|
Above Victoria Falls, outstanding canoe and kayaking safaris are available, offering one of the most exciting and memorable ways to experience both the Zambezi and the abundant game of Zambezi National Park. Below Victoria Falls, the Zambezi becomes a whitewater rafting paradise. The rafting trips that run through the river gorges are internationally known as the most exciting, and least dangerous, to be found anywhere. Lake Kariba:
Further east, and further downstream from Victoria Falls, is located this enormous almost 5200 square km man-made lake. Formed in 1958 by the damming of the Zambezi at Kariba, the lake is now an attraction in its own right. Its scattered islands, clear, deep waters, and adjoining game reserve complement each other admirably.
The reserve, Matusadona National Park, was begun as a refuge for animals saved from the rising waters of the lake itself. Today, its abundant game gathers along the lake shore, particularly in the dry months, where it is easily viewed from the water. Zimbabwe's fine small houseboat lodges are located here, and the Lake also serves as the starting point for canoe safaris to Mana Pools National Park. Mana Pools National Park:
The next major attraction along the shores of the Zambezi is Mana Pools, a region in which the Zambezi slows and spreads out into a multitude of small ponds and pools. During the dry season, the Mana Pools attract a scarcely believable abundance of wildlife, including Lion, Leopard, Zebra, and Hippo in addition to an unusually wide variety of Antelope species. Canoe safaris to and through the Mana Pools can be an absolutely stupendous experiences. Another attraction of this park is that walking safaris are the only other means of touring allowed in certain sections, ensuring not only quiet but also many fewer signs of other visitors. Gonarezhou National Park:
Most of the border with Mozambique is consumed by this massive park, which contains over 2,000 square miles of open wilderness. Gonarezhou is Zimbabwe's second largest park, and it was only recently opened to international tourists. Gonarezhou means refuge for Elephants, and they are among the main attraction at the park. It was here that one of the largest Elephants ever recorded was shot and killed by the famous poacher Cecil Bernard in the 1920's. | 
