Experience


Rivers & Lagoons

Water in Africa is essential. From life-sustaining rivers to waterways that symbolise vitality, life on the continent revolves around its rivers, streams and lakes. So why not explore them on a water-based safari and really get to know Africa behind the 4x4s?

From canoes to kayaks, sailboats to fishing vessels, there’s a lot of fun to be had. Sometimes, a water safari invokes a peaceful immersion into your surroundings, floating slowly through lily-filled channels or gliding along glass-smooth lakes, and listening intently to your surroundings. But at other times, they are exhilarating: fishing for fearsome tiger fish; heading to explore an area inaccessible by land; or conquering a powerful river by canoe.

Plan Your Trip

Where to go:


In Botswana, the glittering waterways of the Okavango Delta are the perfect setting for a tranquil mokoro safari, whilst South Africa’s lagoons are sailor’s playground. In Zambia, you can boat, kayak and try your hand at tiger fishing in the Lower Zambezi, and in the Republic of Congo, paddling down the mighty Lekoli River in a canoe is one of the most exhilarating experiences out there. Explore the seasonal waterways of Mozambique in Gorongosa National Park,

South Africa
Zambia
Botswana
Mozambique
Republic of Congo
Zimbabwe
South Africa
Iconic safari experiences jam-packed with wildlife and underpinned by a serious dedication to conservation and community.
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Botswana
Combine the sheer beauty of the Okavango Delta with exceptional wildlife viewing and you’ve got one of the finest safari destinations on the continent.
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Botswana

The Okavango Delta is one of the most iconic ‘water’ destinations in the world and a mokoro safari is a must-do. A mokoro is a traditional, dug-out canoe and you’ll float silently along the waterways, learning about the smaller creatures of the delta and appreciating the tranquillity of the environment. Many camps also offer boating safaris too, depending on the water levels and time of year.

Mozambique
Glide through Gorongosa’s waterways and discover a wilder side of Mozambique.
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Mozambique

Boating in Gorongosa offers a unique perspective of this diverse ecosystem, where the life-giving waters of Lake Urema and its surrounding channels attract an extraordinary concentration of wildlife. Drift quietly past basking crocodiles, pods of hippos, and flocks of waterbirds, with the chance to witness elephants and antelope coming down to drink. It’s a peaceful, immersive way to explore one of Mozambique’s most biodiverse landscapes.

Republic of Congo
Rivers, Lagoons, and Untamed Beauty in the Republic of Congo
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Republic of Congo

The Republic of Congo offers a pristine, off-the-beaten-path escape where rivers and lagoons weave through dense rainforests, creating a breathtaking landscape teeming with life. Explore these waterways by kayak or boat, gliding past towering trees and listening to the symphony of the forest. The lagoons provide serene settings to witness wildlife, from hippos and crocodiles to vibrant bird species. These aquatic adventures connect you to the untouched wilderness, offering an intimate way to discover the heart of Congo’s extraordinary natural beauty. Whether you're seeking tranquility or a sense of adventure, the rivers and lagoons of this enchanting region are sure to captivate.

Where to stay:

We currently don’t have any VAST properties in this area.
Please get in touch with us and we’ll point you in the direction of our favourite places to stay and help you plan your VAST journey.

Zimbabwe
Explore the water experiences on offer in Zimbabwe
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Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe offers a wealth of water-based adventures that bring you closer to its stunning landscapes and vibrant wildlife. The Zambezi River, one of Africa’s most iconic waterways, is at the heart of these experiences, offering everything from adrenaline-pumping white-water rafting below the mighty Victoria Falls to tranquil canoe safaris along its calmer stretches, where you can glide past hippos, crocodiles, and a rich array of birdlife. Lake Kariba, one of the largest man-made lakes in the world, provides a serene setting for houseboat cruises, fishing expeditions, and sunset safaris, where the golden light reflects off the water, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. Whether you’re navigating the thrilling rapids or enjoying the peaceful stillness of a riverbank, Zimbabwe’s water experiences offer a unique and unforgettable way to explore the country’s natural beauty.

Where to stay:

We currently don’t have any VAST properties in this area.
Please get in touch with us and we’ll point you in the direction of our favourite places to stay and help you plan your VAST journey.

River & Lagoon Experiences


 

Kayaking
Silently glide alongside wildlife, tackle some of the continent’s mightiest rivers, or explore remote islands and hidden tributaries with your paddle. The choice is yours!
Where to do it:
Tiger fishing
Fishing for tiger fish is a seasonal specialty of Zambia’s Zambezi River. The best time to catch these wily, fighting fish is from late August to mid-November during the hotter months, however, tiger fish and other species can be caught throughout the safari season from May to August too.
Where to do it:
River & boat safaris
Travelling by boat is a great way to cover more ‘ground’, see more of the beautiful riverine surroundings, and even spot more wildlife. All boat safaris are led by professional guides with an intimate knowledge of their area.
Where to do it:
Fishing
Make use of specialist gear, equipment and instructors and spend a leisurely afternoon fishing deep in the wilds of Kwandwe Private Game Reserve in a private dam.
Where to do it:

How to do it


Discover the best of Africa’s river and lagoon experiences with our curated selection of itineraries:

11 nights

The Legends of Zambia


Combine five nights in the Lower Zambezi, canoeing, fishing, and spotting island-hopping elephants, with six nights in the South Luangwa, hopping from camp to camp and exploring on foot.

3 nights Chiawa Lodge  |  2 nights Old Mondoro  |  2 nights each at a combination of Bushcamps in the South Luangwa

7 nights | South Africa

Wine & Wilderness


Perfect for couples, groups of friends, or multi-generational families, experience the best of South Africa’s majestic coastlines, vineyards, and rugged landscapes in one unforgettable journey.

3 nights La Clé  |  4 nights Kwandwe Private Game Reserve