Tours and Tickets
Zambezi River Class IV-V White-Water Rafting from Victoria Falls
5

Zambezi River Class IV-V White-Water Rafting from Victoria Falls

By Shockwave Adventures
Recommended by 99% of travellers
99% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
About
Rafting Victoria Falls lets you connect more with the Zambezi River than any other touring option. Class IV and V rapids and a 650-foot-deep (198-meter) gorge make for a thrilling ride, while your guide ensures your safety throughout—regardless of your experience level. An included lunch with an open bar and round-trip hotel transfer round out the tour.
from
£112.85
per adult
Lowest price guaranteeReserve now & pay laterFree cancellation

Ages 13-80, max of 20 per group
Duration: 6h
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Live guide: English
More

Highlights
  • Guided white-water rafting trip provides adventure while ensuring safety
  • Power down the Zambezi River and experience Zimbabwe’s wilderness
  • No need to rent equipment—-rafts, life jackets, and windbreakers included 
  • Barbecue lunch and open bar included

  • All rafting gear (helmet, life jacket, and paddle)
  • Local guide
  • Light refreshments during rafting
  • Lunch
  • Unlimited drinks (open bar)
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
What's not included
  • National Park entrance fee ($10 per person)
  • Photos and Videos (available upon confirmation before the trip)

Your tour begins with an early morning pickup from your Victoria Falls lodging. Enjoy a light breakfast before climbing into a Jeep for a drive to the Zambezi River. Upon arrival, put on your gear and practice key safety maneuvers before hiking a steep trail to the put-in. Your group’s abilities and preferences determine the type of raft you take out to ensure a safe and fun trip, from a guide-controlled oar raft to a passenger-controlled paddle raft. Work together with your group to paddle hard and navigate Class IV to V rapids over the course of your selected half-day or full-day trip. Conclude your Zambezi white-water rafting tour with a barbecue lunch and open bar, followed by hotel drop-off.

Start:Multiple pickup locations offered.
  • Shockwave Victoria Falls Whitewater Rafting Adventures, Number 6 Bata Buildings, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
    We are at the town center just behind Bata Buildings, behind Marula Cafe and East of Econet Offices
Pickup details
  • # We do pick from any hotel reception in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe # We Do Not pick from any hotel or lodge outside Zimbabwe, please make special arrangements with the our reservations as this will attract an extra transfer fee
Hotel pickup offered
During checkout you will be able to select from the list of included hotels.
    End:This activity ends back at the meeting point.

      • Not wheelchair accessible
      If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 35235P1

      • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
      • No age restriction as long the child can swim, weighs at least 50 lbs (23 kg), fits in a Class 5 youth life jacket, and has a parent's permission; if weight is less than 50 lbs, he or she can only do Level 3 rapids and must skip the Level 5 rapids (this will also depend on the guide's decision on which rapids or sections your child can do)
      • Please make sure to wear a T-shirt, shorts, and proper shoes for rafting and hiking up and down the canyon
      • Travellers should have a moderate physical fitness level
      • This experience requires good weather. If it’s cancelled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
      • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 20 travellers

