river safari wheelchair

Beyond Barriers: the world's first luxury wheelchair-accessible safari

By Sophie Morgan

Defining disability has long been a contentious and polarising endeavour. For some, the word carries a heavy burden; for others, it's a source of pride. Each person's relationship with the label will be as complex, personal and nuanced as their impairments themselves.

There is no single definition, no one size fits all, but in recent years our community has agreed to move away from the medical model of defining disability and towards the social model. This new way of looking at the term outlines that disability is created by society and the environments in which we live – not by our individual impairments. Disabled people face barriers that stop us from participating in society the same way as non-disabled people. So, instead of wanting to fix us and remove our disabilities, the social model instead stipulates that we fix the barriers themselves.

When Patrick Suverein became dependent on a wheelchair due to back complications in 2017, I doubt he had any awareness of the quandaries surrounding these ever-evolving ways of thinking. Regardless, when he temporarily became disabled, his world – namely, a 2000-hectare private game reserve in Klaserie National Park, South Africa – became inaccessible. This left him and his indomitable partner Elly to ask the very question so many wheelchair users before them had grappled with, too: “how do you do a safari in a wheelchair?”

A pragmatic problem solver, Patrick began unknowingly applying the principles of the social model to the game reserve, setting about adapting the world around him to meet his needs. It was initially for his own benefit, but soon it occurred to him and Elly that others with similar mobility impairments could benefit too. Ximuwu Lodge (pronounced Shi-mu-wu) was born, a five-star accessible lodge open to the ambulatory and non-ambulatory public. Like all things forged out of urgency, pressure and necessity, it is a precious gem just waiting to be unearthed.

Situated inside of the Greater Kruger National Park, Ximuwu is easily reached either by a short flight to Hoedspruit Airport or a six-hour drive from Johannesburg , a detail Elly explained they had considered closely. Many safaris sell themselves on remoteness, but that's a quality they deliberately replaced in favour of convenience. Besides, Elly and Patrick have other more inclusive boxes to tick, the first of which greets me on arrival: wheelchair-accessible transfers. Agasp, I watch on as Matt Porter, the head guide and safari manager, slides open the door of a brand-new adapted green land cruiser, wrapped in Ximumu branding of a wheelchair-using lion. He lowers an adjustable swivel seat to my height for me to self-transfer onto.

If this were to be the first sighting of the accessible big five at Ximuwu, the second would be the portable pool hoist, waiting beside the infinity pool . A rare sighting indeed. This was followed quickly by an array of shower seats, commode chairs, grab rails, and – I could hardly believe my eyes – an adjustable bed in one of the two accessible suites. Once again, something rarely found in a hotel, and further proof of the attention to accessibility detail at Ximuwu. Just when I thought it couldn't get any better, Patrick points to the safari Land Cruiser and an extendable seat that's waiting for me, hovering over a concrete ramp like a dragonfly over water. It's time for a safari.

Charley Ward

Olivia Morelli

Lauren Burvill

CNT Editors

As we drive into the African bush to search for the actual Big Five, dust swirling in the dusk, Matt and the eagle-eyed tracker Frank Mkhabela point out pawprints and clues we follow for the next few hours till the sun begins to set. The traditional obligatory sundowner calls us to a halt. Sipping on a G&T, I gaze out at this unspoilt and entirely private resort that stretches as far as the eyes can see.

The typical timetable of safari dictates our movements for the next four days. Early starts to catch the game before the heat of the day and evening drives to find them as the shadows creep in and the hunts begin. Hot water bottles, blankets and biltong bush snacks are packed along with the binoculars and night vision goggles so that no stone goes unturned. A herd of elephants a whisker away from the jeep sends adrenaline coursing through me.

When the sun is at its zenith, a lunch spread of Nobu-inspired salmon teriyaki awaits, after which a hoist lowers me down into the pool to float like a contented hippo. The lodge overlooks a vast plain, so even when you aren't on safari, there's always a chance of spotting something. If you are lucky, positioned at the right time in the hide (accessible via wheelchair ramp), you can get as close to nature as is feasibly safe. One afternoon, after a generous helping of homemade raspberry sorbet, a loan giraffe lollops into view and takes his lunch in front of us.

Not wanting to waste a moment, a quick nap can be combined with a deep tissue massage at the spa and Elly (equipped not only with her pilot's licence but also hairdresser credentials) offers me a wash and blow dry. Her hospitality is matched by her team, fronted by Anette Porter, all of whom are fully disability-aware and know exactly when to help and when not to.

The borders between the Klaserie Reserve and Kruger National Park are unfenced, allowing animals to move freely around both reserves. In total, I checked off over twenty-five sightings, from hyenas, leopards, rhinos, lions and giraffes to vultures, bush babies, warthogs and more. The space is teaming with life, but the reserve itself is deserving of equal praise, sightings or otherwise.

One early morning, Elly and Patrick arrange for a helicopter ride. Matt offers to lift me into the passenger seat, and off I soar into the sunrise, a herd of dehorned rhinos to our left and buffaloe to our right. As the African sun peaks over the horizon and we wait in the sky to welcome in the new day, I find myself wondering how on earth I will ever get over this place.

Patrick is living proof that disability can happen to anyone at any time; it is not a niche existence; it's part of the circle of life. Thankfully his experience changed not only his own world but all of our experiences for the better and in Ximuwu, a silver-lining accessible safari awaits.

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South Africa Chevron

This Wheelchair-Accessible Safari in South Africa Should Be the Future of Adventure Travel

By Sophie Morgan

Defining disability has long been a contentious and polarizing endeavor. For some, the word carries a heavy burden; for others, it's a source of pride. Each person's relationship with the label is as complex, personal, and nuanced as their impairments themselves. There is no single definition, no one size fits all.

But in recent years, our community has agreed to move away from the medical model of defining disability and towards the social model . This new way of looking at the term considers disability as something created by society and the environments in which we live, not by our individual impairments. Disabled people face barriers that stop us from participating in society the same way as non-disabled people. So, instead of wanting to fix us and remove our disabilities, the social model instead stipulates that we fix the barriers themselves.

Ximuwu: Luxury Klaserie Lodge, South Africa

When Patrick Suverein became temporarily dependent on a wheelchair due to back complications in 2017, his world — namely, a 2000-hectare private game reserve in Klaserie National Park, South Africa — became inaccessible to him. He and his indomitable partner Elly then had to ask the very question so many wheelchair users before them had grappled with: “How do you do a safari in a wheelchair?”

A pragmatic problem solver, Patrick began to adapt the game reserve to meet his needs. It was initially for his own benefit, but soon it occurred to him and Elly that others with similar mobility impairments could benefit too. Ximuwu Lodge (pronounced Shi-mu-wu) was born: a five-star lodge and wheelchair accessible safari open to the ambulatory and non-ambulatory public. Like all things forged out of urgency, pressure, and necessity, it is a precious gem just waiting to be unearthed.

Situated inside of the Greater Kruger National Park, Ximuwu is easily reached either by a short flight to Hoedspruit Airport or a six-hour drive from Johannesburg , a detail Elly explained they had considered closely. Many safaris sell themselves on remoteness, but that's a quality they deliberately replaced in favor of convenience. Besides, Elly and Patrick have other more inclusive boxes to tick, the first of which greets me on arrival: wheelchair-accessible transfers. Agasp, I watch on as Matt Porter, the head guide and safari manager, slides open the door of a brand-new adapted green Land Cruiser, wrapped in Ximumu branding that depicts a wheelchair-using lion. He lowers an adjustable swivel seat to my height for me to self-transfer onto.

