Summary
The African continent is home to some of the mightiest waterways on Earth, including the Nile, the Congo, and the Zambezi rivers. There are also several Great Lakes, while the coastal archipelagoes are as beautiful as they are diverse. Exploring by boat is a marvelous way to experience these waterways and the stunning scenery, allowing travelers to bypass the heat and dust of land travel. This article presents five of the best African boat cruises and safaris, ranging from luxury Nile charters to budget-friendly ferry trips across Lake Malawi.
Zambezi Queen, Chobe River
Hop on board the luxurious houseboat Zambezi Queen for an unforgettable water safari along the Chobe River. The Chobe serves as the border between Namibia and Botswana, offering a stunning variety of animal and birdlife. Each of the boat’s 14 air-conditioned cabins includes a private balcony, providing an excellent vantage point to observe elephants and vibrant birds residing along the riverbanks. The upper deck boasts a swimming pool for a refreshing dip after a busy day, along with a restaurant serving gourmet cuisine. The cruise lasts two or three nights, depending on your itinerary, and navigates approximately 25 kilometers of the river, combining game-viewing, birding, and fishing into an enriching experience.
Dhow Safari, Quirimbas Archipelago
Venture to the Quirimbas Archipelago in northern Mozambique for breathtaking white sand beaches, swaying palms, and turquoise waters. A popular way to explore this archipelago is through an island-hopping safari from Ibo Island Lodge. Traveling on a traditional Arabic dhow, motorized for added reliability, you can glide between deserted sandbanks and idyllic islands. At each stop, indulge in activities like kayaking, snorkeling, or scuba diving on crystal-clear reefs teeming with colorful tropical fish. Each evening, the dhow’s professional crew will set up camp on uninhabited islands, where you can enjoy fresh seafood cooked over an open fire and marvel at the dazzling, star-filled sky.
Bou El Mogdad, Senegal River
The Senegal River delineates the border between Senegal and Mauritania. The Bou El Mogdad has navigated these waters for over half a century. Running four times a month, this charming ferry operates between Saint Louis, the former capital of French West Africa, and Podor at the Sahara Desert’s edge. Departures from Saint Louis or Podor present a unique six-day journey past historic French forts, vibrant Tukolor, Wolof, and Maure villages, and the magnificent Parc d’Oiseaux de Djoudj, a sanctuary brimming with birdlife. Enjoy the picturesque Senegalese landscapes and come to appreciate the history embedded in this vessel. While not luxurious, the ferry is comfortable with 28 cabins and two dining options.
Royal Cleopatra, River Nile
There are a plethora of Nile cruises to select from, yet for travelers with a generous budget, the Royal Cleopatra presents an unparalleled choice. This traditional sailboat, known as a dahabia, is exquisitely designed to reflect the splendor of the Victorian age. With accommodations for just seven guests, it allows for an intimate experience compared to larger Nile cruise ships, while still visiting the same iconic attractions. The six-day schedule takes participants to Luxor, Edfu, Esna, Aswan, and Kom Ombo, guided by a knowledgeable Egyptologist. In between destinations, enjoy sunbathing on deck under the dahabia’s splendid twin sails or relishing authentic Egyptian dishes. You may opt for a single cabin or reserve the entire boat.
MV Ilala, Lake Malawi
As the third-largest among Africa’s Great Lakes, Lake Malawi is an attractive site for watersports, fishing, and relaxation on the beach. The MV Ilala is a local icon, operating a weekly ferry service along the lake, stopping at various locations. Passengers can choose to disembark anywhere, including the stunning Likoma Island, or ride the ferry back to its starting point at Monkey Bay. This 620-ton vessel, with a capacity for 450 passengers, may not be a luxury cruiser, but it offers a genuine African adventure. Onboard, enjoy several restaurants and bars, with options to travel in economy, second class, first-class, or cabin class. The five cabins provide exclusive access to the ship’s top deck.
