Best Boat Trips & Excursions
Remember, all our itineraries are totally flexible and can be changed to suit you.
Discover Boat Tours and Excursions Across East African Lakes
A boating safari excursion provides you with a unique, tranquil and complementary way to appreciate the varied wildlife in East Africa and the Indian Ocean as a whole.
African Boat Safari Destinations
After the dust and long game drives on your 4WD safari vehicle, take this time and float gently downstream watching the wildlife as it comes to water. Watching the waters you’ll hear the splutter of hippos as they come to surface, the splash as a surprised croc slithers into the water, and cry of the fish eagle overhead.
More often than not boat safaris are done on a small motor boat. These are offered by almost all of the luxury camps in Kenya’s Lake Nakuru, Lake Naivasha, Tanzania’s Selous Game Reserve, and we certainly recommend this as an afternoon’s activity, ending with a bush sundowner on the shores of the water.
You’ll also find the best boat safaris in Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park during the green season when the water’s high enough, and in certain parts of the Kafue. As the Zambezi River flows throughout the year, there are also some fantastic boat safaris from Zambia’s Lower Zambezi National Park, and at Mana Pools in Zimbabwe, just the other side of the river. If you’re visiting South Africa, we also loved the boating (and birding) in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park and this slots in nicely as part of a longer trip to KwaZulu Natal.
Boating Safaris In Africa & What to Expect
Journey deep into the lake as you experience the true beauty of East African Lakes for your African photographic experience. From freshwater lakes teeming with hippos to coastal marine parks full of dolphins, there’s a whole other side to safari life waiting for you. Boating safaris provide a tranquil, laid-back atmosphere. As you glide along rivers and lakes, the rhythmic sounds of the water combined with the calls of birds and rustling trees create a calming effect. With boating tours you can get much closer to animals that would typically be out of reach on land. Some species, such as hippos and crocodiles, are commonly found along the banks or in the water itself, providing incredible opportunities for close-up photos and observations.
Where to go on a Boat Safari
Adding a boating safari to your African safari expeditions can be thrilling. These water excursions in Kenya and Tanzania allow you to take a deep breath and inhale the fresh and clean air while looking out for the ever-present crocodiles. Grunting hippos providing a unique soundtrack to the experience, showing their dominance across the water. Boating tours are mixed with birding encounters, allowing you to photograph rare water birds and other wildlife species accompanied by an expert guide.
Best Destinations for Boat Safaris in Kenya
Boat trips in Kenya take place along the Indian Ocean’s coast, Rivers, and Lakes in National Parks, Reserves and non-protected areas. While on safari in Kenya, boating trips are a popular way to relax as you sight amazing wildlife and panoramic views. For those on birding safaris, a boat cruise excursion allows excellent bird watching – water birds. If you are planning an African safari to Kenya, a boat trip should be included on the list of things to do. Here are some of the most popular places where tourists can enjoy boat trips in Kenya.
Boat Safaris at Lake Nakuru Park
Lake Nakuru Boat Safaris takes you on a discovery tour through the rich bird sanctuary, dramatic scenery and ever-changing landscape of Lake Nakuru National Park.
Embark on this luxury safari expedition at Lake Nakuru Park and indulge in the best photographic safaris, on a journey deep into the lake as you experience the true beauty of Lake Nakuru. Be prepared to encounter wildlife & birdlife of all manner; For Bird watching: Enjoy the fabulous water birds and other bird species. The best place to view the birds is from Baboon Cliff, where you get an excellent view over the lake, and the wonderful spectacle of pink flamingoes along its edge. However, the number of birds in the park fluctuates as food conditions change, so check the bird population with the national park before making the journey. For the wildlife: Watch the endangered white rhinos and other animals including waterbucks, warthogs, hippos, impalas, buffalo, Rothschild giraffes and more.Viewpoints include Lion Hill, Baboon Cliff and Out of Africa. Visit the beautiful waterfall at Makalia.
Boat Safaris at Lake Naivasha
Lake Naivasha is one of Africa’s most famous fresh water lakes and a boat safari ride here allows you to spot Hippo and numerous Bird species including Kingfisher, Fish Eagle, Herons, Jacanas and more. Lake Naivasha is curiously attractive, set against a purple backdrop of the Eburru volcanic mountain range and lined by thick yellow barked Acacia Xanthophlea trees. In terms of wildlife the lake is home to over a thousand protected Hippo and the shores of the lake also host small numbers of Giraffe, Zebra, Waterbuck and the odd eland and wildebeest. A Lake Naivasha boat tour is therefore an exciting yet relaxing lake safari experience with plenty of interesting sights to enjoy.
The boat ride is provided by an experienced local boating guide and life jackets are provided. The usual timings for the one-hour lake safari are 7am to 11am and 2 pm to 4pm.