      • For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

      If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 35235P1

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      About the operator
      Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
      • Shockwave Adventures
        713
        Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
      • towella69
        0 contributions
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        Perfect experience for the over 60’s
        I am afraid of heights and being under water so when I saw rafting suitable for children it seemed the perfect choice. I was not disappointed. The shockwaves team could not have been better. I had full confidence in their ability and safety of the boat. Of course it is thrilling but never felt dangerous. There was opportunity for those who wanted to jump into the rapids or off of rocks to do so. Lunch and drinks provided. The hardest part is the climb back up to the top but one of the crew patiently helped. Another bonus is the drive to the park through genuine local villages- saving you the expense of another tour company showing you some staged village. Could not recommend highly enough.
        Written 14 March 2024
      • 511luuks
        0 contributions
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        Well organized Chobe day tour
        Saw a variety of animals including (swimming and walking) elephants, crocodiles, hippos, a leopard, lions, zebras and giraffes on the safari which included a game drive and a river cruise with a really good lunch inbetween.
        Written 11 February 2024
      • Passport744089
        0 contributions
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        Beautiful scenery of the gorge and had a wonderful experience with whole team from Shockwave.
        It was a really wonderful experience! The adrenaline was just so so intense. I would do it again and again. Special mention Mr Moyo for being a wonderful guide and captain.
        Written 17 January 2024
      • togarad2024
        0 contributions
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        The adventure was not comparable to any other! Bracing the Zambezi waters head-on and conquering is unforgettable!
        The trip was amazingly coordinated by Shockwave! Thanks you guys! It first seemed scary but they made us feel safe!
        Written 17 January 2024
      • Connector22315223331
        0 contributions
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        Shockwave Whitewater Rafting Adventures Rocks!
        What a pleasure to deal with Shockwave from beginning to end! From the online booking to the last goodbye we had one phenomenal experience. I cannot recommend the Shockwave Team enough! They are the best of the best. There is just no end to them, truly a team of people and an experience my family and I will never forget. They looked after us like we were family, with tremendous care and professionalism. Thank you for making phenomenal memories with us you guys!
        Written 14 January 2024
      • MurMarion
        0 contributions
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        Rating of 5+++++. The best!!!
        I went with this group because they had such great reviews. I was not disappointed. It was amazing from the beginning to the end, including booking. Everyone was totally organized and professional. The rafting experience was mind blowing and I never felt unsafe. The staff were friendly and funny making for a wonderful time. I will say, climbing the steep river side was hard for this already exhausted 64 year old who had not slept a wink the night before. But, problem solved when on the way up, I was offered a welcome hand for assistance. Thank you!!!! This outfit is the real deal. You won’t go wrong.
        Written 8 January 2024
      • Fern S
        0 contributions
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        Thoroughly recommend
        We had such an amazing time!! The entire day was run like clock work. We had to contact them from our hotel reception as when I booked it our hotel wasn’t available for collection. However changing this wasn’t a problem. The bus arrived on time and after a quick transfer and safety chat we was on the rapids. We was blown away by how many people go into organising a days rafting!! Everybody was really nice. There was on our raft only 4 guest so 4 of the companies trainees joined us to fill the boat. It really was fantastic and this company being a local one deserves all the business they can get. The booze cruise which was also wonderful again. There are ample drinks available with some light snacks and plenty of wildlife to take in. We got the opportunity to see a huge group of hippos with their babies, crocodiles and a fabulous sunset! We then asked to be dropped in town so we could get dinner which again wasn’t a problem. Truly a very well run professional organisation. Would thoroughly recommend!!!
        Written 19 December 2023
      • 23keeganl
        0 contributions
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        Trip of a lifetime!
        Shockwave is amazing! They took care of all the small logistics to make sure it's a smooth trip. The guides are experienced and fun! Really enjoyed our time with them throughout the trip. The rapids were incredible and made the trip to Zimbabwe well worth it. I hope to come back again one day!!
