Discover Africa’s Safest Inland Waters to Travel On in 2024: A Guide for Tourists Coming to Africa

Africa is home to breathtaking landscapes and diverse ecosystems, with inland waters offering some of the most scenic travel experiences. But with vast and sometimes unpredictable waterways, it's essential to know which are safest for travelers. In this guide, we’ll explore the safest inland waters in Africa, perfect for tranquil boat trips, kayaking, and nature watching.

Top 5 Safest Inland Waters in Africa

1. Lake Nyasa (Malawi)

Lake Nyasa also populary known as Lake Malawi, often called the Lake of Stars, is famous for its crystal-clear waters, calm ambiance, and safety. Stretching across Malawi, Mozambique, and Tanzania, the lake is considered one of Africa’s safest destinations for aquatic exploration. It boasts no dangerous large predators like crocodiles or hippos in popular tourist spots, making it perfect for activities like kayaking, boat trips, and snorkeling.

The lake's biodiversity is another draw, with hundreds of species of colorful cichlid fish that are unique to this region. Visitors can explore the waters in peace, knowing that the tranquil conditions and friendly locals make for a safe and enriching experience.

2. Omugga Kiyira (Uganda/Egypt)

Omugga Kiyira (comes from the native word “okuyiira” meaning the “thunderous sound”) also known as The Nile River is one of the most iconic waterways in the world, but not all sections of this mighty river are suitable for travel. However, in regions such as Uganda, the river's calm stretches make for safe boating and exploration. Jinja, a town in Uganda known as the source of the Nile, offers visitors opportunities to safely enjoy water sports, such as kayaking and boat cruises, along its peaceful sections.

Further downstream in Egypt, leisurely felucca rides along the Nile offer a serene way to experience the beauty of the river without worrying about strong currents or unsafe conditions.

3. Lake Ukerewe (Kenya/Uganda/Tanzania)

As the largest lake in Africa, Lake Ukerewe otherwise known as L.Victoria touches the shores of Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. Despite its vastness, several regions of Lake Victoria offer safe waters for travelers. In Kenya, the town of Kisumu provides ferry rides and boat trips across calm sections of the lake, offering a tranquil and scenic experience.

Uganda's Ssese Islands, located in the northern part of the lake, are particularly known for their safety and beauty. Visitors can relax, swim, or take boat tours across the island's tranquil waters without encountering dangerous wildlife.

4. The Okavango Delta (Botswana)

The Okavango Delta in Botswana is one of the world's largest inland deltas and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its vast network of channels and lagoons creates an incredible environment for water safaris, where travelers can safely navigate the delta's calm waters on traditional mokoro canoes.

While the delta is home to diverse wildlife, including elephants, the water channels themselves are considered safe, and guided tours ensure that travelers can enjoy the beauty of the Okavango in complete safety.

5. Lake Kivu (Rwanda/DR Congo)

Straddling the border between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, Lake Kivu is another safe destination for water travel. Known for its peaceful atmosphere and safety, Lake Kivu’s tranquil waters provide a perfect environment for boating and swimming. Visitors can explore the lake's islands and shorelines while taking in the surrounding volcanic scenery.

Rwanda’s tourism infrastructure around Lake Kivu ensures that visitors have access to well-equipped boats and guided tours, adding an extra layer of security.

What Makes These Waters Safe for Travel?

1. Calm Water Conditions

One of the primary reasons these inland waters are safe for travel is their calm nature. Unlike fast-flowing rivers or coastal areas with rough seas, these lakes and rivers have minimal currents, making them ideal for peaceful exploration. Whether it’s a boat trip on Lake Malawi or a mokoro ride through the Okavango Delta, travelers can rest assured that the waters are calm and navigable.

2. Well-Developed Tourism Infrastructure

Inland waters that are safe for travel often have well-developed tourism sectors. For instance, in places like Lake Victoria and Lake Kivu, local tourism authorities ensure that boats and other travel equipment meet safety standards. Additionally, experienced guides are readily available to lead tours, ensuring that visitors can enjoy their trips without concern.

3. Absence of Dangerous Wildlife

While Africa is home to a wide range of wildlife, including some dangerous species, the inland waters mentioned in this guide are relatively free from threats like crocodiles and hippos in the areas most frequented by tourists. For example, Lake Malawi is known for its lack of large predators in tourist hotspots, and guided tours in places like the Okavango Delta keep travelers safe from wildlife encounters.