When it comes to multi-day rafting, few rivers compare to the Zambezi. This stretch of water, carving its way through the Batoka Gorge just below Victoria Falls, is home to some of the world’s most iconic rapids, but this trip is about far more than just whitewater. With nights under the stars, lunch beneath the mighty falls, and even a scenic helicopter flight out of the gorge, this journey is the perfect blend of adrenaline and awe.
Here are ten standout rapids and a few unforgettable moments that make this one of the best river trips on the planet.
Rapid 4: Morning Glory
Morning Glory offers a few variations depending on water levels, but no matter the line, teamwork is essential. The crew must work together to avoid a couple of powerful holes and a rock wall on river right. It’s a perfect example of how important paddle coordination is and the thrill of threading a big rapid together.
Rapid 5: Stairway to Heaven
A Zambezi classic. Your guide will line the raft up with a large pour-over on the right as you paddle down a green tongue and into the aptly named “Catcher’s Mitt.” After that, it’s a rollercoaster ride over several large waves before the adrenaline-fuelled celebration begins.
Rapid 7: Gulliver’s Travels
A technical rapid and one of the longest on the river. With multiple lines and features, including “Indicator Rock,” “The Green Highway,” and the “Land of the Giants,” this rapid is a masterclass in guide navigation. Guests work as a team to stay on course and enjoy the sheer scale of this watery maze.
Rapid 8: The Midnight Diner
There are three distinct routes through this rapid depending on how adventurous the crew is feeling. The safest run is far right — technical but predictable. The middle route leads into a large wave feature affectionately called “The Muncher.” Either way, the Diner serves up a big helping of fun.
Rapid 11: Creamy White Buttocks
Day Two of the Zambezi Blast begins with this surprisingly smooth entry. A green tongue into two large waves. Paddle hard when your guide tells you, then hold on and enjoy the ride. It’s a wonderful way to start the day.
Rapid 13: The Mother
After the Three Ugly Sisters (12A, 12B, and 12C), The Mother is the reward. With huge, playful waves, your guide will lead the raft straight down the middle. The final wave is the biggest and always gets a cheer from the crew.
Rapid 18: Oblivion
Arguably the Zambezi’s most famous rapid. Three enormous waves await, and precision is everything. Your guide must line up the raft to hit the first two waves squarely, setting up for the dramatic drop into the third wave, known as “Oblivion.” This rapid is at its best during low water season (August to October), and it never disappoints.
Chamamba
After a long flatwater stretch and some smaller rapids known as The Narrows, you’ll arrive at Chamamba. The entrance is technical, and the drop on the left requires commitment and solid teamwork. It’s a quieter rapid, but one that demands full focus.
Upper Moemba
One of the absolute highlights of the trip. The majority of the river flows over an un-runnable waterfall, but your raft will navigate the smaller right-hand channel. Waves hit from all directions, and the energy is palpable as you drop into the pool below. We camp here, with views of the falls and the thunderous sound of water in the background, the ultimate riverside accommodation.
Ghostrider
The final and largest rapid on the Zambezi. Guides often scout this one before running it. The standard line starts centre-right, and it’s full power all the way. The raft charges through three towering waves. A fitting grand finale to an incredible trip. Not many get to run Ghostrider… but if you do, you’ll never forget it.
Other Highlights You Won’t Want to Miss
Lunch Under Victoria Falls
Day one kicks off with a surreal and memorable moment. Lunch right beneath the spray of Victoria Falls. It’s not every day you start a trip with one of the Seven Natural Wonders towering above you.
Cheese & Wine at Moemba Falls
By the time you reach Upper Moemba, you’ll have earned some relaxation. At camp, enjoy a selection of cheese and wine while the sun sets over the river. One of the most tranquil and beautiful evenings on the entire journey.
Helicopter Flight Out of the Gorge
At the end of the trip, after the final rapid, a scenic helicopter flight lifts you out of the gorge. Seeing the river you’ve just conquered from above is an emotional moment and the perfect way to close this chapter of adventure.
Sleeping Under the Stars
While tents are provided, many guests opt to sleep out on the sandbars, with the Milky Way overhead and the sound of the river nearby. It’s one of the purest joys of expedition life — simple, serene, and unforgettable.
Ready to Run the Mighty Zambezi?
Whether you’re joining us for the iconic Zambezi Blast or the full-length Mighty Zambezi, you’re in for a once-in-a-lifetime journey. It’s more than a river trip. It’s a story you’ll tell for years to come.
