Victoria
Falls - Zimbabwe
Combo
Trips Riverboading & White Water Rafting
INTRODUCTION
Riverboarding originated in Queenstown , New Zealand in 1989 and
was introduced to the Zambezi Gorge in 1996 by Safari Par Excellence.
Safari Par Excellence’s dedication to Riverboarding is part
of their commitment to being the White Water Specialists of the
Zambezi .
PHYSICAL
FEATURES OF THE RIVER
The
Zambezi River is to riverboarding as Hawaii is to surfing. The river
is classified as a high volume; pool drop river i.e. there is little
exposed rock either in the rapids or the pools below the rapids.
The distance between rapids allows time to relax and prepare for
the next challenge. The gorge itself varies between approximately
140m and 250m deep making for spectacular scenery.
DEPARTURE
TIMES AND MEETING PLACES
Zimbabwe
08h30
– Savanna Lodge, Victoria Falls
THE
TRIP
The
Combo consists of two of the most exciting activities on the river,
riverboarding and rafting.
We use
shorter sections of the river, as we tend to stop at “play
spots” along the way to surf, ride whirlies and “squirt”
(best described as “flying underwater”). First of all,
clients must have basic swimming abilities and a reasonable state
of fitness as a minimum prerequisite. Basic skills are taught in
still water and then we progress into moving water. At any time
the client may opt out of the trip and ride in the support raft.
Also, the trip leader may remove any client from the water and into
the raft at any time if, in the trip leader’s opinion, the
client does not possess the necessary skills, fitness or mental
state to safely continue the trip.
The
length of the trip (e.g. half day and full day) and the number of
rapids run depends on the level of the water in the gorge.
MINIMUM
AND MAXIMUM PAX
Minimum
of 4 clients. NO maximum number of clients.
AGE
RESTRICTION
The
minimum age is 15 years. Children under 15 years may participate
subject to consultation between parents and trip leader. The maximum
age limit is dependent on the individual’s general state of
health, physical fitness and consultation with trip leader.
EXPERIENCE
AND FITNESS
No previous
body boarding experience is necessary if good swimming skills are
combined with a “GO FOR IT” attitude. A reasonable level
of fitness is also required.
EQUIPMENT
SUPPLIED
Expert
guides, wet suits, booties, helmets, life jackets, fins, body board
with wrist leash.
DRINKS
SUPPLIED
On the river our safety raft carries water and juice. At the top
of the gorge, at the end of the trip – complimentary soft
drinks and beers are enjoyed.
GUIDES
AND SAFETY
Guides
are fully trained professionals and hold a valid first aid certificate.
Clients
must be aware that any water activity contains an element of risk.
A comprehensive first aid kit is carried on each trip. Each client
is required to sign the Zambezi Riverboard Indemnity form prior
to departure. Our support raft also carries a radio for communication
with our bases in Victoria Falls and Livingstone and direct with
M.A.R.S. (Medical Air Rescue Services).
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