If this were to be the first sighting of the accessible big five at Ximuwu, the second would be the portable pool hoist, waiting beside the infinity pool. A rare sighting indeed. This was followed quickly by an array of shower seats, commode chairs, grab rails, and — I could hardly believe my eyes — an adjustable bed in one of the two accessible suites. Once again, this is something rarely found in a hotel, and further proof of the attention to accessibility detail at Ximuwu. Just when I thought it couldn't get any better, Patrick points to the safari Land Cruiser and an extendable seat that's waiting for me, hovering over a concrete ramp like a dragonfly over water. It's time for a safari.

As we drive into the African bush to search for the actual Big Five, dust swirling in the dusk, Matt and the eagle-eyed tracker Frank Mkhabela point out pawprints and clues that we follow for the next few hours until the sun begins to set. The traditional sundowner calls us to a halt. Sipping on a G&T, I gaze out at this unspoiled and entirely private resort that stretches as far as the eyes can see.

Shannon McMahon

Chris Schalkx

Caitlin Morton

Emily Pennington

The typical timetable of safari dictates our movements for the next four days. Early starts to catch the game before the heat of the day, and evening drives to find them as the shadows creep in and the hunts begin. Hot water bottles, blankets, and biltong bush snacks are packed along with the binoculars and night vision goggles so that no stone goes unturned. A herd of elephants a whisker away from the jeep sends adrenaline coursing through me.

When the sun is at its zenith, a lunch spread of Nobu -inspired salmon teriyaki awaits, after which a hoist lowers me down into the pool to float like a contented hippo. The lodge overlooks a vast plain, so even when you aren't on safari, there's always a chance of spotting something. If you are lucky, and positioned at the right time in the hide (accessible via wheelchair ramp), you can get as close to nature as is feasibly safe. One afternoon, after a generous helping of homemade raspberry sorbet, a lone giraffe gallops into view and takes his lunch in front of us.

No need to waste a moment: a quick nap can be combined with a deep tissue massage at the spa; Elly — equipped not only with her pilot's license but also hairdresser credentials — offers me a wash and blow dry. Her hospitality is matched by her team, fronted by Anette Porter, all of whom are fully disability-aware and know exactly when to help and when not to.

The borders between the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve and Kruger National Park are unfenced, allowing animals to move freely around both reserves. In total, I checked off over twenty-five sightings: from hyenas, leopards, rhinos, lions, and giraffes to vultures, bush babies, warthogs, and more. The space is teaming with life, but the reserve itself is deserving of equal praise, sightings or otherwise.

One early morning, Elly and Patrick arrange for a helicopter ride. Matt offers to lift me into the passenger seat, and off I soar into the sunrise, a herd of dehorned rhinos to our left and buffalos to our right. As the African sun peaks over the horizon and we wait in the sky to welcome in the new day, I find myself wondering how on earth I will ever get over this place.

Patrick is living proof that disability can happen to anyone at any time. It is not a niche existence; it's part of the circle of life. Thankfully, his experience changed not only his own world, but all of our experiences for the better — and in Ximuwu, a wheelchair accessible safari awaits.

A version of this article originally appeared in Condé Nast Traveller UK .

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Spotting the Big 5 on a Wheelchair Accessible Tour of Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve

• by John Morris
• November 19, 2019

Masai Mara National Reserve Quick Facts

• Location — Rift Valley, Kenya
• Coordinates — 1°29′24″S 35°8′38″E
• Total Area — 583 mi 2 , 1,510 km 2
• “Big 5” Representation — Buffalo, Elephant, Leopard, Lion, Rhinoceros (5/5)
• Species of Interest — Cheetah, Crocodile, Hippopotamus, Hyena, Masai Giraffe, Thompson’s Gazelle, Warthog, Wildebeest, Zebra
• Daily Admission Fee — $70 USD

Most Memorable Moment in Masai Mara

Game Drives in Masai Mara

Final Thoughts

John Morris

Follow along as I travel the world with one hand, a passport and my power wheelchair!

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• Ximuwu Lodge
• experiences

Where Wilderness Meets Luxury

signature safaris

Yes it does exist!

Wheelchair Accessible Safaris

Experience unparalleled luxury at Ximuwu Lodge, the only dedicated wheelchair accessible safari lodge on the African continent. Set against the backdrop of the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, adjacent to the sprawling Greater Kruger National Park, our unique 6000-hectare haven is the brainchild of the Suverein family. We are the premier destination for guests requiring wheelchair accessibility or those with limited mobility. Embark on the ultimate accessible luxury safari experience, where safety, comfort, and thrilling wildlife adventures are guaranteed. With Ximuwu Lodge, expect genuine, real-person customer service—no chatbots, just authentic hospitality. Join us for an inclusive safari experience where every traveler can embrace the wild’s majestic beauty.

The ultimate Multi-Generational Travel Destination

Exclusive use

From just 4 guests

• Exclusive Safari for Small Groups: Starting with just four guests, life peaks at XIMUWU! Our exclusive booking policy ensures a private, customized experience in the African wilderness. Plus, we can accommodate two guests upon request.
• Luxury Amidst Nature: At XIMUWU Lodge, each guest experiences luxury that harmonizes with the natural surroundings. Set in an open savannah bustling with wildlife, our lodge promises a safari to remember.
• Tailored Safari Adventures: Additionally, XIMUWU Lodge offers personalized safari adventures. Here, adventure blends with luxury, all delivered with exceptional service. Immerse yourself in a customized journey where every detail enhances your enjoyment.

Wheelchair friendly safaris

Seamless Accessibility

Slide out seats.

"Our mobile wheelchair ramp is attached to the game viewer, ensuring accessible and smooth entry and exit for all activities, including bush breakfasts, dinners, and drink stops, making every adventure inclusive and enjoyable."

"An imported pool lift is securely positioned beside our heated swimming pool, providing safe and comfortable access for guests in wheelchairs to enjoy the refreshing waters with ease and comfort.

Easy Access

Our luxurious airport shuttle bus features not only a wheelchair ramp at the back but also a swivel seat that extends out of the van, ensuring easy and comfortable access for all passengers.

Bar seat height adjustment

"Ximuwu takes pride in welcoming multi-generational guests, offering heartwarming moments as entire families gather around the bar, including those in wheelchairs. Our innovative electric wheelchair not only provides mobility but also the ability to lift individuals to new heights, ensuring everyone can fully participate in the joyous experience."

Photographic Hides

"Two wheelchair-accessible photo hides are available, allowing guests to safely and comfortably approach wildlife and capture stunning photographs up close in their natural habitat."

Cooling Vests

Discover safe, comfortable safari adventures at Ximuwu Lodge. We provide cooling vests for guests with quadriplegia, ensuring comfort in temperatures over 40°C.

At Ximuwu, our spa is a sanctuary of calm, designed to be fully accessible, ensuring every guest, including those using wheelchairs, can indulge in unparalleled relaxation and rejuvenation. Our attentive staff is trained to provide a seamless, comforting experience, highlighted by our commitment to accessibility and luxury.

