On our recent visit to Zimbabwe, we embarked on a sunrise cruise on the Zambezi river aboard the famous Ra-Ikane boat – operated by the upmarket Ilala Lodge Hotel which is located in one of the most scenic parts of Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe.
The unique thing about the fleet of Ra-Ikane boats is that they are all built as replicas of David Livingstone’s famous exploration boat, the Ma-Robert. We thoroughly enjoyed the sunrise cruise on the Zambezi as we sailed across the various islands along the river, enjoying rare, up-close sightings of birdlife and wildlife along the way.
The knowledgeable and well-trained crew took us on a circular route around the islands as we enjoyed the panoramic view of the upper and lower Zambezi River. A guide and a waiter aboard the boat made the experience even more enjoyable as we ate our way through a lazy breakfast while sailing in the tranquil waters of the Zambezi river.
We spotted some elephants, crocodiles, hippos and a plethora of birdlife as we soaked in the morning sun while sipping our coffees – truly a calming experience that soothes your mental faculties and takes you into in an almost meditative state of mind – an experience you will surely cherish for a long time to come.
What better way to enjoy a truly African experience, far from the hustle and bustle of city life, cruising silently across the serene waters of the might Zambezi river.
Add this one to your bucket list! Highly recommended.
About: Ilala Lodge Hotel
Ilala Lodge Hotel is a family-run hotel that offers luxury and comfort in the heart of Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. Nestled in attractive gardens, the well-appointed hotel is a mere eight-minute walk from Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Ilala Lodge Hotel is ideally located and it is very easy for guests to access all the historical sites, restaurants and activities available in Victoria Falls. The friendly and attentive staff of this welcoming hotel makes sure that your visit is perfect in every way.
Located on the Zimbabwean side of the mighty Zambezi River, Ilala Lodge Hotel is geographically the closet hotel to the magnificent Victoria Falls and is easily accessible to the town centre. Explore the lush wilderness surrounding the town on a game drive, surf the rapids on a Zambezi River white-water rafting expedition, get your heart racing as you bungee jump off the Victoria Falls Bridge, or view the Falls from the exhilarating angle of Devil’s Pools on the edge of the plunging water. You can also enjoy a legendary Zimbabwean sunset from the comfort of the elegant Ra-Ikane river cruisers, part of the Ilala Lodge Hotel group.
