Best Water Sports in Africa

Water lovers are sure to fall in love with Africa, thanks to its abundance of water-based adventures. And the fun doesn’t stop at coastal activities like snorkeling, diving, and surfing—there’s much more to explore.

The continent’s inland waterways also offer a range of exciting experiences, including freshwater fishing and river rafting. Bookmundi highlights some of the most popular and thrilling water sports in Africa, giving you a glimpse into the many aquatic adventures the continent has to offer.

Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt – Beaches and Diving (above image)

Sharm el-Sheikh has earned its reputation as Egypt’s resort capital, and for good reason. With its inviting atmosphere, warm, crystal-clear waters, beautiful beaches, and a wide range of activities, it’s a perfect destination for sun-seekers and beach enthusiasts. It’s also renowned as one of the best spots for swimming, and with the coral reefs along the Red Sea, it provides access to some of the world’s most exhilarating diving experiences.

Taghazout, Morocco – Surfing

Taghazout, located in the Agadir region, has been a magnet for surfers worldwide since the 1960s. It boasts two exceptional surf spots: Anchor Point and Boilers. Anchor Point is renowned as one of the most famous surf destinations globally, offering consistent waves at all tides and perfectly shaped rides. The waves here range from 3 feet to as high as 15 feet.

Boilers, named after the wrecked ship’s boiler located nearby, is considered the most challenging surf spot in Morocco. Known for its thrilling surf conditions, it offers an adrenaline-pumping experience. The best time to surf in Morocco is from September to April.

Swimming with Dolphins, Zanzibar

Humans and dolphins have an incredible connection. You might not have as much time as Jesse (Free Willy anyone??) to form a bond with your orca, but you can certainly enjoy one of the best dolphin adventures of your life in Zanzibar. All you have to do is set sail from the Bewjuu Beach searching for a pod of dolphins. Once you come across these beautiful creatures, stop and dive in to have the time of your life. Swimming with wild dolphins is believed to give you a sense of harmony and emotional satisfaction unlike any other.

Praslin Island, Seychelles – Diving

There are three things that every diver needs – warm waters, clear visibility and a vast collection of things to see. Seychelles offers all three in great abundance and is famous as one of the top diving destinations in the world. The perfect way to start off with your diving adventure is at Praslin Island, a family-owned hotel that borders one of the island’s marine parks and ends on the beach of Mahe. Another exciting option is Azura @ Quilalea, an exclusive beach resort located in the Quirimbas Archipelago, Mozambique.

Sunset Dhow Cruise, Mozambique 

The ancient dhows that can be found in Mozambique are exactly what legends and fairy tales are made up of. Their unique silhouette has been dotting the eastern seaboard of Africa for centuries and they have been responsible for ferrying fishermen, sailors, merchants, and even pirates from one place to the other. Today, these tall-sailed dhows are used on the coasts of Kenya, Mozambique, Zanzibar and Tanzania and are incredibly popular among couples. With the warm breeze offering scents of cloves and vanilla from the surrounding islands and the setting sun leaving the skies around you in a colorful mess, dhows are known to offer some of the most romantic water experiences in Africa.

Lake Kariba, Zimbabwe – Fishing

If fishing is something that excites you, there are no shortage of fishing destinations in Africa. While places like Dullstroom, the fly-fishing capital of Africa, are incredibly famous, Bookmundi recommends a trip to Lake Kariba. It is the perfect place to catch tiger fish and enjoy a beautiful river adventure at the same time. Simply rent a houseboat and sail down the lake, fishing as you please.

Zambezi River, Mozambique – River rafting

Considered to be one of the most legendary destinations for white water rafting enthusiasts, the Zambezi River is home to some of the greatest Grade 5 rapids in the world. Come face to face with the Oblivion and experience first-hand the crazy adventure better known as Morning Glory. And while you’re busy with your white water rafting adventure, you always have crocodiles and hippos to give you company.!. The ideal time to visit the Zambezi River is between the months of January to February and September to October.

Water Sports, Mauritius – Kayaking, Surfing and Others

Most resorts in Mauritius offer a vast variety of motorized and non-motorized water sports that offer varying levels of adrenaline. From kayaking across a lagoon to grappling with SUP boards, from motorboating to waterskiing, there is something for all kinds of people and all sorts of experiences. And if you’re a bit seasoned with adventure sports, you can also choose from things like sailing in hobie-cats, wakeboarding and windsurfing. For those who are not into water sports, Mauritius also has its fair share of paddle boating and glass-bottom boat trips.

If water sports attract you and your family, you need to take a trip to the magnificent lakes and sultry seascapes of Africa, visiting at least one of the above best water sport locations in Africa. There are so many water sports to choose from and all kinds of water adventures to enjoy. The sheer diversity of the place makes it one of the richest underwater worlds and therein lies the continent’s true beauty and its real charm.