Helicopter ride

At Ximuwu, our dedication to making every experience accessible is evident as we assist a guest into a helicopter, showcasing our commitment to ensuring that adventure knows no limits. Our team works tirelessly to ensure all our guests, including those using wheelchairs, can take to the skies and enjoy the breathtaking views, reinforcing our 100% success rate in providing unforgettable aerial adventures.

Beauty without boundaries

Disability friendly safari lodge

Ximuwu’s barrier-free safari accommodations prioritize accessibility, featuring rooms with adjustable beds and navigation lights for easy movement. First and foremost, our ensuites are equipped with hobless showers, hand-held showers, and grab rails, ensuring safety and comfort. Additionally, guests will appreciate height-adjusted vanities and ample space for wheelchair access, making every aspect of our lodge disability-friendly.

Large sliding doors lead to a spacious deck, where guests can savor coffee while enjoying wildlife views or unwind with a nightcap under the stars. Each stay at Ximuwu is designed to offer comfort and create memorable moments amidst the African wilderness.

South African tourism grading council

XIMUWU Lodge in South Africa is revolutionizing wheelchair-accessible safaris. It’s proud to be the first lodge in the country to receive a universal access level 3 rating, evaluated by Judith Sevenster. This recognition highlights our commitment to making luxury safaris accessible to everyone.

Furthermore, XIMUWU’s facilities and services meet the highest accessibility standards. Here, every guest matters, and luxury seamlessly combines with accessibility. Experience an unmatched safari adventure at XIMUWU Lodge.

Exclusively yours

Freedom, space and solitude.

Discover Ximuwu, an exclusive retreat ideal for deep connections with nature. Firstly, our private sanctuary offers unique, peaceful wildlife encounters. Ximuwu is more than just a place; it’s an immersive journey into the wild.

Additionally, committed to accessibility, Ximuwu welcomes guests with disabilities. Furthermore, the lodge is fully equipped with accessible paths and adaptive activities, ensuring everyone can enjoy the beauty of nature. Enjoy safe game drives, bird watching, and photography hides, as well as a pool with a hoist.

Moreover, at Ximuwu, we fuse comfort with the wilderness, providing a seamless, inclusive safari experience. Ultimately, it’s not just a stay; it’s a place where nature, comfort, and accessibility merge together.

easily accessible

Ximuwu stands out as South Africa’s only fully wheelchair-accessible safari lodge. We prioritize a seamless experience for guests with mobility impairments, offering spacious corridors, wide doorways, and easy access everywhere.

Explore the beauty of the reserve and lodge with comfort. Also, enjoy accessible bush dinners, peaceful morning drinks in the wild, and firelit nights in the boma, all with easy ramp access. Our sun deck, featuring roll-on-roll-off ramps, provides stunning wildlife views.

airport shuttle service

At ximuwu lodge.

At Ximuwu, we aim to make the thrill of African Wheelchair-Accessible Safaris available to everyone. Our inclusive approach ensures a smooth journey from the start. Our shuttle, fitted with Braun Ability’s swivel seats and ramps, provides easy transfers to our lodge.

Additionally, you can navigate our lodge area easily via wide concrete paths leading to our photography hides, designed for comfort and accessibility. These spaces allow everyone to capture the beauty of the wilderness without barriers.

Moreover, dive into the heart of the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve with our private game-viewing experiences. Our vehicles have innovative slide-out seats, allowing guests to engage with the stunning views fully. Witness the iconic Big 5 and make your safari at Ximuwu a memorable, inclusive event. Experience the beauty of the African wilderness at Ximuwu, where luxury meets accessibility.

Wheelchair-accessible safaris are there, come and book your stay

Experiences, curated for you

Helicopter Flights

Spa Treatments

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The Latest from Instagram

Welcome to Signature Safari, the premier Tanzanian tour operator offering unforgettable adventures in the heart of Africa. With our expertise and passion for wildlife, we provide a unique and authentic safari experience that will leave you in awe. Our 8-day Tanzania lodging wildlife amazing safari is designed to showcase the best of Tanzania’s natural beauty and wildlife, while also offering wheelchair and disabled accessible safaris. Our team of experienced guides will take you on a journey to witness the famous Mara River crossing, where thousands of wildebeest and zebras migrate across the crocodile-infested river. Join us for an adventure of a lifetime and discover the wonders of Tanzania with Signature Safari.

Destination : Arusha Town, Tarangire National Park, Lake Manyara National Park ,Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater.

Safari Days : 8 Days

Best time to Visit : All yearly round

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: arrival – arusha & briefing.

Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, your professional driver from Signature Safari will greet you and transfer you to Arusha town for hotel check-in, relaxation, dinner, and an overnight stay. In case you arrive early in Arusha and have spare time, we can arrange a complimentary town tour for you. Additionally, if the sky is clear and weather conditions are favorable, you may also have a chance to see the magnificent Mount Kilimanjaro and Meru from far on this day.Tulia is the perfect oasis for guests looking for a private and peaceful retreat. From its Africanised architecture to its cosy and aesthetically pleasing interior, Tulia Hotel is a ‘highly individualized property’.

DAY 2: TARANGIRE NATIONAL PARK

Morning after having breakfast at your accommodation you will be picked by our driver-guide and taken to Tarangire National Park. Enjoy a game drive in Tarangire National Park. This lovely park boasts the largest concentrations of elephants in the world and the highest number of breeding bird species. Especially during the dry season, Tarangire National park is packed with wildlife. Big cats like lions, cheetahs and leopards, but also the seldom seen Kudu, Oryx and Gerenuk. If you are lucky you can even spot the tree-climbing python. Return to the lodge for dinner. In the evening you depart for a night game drive in the park. Discover nocturnal animals like porcupines, pangolin, aardvark and others.Discover nocturnal animals like porcupines, pangolin, aardvark, and others.Dinner and Overnight will be at Chem Chem Safari Lodge.

Accommodation: Chem Chem Safari Lodge

DAY 3: TRANSIT TO SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK

After finishing up a good breakfast early in the morning, you will head out towards the Serengeti National Park and travel in the midst of the never ending plain grasslands. The Serengeti is arguably the most impressive wildlife sanctuary in the world. You will have an afternoon game drive in the endless plains of the Serengeti for a chance to see the great herds of wildebeest, zebras and gazelles or a pride of lions lounging in the shade. A picnic lunch will be done during the day long game drive itself. The eventful day comes to an end with a heavy dinner and a good night’s rest in your luxury camp.After an unforgettable day, we head for our selected lodgings where, after our sumptuous dinner, we may relax by the open air fire upon the ‘Endless Plain’ going over in our minds eye the sights and sounds of the day, with wildlife wandering by, and a Maasai Warrior awaiting to accompany us to our chambers, where our rest beckons.You will be taken to the accommodation at Serengeti Heritage Tented Camps .

