River Cruises in South Africa
Within South Africa’s borders, you’ll find a plethora of gorgeous meandering rivers that will provide hours of relaxation and destressing. Whilst the river water might not be clear enough to watch for fishes below you, many river cruises wind their way through some incredible South Africa Game Reserves. So, as you gently and almost noiselessly float down the river, you’ll be privvy to a huge variety of wildlife near the waters edge.
The salt water sanctuary of Knysna is a breathtaking example of a fantastic river cruise in South Africa. The winding rivers of Knysna allow you the opportunity to explore the magnificent lagoon and the world famous ‘Knysna Heads’ - 2 large rocky cliffs at the mouth of the Knysna Lagoon. Some boat cruises even offer the opportunity to visit the unique nature reserves around the beautiful town of Knysna.
With close to 300 species of birds, Bontebok, Oribi, Giraffe, Zebra and 4 of the Big 5, Sibuya offers superb opportunities to witness the wonderful wild-life whilst drifting along the serene river. In summer, the boat departs daily at 9am and 2pm. In winter, the boat departs daily at 9am. This beautiful South African river cruise is 2 hours long and includes drinks and snacks. Still in the Eastern Cape, relax on a slow river cruise down the Bushman’s River. The riverine bushveld offers excellent bird watching with a good chance of seeing the majestic African Fish Eagle and all three species of Kingfisher. Amongst the game drinking at the river’s edge, the rare Cape Clawless Otter might also be sighted.
Then in the Western Cape, Tides River Lodge lies on the banks of the Breede River near Malgas. A short two and a half hour trip from Cape Town and half an hour from Swellendam, on the way to the Garden Route. Privately owned, this peaceful heaven is a birdwatcher's and fisherman's dream. There is a boat house and private jetty where you can launch your own boat or hire one their boats for river cruises.
In Limpopo when you visit Sefapane Lodge for your Kruger Park Safari, you can take a cruise along the banks of the Olifants River, amongst hippos, crocodiles and a variety of other drinking game and birds. A very unique game viewing experience.
River cruises in South Africa are a perfect way to explore the magnificent scenery that South Africa has to offer whilst relaxing and unwinding. Be sure not to miss on these fantastic South African river cruising opportunities!.
Featured River Cruises Destinations
Cruise up the Klein River in Stanford
Where: Stanford
How much (per person): On Request
Come and enjoy yourself and relax on a wonderful cruise up the Klein River. Come enjoy the birds, the tranquility and be mesmerized as our beautiful ... more information
Addo River Safari on the Maggie May
Where: Colchester
How much (per person): On Request
Listen to the sounds of the fisheagle as you cruise on the Maggie May Houseboat on the scenic Sundays River situated in the Colchester secti ... more information
Day Cruise on board Shayamanzi
Where: Pongola
How much (per person): On Request
Enjoy a day cruising on board Shayamanzi. Relax in the jacuzzi, fish or game view from her tender boats; enjoy the breeze from her elevated decks ... more information
Wine Tasting Cruise in Robertson
Where: Robertson
How much (per person): On Request
Dip your toes in the cool water and your nose in the crisp glass. Refresh with wine at the rustic Cellar, at the Riverside Tasting Room or on the Riverboat ... more information

Cruise up the Klein River in Stanford
Where: Stanford
How much (per person): On Request
Come and enjoy yourself and relax on a wonderful cruise up the Klein River. Come enjoy the birds, the tranquility and be mesmerized as our beautiful ... more information

Addo River Safari on the Maggie May
Where: Colchester
How much (per person): On Request
Listen to the sounds of the fisheagle as you cruise on the Maggie May Houseboat on the scenic Sundays River situated in the Colchester secti ... more information

Day Cruise on board Shayamanzi
Where: Pongola
How much (per person): On Request
Enjoy a day cruising on board Shayamanzi. Relax in the jacuzzi, fish or game view from her tender boats; enjoy the breeze from her elevated decks ... more information

Wine Tasting Cruise in Robertson
Where: Robertson
How much (per person): On Request
Dip your toes in the cool water and your nose in the crisp glass. Refresh with wine at the rustic Cellar, at the Riverside Tasting Room or on the Riverboat ... more information
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