Wheelchair-Friendly Adventures in !

Victoria Falls (Mosi-oa-Tunya)

Why Visit?

Discover the majestic Victoria Falls, known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya or "The Smoke That Thunders," on a wheelchair-friendly adventure that promises accessibility without compromising on excitement.

### Day 1: Arrival and Leisure

Fly into Victoria Falls Airport, where you can hire a wheelchair-accessible vehicle. Check into one of the many accessible hotels in the area. The Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, for example, offers rooms adapted for wheelchair users, complete with roll-in showers and wide doorways. Relax and enjoy a sunset view from the hotel’s deck, overlooking a watering hole frequented by wildlife.

### Day 2: Exploring the Falls

Start the day early to avoid the crowds and the heat. Head to the main entrance of the Victoria Falls National Park, where you can rent a mobility scooter designed for rugged terrain. The park has paved pathways and viewing platforms that are wheelchair accessible, ensuring you get stunning views of the falls. Learn about the geology and history of the falls through guided tours available in accessible formats.

A visit to the Lookout Cafe is a must for lunch—it offers not only great food but also panoramic views of the gorge. The cafe is fully accessible and just a short drive from the main falls area.

### Day 3: Zambezi River Cruise

Book a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. Several operators offer accessible boat ramps, ensuring a smooth transition from land to boat. Glide along the river, spotting hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of birds. The serene atmosphere and the vibrant African sunset create a perfect backdrop for reflection and relaxation.

### Day 4: Departure

After a leisurely breakfast, take one last look at the stunning views before heading back to the airport. With memories of the thundering waters and serene river cruises, your accessible adventure at Victoria Falls will be unforgettable.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Devil"s Pool

Why Visit?

Embark on an exhilarating wheelchair-accessible adventure to one of Africa"s natural wonders, the majestic Devil’s Pool, perched on the edge of Victoria Falls in Zambia. This thrilling itinerary promises safety, accessibility, and unforgettable vistas.

Day 1: Arrival in Livingstone, Zambia

Begin your journey by flying into Harry Mwaanga Nkumbula International Airport in Livingstone. Pre-arranged accessible transportation, equipped with a wheelchair lift, awaits to whisk you off to a wheelchair-friendly hotel, such as the AVANI Victoria Falls Resort, which offers roll-in showers and ample room for maneuvering.

Day 2: Devil’s Pool and Victoria Falls

Post breakfast, an accessible shuttle will transport you to the Royal Livingstone Hotel, the starting point to explore the iconic Devil"s Pool. Here, meet with specialized guides who will assist you in transferring to a sturdy, waterproof wheelchair designed for the rugged terrain alongside the falls. The dry season (May to October) is ideal for visiting Devil"s Pool as the water level is lower and calmer, ensuring a safer experience.

The path to the pool is a sensory delight, featuring the roaring backdrop of the falls and frequent rainbows. On arrival, witness the astonishing sight of water cascading into the abyss from your unique vantage point at the edge of the world"s largest waterfall, all accessible via a secure platform overlooking the pool.

Day 3: Zambezi River Cruise

Conclude your visit with a tranquil cruise down the Zambezi River. Board a wheelchair-accessible boat directly from the hotel"s private jetty. Glide past hippos and crocodiles basking in the sun, and enjoy a picturesque sunset over the African bush – a perfect end to your adventure-packed tour.

Interesting Fact: Did you know Victoria Falls is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World and is twice the height of Niagara Falls?

This tailored, accessible tour combines safety with the thrill of adventure, ensuring that the majesty of Victoria Falls and the excitement of Devil’s Pool are enjoyed by all.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park

Why Visit?

Wheelchair Accessible Tour of Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, Zambia

Embark on a thrilling yet accessible journey through Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, home to the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Known locally as "The Smoke That Thunders", Victoria Falls offers spectacular views and accessible adventures suitable for wheelchair users and those on mobile scooters.

Getting There

Mosi-oa-Tunya is easily accessible from Livingstone, Zambia. If you are staying in Livingstone, many hotels offer accessible shuttle services directly to the park. Ensure to request a wheelchair-accessible vehicle. The main entrance of the park has a well-paved path, suitable for wheelchairs and scooters, leading to the main viewing areas.

Tour Itinerary

Morning - Victoria Falls

Start your day early to catch the sunrise illuminating the misty waters of the falls. The park features designated wheelchair-friendly viewpoints along the falls, providing majestic views of the cascades. The main path is paved, although some assistance might be needed over occasional uneven sections.

Lunch - The Lookout Café

Enjoy a lunch with a view at The Lookout Café, located just 10 minutes from the falls. Offering accessible facilities and an elevated deck, it’s a perfect spot to relax and gaze out over the Batoka Gorge.

