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River Cruises.
Where Africa Slows to the Rhythm of the River.
There is something truly magical about experiencing Africa from the water. The gentle flow of the mighty Zambezi River, the vast beauty of Lake Kariba, and the incredible wildlife that gathers along the shoreline create a safari unlike any other. From elephants cooling off at the water’s edge and pods of hippos basking in the shallows to spectacular sunsets and world-class birdlife, every moment on the river offers a new perspective on Africa’s untamed wilderness.
At Africa Haven Safaris, we’ve carefully selected river experiences that we’ve personally enjoyed and confidently recommend. Each journey has been chosen for its exceptional hospitality, authentic atmosphere and unforgettable wildlife encounters. As our collection grows, we’ll continue to introduce extraordinary river adventures across Southern Africa, but for now, we’re proud to present one of Zimbabwe’s most iconic experiences.
Our Signature River Safari.
The Zambezi Trader.
Life on Board.
The Zambezi Trader has been thoughtfully designed to combine authentic river exploration with relaxed comfort. Spacious accommodation, welcoming communal lounges and viewing decks create the perfect setting for watching Africa drift by, while the attentive crew ensures every guest enjoys genuine Zimbabwean hospitality throughout the journey.
Every day offers something new—from guided tender boat excursions through quiet channels and birdwatching among the reeds to fishing, wildlife viewing and unforgettable sundowners overlooking one of Africa’s most spectacular waterways.
Experience Highlights
- Three-night fully hosted river safari
- Cruise the mighty Zambezi River and Lake Kariba
- Incredible wildlife viewing from the water
- Guided tender boat excursions
- Fishing and exceptional birdwatching
- Spectacular African sunsets
- Delicious cuisine and warm Zimbabwean hospitality
- An intimate and unforgettable safari experience
The Zambezi Trader.
A Floating Safari Lodge on Africa’s Greatest River
The Zambezi Trader offers a truly unique safari experience, combining the tranquillity of life on the water with the comfort of a boutique safari lodge. Cruising the mighty Zambezi River and the eastern reaches of Lake Kariba, this beautifully appointed floating lodge allows guests to experience Africa from an entirely different perspective—where every sunrise, every bend in the river and every wildlife encounter becomes part of the journey.
Designed with relaxation in mind, the Zambezi Trader features 29 comfortable en-suite cabins. Three unique accommodation decks offering a choice of Standard Cabins (Lower Deck), Deluxe Cabins (Middle Deck), and Executive Suites (Upper Deck). All cabins feature comfortable en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, and panoramic river views, while the spacious Executive Suites offer enhanced living space and premium amenities. Each deck provides its own distinctive atmosphere, allowing guests to experience the beauty of the Zambezi River and Lake Kariba in comfort and style.
Life on board centres around three spacious decks, each offering its own unique atmosphere. The expansive Sun Deck is the perfect place to soak up panoramic views, enjoy morning coffee, watch wildlife gathering along the shoreline or simply unwind beneath the African sky. The welcoming Middle Deck offers comfortable indoor and outdoor lounge areas, the restaurant and bar, creating a relaxed social space where guests can share stories over exceptional cuisine and evening sundowners. The Lower Deck provides easy access to the tender boats and your beautifully appointed cabins, making every excursion effortless while ensuring peace and privacy throughout your stay.
Every day brings new adventures as the Zambezi Trader cruises through secluded channels, tranquil bays and wildlife-rich shorelines. Guided tender boat excursions take guests closer to elephants, buffalo, hippos, crocodiles and an extraordinary variety of birdlife, while fishing enthusiasts can enjoy some of Africa’s finest freshwater fishing. As evening falls, spectacular sunsets give way to unforgettable dinners beneath a canopy of stars, surrounded by the peaceful sounds of the African wilderness. The Zambezi Trader is more than a river cruise—it’s an immersive safari experience where comfort, adventure and nature exist in perfect harmony.
Accommodation Features:
- 29 beautifully appointed en-suite cabins
- Air-conditioned accommodation
- Comfortable twin or double bedding options
- Private bathrooms with modern amenities
- Large windows showcasing uninterrupted river views
- Daily housekeeping
- Warm Zimbabwean hospitality throughout your stay
Life on Board
- Three spacious viewing and entertainment decks
- Panoramic Sun Deck for wildlife viewing and sunsets
- Restaurant and bar serving freshly prepared cuisine
- Comfortable indoor and outdoor lounge areas
- Guided tender boat excursions
- Wildlife viewing from the water
- Fishing and birdwatching
- Spectacular African sunsets every evening
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