Back to grid

Best kayak and SUP destinations in Africa

Back to grid
Zanzibar
Turquoise Waters and Spice Perfume
7.4
A three hour guided tour on stand up paddleboard or kayak explores the tidal forests of Chukwani. Paddlers glide through mangrove tunnels, estuaries and open ocean while learning about several mangrove tree species. A lesson and safety briefing begin the session. Equipment and life jackets are included. The tour suits all fitness levels.
Highlights:
  • 🐒 Visit Jozani Forest to see rare red colobus monkeys
  • 🤿 Snorkel in the clear waters of Mnemba Atoll and spot vibrant marine life
  • 🏰 Explore Stone Town's narrow streets and historic sites
Mahé
Tropical Paradise with a Wild Side
8.6
A two hour crystal kayak tour paddles from the bay of Anse a la Mouche to Anse Louis. Paddlers pass coral gardens and colourful marine life. Snorkelling gear is included. Each kayak holds two people. Departures run Tuesday to Sunday year round between 10 AM and 5 PM.
Highlights:
  • 🏞️ Hike to the summit of Morne Seychellois for panoramic views
  • 🤿 Snorkel in Sainte Anne Marine National Park’s coral reefs
  • 🏖️ Relax on the powdery white sands of Beau Vallon Beach
Cape Town
Mountains, Beaches and a Vibrant Culture
7.6
Guided sit on top kayak tours run from Simon's Town beside a large African penguin colony. Hout Bay tours add a seal colony, sea caves and views of Chapman's Peak and the Twelve Apostles. Sea Point has a sheltered bay and a paddle out towards Robben Island. Kalk Bay offers sea caves and a shipwreck.
Highlights:
  • 🍽️ Explore the V&A Waterfront and dine by the sea
  • 🚡 Ride the cable car for breathtaking city views
  • 🥾 Hike to the top of Table Mountain
Victoria Falls
The Smoke That Thunders
7.5
Canoe safaris run on the upper Zambezi inside Zambezi National Park on the Zimbabwean side. Camp lies about 15 miles upstream of the falls. Paddlers cover roughly 11 miles of downstream water each day in inflatable canoes. Rapids are Class 1 and 2, including Kandahar Rapids. Trips run April to November.
Highlights:
  • 🚤 Take a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River
  • 🪂 Bungee jump from the historic Victoria Falls Bridge
  • 🌊 Admire the thundering Victoria Falls from lookout points
Okavango Delta
Africa’s Uncharted Water Wilderness
8.0
Mokoro dugout canoes are poled by a guide standing in the stern, much like punting. They were traditionally carved from ebony or African sausage tree. Modern versions are increasingly fiberglass. Floodwater peaks from June to August. The delta then swells to about three times its permanent size.
Highlights:
  • 🦜 Spot diverse bird species during dedicated birding tours
  • 🛶 Glide silently through waterways in a traditional mokoro
  • 🦁 Explore the wildlife on guided 4x4 safari drives
Feedback