        Written 8 December 2023
      • 155winiw
        0 contributions
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        Bring your friends rafting! BEST TRIP EVER
        BEST RAFTING TRIP EVER! I am an experienced rafter from the United States and this was my second time on the Zambezi with Shockwave. They are a top notch company, very professional, and guarantee you will have the best adventure. The water is warm, the rapids are big and friendly, the food is great, and the scenery can’t be beat. Shockwaves guides are world class, you can not be in better hands. The ten day trip is the best option. All your transportation between rafting and safaris is included, which makes less work for you on holiday. The Safari lodges and guides are great. We saw Wild Dogs, a Lepord, and had elephants visit us while we were in the pool! Book your trip now, bring all your friends (I brought 22 people from the US with me in October!), and prepare for an amazing experience.
        Written 6 December 2023
      • Amyerin23
        0 contributions
        3.0 of 5 bubbles
        5 day Zambezi Trip
        We are avid rafters so this trip had been on our bucket list. Pro: it is an experience of a lifetime. Day 1 is by far the most rapids and exciting. Liberty, our safety kayaker, was absolutely fantastic. Cons: We had one boat for all the gear, 4 paying guests, 4 crew and 1 crew members guest. It was overly crowded and the cramped space severely took away from the experience. If you are thinking of booking this trip, before you book, make sure there is a gear boat. I can not stress how little room we had for long days on the river. It was very uncomfortable. The crew had hard work with the portages and the meals (food was good)…I am grateful to them.
        Written 28 November 2023
      • mikewA2090WT
        0 contributions
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        Just do it
        I highly recommend rafting with Shockwave. The Zambezi is truly mighty. The rappids are huge. The guides are amazingly knowledgeable about the river, and super friendly.
        Written 24 November 2023
      • marabara
        0 contributions
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        The only company offering family rafting trips in Victoria Falls
        I am a tour operator who booked Shockwave Adventures for a private family rafting day trip. None of the other river operators will take children on the river. However, Philani has many years of experience on the world's biggest rivers and is fastidious about safety with children. From the start, Benko was extremely helpful and when I called with questions, Philani answered them all patiently and comprehensively. Before the trip, I visited them in their offices to reconfirm all elements of the trip. My colleague did a half day of rafting with them in preparation and she came back singing their praises. When it came to the family trip, Philani and Benko came to the hotel themselves to fit life vests and helmets to the kids and to answer any questions the family had. On the day of the rafting, Philani guided the trip himself and there were several safety guides on the water. The clients felt extremely safe and repeatedly applauded the operation. It was the highlight of their stay in Victoria Falls. I would absolutely recommend Shockwave Adventures for a family rafting trip.
        Written 1 November 2023
      • 992kristir
        0 contributions
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        Awesome family day whitewater rafting
        This trip was awesome…fast, fun, thrilling and our guides were just brilliant. Our 9 year old son loved it as did mum and dad. Totally recommend this!
        Written 30 October 2023
      • NKRobinson123
        0 contributions
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        Great white water rafting for under 12’s.
        This is the only place where you can take a child under 12 white water rafting. We joined at the 11th rapid and finished at rapid 23 as the first 10 are too big for under 12’s. My son who is 9 absolutely loved it. As a family it was our favourite activity at the falls by far. The team that took us (JB / Milton and the rest of the guys) were brilliant and at no point did we feel in danger. The walk down the gorge to the rapids was tough going but great fun as was the walk / climb back up it. We had a simple but tasty lunch at the end with as my wife described it ‘the best beer I’ve ever had’. I would thoroughly recommend shockwave to anyone. All communication via email / WhatsApp was quick and clear.
        Written 30 October 2023
      • Scenic92752
        0 contributions
        3.0 of 5 bubbles
        Raft Float on the Upper Zambezi
        The Raft Float was fine. The guides were not particularly friendly. We did not ask for a photographer but one came along anyway. We were a family group of 23 and were in 3 rafts. The photographer only took photos of the 2 rafts that he was not in. He did not take even 1 photo of anyone on his raft. We definitely did not receive $40 worth of photos that we paid. The photographer didn't even try to take a photo of this group upon exiting their raft or a entire group photo. The lunch was good. The booking was done professionally.
        Written 23 October 2023
      See all 713 reviews
      These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

