journey.
Yes, the trip is ideal for first-timers and those with short travel itineraries in Zimbabwe.
The package includes rafting, lunch, photos, and video of the experience.
Check the tour website for current hours and optimal seasons, as water levels vary throughout the year in Zimbabwe.
No prior experience is required as professional guides provide full instruction and safety support.
While the main focus is rafting, you may spot local birds and riverine wildlife along the Batoka Gorge.

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