Named after the old channels formed by the Zambezi River which fill with water in the rainy season.
 

Located north-east of Kariba in the Zambezi Valley on the southern banks of the Zambezi River.
 

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and Middle Zambezi Valley Biosphere Reserve.
 

The only National Park in Zimbabwe where it is permitted to walk without a guide; one should still exercise extreme caution as wild animals are all potentially dangerous.
 

Huge mahogany and acacia trees fringe the bank of the river.
 

The vast valley floor is covered with mopane, acacia, fig trees, rain trees, tamarinds and dry thickets known as Jesse bush.
 

Two more unusual tree species found here are the Kigelia africana or sausage tree, with its sausage-shaped fruit weighing up to 10kg, and the peculiar “upside down” Adansonia digitataor baobab tree. 
 

Incredible amount and diversity of wildlife, particularly in the dry months of September and October when the animals migrate towards the river.
 

Four of the big five reside here (lion, leopard, elephant and buffalo), as well as hippo, waterbuck, impala, zebra, eland and kudu.
 

Over 380 species of birdlife, including Lilian’s lovebird, Livingstone’s flycatchers, kingfishers, herons, bee eaters, fish eagles, hornbills and coucals. 
 

Game drives, game walks and canoe safaris available. At the private safari lodges the walking safaris are professionally guided.
 

There are three main seasons in this tropical climate: a hot rainy season from mid November to March, a cool dry season from May to August, and a very hot and dry season from September to November. 
 

Most days are sunny and averaging 25°C, but in September and October the daytime temperatures can be as high as 40°C. Evenings are cooler.
 

The Park is open from May to November but this can vary slightly from season to season. It is closed during the rainy season from November to April.