Luxury Boat Safaris

Sail through Africa in luxurious floating accommodations.

Some of the world’s most spectacular and vast rivers, such as the well-known Zambezi and Nile rivers, are found in Africa. These bodies of water are surrounded by breathtaking scenery, and the plants and animals that live there are quite amazing. It should come as no surprise that one of the most distinctive and totally immersing ways to explore these enormous waterways and ecosystems is to go on a luxury boat safari.

Boat safaris offer one of the best vantage points for seeing wildlife, in contrast to most African safaris. In addition, it is a more pleasant experience than driving on jarringly hot highways. As you slowly float through some of the most stunning scenery on Earth, immersing yourself in your surroundings and literally leaving no footprint behind, you can expect a refreshing breeze coming off the water.

The best thing about a luxury boat safari, maybe, is that you are away from the massive crowds and noise pollution, which makes for some amazing animal watching.

Are you prepared?

Our #1 pick for opulent boat safaris

Namibia’s Namushasha River Villa

Kongola is the location of the Namushasha River Villa in Namibia. This floating paradise, which is a part of the Gondwana Collection, is anchored in a separate, exclusive Kwando River waterway. Visitors may fully appreciate the Bwabwata National Park in this amazing environment. With room for two, the Villa is perfect for an incredibly romantic getaway for a couple. The Namushasha River Villa welcomes visitors to enjoy a leisurely boat ride together with top-notch animal viewing, fine dining, and the ultimate in opulent amenities.

Spirit of Okavango, Botswana

Situated on the serene Okavango River in the northern region of Botswana, the Okavango Spirit is a sophisticated, recently refurbished luxury houseboat with eight fully equipped cabins and expansive decks providing breathtaking views of the Delta and its fauna. The houseboat is perfect for the discriminating visitor looking for the highest level of exclusivity because it is located in the panhandle of the Delta, which is known for being among the quietest and most serene due to its isolation. This amazing houseboat, reachable by direct flight from Maun, truly captures the essence of the Okavango.

Rwanda’s Mantis Kivu Queen uBuranga

One of Africa’s largest lakes, Lake Kivu, is 90 km long. Along its shores is the Mantis Kivu Queen uBuranga, an opulent floating hotel. It has pristine seas and is surrounded by quaint fishing communities along Africa’s Great Rift Valley. This custom boat experience, complete with a bar, restaurant, hot tub, viewing deck, swimming pool, and ten modern cabins, will transport you to a luxurious destination unlike any other in Rwanda’s temperate equatorial environment.

Botswana’s Zambezi Queen

Four large master rooms, ten standard suites, and fourteen deluxe suites make up the luxurious accommodations offered by the Zambezi Queen. Each suite has an exterior terrace where guests may enjoy the cool Chobe River wind and never-ending vistas of the distinctive African landscape beyond. A visit aboard this treasure offers a unique safari encounter. Imagine it as a floating luxury hotel traveling through around 25 kilometers of the Chobe River, home to some of Africa’s most amazing wildlife. This is not your typical river cruise.

Matusadona, the MV, Zimbabwe

The most opulent houseboat on Zimbabwe’s famous Lake Kariba is the MV Matusadona. Lake Kariba, encircled by the Matusadona National Park, is well-known for its tiger fishing, animal viewing, and breathtaking sunsets. An adventure of a lifetime is sailing around the coast of one of Africa’s last authentic wilderness places. The MV Matusadona is perfect for small-group and family vacations because it is completely furnished, can hold up to six people in luxury, and has four devoted crew members.

Egypt’s Sun Goddess, HS

A trip down the Nile River on the HS Sun Goddess is a real adventure. A voyage along this ancient river is a must-do activity when visiting Egypt, and this opulent, all-suite cruise ship is one of the best at doing it. Savoring the landscape from the rivers, the HS Sun Goddess is the ideal way to explore the area between Aswan and Luxor. There are thirty luxurious suites on the ship, including a large Executive Suite and a Royal Suite with a jacuzzi. Every room offers a private patio with expansive views of the skyline and Nile riverbanks.