Top 5 Activities to Do in the Zambezi Region
Written by Nina van Zyl
The Zambezi Region is a lush verdant hot spot of wildlife and wilderness. During a trip to Namibia, visiting this region is a must-do, and we’ve got the activities to keep you entertained. Read on for our top 5 activities to do in the Zambezi Region.
Game Drives
Of course game drives made the list – this is Africa, after all! (Read about the difference between game drives and safaris here) And there are 4 of the Big 5 to see, plus a whole ton more. We can’t imagine being in the wilderness and not going for a slow cruise through the bush. The Zambezi may be a bit more of a challenge, what with all the foliage to hide behind but that means the reward is so much more remarkable when you do spot something amazing. Your best bet is Bwabwata, Mudumu or Nkasa Rupara National Parks. Animals to look out for are African wild dogs, leopards and lions. And while these guys might be a bit more scattered, not to worry, because during your drive, we guarantee you’ll come across a family of elephants. Have your camera ready for spectacular photo opportunities.
2. Bird watching
While the animals in the Zambezi are a significant draw-card, the area is rife with gorgeous birds of various colours and shapes, from shy water-dwelling creatures to proud individuals in stunning plumage. You don’t have to be a bird-watcher to enjoy the species that call the Zambezi their home. In fact, you don’t even need to venture far into the wilderness to even see them – a visit to Katima Mulilo, the capital of the Zambezi, will have you ticking off a ton! The best time to see these stunners is early in the morning or late in the afternoon when they’re out and about, calling from perches or fluttering between the treetops.
3. Fishing
Where there are rivers, there surely must be fish! And the Zambezi, crisscrossed as it is with waterways and rivers, is no exception. One of the most popular activities in the region is tigerfishing - and no, we’re not talking about catching a striped big cat in the water. Tigerfish are some of the most popular freshwater game fish and with good reason. With their muscular bodies and razor-sharp teeth, they put up one hell of a fight when caught. Most lodges offer tiger fishing as an activity with a catch-and-release policy, meaning that when all the fun’s been had, the tigerfish get to swim another day. Lodges like Zambezi Mubala Camp can offer advice on the best spots to cast your line.
4. Nature walks
When they say, “Take a walk on the wild side”, they're talking about the Zambezi. The great thing about nature walks, though, is that they get you up close and personal with nature in a way that you would never have the opportunity to have otherwise. Led by an experienced guide, nature walks allow you to explore the bush and see what you find hidden behind that next tree. Having nothing between you and the creatures that surround you is exhilarating and awe-inspiring at the same time. And remember to bring your camera - you want to snap a picture of these creatures. Enquire at your lodge about guided nature walks.
5. Sunset boat cruise
We saved the best for last because absolutely nothing beats a sunset boat cruise in the Zambezi. A calm peace descends over the wilderness as soon as the sun sinks and dips low over the horizon. Animals hidden away all day seem to sense the change and come out to make their farewells to the sun. Cruising along the meandering waterways, side-stepping lazing pods of hippos and observing families of elephants on the shores, toast your activity-filled day and your good fortune to be in a place like this. You can hop on a boat at any of the lodges or camps throughout the Zambezi as most will have this activity on offer.
The Zambezi is one spectacular destination. Ready for your adventure? Head over to our website and get excited!