Boating safari experiences

Nicknamed the 'Pearl of the Indian Ocean', the Bazaruto Archipelago is nothing short of sensational. And what better way to explore it all than on a boat trip round its five fabulous islands? The archipelago sits within a protected marine reserve, complete with powdery soft beaches, azure water and amazing sea life. Climb to the top of the sand dunes, park off under a palm on one of the uninhabited isles, search for the rare pansy shells, snorkel along the life-filled reefs and scan the water for everything from dolphin to dugong on the way. Stop for a beach picnic and a dip in the water to finish of a magnificent day of island hopping.

Leave your lodge at dusk to sail down the shimmering Chobe River. Gently pass the wading pods of hippo and the sharp-eyed crocodile as your guide leads you on a scenic boat cruise. In the golden afternoon light, spy massive herds of elephant and buffalo, and big cats who leave their shady turf for a drink, African painted dog panting after a chase and birdlife galore. This is the perfect time to whip your camera out! Clink your cocktails as the sun dips below the horizon before returning to the jetty - and spotting all the nocturnal wildlife you can on the way.

Known as Rwanda's rising star of safari, Akagera is a vast landscape marked by its large and gleaming lakes. Take to the water early in the morning or at golden hour when birdlife from its 520 species takes a last flight before settling into the forest-fringed shores. Cruise the lake, navigating lurking crocodile (the highest numbers in Africa) and pods of hippo, whilst spotting the wildlife on shore. As the sun sets, casting its colours across the water, enjoy a chilled drink and snap all the photos you can.

Take in Murchison Falls at its thundering and most breathtaking on a boat trip to the mist-swirled base. Begin your trip further down the park, where you'll float along the Nile River, passing yawning hippos and crocodiles as they glower from below the water. Formed as the rushing Nile River squeezes through a 7m gap in the Albertine Rift Escarpment, Murchison Falls is a true spectacle and one of the world's most powerful waterfalls. The park's plentiful wildlife often gathers to drink at the base, so you can get started on your game viewing. The falls are at their most magnificent during the rainy season, especially late May and November, when the birdlife is most verdant as well.

Matusadona has plenty to boast about, from its wildlife to its picture-perfect landscapes, but Lake Kariba is the true star. The largest man-made lake in the world, it spans over 140 miles of the Zambezi Valley and, seated on a houseboat, it can even feel like you're gazing out to sea. As the wildlife begins to settle down for the night you'll cruise onto the water with a G&T in hand. Watch the scene become enveloped by shades of scarlet and gold as the sun dips behind the Matusadona Mountains, followed by an evening of star gazing.

Kisite Marine Park is just a short boat ride from Msambweni Beach, and is home to one of Kenya’s largest and most spectacular coral reefs. Each morning, visitors to the reef climb aboard a dhow (a traditional East African sailing boat) and venture out for a morning of snorkelling. Dolphins often cruise the islands around the reefs and accompany visitors on these expeditions and then maybe even escort them to Wasini Island to delight in Charlie Claws infamous fresh crabs and a cold coca cola.