When it comes to which Birds one can see at Lake Naivasha, the lake is known for its diversity of bird species with close to 400 species having been spotted around the lake and surrounding areas including Fish Eagle, Maccoa Duck, Saddle-billed Stork, Goliath Heron, Cape Teal, Pied Avocet, Giant Kingfisher, Herons, Jacanas, Pelicans and Flamingoes.
Dhow Sailing at Lamu Island
Sail the turquoise waters of Lamu Island on a traditional dhow, experiencing centuries of Swahili culture and breathtaking sunsets. Sailing, al-fresco dining, fresh seafood, sleep under the stars, fishing and water sports Also discover Lamu town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, culture, history, wildlife, festivals, all in all a stunning way to relax, explore and unwind!
A dhow is a traditional wooden sailing boat originally built for carrying exotic spices and goods along the Indian Ocean trade routes. Discover luxury dhow safaris in the Lamu archipelago in Kenya.
Life on-board is relaxed and centred with sumptuous, cushioned seating areas and a dining area arranged around the wooden mast. Meals are prepared in the open-air galley kitchen at the bow and served in the shaded dining area. There are beautiful views over the ocean, quiet corners to relax, and the day-cabins below deck provide storage and changing facilities.
Diani Beach Dhow Trips Safari
Your dream beach holiday on the beautiful Kenya Coast offers an abundance of memory making experiences for the whole family. Recommended water excursions at the beach resorts are the perfect complement to any stay at Diani Beach.
Enjoy boat excursions in one of Kenya’s traditional Dhows, these boats haven’t changed in design in hundreds of years and are still used by local fishermen to navigate the reefs and bring in the morning’s catch.
Take the dhow trip to Wasini Island, a small island is located on the Kisite Marine Park, where many dolphins, whales and turtle’s frolic. You can take a dive with these peaceful creatures to enjoy their wilderness and accompany Wasini Island is a very old fishing village without paved roads, electricity or running water.
Watamu Beach Sunset Boat Trips
Mangrove cruising; navigate through ancient mangroves alive with color and bird calls. Bird Watching paradise; spot flamingoes, fish eagles and the rare migratory birds. Sunset dhow experiences; unwind with a cocktail abroad a traditional Swahili dhow.
A tranquil water bay rich with wildlife, culture, and coastal charm, waiting to be explored at Watamu. Creatures to enjoy their wilderness and accompany Wasini Island is a very old fishing village without paved roads, electricity or running water.
Dhow Excursions at Malindi Beach
Set sail on a traditional Swahili dhow into the turquoise waters of Malindi Marine Park. With an expert guide, explore vibrant coral reefs and marine life while snorkeling in Kenya’s top beaches. After your underwater adventure, relax on deck with tropical fruits and refreshments as you soak in breathtaking ocean views. This short but immersive trip is ideal for those seeking a taste of adventure blended with relaxation.
From mid-July through till October sail down to the beautiful sandbars of Mayungu. Enjoy a seafood feast cooked up onboard by the crew whilst you enjoy the crystal-clear waters that Mayungu has to offer.
From October through till April, join us for a chilled sail across our beautiful bay for a few hours; or enjoy a full day excursion including swimming and snorkelling at the Che Shale coral gardens followed by a grilled seafood lunch onboard.
Best Destinations for Boat Safaris in Tanzania
Boating safaris remains one of those unforgettable ways to explore the diverse wildlife and stunning scenery on a Kenya and Tanzania safari, and also a good addon for Uganda holiday tours. Watch in awe as you glide along rivers, lakes, and wetlands and see animals such as hippo, crocodile, elephant, buffalo, birds and beyond.
Boating tours are available in Tanzania’s vast Nyerere National Park on the Rufiji River, a massive maze of wildlife-infused lakes and waterways. As the dry season approaches its peak, boating can become difficult due to low water levels in September and October. In the far south of neighbouring Ruaha National Park, we do boat trips through the waterways and tributaries of the Great Ruaha River. Birding is excellent throughout this region with a variety of resident and migratory wetland species, and elephant and antelope are frequently seen on the shore.
Alternatively, Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda offers the chance to explore its waterways, including the 32-kilometre Kazinga Channel, which links Lake Edward and Lake George. This natural wildlife corridor is best experienced on a boat safari, where you can glide past pods of hippos with just their nostrils above the water, watch buffalo cooling off along the shores, and see elephants coming to drink. The channel’s vibrant banks are alive with waterbirds, creating a captivating scene of life at the water’s edge.
Dhow Excursions at Zanzibar Island
For centuries, these beautiful wooden sailing vessels have pursued the waters of the Western Indian Ocean, connecting Zanzibar with the Arabian Peninsula, India, and beyond. More than just a means of transport, dhows were, and still are vital to trade, fishing, and the very fabric of life on the island. They remain a prominent feature in the history of Zanzibar and along the East African coast.