Accommodation: Serengeti Heritage Tented Camp

DAY 4: NORTH SERENGETI – MARA RIVER CROSSING

Regarded by many as the most impressive wildlife sanctuary on Earth, Serengeti National Park is a sight to behold. The lead-up to a Mara river crossing is a tense and unpredictable affair. Thousands of wildebeest gather at a favored crossing point, teasing both themselves and a few human onlookers for hours, and sometimes even days. Every now and then, they peer over the edge of the riverbank, appearing hesitant and indecisive before withdrawing back into the bush. Once there, they mill around aimlessly, and the level of agitation within the herd rises and falls. This often culminates in a chorus of plaintive and hysterical communal braying, which suddenly dies down as quickly as it began.Eventually, after several false starts, an unidentifiable trigger or moment of madness compels a few wildebeest to leap from the bank and hurl themselves blindly into the water. The rest of the herd follows in a surge of adrenaline, charging shoulder-high through the river to erupt thunderously onto the opposite bank. It is a perilous enterprise, as misjudged high-water crossings can sweep away and drown several thousand wildebeest every year. Meanwhile, outsized crocodiles weave gape-mouthed through the crossing herd, ready to snatch down any individual that makes a false move. And on the opposite bank, lions lurk, waiting to pounce on as many emerging wildebeests as they can get their paws on.After this exhilarating experience, the day comes to a close with a sumptuous dinner and a peaceful night’s rest at your accommodation in Northern Serengeti.You will be taken to the accommodation at Serengeti Heritage Tented Camps Northern.

Accommodation: Serengeti Heritage Tented Camp Northern

DAY 5: SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK

After a delicious breakfast, embark on an exciting game drive to experience the river crossing at Northern Serengeti before exploring the central part of Serengeti National Park. The park is world-renowned for its impressive population of lions and leopards. The Seronera area, located in the central part of the park, is one of the richest wildlife habitats and features the Seronera River, a valuable water source that attracts a diverse range of wildlife. During the off-season migration, the area is abundant with lion pride, providing excellent game viewing opportunities throughout the year. A picnic lunch will be enjoyed during the full day game drive, and we are flexible with your preferences and can plan another full game drive. The Serengeti is vast, and we can explore different areas to spot various animals and even witness events such as hunting and fighting. The day ends with a heavy dinner and a good night’s rest in your accommodation at Central Serengeti.You will be taken to the accommodation at Serengeti Heritage Tented Camps .

DAY 6: SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK - NGORONGORO

After a hearty breakfast, you’ll embark on a game drive in the central portion of Serengeti National Park, which is famous for its large population of lions and leopards. The Seronera area, located in the park’s center, boasts a rich diversity of wildlife, thanks to the Seronera River which serves as a vital water source. Even during the off-season, the many thriving lion prides in this region provide a captivating game viewing experience. After a full day of exploring, you’ll return to your accommodation for lunch before packing up and beginning an en-route game drive/transfer to Ngorongoro for dinner and overnight. After a long day of adventure, you can look forward to a delicious dinner and a restful night’s sleep. Be sure to get plenty of rest, as the following day you’ll be headed to the stunning Ngorongoro Conservation Area for more unforgettable experiences.Ngorongoro Rhino Lodge , situated only a few hundred meters from the crater’s rim, offers a perfect base to explore the Ngorongoro Crater and its surroundings.

Accommodation: Ngorongoro Rhino Lodge

DAY 7: NGORONGORO CRATER– (NGORONGORO CONSERVATION AREA)

After an early breakfast, you’ll depart for a game drive at Ngorongoro Crater, descending 600 meters into the world’s largest inactive volcanic caldera. This magnificent natural wonder has a floor of around 260 square kilometers and a depth of over 2000 feet. It’s surrounded by a ring of extinct volcanoes and dotted with watering holes that attract a wide range of wildlife, including 30,000 animals such as African elephants, buffalos, black rhinos, hippos, hyenas, cheetahs and lions. The compact nature of the crater means that you can see a vast variety of animals and birds in a relatively short amount of time, and there’s always plenty of animal action to capture on camera during the 5-6 hour game drive. After the tour, you’ll be taken to Chem Chem Safari Lodge for dinner and overnight, full of beautiful scenery and memories.

DAY 8: LAKE MANYARA NATIONAL PARK

Our driver guide will be waiting for you at your accommodation after breakfast to kick off your safari to Lake Manyara National Park. Despite being one of Tanzania’s smallest national parks, it boasts the most dramatic wildlife area in the country. The park is dominated by a huge shallow salt lake that covers about two-thirds of the park and lies at the base of the Great Rift Valley. Due to its rich and varied habitats, the park is home to different animal species such as herds of zebra, giraffe, warthog, wildebeest, buffalo, African elephant, and the famous Lake Manyara tree-climbing lions. Countless numbers of flamingos attracted by green algae around the Lake can also be seen. This compact park allows you to see many animal and bird species, as well as trees and the beautiful Lake of Manyara. Afternoon, you will be taken to your accommodation in Arusha.

DEPARTURE DAY

Airport drop off depend on the flight schedule. You will be picked up from you hotel to the Kilimanjaro International Airport ready to catch your flight to your next destination.

Price for Includes:

• Park Entrance Fees Transit Fee
• Crater Service Fees
• Drinking Water
• Meals 3 times per day
• Wheel Chair Accommodation
• All Accommodation during Safari Days
• Airport Transfer to and from Arusha
• Accommodation in Arusha
• Safari Land Cruiser with top up roof
• Professional Fluent English Speaking Driver Guide

Price does not include

• International Flights
• Alcohol and drinks that are not mentioned

Send us an Inquiry

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Lifestyle & Travel Blog

River Safari Review: Exploring the Wonders of River Safari Singapore

By Derek | Updated on 7 Mar 2024.

We visited River Safari Singapore to experience river wildlife and most importantly to visit the lovely Singaporean pandas – Kai Kai, Jia Jia, and Le Le. It had been so long since I last visited Singapore Zoo! If I remembered correctly, my last visit was when I did a part time gig as a waiter during my school days. In this post on River Safari review, let me share with you everything you need to know before visiting River Safari in Singapore.

River Safari is Asia’s first and only river-themed wildlife park.

About River Safari Singapore

River wonders, giant panda forest, amazon river quest, river safari cruise, trying the signature panda buns, river safari map, things to take note before visiting river safari, what is the river safari in singapore, where is the river safari located, what animals can i see at the river safari, how long does it take to explore the river safari, are there any shows or attractions within the river safari, can i buy tickets in advance, is the river safari suitable for children, are there dining options available inside the park, is photography allowed in the river safari, is the river safari wheelchair and stroller accessible, getting to river safari singapore.

River Safari Singapore  (河川生态园) is the first river-themed zoo and aquarium in Singapore. With over 12 hectares in size, it is nestled between Singapore Zoo & Singapore Night Safari. One of the most popular and main attraction of River Safari is the Giant Panda Forest (featuring Kai Kai & Jia Jia) which was opened to the public in late november 2012.

River Safari Review

We had our lunch at Ang Mio Kio S11 hawker centre before taking bus 138 from Ang Mo Kio MRT. The journey took just around 20 minutes. When you alighted at the bus stop, follow the signboard and you will reach River Safari Singapore’s entrance after a 5 minutes walk.

River Wonders showcases a huge diversity of life in rivers: Mississippi River, Congo River,  River Nile, Ganges River, Mary River, Mekong River & Yangtze River.

River wonders is quite similar to SEA aquarium and underwater world in Sentosa. You can see huge aquariums featuring different species. It’s pretty impressive.

After the river wonders, we visited the Giant Panda Forest to see Kai Kai & Jia Jia. When we reached, there was already a queue. After a short briefing by the staff on the not-dos, we went in. The climate-controlled biodome is air conditioned and it’s very cooling. The weather is super hot and we were so glad.

Do you know an adult panda eats about 20kg of bamboo a day? That’s roughly about the weight of 100 bowl a rice!

Just when we went in, we saw the Red Panda (also known as firefox) climbing around on the tree. The size of the red panda is slightly larger than a domestic cat. It has a fox-like face with a rust colored fur. It was said that it is the original panda being discovered around 50 years before the giant panda.

