Boat Safaris
Trade the Land Cruiser for a boat — drifting silently past hippos, giant crocodiles, and kingfishers on Tanzania's magnificent river systems with nothing between you and the water but a wooden hull.
A Different Perspective on the Bush
A boat safari unlocks a dimension of African wildlife watching that a 4WD can never reach. On the water, you approach hippos from their own level — close, quiet, and without the diesel smell of a vehicle. Crocodiles bask within metres of the boat. Fish eagles call from overhanging trees. Kingfishers blur past in flashes of electric blue.
Tanzania's river systems — the Rufiji, Wami, and Ruaha — are among the most biologically productive habitats in Africa. Where the river runs slow and wide, the wildlife concentrations rival the Serengeti's plains.
We offer half-day and full-day river safaris, including sunrise and sunset trips. Canoe safaris are also available for an even quieter, more intimate experience on the water.
Top Boat Safari Destinations
Rufiji River, Nyerere
Tanzania's greatest river safari — huge hippo pods, enormous Nile crocodiles, and over 400 waterbird species on Africa's largest game reserve.
Wami River, Saadani
Gentle boat safaris on the Wami at Africa's only coastal national park — hippos, crocs, and coastal birds in a unique beach-meets-bush setting.
Lake Tanganyika, Mahale
Kayak and boat on the world's longest freshwater lake — crystal clear water, snorkelling with cichlid fish, and sunset views from the lake surface.
Add a Boat Safari to Your Trip
Boat safaris are the perfect complement to game drives — a completely different way of experiencing the same spectacular wildlife.
Enquire About Boat Safaris