Afternoon - Game Drive

Post lunch, join a guided accessible game drive through the park. Special vehicles equipped with ramps are available. The park is home to diverse wildlife, including zebras, giraffes, and the coveted white rhinos. Keep your camera ready!

Evening - Zambezi River Cruise

Conclude your day with a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. Many operators offer accessible boats. Glide along the river, enjoying the tranquil waters and spotting hippos, crocodiles, and myriad birds.

Interesting Facts

- The park was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1989, ensuring its natural beauty and unique ecosystem are preserved.

- It’s one of the few places on earth where you can see the lunar rainbow, a nighttime rainbow visible on full moon nights.

This wheelchair-friendly tour of Mosi-oa-Tunya ensures you don’t miss out on the thrill of exploring one of Africa"s most splendid natural environments.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Lower Zambezi National Park

Why Visit?

Embark on an extraordinary wheelchair-accessible adventure to Zambia"s breathtaking Lower Zambeili National Park, a sanctuary nestled along the northern banks of the mighty Zambezi River. Here"s a detailed guide for an enriching visit tailored for those using wheelchairs or mobility scooters.

### Arrival and Accommodation

Fly into Lusaka, Zambia’s vibrant capital. From Lusaka, you can arrange for a wheelchair-accessible transfer (make sure to book in advance) for the approximately 120-kilometer journey to the park. Opt for a stay at one of the accessible lodges near the park, such as the Anabezi Luxury Tented Camp, which offers equipped facilities and stunning river views.

### Day 1: River Safari

Begin your adventure with a serene river safari. The lodge can arrange accessible boat tours equipped with ramps. Glide along the Zambezi River at sunrise or sunset to witness wildlife in their natural habitat. Keep your eyes peeled for elephants bathing, hippos yawning in the waters, and crocodiles sunning on the banks. The boats are designed to ensure stability and safety for all passengers.

### Day 2: Game Drive

Explore the vast landscapes of Lower Zambezi National Park through an accessible game drive. Custom vehicles fitted with ramps allow you to comfortably embark on a journey through the diverse ecology of the park. Sightsee herds of buffalo, prides of lion, and maybe even a rare leopard. The park is renowned for its elephant population, so you’re in for a treat.

### Day 3: Fishing and Village Tour

Try your hand at fishing for the renowned Tiger Fish, with accessible fishing gear provided by your lodge. Later, visit a nearby village, offering a paved path and an opportunity to interact with the local community, learn about their culture, and purchase traditional crafts.

### Departure

Conclude your tour with a relaxed morning before heading back to Lusaka. The Lower Zambezi is more than a destination; it"s a spectacular encounter with nature, perfectly accessible for everyone to experience.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Livingstone Museum

Why Visit?

Embark on an enlightening wheelchair-friendly tour of Livingstone, Zambia, with a special highlight: the Livingstone Museum. This itinerary ensures accessibility while offering a rich tapestry of culture and history.

Morning: Arrival at Livingstone

Start your day with an arrival at Harry Mwaanga Nkumbula International Airport, where you can rent a wheelchair-accessible vehicle or arrange for a specially equipped taxi through local services like "Zambia Taxi." Head straight to the Livingstone Museum, located centrally and easily accessed via Mosi-oa-Tunya Road.

Late Morning: Exploring Livingstone Museum

As Zambia"s oldest and largest museum, the Livingstone Museum offers smooth, flat access to all its exhibits, making it an ideal starting point for those on mobile scooters or in wheelchairs. Dive into well-curated sections that showcase Zambian archaeology, history, and culture. Notably, the museum features an impressive collection dedicated to David Livingstone—a missionary and explorer for whom the town is named. This includes handwritten letters and personal items that paint a vivid picture of his adventures and interactions with Africa.

Lunch: Café Zambezi

Just a 10-minute roll from the museum, enjoy a leisurely lunch at Café Zambezi, known for its accessible layout and authentic African cuisine. Try their famous crocodile burger or opt for a vegetarian munkoyo meal, a traditional Zambian dish.

Afternoon: Mukuni Park Curio Market

Post-lunch, visit the nearby Mukuni Park Curio Market. The paths are generally flat and maneuverable. Here, you can shop for unique Zambian handicrafts, textiles, and artworks, directly supporting local artisans.

Evening: Zambezi Sunset

Conclude your day with a sunset viewing along the banks of the majestic Zambezi River. Many local tour operators offer accessible boat rides, ensuring you enjoy this magical experience without hassle.

This carefully planned itinerary ensures that every traveler, regardless of mobility restrictions, can enjoy the rich heritage and stunning landscapes of Livingstone.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.