Kai Kai was sleeping #likeaboss in the open space. Unfortunately, we only had a glimpse of Jia Jia in the CCTV. Unlike Kai Kai who is more outgoing, Jia Jia is a little shy and retiring and prefers to be in her private quarters most of the time!

Kai Kai & Jia Jia are on a 10-year loan from the Chinese government to mark 20 years of close ties between Singapore and China.

It’s surprising to learn that Kai Kai & Jia Jia’s favorite food are apples & carrots! Well, I thought panda love bamboos only.

Next, we embarked on the boat adventure to experience the different lives in the amazing Amazon river. The ticket for amazon river quest cost $5 per adult ticket and the boat journey is around 10 minutes. (Pretty short IMO)

Watch the latest Amazon River Quest experience by Jens & the Henry’s

The Amazon River is the second longest river in the world and the world’s largest river by volume of waterflow.

Some of the animals you can see are the Jaguar, Brazilian Tapir and Giant Anteater!

After the Amazon river, we took the river safari cruise. It’s a Saturday and the queue was extremely long. We waited for nearly 35 minutes before we got our chance to board the cruise. The weather is extremely hot recently and we were sweating like hell. The river safari cruise is non-ticketed and free for all admission. Basically, the cruise will take your around the perimeter of the River Safari, explaining the various species of wildlife you may see along the way. I do feel that the river cruise isn’t worth the wait, but nevertheless, it’s our first time in river safari so we should at least experience it.

Finally, we went to try out the popular Panda buns in Mama Panda Kitchen (熊猫妈妈小吃). We also ordered a few soft drinks to quench our thirst! Well, the panda buns tasted pretty common, though it is “instagram-worthy”.

Click here to download the high res map.

• Bring umbrellas and your water bottles along.
• For amazon river quest, you may get wet if you are seated in the first row.
• Giant Panda Forest queue may be very long from 11.30am – 12.30pm. Skip the peak period!
• Don’t miss the river talk and feeding session show (11am & 4pm) at the Amazon Square (Just outside entrance of Amazon river quest).

FAQs on Visiting River Safari Singapore

The River Safari is a unique wildlife park in Singapore that focuses on showcasing aquatic and terrestrial animals from various river habitats around the world. It’s a part of Wildlife Reserves Singapore and offers a chance to explore diverse ecosystems in a single location.

The River Safari is situated at 80 Mandai Lake Road, Singapore 729826. It’s located near the Singapore Zoo and Night Safari, making it convenient to visit all three attractions in one day.

You can observe a wide range of aquatic creatures including river otters, giant pandas, manatees, piranhas, giant freshwater stingrays, and various fish species. The park is divided into zones representing different river habitats like the Amazon, Mississippi, and Mekong.

The duration of your visit can vary, but on average, visitors spend around 2 to 3 hours exploring the park. You might want to allocate more time if you plan to see all the exhibits, attend shows, or take part in additional activities.

Yes, there are various animal presentations and feeding sessions scheduled throughout the day. Some highlights include the Amazon River Quest boat ride, where you can observe animals from the Amazon rainforest, and the Giant Panda Forest, home to giant pandas Kai Kai and Jia Jia.

Yes, you can purchase tickets online in advance through the official River Safari website or other authorized ticketing platforms. This is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure your entry.

Yes, the River Safari is family-friendly and offers an educational and entertaining experience for visitors of all ages. Children often enjoy the animal exhibits, interactive displays, and special programs designed just for them.

Yes, the River Safari has various dining options ranging from casual to more elaborate dining experiences. You can find cafes, snack kiosks, and restaurants offering a variety of cuisines.

Yes, photography for personal use is generally allowed throughout the park. However, there might be restrictions in certain areas or during animal presentations to ensure the safety and well-being of the animals.

Yes, the park is designed to be accessible for visitors with mobility challenges. Wheelchairs and strollers are available for rent at the entrance on a first-come, first-served basis.

Opening hours – 10:00AM to 7:00PM.  For ticketing information, click here .

Address:  80 Mandai Lake Rd, Singapore 729826

If you are taking public transport:

Choa Chu Kang MRT – Take bus 927 Ang Mo Kio MRT – Take bus 138 Marsiling/Woodlands MRT – Take bus 926 (Only operational in weekends & public holidays)

Written by Derek

Learning to be a dad. Works in tech, blogs part time for fun @ shinyvisa.com.

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River Wonders (River Safari) Singapore Review & How to Go Guide

The River Wonders , or previously known as River Safari is a river-themed wildlife park in Singapore with distinct animal zones. Plus, it comes with a riverboat ride and reservoir cruise for a unique kind of adventure.

I visited the park, together with my wife and kid, just recently. And our trip was undeniably memorable and entertaining.

In my River Wonders Singapore (formerly known as River Safari Singapore) review , I will share our personal experiences during our visit as well as the animals in each zone .

In addition, I will provide you with information and tips on how to go to River Wonders (River Safari) Singapore by MRT and Bus .

So, without any delay, here’s everything you need to know about this popular destination.

• What Animals You Can See at River Safari Singapore

1. Giant Panda Forest

2. wild amazonia, 3. amazon flooded forest, 4. mekong river, 5. mary river, 6. nile river, 7. mississippi river, 8. yangtze river, 9. congo river, 10. ganges river, 11. river gems, once upon a river (show), reservoir cruise.

• Where to Eat at River Safari

Visitor Information and Ticket Prices

• Where to Go after River Safari
• How to Go to River Safari Singapore

Related Posts

What animals you can see at river wonders (river safari) singapore.

River Safari Singapore is the home to over 6,000 animals , including 40 threatened species .

There are 11 zones for you to explore and 1 amazing show for you to look forward to.

The highlight in the park are the giant pandas . On top of that, you’ll also see some Caribbean flamingos, jaguars, manatees, capybaras, pelicans, electric eels, and alligators.

During our trip, we went through all zones and also watched the show.

I will include some of the photos we took in each zone so you’ll have an idea of the animals there (make sure to check out below).

And if you want to know other must-visit places, don’t worry. Get ideas from my suggested five days itinerary for Singapore and 47 top places to go in Singapore so you can plan your dream trip.

Giant Panda Forest is definitely the most anticipated zone at River Safari Singapore. You can’t miss these fluffy creatures roaming around their habitat.

Giant pandas like Jia Jia loves to eat bamboo. In fact, they can consume at least 28 pounds every day!

Here is Kai Kai, having the time of his life hanging around the tree.

If you can’t find him eating bamboos or climbing trees, he is most likely rolling on the ground.

Red Pandas, on the other hand, are quite notable because of their colors. Instead of the usual black and white, they have brown, black, and white fur combination.

But just like giant pandas, they love eating bamboos and climbing around.

Wild Amazonia is one of the most popular River Safari attractions. It offers two unique zones for you to explore.

The first one is the Amazon River Quest, which is a captivating river cruise. The second one is the Squirrel Monkey Forest.

i. Amazon River Quest

The Amazon River Quest is one of the most memorable zones in Wild Amazonia. This river ride offers you a fantastic water escapade.

Catch these monkey species dangling on the trees. Because of their structure, they can easily hang and jump from one branch to another.

Aside from monkey species, you’ll also see some giant anteaters and collared peccaries during the boat ride features.

