Zimbabwe & Zambia – from birds’ eye views to leisurely

sundowners

Some might avoid it like the plague, but for Briarley Mann, Thompsons Africa’s intrepid Sales Manager for Northern Europe, it’s all in a day’s work. Bungi jumping 111 metres down into the abyss of the mighty Batoka Gorge on the great Zambezi River, was the most exhilarating and exciting experience of a lifetime. In Zambia and Zimbabwe, to brush up on the many exciting activities offered by the Company, she ‘jumped’ at the opportunity to take the plunge. “It was frightening and I kept my eyes closed and screamed all the way, but I absolutely loved it”, she said. “Although it’s not for the feint-hearted, it is completely safe and I can truly recommend it”.

Best known as the Flight of Angels, a 15-minute helicopter flip over the Falls was next on the agenda. Thompsons’ partner, Batoka Sky, whisked her away in a glass bubble for an angel’s view of the magnificent and mighty Victoria Falls. Radial views of the front and the back of the Gorge were breathtaking. “Flipping in and out of the spray was an awesome feeling and can only be described as sensational”, said Briarley. All the while, the pilot relates fascinating facts of history and interesting stories to his captured audience.

Slowing down the pace and after a short safety briefing, it was time to climb onto the back of one of the world’s largest mammals, the African Elephant, for an incredible game-viewing experience. Your human presence is disguised so, not only are you at a higher vantage point, but you can mingle closely with the game. The elephant and its handler will take you through the bush, crossing a shallow river to a small island where guests can interact with the elephants and share in the knowledge of their handlers. These elephants are orphaned as a result of extreme drought. They were taken into people’s homes and taken care of and then returned to the bush before they became too domesticated. Using them for tourism generates revenue and educates humans about elephant behaviour. “It was very informative and is a win-win situation for both people and animals”, said Briarley.

…2..

Page 2.

Safari holidays to Zimbabwe and Zambia are not complete without a leisurely sunset cruise on the great Zambezi. Thompsons Touring & Safaris’ African Queen is one of the finest boats on the River. As the Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park floats by, an abundance of animals can be spotted coming down to the River’s edge to drink. Hippos laze around in groups and crocodiles rest on the banks. A selection of drinks and tasty snacks are served on board and are a welcome treat at the end of a busy day.

Thompsons Touring & Safaris offers a variety of day tours and activities in and around Livingstone and Victoria Falls. All of these can be pre-bought.

11 September 2008

For more information please contact Angela Shackleford on This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or Melissa Williams on This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or visit www.affordablesafaris.co.za for more information’s on Tours in and around South Africa.