What It Is
Wildlife viewing from motorboat or mokoro (dugout canoe), observing hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and waterbirds.
Visual Reference
Elephants drinking at river edge viewed from boat at water level
Best For
Photographers; those wanting variety from vehicles; birders
Consider Skipping If
Those uncomfortable on water; non-swimmers in mokoro
Want to include boat safari in your safari?
Tell us what matters most to you
Best Season
High water: Jan-Jun (Okavango); varies by system
What to Know
Hippo proximity requires experienced guides; life jackets provided
Trade-Offs
What You Gain
Unique angles, calm experience, exceptional bird photography
What You Trade Away
Limited terrestrial range; weather dependent
Where Available
Boat Safari is available in 6 destinations:
TanzaniaSeasonal: Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, NovNyerere/Selous (Rufiji River), Lake ManyaraBotswanaSeasonal: May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, OctChobe River, Okavango Delta channels, LinyantiZimbabweZambezi River, Lake Kariba, Chobe confluenceZambiaLower Zambezi (canoeing with hippos), Kafue RiverRwandaAkagera lakes (Lake Ihema), hippo and crocodile viewingUgandaKazinga Channel (Queen Elizabeth), Murchison Falls (Nile), Lake Mburo