Other distinct animals in this section are Brazilian tapir, coatimundis, and capybaras.

Also present are the ever-vibrant and eye-catching Caribbean flamingos and scarlet ibis. These give them the reputation of being the brightest bird species.

ii. Squirrel Monkey Forest

Another nice place to tour around River Safari is the Squirrel Monkey Forest.

In this area, you’ll spot some squirrel monkeys that are known for their vibrant colors.

The Saki Monkeys, on the other hand, have the most distinct face among all other monkeys. It’s because the color of their face differs from their entire body.

If you love the adorable Capybara on your Amazon River Quest, you have another chance to see them again here.

Because of their appearance and size, these cute animals look like puppies!

Amazon Flooded Forest is another top-notch zone in River Safari.

Here, you will meet many sea animals, particularly the manatees, or the sea cows.

These large mammals weigh around 600 kgs. Despite their immense size, manatees are mainly slow, plant-eaters.

And, they just prefer swimming in shallow waters and lazing around.

You will also see arapaimas, which are known for their super scaly bodies and pointed head.

As one of the world’s biggest freshwater fishes, they can reach as much as 9 ft wide and weigh up to 200 kgs.

The Giant River Otters are heavier and bigger compared to typical otters. They follow an amphibious lifestyle, wherein they can easily adapt to both water and land.

And it’s not hard to find them as they often relax on the ground or sometimes on the river stream.

Did you know that electric eels are actually not eels but rather knifefish?

They have electric organs that create dangerous discharges to sting their prey.

Aside from these slimy creatures, you’ll also catch a glimpse of different fish species. These include blue discus fishes, altum angelfish, and red oscars.

And if you’re a die-hard fan of sea creatures, you shouldn’t miss the SEA Aquarium. This place is a massive underwater world located in Sentosa Island.

Simply refer to my article of SEA Aquarium Singapore for relevant information and tips about this place.

Mekong River is the home to the Mekong Giant Catfish. Just so you know, this massive freshwater fish is already considered an endangered species.

Studies show that there are only around 100 remaining of these rare fishes.

So, if you spot this huge creature, be sure to appreciate them before they’re gone forever.

Surprisingly, the Mekong River isn’t just for catfishes and stingrays. It also has an impressive collection of distinct-looking animals like the crab-eating macaques.

They even have painted storks, Eurasian spoonbill, and rufous night heron.

At Mary River , you get to meet and interact with some sea stars and horseshoe crabs. This is fun activity that you should try during your River Wonders/River Safari trip.

Both chocolate chip sea stars and horseshoe crab are very fascinating to look at because of their shapes.

Australian Lungfishes are highly interesting because of their exceptional breathing feature.

These slow-paced creatures who love deep waters can breathe air using only one lung!

On contrary, mudskippers are the only fish species that can walk on lands! These amphibious creatures look like a fish with some frog-like characteristics.

Get amazed by various fish species in the Nile River . In this section, you will notice the massive goliath tiger fishes.

These freshwater fishes are famous for their razor-like teeth and muscular body. Because of their physical features, they are one of the river’s ultimate predators.

As you continue with your tour, you will get a glimpse of the African arowanas. These creatures have an elongated body with huge yet almost proportionate scales.

Additionally, you will have the chance to meet some Nile perches.

These are freshwater fishes who love warm waters. They feed on different fishes, insects, mollusks, and even smaller perches.

Another must-visit section in River Safari Singapore is the Mississippi River .

This is where you’ll see alligator gars, alligator snapping turtles, and common snapping turtles.

The alligator gars are quite eye-catching because of its alligator and fish features.

These creatures are also considered one of the longest-living freshwater fishes in the world.

Yangtze River is the habitat of sturgeon fishes. These ancient creatures commonly live in rivers, coastlines, and lakes.

You can easily identify them because of their sharp-edge bodies and long snouts.

Yangtze alligators are recognized for their rock-like body structure. They often swim in the water or spend time hiding around the rocks.

At Congo River , you will come across the African dwarf crocodiles. These reptiles grow up to 5 ft. long, making them one of the smallest crocodilians in the world.

They have a small, bony structure that allows them to climb easily on lower tree branches.

Aside from crocodiles, this place also has a lot of colorful fishes from the cichlid species. These are the blue cichlid, lemon cichlid, Tanganyikan butterfly cichlid.

There are also large spot catfishes swimming around.

Continue with your tour at Ganges River . This is the place where you’ll find the big-mouth Indian golden mahseers.

The clown knifefishes also occupy a part of this zone. Both species have special physical characteristics that make them stand out.

River Gems houses a couple of fahaka pufferfishes. Just like other puffers, these creatures inflate themselves when they sense danger.

Generally, they just feed on snails and freshwater mussels

Other fishes in this particular River Safari Singapore zone are cardinal tetras and black phantom tetras.

On top of that, there are also rummy-nose tetras and rainbow sharks.

Once Upon A River showcases the talents of the animals at River Safari. This animal presentation runs for 20 minutes.

And, it highlights the skills of capybaras, pelicans, ball python, and hedgehog.

All these creatures got their own set of charms to captivate the crowd.

At the end of the show, you’ll gain valuable knowledge about these animals. Not only that but you’ll also get a chance to meet them up-close!

The hornbills are also in the spotlight because of their smartness. Plus, their laugh is very unique and contagious.

Monday to Friday: 11:30 AM and 4:30 PM

Saturday to Sunday and Public Holidays: 11:30 AM, 2:30 PM and 4:30 PM

In between animal encounters and interactive shows, you can squeeze in the 15-minute Reservoir Cruise .

Enjoy this scenic water journey with your family and friends and fall in love with nature even more.

As it sails around the Seletar reservoir, don’t forget to take photos of the beautiful landscapes around.

And conveniently, this is a wheelchair-friendly cruise that can cater up to 40 persons in one trip.

Where to Eat at River Wonders (River Safari)

Take your lunch at Mama Panda Kitchen Restaurant inside the River Safari park.

This is the only dining spot in the park, which is just beside the viewing Panda area.

This fast-food restaurant is unique because of its panda-themed food and bamboo-framed photos.

However, the restaurant is quite crowded during lunchtime.

To avoid the waiting game and skip the long queues, you can take your lunch earlier or later.

The best time to go to the restaurant is either 11:30 AM in the morning or 2:00 PM in the afternoon.

Mama Panda Kitchen’s menu largely consists of Chinese dishes. They have ramen, steamed buns, wanton, and wok rice.

In addition, they have western selection that includes seafood basket and roasted chicken. And for dessert, they serve fresh fruit cups and almond chocolate profiteroles.

Our visit to River Wonders Singapore (previously known as River Safari) was definitely a great experience.

We enjoyed touring around each zone and meeting different animals.

We recommend that you prioritize Giant Panda Forest and Amazon River Quest boat ride . It’s because these 2 attractions are the most popular at River Safari.

During our trip, we started around 3:00 PM in the afternoon and spent 3 hours inside the park.

A tip when visiting the park is to bring your own drinking bottle. There are free water dispensers near the washroom to refill your water bottles.

Make sure you also bring a mosquito repellent, hats, and sunblock.

Also, we bought our River Safari tickets online and actually saved money .

Not only that but we also entered the park conveniently. It’s because we just presented the soft copy of our tickets at the entrance of the park.

To wrap it up, this famous river-them zoo is highly recommended to anyone who wants to have a fun-filled adventure with the animals.

Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Last Admission at 6:00 PM)

Normal Ticket Prices: Adult: SGD $41 Child (3 to 12): SGD $24 *Included Amazon River Quest Boat Ride

Money Saving Tips: To save money and get speedy access to the park, buy your tickets online here .

Address: 80 Mandai Lake Road, Singapore 729826

Official Website: https://www.wrs.com.sg/en/river-safari.html

Where to Go after River Wonders (River Safari)

Are you done with your River Safari Singapore tour?

You can explore Singapore Zoo or Night Safari right after because these two are just a 1-2 minute walk from River Safari.

1. Singapore Zoo

Explore this popular animal park together with your loved ones. This place comes with distinct animal zones as well as spectacular shows for everyone.

Just see here for a complete guide to Singapore Zoo and review and start kicking off with your plans.

2. Night Safari

Have a unique encounter with the wild animals at Night Safari. As the world’s first night zoo, this place provides you with an unforgettable animal experience.

Here are my tips for visiting Night Safari and review that are very helpful when planning.

Other than Singapore Zoo and Night Safari, Sentosa Island is also a great place to visit for nonstop adventures.

Here, you can explore some family-friendly beaches, try different outdoor activities, or simply enjoy the views.

Find out more about this destination in my super detailed guide on what to do in Sentosa .

If you’re planning to travel to Bangkok, there’s also a famous zoo that should be part of your itinerary. Get more information about this place in my detailed Safari World Bangkok article and start plotting your plans now.

How to Go to River Wonders (River Safari) Singapore

There’s no MRT station near River Safari Singapore. But there’s nothing to feel sad because you can easily reach the river-themed wildlife park by MRT then bus.

Basically, there are 3 easy ways to go there and let me show you in details below.

1. By MRT and Mandai Khatib Shuttle

To get to River Safari Singapore, you can take the Mandai Khatib Shuttle from Exit A of Khatib MRT Station .

The bus runs every 20 minutes from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM (Monday to Wednesday) and 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM (Thursday to Sunday).

This is a direct bus go to River Safari in 15 minutes and it costs SGD $1 only.

Kindly take note that the bus only accept EZ-link or NETS Flash card without accepting Cash.

2. By Bus 138

Another method to reach River Safari is to take the bus 138 from Ang Mo Kio Bus Terminal.

The service runs every 8 to 14 minutes from 6:30 AM to 11:45 PM. The one-way ticket costs SGD $1.64 (via EZ-link or NETS Flash card)/ SGD $2.50 (via Cash).

It takes around 39 minutes to reach River Safari.

To reach Ang Mo Kio bus terminal, you can take the North South Line to Ang Mo Kio MRT Station. From there, you go out the Exit C which will give you direct access to Ang Mo Kio Bus Terminal.

Take a taxi to River Safari Singapore is the easiest way but it can be expensive. If you plan to take a taxi, you can ride it from Exit A of Khatib MRT Station.

It costs about SGD $13 and you’ll reach there in 10 to 15 minutes.

Singapore Itinerary: The Best 5 Day Trip for You to Copy It

Canopy Park at Jewel Changi Airport: A Detailed Guide

47 Best Places to Visit in Singapore

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Guide To Accessible River Cruising - Traveling With Disabilities

Leisure, culture, and appealing facilities draw senior travelers and baby boomers closer to river cruises. There seems to be no upper limit or holding back when it comes to river cruising. However, given the features aboard the best river cruises in the world, you might think it is appropriate for passengers traveling with disabilities.

Unfortunately, this is not the case! River cruises present various challenges for disabled passengers, both on and off the ship. People traveling with disabilities, wheelchairs, or difficulty walking need to know the forthcoming pitfalls before booking their tickets. From a shortage of accessible staterooms to activities and excursions, there are plenty of challenges awaiting passengers traveling with disabilities. It is not a smooth sail ahead!

However, it is not just bad news and challenges for us all. The correct information and details can tell you precisely what you should be expecting. You can find a river cruise that offers a satisfying experience to passengers traveling with disabilities too. You just need to do your homework right!  

Here is Leisure’s guide to accessible river cruising.

Choosing the right river cruise

It is tough to find the correct information about the various facilities available for disabled passengers on the websites and their glossy brochures. River cruises might look stunning and almost the same on the outside but are incredibly different on the inside. If you are concerned about how your disabilities or mobility issues might impact your vacation, you should ask the following questions before booking your cruise.

The first detailed information you require is to ensure the correct configuration for your cabin. River cruise cabins are smaller in comparison to hotel rooms. And in some cases, some river cruises might not offer you a stateroom at all. Some provide a tiny number of cabins or accessible cabins, while others might have a modified cabin with wide doors. You just need to know if you choose the right river cruise since suitable cabins are not always readily available. 

You should enquire about the doors, whether they can open easily so your wheelchair can go inside. You should also find out if there is enough space to meet your mobility needs and storage requirements. Your equipment should be stored inside the cabin and not in the corridor because of safety regulations. 

Although it is extremely rare to find a bathtub on a river cruise, you should ask questions like if they have a shower stall or a fixed door on their shower stall with limited access. Some cabin bathrooms have a small door that folds back to create a larger bathroom space. 

You should also inquire about your bathroom configurations, especially if you are not getting a particular accessible room to book. 

Elevators 

Most of today’s cruise ships offer elevators indoors. But the number of floors they serve can vary. River cruises have to pass through low bridges, and therefore the sun deck might only be available by stairs. Some of these river cruise ships have unique chairs that lift to take their wheelchair-accessible passengers up to the top deck. Uniworld, Algeria Charter Ships, and Vantage Vessels have some of the options. However, not all cruise ships have these facilities. They are pretty rare on a river cruise. 

Accessible Excursions

Daily excursions are usually included in your river cruising fare. You will not get the correct value for money if you are not joining most of them. Usually, there are options for wheelchair-accessible passengers who will be easily able to navigate through these activities. Traveling with disabilities might sound easy on some of these river cruises. Still, not every single tour and excursion will be available for you. 

Considering the European river cruises, they go through historic waterways, through many important cities and vineyards. This is an excellent opportunity for passengers traveling with disabilities since they can visit the museums, shops, churches, restaurants, and other attractions along the path without needing bus transfers. 

Here, Viking river cruises have various central mooring sports as they own their docks. You should look for cruises that offer walking tours on a gradable basis. This means they are differentiating between their walking excursions based on people’s fitness levels. Slower walking tours suggest people do not need to walk many steps, which is exceptionally suitable for passengers traveling with disabilities or in wheelchairs. 

The bad news here, however, is that many old towns in Europe still have cobbled streets. These streets can present various problems for people in wheelchairs. 

Your cruise director can also advise you on various suitable tours for multiple individuals, as per their mobility needs. They can also suggest multiple places where such passengers can rest or offer an alternative attraction that is also wheelchair accessible. For example, an alternative short and easy excursion instead of a visit to a castle requires long walks on uneven steps. 

For excursions that involve bus traveling, coaches might not be able to take you places. As a passenger, you will require lifting the wheelchair and other mobility aids onto the bus and would be required to climb the steps to board the bus. Considering the repercussions and potential pitfalls of this plan, you would want to research ports on the itinerary you are considering to avoid getting stuck at multiple ports in a row that you cannot explore or navigate. 