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      5.0
      5.0 of 5 bubbles169 reviews
      Excellent
      166
      Very good
      2
      Average
      0
      Poor
      0
      Terrible
      1

      Alyssa H
      11 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      My friend and I rafted one day during high season. The rapids were smaller compared to low season. This was good for our boat as the four other people on our raft had never rafted before. The Shockwave team was fantastic. They helped all of us down the trail to the river and the BBQ chicken lunch was delicious. Would highly recommend rafting the Zambezi with Shockwave!
      Written 22 June 2023
      This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
      Thank you for the wonderful review and for sharing your experience with other travelers. Looking forward to hosting you again in the near future!
      Written 25 June 2023
      This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

      Bart v
      Beuningen, The Netherlands1 contribution
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Apr 2023
      Yesterday we went wildwater rafting with Shockwave, and what an amazing time we had. With Tambu as cameraman, JB as lifeguard, and Clement and Terry as your captains you will have a wonderful experience of rafting in the canyon between Zimbabwe and Zambia. They were funny, friendly and you notice they love the job they do. The explanations were clear, the ride was nice and full of information and after the ride they will also provide you with a nice lunch. I would recommend everyone to go with Shockwave when you want to go wildwater rafting in Victoria Falls.
      Written 28 April 2023
      This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
      Thank you for taking your time to review us and share your experience with other travelers. We are glad you had a wonderful time on the river with us and for your recommendation. All the best in 2023!
      Written 30 April 2023
      This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

      Andrew S
      Amsterdam, The Netherlands19 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Nov 2021 • Solo
      Amazing experience! MD was such a great guide and the rest of the team worked hard to make sure we had fun while staying safe.

      Had rafted before in Chiang Mai, Thailand with a few level 4 rapids so was a little nervous with so many levels 5’s along the Zambezi but the whole time MD ensured we knew how to handle ourselves while always having fun. Also was worried in case any crocs would come and take a bite of us while rafting but we only saw 1 baby one the whole way so don’t let this thought put you off this experience.

      A few first timers in our group so even if you haven’t white water rafted before its definitely worth the experience and seeing both sides of Zimbabwe and Zambia along the Zambezi is amazing. Be warned, the rapids are intense so you will get thrown out into the water no matter your level of experience but MD and the whole team (2-3 others in canoes always close by the whole way) were always at hand to support if needed. Even the times when we flipped (and we flipped hard!) we’re fun without concern.

      The only thing to warn you about is the climb up out of the canyon at the end. After rafting for 23km or so it’s quite a climb in the hot sun so a good level of fitness is required. But an ice cold beer and tasty lunch awaits once you ascend from the hefty climb.

      Rafted during low waters (Mid Nov) so water levels were perfect and apparently the best time to go.

      Thanks team for an awesome experience!
      Written 17 November 2021
      This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
      Hi Andrew Thank you so much for speaking so highly about us. we really appreciate your support. we are happy you felt safe during the trip and we believe this informative review will be of great help to many other rafter who are going to come in Victoria Falls. We wish you all the best in your life endeavors, and its my hope that we meet again for other rafting excursions. best regards
      Written 22 November 2021
      This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

      Vin C
      1 contribution
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      May 2023 • Friends
      Great experience! The hike down to the gorge was strenuous for some of those in our group (we had active seniors). It wouldn't have been possible for them without the assistance of our guides. And if you're worried about the pictures or videos, don't hesitate to make that purchase. Tambu will make sure you receive them. JB, Titi, Liberty were very knowledgeable.
      Written 21 May 2023
      This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
      Thank you for the wonderful review, our guides are well trained and professionals with experience with family trips. We are hoping to see you again in the near future! All the best !
      Written 22 May 2023
      This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

      J.A. C
      7 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Sept 2021
      There are many marvelous activities to do at Victoria Falls, but this may be the best. It is not for the faint of heart or those afraid to get wet, but the rafting is the best I have ever experienced—the Zambezi is a mighty river, and the setting around it is gorgeous. But what truly makes it unforgettable is the Shockwave team. They are professional and experienced, and they expertly led us through the rapids. But they are also friendly, funny, and willing to do whatever it takes to ensure everyone on the raft has the trip of a lifetime. MD is outstanding as the captain and lead guide, and Shockwave is the company to choose for as long as the river flows.
      Written 5 October 2021
      This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
      Hi there Thank you so much for this review. We are so excited that we you enjoyed your trip. We are also happy that you speak so highly of our team.we will always thrive to offer the best service we can. Thank you so much a we hope we will meet again in future for other excursions. regards
      Written 6 October 2021
      This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

      John K
      1 contribution
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Dec 2023 • Friends
      I have been a professional whitewater rafting guide for 23 years and I currently own a rafting company in California. I approached a number of local companies in the Zambezi area looking for an experience that would satisfy my professional expectations. I went rafting with a couple of companies. And from the beginning of the trip to the end, Shockwave provided the best experience. Here is why:

      The staff was friendly and professional: great English skills, great communication, great jokes.

      The equipment was top-notch. Everything worked as it should.

      The safety was industry standard. I saw no shortcuts being taken.

