Which rivers of Africa can you ride in 2025: a great guide to rafting, kayaking and cruises

If you are looking for a real adventure on the water, then the rivers of Africa are what you need. There is everything here: from frenzied rapids for extreme athletes to calm cruises past elephants and hippos. We have collected all the information so that you know where to go, when to book and how to safely ride along the main rivers of the continent in 2025 and 2026.

Rafting in Africa: TOP 3 rivers for extreme rafting

Here we will analyze the three most popular rivers for rafting. It is important to remember that all of them require serious training and the support of professional guides.

The Zambezi River (Victoria Falls, the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe)

If you are an experienced rafter and you are looking for maximum adrenaline levels, then the Zambezi is your choice. It is one of the most difficult commercial rivers in the world.

• Difficulty level: Category 5 (highest). The rapids here are long, powerful, and stormy, with names like “Devil’s Roar.”
• Season and route: It all depends on the time of the year. During the low water period (from August to December), rafting begins right at the foot of Victoria Falls. When the water rises (from January to July), the starting point shifts about 10 km downstream.
• What to take with you: Quick-drying clothes, water shoes (not slates!), sunglasses with elastic band, powerful waterproof sunscreen. It is better to leave the photo and video equipment at the base or use securely protected pressure chambers.

The Nile in Uganda (White Nile, Jinja city)

It is considered one of the best rafting destinations in the world. There are long and powerful rapids here, but they are more predictable than on the Zambezi.

• Difficulty level: From 3 to 5 categories, depending on the selected area. There are options for both beginners (with the possibility of landing in front of difficult thresholds) and pros.
• Best season: Dry season (December to February and June to July). At this time, the water level is stable, the sun is almost every day, and the rapids are in perfect condition for rafting. During the rainy season (March-May, August-November), the river becomes more dangerous and unpredictable.
• What to consider: The standard tour is a full—day rafting trip with lunch on one of the islands. Tour operators often offer a combo: one day of rafting + one day of rest with other activities (quad biking, community visits).

Orange River, South Africa and Namibia

An ideal option for those who want to combine rafting with contemplation of stunning desert landscapes. This is a multi-day hike (from 2 to 6 days) with overnight stays at campsites on the shore.

• Difficulty level: Basically 2-3 categories with several serious thresholds (for example, “Black Dragon”). Suitable for beginners and families with teenage children.
• The best season: Autumn and winter in the Southern Hemisphere (from April to September). There is no sweltering heat here at this time, and the nights are cool. In summer (December-February), temperatures can be extremely high.
• What to consider: This is a camping format. All the things, tents and food are sailing with you on separate rafts. You are completely cut off from civilization, which is the main charm of this trip. The operators provide all the necessary equipment.

Kayaking on the rivers and lakes of Africa: from calm rowing to extreme

Kayaking allows you to be closer to the water and quietly observe nature. But Africa has its own rules for it.

Where to go kayaking in Africa:

• For beginners and lovers of relaxing holidays: A wide and calm Zambezi above a waterfall or lake is suitable, for example, Manala in Kenya or Kariba on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe. In South Africa, the Garden Route is great, where you can rent a kayak in parks like Wilderness.
• For experienced kayakers: The section of the Nile in Uganda above Gingee is a mecca for professionals who want to storm Category 5 rapids alone.

The main rule of safety: Never go out on the water alone and without a professional guide! Even on a calm lake, you can unexpectedly encounter a hippopotamus. Guides know safe routes and rules of conduct when encountering wild animals. Always wear a life jacket.

Cruises on the rivers of Africa: safari on the water

This is the most comfortable way to see the wild nature and inaccessible corners of the continent.

Expedition cruises on the Congo River and its tributaries

This is a unique journey into the heart of the Congo River Basin, the second largest rainforest in the world.

• Vessel: Small boutique ships such as Ducret Congo or MV Congo River. They can accommodate 20-30 passengers and can enter narrow channels.
• What you will see: A chance to see western lowland gorillas, forest elephants, chimpanzees, and many birds. The program includes landings in national parks and visits to local villages.
• An important point: This is not an entertainment cruise, but an expedition cruise. Schedules may change due to weather, water levels, or animal movements. We need the spirit of the researcher.

Chobe River Cruises, Botswana

This is a classic river safari, which is often combined with a visit to the Okavango Delta.

Boat: Small safari boats or even traditional African mokoro boats.

What you will see: Huge herds of elephants, buffaloes, hippos, crocodiles and an incredible number of birds that come to drink. There’s a lot of space for photographers here.

Season: Dry season (from May to October). At this time, animals are especially active near the water.

Practical tips for traveling in 2025

• Book strongly in advance. Good dates for rafting on the Zambezi or places on expedition cruises in the Congo fly out in 9-12 months. Start planning now.
• Health is important. Be sure to visit a general practitioner or a specialist in tropical medicine. You will need vaccinations (at least against yellow fever in most countries) and a prescription for antimalarial drugs.
• Don’t skimp on security. Choose only trusted, licensed operators with an impeccable reputation. Read reviews on independent platforms.
• Insurance is mandatory. Apply for an extreme sports policy (if you are going rafting) with coverage for emergency medical evacuation from remote areas. Regular travel insurance does not cover such risks.
• What to pack: In addition to standard items, be sure to take: clothes made of quick-drying fabrics, sun protection (hat, high-SPF cream, sunglasses), mosquito repellent (with DETA), first-aid kit, flashlight, portable charger (power bank). For a cruise in the Congo, light but closed clothes in neutral tones for trekking in the jungle.
• Respect local rules and nature. Listen to the guides, do not feed or disturb the animals, do not leave trash. Remember that you are a guest in their house.

Traveling through the rivers of Africa is an experience that will stay with you for the rest of your life. Whether it’s the thrill of crossing the threshold, the silence of a morning kayaking, or the moment when you make eye contact with a gorilla from the deck of a cruise ship, it’s worth carefully preparing for.

The Anyships team will help you turn your dream of an African adventure on the water into a clear and safe plan. We will select a trusted tour operator and advise you on fees and paperwork so that you can focus on your impressions.