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Africa is home to some of the world’s last truly wild places – where untamed land stretches from horizon to horizon and rivers run freely. This is the continent to visit when you need to free your spirit from the pressures and pollution of the rat race.
Our travel experts have rounded up the best of the best canoe and kayak experiences, from the mighty Zambezi River to the Okavango Delta to vast Lake Malawi – there is something for every skill level. Comfortable accommodation, good food and great service come standard.
1. Selinda Canoe Expedition
Paddle up the Selinda Spillway in Botswana flanked by riverine forests and open plains on this 5-day canoe and fly camping safari. The waterway connects the Okavango Delta to the Linyanti Wetlands and is home to rare sable antelope, big pods of hippo and super-sized herds of elephant. You’ll head deep into the wild – no roads, no villages – just you, your fellow adventurers, your professional guide and camp staff.
Between paddles, explore the wilderness on guided walks, getting up close and personal with the land. A fly camp moves with your expedition – expect a comfortable bed, hot showers and plenty of good home cooking.
Because: You get all the satisfaction of paddling into the wild, without the daily grind of pitching camp.
2. Paddle down the Zambezi
Spend seven days exploring the Lower Zambezi National Park and search for big game on this river-based safari. Enjoy a fully inclusive experience with activities like boating, fishing, kayaking and walking as well as game drives.
Zambia is home to the walking safari, and has some of the best safari guides on the continent. You’ll be in the care of a dedicated and professional ranger who will at your side each step of the way, introducing you to Africa’s great wilderness and secret intricacies.
Because: You’ll live the kind of adventure your friends will talk about for years.
3. Malawi’s Mumbo Island
Mumbo Island Camp is situated on a private island on Lake Malawi, in a pristine, private concession area within the national park. This freshwater marine reserve is home to more than 500 species of fish and your lodge is about as eco-friendly as it gets, without compromising on your comfort.
Spend your days kayaking on the lake, taking a break to snorkel, scuba dive or just snooze in a hammock. Paddle as much or as little as you like: this is an active R&R vacation.
Because: you’re travelling with people who don’t paddle. You want incredible kayaking for you and plenty of options for them.
Whatever your expertise level, there is a canoe or kayak adventure waiting for you in Africa. Talk to our travel experts today, they do all the hard work to make your vacation as easy as hop on a plane, get in the water and go exploring!