      The logistics were well planned. We never waited unnecessarily. Everything was taken care of.

      To start, we paddled up to the bottom of Victoria Falls for pictures. That was going above and beyond.

      The full day trip down to Rapid 19 provided all of the best rapids. I recommend it.

      The hike out at Rapid 19 was relatively easy.

      We were provided an excellent lunch with fresh made coleslaw and bbqed chicken. And there was more than enough food for all of the hard working staff members (that is really important for team morale).

      There was a full cooler of ice cold drinks waiting for us at the end,. including beer. That was priceless.

      Thanks, Shockwave! I will be back with friends!!
      Written 7 December 2023
      This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
      Thank you John for taking your time to review us and sharing your experience with other travelers. We are glad you had a wonderful time on the river with the Shockwave community and we strive to provide excellent services to all our guests. We hope to see you again in the near future!
      Written 15 December 2023
      This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

      kfrankel
      Phoenix, AZ28 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Aug 2022
      What an awesome ride downstream from the Falls! We have down rafting in many other places, but none as beautiful as this. From the moment we were picked up at our hotel, our guides watched over us and ensured our trip was amazing. Terance was our guide and lead safely through all of the rapids. Being older than maybe some of his guests, he made sure we were safe while still experiencing the adventure. The one note I have is that it is an arduous walk both down and up from the gorge. We are in shape and it was still challenging for us. But we did it! and it was truly worth it!
      Thank you Terance for making our trip memorable!
      Written 13 September 2022
      This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
      Thank you @ kfrankel for taking your time to share your experience with other travelers. We hope to see you again in the near future. Terence is the youngest guide in our team and we are happy to hear that you had a wonderful time with him on the river All the best
      Written 14 September 2022
      This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

      1travelgal444
      Arizona32 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Jun 2021
      PROS: Oooo-Ha!! This was spectacular and totally worth it!!! Amazing guides who properly assessed our group’s skill level and kept us safe the whole time. I felt confident and reassured that I would be able to navigate the situation if I fell out or if the boat flipped, which happens often on the Zambezi but did not happen to us, thankfully. Rafting the Zambezi was amazing and a must-do in Victoria Falls. We would highly recommend Shockwave!!
      CONS: To access the river, you have to climb down then back up the gorge canyon walls. At times you have to scale a ladder, perhaps while carrying your rafting gear. A necessary evil though and still worth the experience.
      Overall: Do it! Book with Shockwave. You won’t be disappointed. Great value, great memories!
      Written 26 September 2021
      This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
      Hi there Thank you for this amazing review. We really appreciate it.We are so happy that you speak so high about our guides. Thank you for sharing your experience with the world and hopefully we will meet again for other excursions.. regards
      Written 27 September 2021
      This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

      Alice C
      3 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Myself and my friend came to Victoria falls pretty much to do the white water rafting on the Zambezi river.
      Shockwave adventures and their incredible team really made it the best trip ever.
      The staff were all so friendly, professional and patient. They picked us up from our hotel, were so much fun and we had a tasty lunch and unlimited cold drinks waiting at the end.
      They even made the steep climb in and out of the gorge accessible by offering helping hands and great encouragement.
      Could not recommend this experience enough!
      Written 16 January 2023
      This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
      Thank you for the wonderful review and recommending us to the other travelers.We are glad you had a wonderful time in Africa and that you had the best adventure with us. We are looking forward to seeing you again in the near future! All the best!
      Written 22 January 2023
      This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

      Kevin L
      1 contribution
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Nov 2022 • Family
      Incredible all day experience during low water time. TT, Tambu & Liberty took great care of my family as we booked a private trip for our family of 11 ages 9 through 75.

      Water was great and safety a clear priority. Hike in and out is challenging, but our guides made sure it was completed safely and provided some needed help for our eldest family member.
      Written 6 November 2022
      This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
      Thank you for the wonderful review, we are glad you had a good time on the river with us. We are looking forward to hosting you again in the near future. Thank you again and all the best!
      Written 7 November 2022
      This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

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      Zambezi River Class IV-V White-Water Rafting from Victoria Falls provided by Shockwave Adventures