The Zambezi River, the fourth largest river in Africa, is one of the most popular because of its stunning beauty. But for centuries, the only people who got a view of it were locals and early explorers; however now it’s pretty easy for anyone to book a trip and see it for themselves. Here is a photo essay of the incredible sights you can expect to see along the Zambezi River.
(Someone35/Wikimedia Commons)
Local Villagers
The Zambezi River is an important provider of resources and local villagers have thrived along its banks for centuries.
Zambezi River near Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe (Shutterstock)
Gorges
The sheer power of the Zambezi River has carved out deep gorges around Victoria Falls over the centuries.
Courtesy of Jule Lumma/Flickr.com
Victoria Falls
The magnificence of Victoria Falls needs no introduction, but is just another part of the gorgeous sites along the Zambezi.
Courtesy of Harvey Barrison / flickr
Rainbows
And if you’re anywhere near the falls, you can often see vivid rainbows created by the towering mist.
Shutterstock
The Long Banks
The banks of the Zambezi stretch for hundreds of miles and aren’t always the easiest to maneuver.
Courtesy of Josh Friedman / flickr
Hippos
And if you’re hanging out by the banks, you have to be cautious of hippos. Like the one peeking out above, they might see you before you see them.
Shutterstock
Nile Crocodiles
You’ll also find these guys. Although they are called Nile Crocodiles, they actually thrive throughout Africa, including the Zambezi River.
Animal sightings on the Zambezi / Rishav Nair
Elephants
Elephants are a common site along the Zambezi River and can be seen on the banks or cooling off in the water.
Shutterstock
Lions
While not as common as elephant sightings, prides of lions are known to gather along the banks looking for prey.
Shutterstock
Waterbuck
Lions wouldn’t be there without plentiful game to prowl on like these waterbuck.
Courtesy of Trapper Rudd / YouTube
Tigerfish
Just below the waters of the Zambezi, you’ll find these sharp-toothed fish that are sure to scare the pants off of you.
Shutterstock
Zambezi Cruise
But if you don’t want to get up close with the wildlife, you can just cruise down the river out of harms way.
Courtesy of Jonathan / Flickr
White Water Rafting
The river is also a great place for epic white water rafting adventures.
Shutterstock
Dr. Livingstone Monument
A statue along the river commemorates the early explorer Dr. Livingstone who mapped out the area.
Zambezi River at Sunset / Rishav Nair
The Sunsets
And you can end any day out on the Zambezi River with a beautiful sunset like the one above.
