Centered around Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, white water rafting can be experienced by tourists in the Zambezi River below Victoria Falls. Here they have some of the best white water rafting thrills in the world, with rapids ranging from Grade 1 to Grade 5. This makes it a great option for rafters of all skill levels.

There are different types of white water rafting, low water rafting commencing between the months of August and December and high water rafting happening between January – February and June – July. It should be noted that the season usually depends on the rainfall.

Truly one of the most popular adventure activities in the country, white water rafting attracts tourists from all over the world to Zimbabwe.

It is one of those activities that makes Victoria Falls a perfect destination to put on any southern African itinerary. For many people, white water rafting is the highlight of their stay in Zimbabwe.

Taking part in white water rafting in the Zambezi is unparalleled due to the rush of excitement, energy and adrenaline that can’t be matched by other rafting experiences elsewhere. Much more than just a river– the Zambezi is a powerful natural wonder and a breathtaking sight, making rafting a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

The possibilities of excitement are endless with Victoria Falls, the mile-wide waterfall, and a spectacular sight with its glistening basalt rock and thundering spray into the canyons below. This is the realm of Nyaminyami, the River God of the Tonga people, and a thrilling and internationally coveted white water rafting destination. That is the reason why tourists continue to come and experience world-class white water rafting in the Zambezi River.

Tribute must be paid to the several white water rafting operators in Zimbabwe, offering a variety of trips, ranging from half-day to multi-day trips. From pioneering names such as Shearwater Victoria Falls and Wild Horizons to later day entrants like Victoria Falls Rafting, and Victoria Falls White Water Rafting, to the newest babies like Bush Pig Safaris, white water rafting companies have been operating in the area with great success. Offering some of the best services that have helped to further spread white water rafting as perhaps the most exhilarating activity to partake in when on a Zimbabwean safari.

In addition to the thrill of the rapids, white water rafting is a great way to experience the country’s stunning natural beauty. Rafters paddle through lush gorges, past cascading waterfalls, and alongside wildlife such as elephants, hippos, and crocodiles.

White water rafting experiences can differ greatly depending on the water level. When the water is high, the rocks and outcrops are submerged and the rapids are less intense. Conversely, when the water level drops, the rocks become more exposed and the rapids become more intense. This creates a much more thrilling experience for rafters.

Several benefits from white water rafting continue to build up for the Zimbabwean economy including the creation of jobs and generation of revenue for local businesses. The activity also helps to promote Zimbabwe as a tourist destination and attracts foreign currency to the country, as well as, supporting many conservation and social development projects.

Thanks to white water rafting, visiting Victoria Falls is a truly awe-inspiring experience. With its lush vegetation and cascading waterfalls, the resort also allows tourists to marvel at stunning views and a mist that is both captivating and refreshing.

It is hoped that tourists will continue to visit Victoria Falls, an awe-inspiring sight, with the backdrop of the Zambezi River plunging into a huge gorge up to 200 meters deep. The force of the water creates a dramatic contrast between the calm of the river upstream and the wild rapids downstream.

These rapids make the famed white water rafting activity an experience of a lifetime, calling for tourists from all corners of the globe! They are huge factor in white water rafting as a product, and the activity is expected to continue playing a huge role in how the world see the attractiveness and value of Zimbabwe as a travel destination.

Text by Martin Chemhere

From DESTINATION ZW EDITION 6