Today, dhows continue to play a role in Zanzibari beach, they’re a popular way for visitors to experience the beauty and magic of the island from a unique perspective. Many offer private safari excursions for you and your family or friends.
Sunset dhow sailing at Zanzibar is one of the most popular trips; as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in a kaleidoscope of colors, you’ll sail along the coast, enjoying breathtaking views of Stone Town or the coastline of the island. Many sunset cruises include drinks, snacks, and even live music, creating an unforgettable evening on the water. You can even go swimming at some locations.
Best Destinations for Boat Safaris in Uganda
Uganda is a great destination for a boat excursion, allowing you to enjoy unique wildlife experiences from the comfort of a houseboat. Uganda’s Rivers and Lakes provide a unique vantage point to explore the country’s wildlife and landscapes; from the River Nile to tranquil lakes, boat safaris allow you to approach wildlife from a perspective few other safari activities can offer. Unlike the traditional African safaris in Uganda conducted in a 4×4 land cruiser or on foot, Uganda boat safaris offer excellent vantage points, from which tourists can view live wildlife drama without the struggle of beating the bush.
Boating Safaris In Uganda’s Nile River & Murchison Falls
Cruise past large herds of elephants drinking from the river, pods of hippos wallowing in the shallows, and crocodiles basking on the sandy banks, all while floating on Africa’s most famous river. The boat ride takes you right to the base of Murchison Falls, where the mighty Nile forces its way through a narrow gorge, creating a dramatic backdrop for photos.
Boat Safaris In Uganda’s Kazinga Channel & Queen Elizabeth Park
The Kazinga Channel is home to one of the highest concentrations of hippos in Africa, along with elephants, buffaloes, and a variety of bird species. As you cruise down the channel, the surrounding landscapes and wildlife create a peaceful, captivating atmosphere – ideal for photography or simply relaxing while being surrounded by nature.
Boat Safaris In Uganda’s Lake Victoria
As Africa’s largest lake, and the world’s second-largest overall, Lake Victoria offers endless exploration opportunities by boat. Cruise along its shores, discovering tranquil islands and encountering fishermen and local communities, or keep your eyes open for birds, crocodiles, and otters.
Top Destinations for Canoe Safaris In Africa
Canoe river safaris in Africa offer a unique look into life along the vital rivers that feed the African safari landscapes. Experience all the usual wildlife safari activities plus additional game viewing by boat or canoe. This safari by boat allows you to sail alongside wildlife-rich National Parks, promising an unparalleled river safari experience during your expeditions to Africa. Explore using a collection of fleet comprising houseboats or rather go on a safari by canoe. Take your trip to Africa on another level by exploring on unique safari holidays, comfort and extraordinary wildlife sightings as animals come down to the river. The best boat tours providing the ideal platform to experience the best of African Lakes & Rivers offerings, including game viewing, birding, fishing, photography and traditional cultural experiences.
Boat Safaris In Okavango Delta
It’d be impossible to mention boat safaris without mentioning the top safari destinations in Botswana and Zambezi. This is by far the best way to explore Botswana’s Okavango Delta, lying gently back as you’re poled along through the waterways. Not all camps offer boat trips, though most do, and generally it’s a seasonal activity that depends on water levels. Botswana boat safari excursions are on another level, a unique experience providing a different perspective to wildlife behavior.
Boat Safaris In Zambezi River
Canoeing is also done in Zambia’s Lower Zambezi National Park, where if you are something of a fair-weather paddler, you can drive upstream from your camp, and paddle back downstream.
Boat Tours along Chobe River
The game viewing while on a boat safari in Chobe is unsurpassed anywhere in Botswana. Elephant line the water’s edge, hippo congregate in lagoons, hundreds of antelope and giraffe make their way to the water and sightings of predators along the river banks are common. Experience guided boat tours, try your hand at Tiger fishing, join a cultural tour or enjoy an early morning birding adventure. Be sure to take your camera along to capture incredible moments along the way.
Recommended Kenya Safari Tours & Excursions
Our exciting Nairobi city tour package lets you see all of the top sites in Kenya’s capital within a single day. Book now, these incredible full-day guided city tours which will allow you to explore some of the best attractions of Nairobi. Kick-start your morning city excursions throughout Nairobi’s main areas, including visits to the Museum and significant historical sites in the CBD. Experience Nairobi city through the eyes of street children on a personal storytelling walking tour in downtown which has been ranked best tour in Nairobi. Alternatively, we provide you with the combination of the best full-day Nairobi tour to Nairobi National Park, David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, and Giraffe, among other destinations.