Walking Safari in Zambezi National Park: What to Expect

Looking into doing a walking safari in Zambezi National Park? Here’s how it went when I did so you know what to expect when you go.

Intro

Usually when most people think of a safari, people think of a 4WD safari truck traversing the savannah. But in Zambezi National Park, there’s an even more intimate and thrilling type of safari: a walking safari! On a walking safari, you can literally step onto untamed land and look for free-roaming wild animals. In this post, I will provide information on what to expect on a walking safari in Zambezi National Park based on my own experiences.

What Makes a Walking Safari Different?

Unlike game drives where you’re separated from nature by an entire vehicle, a walking safari takes you out of the comfort of one and put you directly on the lands where wild animals roam freely. While walking through the savannah, every sound, scent, and footprint can lead you to a nearby animal.

On walking safaris, an expert armed ranger and guide leads you quietly through the land and teaches you how to track animals, and how to tune into the environment to stay alert and spot wildlife.

Zambezi National Park is ideal for a walking safari because of its woodlands, small hills for a great overlook of the lands, and open grasslands. The park is home to elephants, buffalo, giraffe, antelope, smaller mammals, and tons of birdlife. Predators are also present but the walking safari is not focused on finding these (like you would be on a safari truck). Walking safaris are more focused on being in tune with nature and appreciating the smaller details of the ecosystem.

Where to Experience

I experienced a walking safari with Shearwater Explorers Village. I had stayed at this accommodation so the pickup/drop-off was at this location as well. After selecting the “Game Walks” experience at the link, select the “Tours and Hikes” category, provide your desired tour date and number of persons, click search then scroll to “Walking Safari”.

The Experience

We began our safari at dawn, where we loaded onto a safari truck that led us deep into the Zambezi National Park. Once the guide parked, he brought our coffee, tea, and light pastries to give us some energy before we started. Then the guide briefed us on following his directions and to most importantly, stay together and keep alert for any wildlife. He also assured us of our safety, mostly by informing us that he is armed and that he is trained to keep us safe.

During the walking safari, the guides pointed out animal bones, animal dung, footprints, and flora and fauna found along the path. About halfway through, we made our way up a small hill where we had a pretty good vantage point of the open grasslands. From up here, we still didn’t see much wildlife, but it was still pretty crazy to think that they could literally be right nearby. We did stop by a large rare baobab tree, so this was definitely a highlight “encounter” for me :).

Walking Safari Findings • photos by Jeanie A

Other than that though, we unfortunately weren’t able to see any wildlife on foot. But once we got back on the safari truck and made our way out of Zambezi National Park, we saw so many animals it made up for not seeing any during the walk. I actually took my favorite giraffe photo while driving through Zambezi National Park.

Zambezi National Park Sightings • photos by Jeanie A

Safety & Guides

Walking safaris are conducted under strict safety measures. A licensed professional guide and armed ranger goes with the group and are trained to read animal behavior. If anything were to go awry, then they are trained professionals to ensure the safety of the group.

As mentioned, the guide briefs the group on general safety such as staying together, keeping in a single file line, move quietly without making sudden movements, and to always listen to directions. Following these simple rules will keep you safe while you enjoy the thrill of the walking safari.

Listen to the Guides • photos by Jeanie A

Tips to Make the Most of Your Adventure

1. No Restroom During the Walk

The only restroom is at the entrance into the Zambezi park. Once inside the park, there are no access to toilets so if you have to use the restroom during the walk, you may have to go in the bush.

2. Your Guide is Armed for Your Safety

The guides are equipped with rifles, but only for your safety from any unexpectedly aggressive animals

3. Bring Binoculars

Even though you’re on foot, still bring binoculars! You may be led to a top of a hill with a view of the lands where your binoculars will come in handy for spotting wildlife

Where to Stay in Victoria Falls

I stayed at Shearwater’s Explorer Village which is centrally located. It’s a short walk to nearby shops, and restaurants, but also has its own restaurant, two bars and a lounging area so you can stay on site during your stay. There’s also a nice two-tier swimming pool you can relax it after a day out. Book your stay by clicking here, or check availability for your dates below and click “Search”:

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Final Words

A walking safari in Zambezi National Park is thrilling, grounding, and educational. You can connect with nature in a unique way and you might just come face to face with an incredible wild animal in their natural habitat.

Did you go on a walking safari and were you able to see animals up close?
Let me know in the comments below!