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River Boarding the Zambezi River

 

 

 

River boarding originated in Queenstown, New Zealand in 1989 and was introduced to the Zambezi Gorge in 1996 by Safari Par Excellence. Safari Par Excellence's dedication to Riverboarding is part of their commitment to being the White Water Specialists of the Zambezi.

Physical features of the River

The Zambezi River is to riverboarding as Hawaii is to surfing. The river is classified as a high volume; pool-drop river i.e. there is little exposed rock either in the rapids or the pools below the rapids. The distance between rapids allows time to relax and prepare for the next challenge. The gorge itself varies between approximately 140 meters and 250 meters deep making for spectacular scenery.

Departure times and meeting places

Zimbabwe
Safari Par Excellence office in the middle of town - 0830 hours (Shop 4, Phumula Centre, Victoria Falls)

Zambia SPWC2 & SPWC3: 08h00 The Zambezi Waterfront - Livingstone

 

River boarding trip description

River boarding is done in combination with rafting as a one day trip down the Zambezi.  It can also be done as part of the Zambezi Extreme Combos.

We use shorter sections of the river, as we tend to stop at "play spots" along the way to surf, ride whirlies and "squirt" (best described as "flying underwater").

First of all, clients must have basic swimming and a reasonable state of fitness as a minimum prerequisite. Basic skills are taught in still water and then we progress into moving water.

At any time the client may opt out of the trip and ride in the support raft. Also, the trip leader may remove any client form the water and into the raft at any time if, in the trip leader's opinion, the client does not possess the necessary skills, fitness or mental state to safely continue the trip.

The length of the trip and the number of rapids run depends on the level of the water in the Gorge.

Group size to confirm a booking

Minimum of 2 clients. No maximum number of clients

River boarding age restriction

The minimum age is 15 years. Children under 15 years may participate subject to consultation between parents and trip leader. The maximum age limit is dependent on the individual's general state of health, physical fitness and consultation with the trip leader.

 

Experience required for Zambezi Riverboarding

No previous body boarding experience is necessary if good swimming skills are combined with a "GO FOR IT" attitude. A reasonable level of fitness is also required.

Gear supplied by SafPar

Expert guides, wet suits, booties, helmets, life jackets, fins, body board with wrist leash.

Trip supplies

On the river our safety raft carries water and juice. At the top of the Gorge, at the end of the trip - complimentary soft drinks and beers are enjoyed with the braai.

Guides and Safety on the River

Guides are fully trained professionals and hold a valid first aid certificate.

Clients must be aware that any water activity contains an element of risk. A comprehensive first aid kit is carried on each trip. Each client is required to sign the Zambezi Riverboard indemnity form prior to departure. Our support raft also carries a radio for communication with our bases in Victoria Falls and Livingstone and direct with M.A.R.S. (Medical Air Rescue Services)

Client requirements

Passports are required to cross the Zambian border.  The cost of visas are included in the riverboarding rate.

More information:

  • Victoria Falls: accommodation, other activities and background info
  • Whitewater rafting: Comprehensive guidelines on whitewater rafting in the Victoria Falls' Batoka Gorge.  Includes details on all of the rafting options from the one day trips to multi-day expeditions plus descriptions of the individual rapids and the Zambezi Report for an update on current river conditions.
  • Photo library: a series of picture galleries with lots of Zambezi action
  • Bookings: online enquiries and reservations
 

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International (Zambezi UK)

Harare

Victoria Falls

 Zambia

Telephone: +44 1548 830059
Fax: +44 870 0941881
E-mail: safaris@safpar.com

Tel: +263 4 443409/10
Fax: +263 4 495020
E-mail: speres@mweb.co.zw

Tel: +263 13 4424, 2190, 2054
Fax: +263 4 722872
E-mail: ziminfo@safpar.com

Tel: +260 332 0606/7/8
Fax: +260 332 0609
E-mail: zaminfo@safpar.com

 

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