The wild delights of Luangwa, the Zambezi and Chimanimani will make you want to come back again and again.

The legendary Zambezi is one of a number of rivers in the country. The valleys hewn from these waters vary from shallow to sharp and deep, and the experiences they hold for the traveller are just as diverse.

Most of Zimbabwe is located on a high plateau and forms the boundary between the Zambezi and the Limpopo. Numerous mountains, particularly in the Eastern Highlands, provide innumerable trekking opportunities, despite the fact that the rivers sustain incredible wildlife.

Rafters on the Zambezi River near Victoria Falls Bridge
Rafters on the Zambezi River near Victoria Falls Bridge ©Pascal Boegli / Getty

Whitewater rafting on the Zambezi River

One of the best whitewater rafting destinations in the world is located downstream of Victoria Falls, and it is one of the most violent whitewater rafting destinations in the world. The 21 rapids are the best at low water from July to February. Do you want to get more? There are options for overnight and multi day options. The only differences between the two countries are which side of the river you stop on.

There are a lot of things to do in Victoria Falls.

Two safari-goers squat next to an armed ranger and guide in a dry river bed, with a herd of elephants in front of them.
Walking safaris in South Luangwa National Park are an unforgettable adventure © John Warburton-Lee / Getty

Walking safaris at South Luangwa National Park

South Luangwa National Park is the birthplace of the walking tour. As you follow highly trained, armed guides through the bush, you will be able to see many animals, including lions and leopards. These walks aren't always about the high-adrenaline encounters - it's often quiet moments in-between that you'll truly marvel at, such as when your guide dives into the details of life in the wild, revealing how lion ants capture and kill their prey Similar experiences can also be found in Zimbabwe's national park.

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A safari guide sits in a canoe on the Zambezi, with a large elephant on the bank in front of him.
Canoe safaris on the Zambezi, whether in Zimbabwe and Zambia, are always epic in nature © Jonathan Gregson / Lonely Planet

Canoe safaris on the Zambezi river

With each stroke of the paddle, you can see that the river is being stirred. You feel like you are being watched when the canoe glides across the water's surface. Hippos and crocodiles disappear beneath the surface as quickly as they appear. Lion prowling, hulking elephants and a plethora of birdlife can be found on the banks of the mighty Zambezi. The experience feels as close to being intimate as it does frightening. It's not easy to forget.

In camp and in the wild, you can expect to see a lot of animals.

Three trekkers stand on rocks at the base of a narrow, but dramatic waterfall; the cascade is surrounded by lush forest.
Trekkers taking a break at Bridal Veil Falls in Chimanimani National Park © Roger De La Harpe / Getty

Trekking in Chimanimani National Park

The Eastern Highlands of Zimbabwe are covered in pine and covered in mist. There are many trekking trails that will take you past waterfalls, along tranquil rivers, and up to the stunning panoramas of Wizard Valley in Africa.

You can reach the mountain refuge hut within Chimanimani National Park by hiking for three hours from the base camp. Many of the caves and rock overhangs are great places to spend your nights. There are pools to cool off in the vicinity. Everything is brought with you because infrastructure is at its most basic.

The story of rhinos is told in the best places to view them.

The article was first published about a year ago.