Water-based safaris
Guest Post by Vivienne Egan
We often think of Africa as a hot, dry continent where the sun bakes down relentlessly on brown grasslands, ancient dried-out water basins and deserts. And while this is accurate for some regions of Africa and in some seasons, the continent also has many beautiful waterways, including the Great African Lakes of the Rift Valley, and World Heritage Listed Victoria Falls (its traditional name, Mosi-oa-Tunya, means “The Cloud that Thunders”). Its lakes, rivers, waterfalls, lagoons, beaches, tributaries and floodplains are places teeming with an incredible array of wildlife, and are also open for safari tourism.
Hippopotamus, crocodiles, otters and water birds spring to mind when thinking about the African wildlife living in or around water – but elephant, buffalo and certain species of antelope are also heavily associated with wetland regions, particularly in the dry season when waterways contract and animals flock to reliable water sources.
Cruise safari
A river cruise is the standard way of getting up close to the animals as they bathe, play and drink near waterways. It’s a relaxing and peaceful way to travel, offering a different perspective from the typical game drive, while at the same time getting right up close to the animals.
Traditional water transport
Another option is the traditional mekoro, or dugout canoes, which are made for navigating smaller waterways and shallow wetlands, so can explore places boats can’t reach. Many safari camps in the Okavango offer mekoro excursions. They are propelled by a standing poler, and is a truly tranquil way to appreciate the environment.
Canoes and kayaks
Canoeing is available on many of Africa’s rivers and great lakes (canoeing safaris are particularly good on the Zambezi River). River canoeing is an option that is not too taxing, as all canoeing is downstream. Lake and sea kayaking requires a degree of fitness, however, to manoeuvre the longer paddles. Canoes and kayaks are a great choice for those seeking an active and adventurous holiday.
Fixed houseboats
Houseboats are also available for rental, however they are naturally restricted to areas of deep, permanent water and as such are stationed on major rivers or lakes in Zimbabwe, Botswana and the Caprivi Strip in Namibia.
With so many holiday options available for all tastes, whether adventurous or more laid back, water-based activities are a great reason to go to Africa.
Vivienne Egan writes for Safari Consultants. 🙂 – Travel Feeder, the ultimate travel photo blog
About The Author
Cecil Lee
The author is an avid traveler and photography hobbyist who loves to share with others his travel and photo-taking experience in many popular tourist destinations around Europe, Asia and Australasia. Read the exciting stories with many photos captured on his journeys.
