08 Essential Tips for an Unforgettable White Water Rafting Experience in Zambia

Zambezi River is known for its deep channels and high volumes of water and certain sections of the Zambezi River are considered among the world’s best for white-water rafting. Raft enthusiasts have the chance to even experience the incredible Batoka Gorge during the rafting sessions with challenging rapids. 
All white-water rafting guides from reputed companies are experienced with the Zambezi River and familiar with Victoria Falls and the terrain of Zambia. Even if you are an experienced rafter do pay attention to the local guide as his knowledge of the waters, the terrain and the wilderness cannot be undermined. They will brief you on everything you need to know while on the river. Starting with the clothing, protection gear, when to swim and to paddle, follow these directions carefully.
While there are options for good hotels the likes of Royal Livingstone Hotel by Anantara are chosen by many visitors keen to have a memorable stay along with an exciting rafting experience.

Many operators in Zambia offer rafting trips for visitors which can vary from short trips of two hours to even multiple-day excursions depending on the interest and ability of the visitors. These raft packages even include video footage and images so that one can relive the once-in-a-lifetime experience. 
Based on the agreed raft experience dress appropriately. Although you envision staying in the boat during the whole ride, you may not remain dry, so be prepared to get thoroughly wet. It is essential to have waterproof and anti-chafing clothes on to be a barrier between you and the raft. Cotton clothing should be avoided and in place of them, synthetics which are fast drying are ideal for a rafting trip.
In addition to the clothing, well-covered shoes that can be laced up and will stay put even if you fall are a must, as are wet suits if the weather is colder.

Helmets protect your head and on rafting trips, they are a mandatory item. Although you may not notice as you sit on the boat, there are submerged rocks, branches of trees, logs etc. that can injure you in case you have an unexpected fall.

Just like your helmet, your life jacket is always a must-wear protection during the trip. Hence wear it and keep it fastened securely even when you are approaching calm waters. This precaution will help you keep afloat if you fall and enable the guides to pull you up fast.

Although you are not expected to be an ace swimmer to go white-water rafting you need to be used to being in the water. The life jackets and other devices provided by the operators will keep your head above water and help you swim across to the boat or the shore.

The general understanding in water rafting is to not carry anything that you don’t want to lose or get wet, let this apply to any jewellery or accessories you may want to wear. Leave all those behind in the safe deposit box of your hotel. 

As the guides keep a vigilant eye on the riders it is unlikely you may fall, However, if you do be prepared.
•    Swim towards the raft, hold onto the safety line outside and call out to a mate on the boat
•    If you are unable to swim, call out to your mates who can throw a rescue bag to you
•    If the above two are not possible lie on your back with your feet downstream, the raft guides will reach out for you

Just like in the previous case, in the unlikely event that someone falls out remember the following.
•    If the person has reached the outside safety line hoist the person in
•    If the person was not able to reach the outside line throw a rescue bag or pass a paddle to hold onto and get them close to the raft.