If the excursions do not suit you, the proximity of town centers and the docking points make it easier for independent travelers to explore the town centers on their own. This is great since many of the waterfronts, besides the rivers, are pretty flat in terms of topography and offer many places for stopping for snacks and drinks. However, since the prices of these excursions are included in the cruise fare, it is entirely up to you to decide if the trip is worth your time and money. 

Picking the itinerary 

The highlight of any excellent river cruise is the ever-changing panorama of scenic beauty, which can be easily admired from the comforts of your sails. Passengers traveling with disabilities or are mobility-impaired should choose itineraries that cover longer distances on rivers with plenty of time on the cruise. This means that you can spend more time aboard the ship with your loved ones and other fellow passengers. This also comes as an excellent tip for people who are cruising for the very first time. 

Danube and Rhine river cruises are some of the most popular river cruises . These highlights include a day cruise along the Middle Rhine, which is UNESCO-listed and famous for the Lorelie Rock. Similarly, the UNESCO World Heritage Wachau Valley is also a great option along the dramatic stretches of the Danube river. 

The Main Cruises line offers a 15-day journey from Budapest to Amsterdam along the Danube and the Rhine, offering an easy way to explore five different countries without having the hassle of traveling or exploring on land. 

France and Portugal are great options too and are extremely beautiful. However, their itineraries clock up very few river miles between different ports. This means the passengers traveling with disabilities might not witness the scenic beauty as much if they choose to stay on board. In contrast, others are busy with different shore excursions. 

The northern France itineraries include one whole day at various sites like the Normandy landing beaches, landmarks for the second world war, which take you on a long bus journey to these locations. This is not highly suitable for people with mobility issues. 

For people traveling with disabilities, choosing to cruise through wine-growing regions around south France is better suited since they stop at fascinating locations like Lyon, Avignon, and Macon. These locations can be easily explored without having to transfer yourself through a coach. 

All in all, it pays to study your itinerary well before you make any decisions. However, it should be noted that though some tours and excursions are included in your fare, people do not have an obligation to join these activities. A few people always decide to stay back while the ship is docked near the port. So, you will not feel alone. 

Accessible River Cruises

Most cruise ships cater to the British markets through various tour operators. Out of all these, MS Alegria is perhaps the only river cruise that offers ease of accessibility to passengers traveling with disabilities. The cruise accommodates approximately 100 passengers, of which it can carry ten disabled passengers at a time for one sailing. The cruise also comes with manual and electric wheelchairs, foldable electric scooters, and walking-friendly frames. Passengers can bring the larger electric scooters to use for their shore excursions as well. 

For passengers traveling with disabilities, cabins on the cruise feature a pretty large doorway, wet-room-based bathrooms with comfortable seats installed in the shower areas. Other cabins also have wheelchair-accessible doorways and stools, which can be provided at passenger’s request. 

Passengers can also rent a ceiling-mount hoist to assist their loved ones in and out of bed, along with other mobility equipment like a walking frame to be used on the ship. Items available on the ship do not include any significant medical equipment. However, the ship does offer a small oxygen cylinder with prior arrangements. 

Aboard this cruise ship, three elevators link the passenger decks and two chairs that take disabled passengers to the top sun deck. The cruise also comes with wheelchair-friendly wide corridors and wheelchair-accessible docking to aid passengers in their shore excursions. 

Other river cruises

AmaWaterways: Passengers aboard the AmaWaterways are recommended to bring along a collapsible wheelchair stored inside their cabins. All rooms on this ship are wide enough to allow wheelchairs to go in and out. Some of their ships like AmaSonata, AmaSerena, AmaPrima, and AmaReina have specially designed staterooms with large wide doors and a modified bathroom for passengers traveling with disabilities. These cabins also come with appropriate emergency doors that lead directly out of the ship, accommodating a wheelchair in cases of emergencies. 

Every ship from AmaWaterways has an elevator serving all the floors, except the lower deck and the sun deck. However, the good news is, crewmembers will be happy to assist passengers traveling with disabilities towards the top deck.

In addition to this, the shore excursions are fully accessible to passengers traveling with disabilities. It is, of course, recommended by the cruise line for disabled passengers to travel with a caregiver to assist them during the vacation. 

A-Rosa: This German-owned river cruise line offers one cabin suitable for passengers traveling with disabilities on their ship A-Rosa Viva. Aboard the ship, passengers can also carry their wheelchair and other mobility aid. Medical oxygen bottles can also be carried on this cruise, however, with prior notice. When available, the crew helps passengers on and off the ship and around the stairs. However, caregivers should be present to assist as well. 

CroisiEurope: All of their ships are premium-rated and offer completely accessible cabin rooms with all the necessary equipment and wide doors to meet the requirements of passengers traveling with disabilities. This three-deck ship has an elevator that goes up and down the ship, except the sun deck. Disabled passengers can travel with their caregiver to assist them since the crew is limited on this ship. Passengers must also connect with the cruise line before booking their seats on this vessel.

Uniworld: Although the ship does not offer wheelchair-accessible cabins, their shower stalls do have grab bars for people traveling with disabilities. Most of the river cruises by Uniworld have an elevator to serve passenger decks and a chair-lift to lead them to the sun deck. You can also get a travel-sized, completely collapsible wheelchair onboard. 

Shore excursions by the cruise line include various programs rated suitable for “gentle walking,” which means passengers traveling with disabilities can also participate. The line, however, does ask passengers to walk unassisted for guided tours, so if a wheelchair is essential offshore, guests would be recommended to explore the locations independently. 

Vantage: The Vantage cruise ships are fully equipped with hydraulic chairs between top passenger decks and the sun deck. Some elevators serve the inside decks. Their cruise ship, Discovery II, offers handicapped cabins and accessible restrooms in public areas. Passengers aboard the ship also get access to extra wheelchairs that can be carried onboard. The only policy that Vantage cruises strictly stick to is for passengers traveling with disabilities to be accompanied by someone who can responsibly take care of them. 

Viking: One of the most extensive river cruises welcomes passengers traveling with disabilities with a smile. However, this smile comes with particular challenges existing onboard and in their planned shore excursions. Viking does not offer a designated wheelchair-friendly stateroom. Most of their ships do come with elevators. Still, some of them have a split-level deck which makes movement difficult for mobility-impaired people. 

Their shore excursions include walking across roads laden with cobblestones or sometimes even steps. So, physically challenged passengers would require an extra pair of hands assisting them at all times since crew availability is limited. Collapsible wheelchairs are allowed aboard the ship, but your motorized scooters are not permitted due to lack of space. Guests with special medical needs - physical and unique, are recommended to check with the ship first to gain information on the ship’s layout or their questions before boarding.

Final Words:

So, should you go cruising this year? 

Traveling with disabilities can be easy if you are choosing the right cruise ship. Keep in mind all the abovementioned technicalities to board the river cruise of your dreams. However, if you miss out on even one aspect, your river cruise vacation could throw a damper on your plans. 

Choose what’s best for you and your loved ones. Happy vacationing to you! 

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River Safari boat ride for wheelchair - Singapore Forum

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River Safari boat ride for wheelchair

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Hello, is the boat ride able to accommodate guest who is wheelchair-bound and not able to stand? If not, what else to do there?

Neither boat ride allows wheelchair passengers. You must be able to transfer yourself from boat to jetty. This is covered in the FAQs in more details here

https://www.wrs.com.sg/en/river-safari/faq.html#rs

>>If not, what else to do there?<<

The vast majority of the park. The reservoir ride takes 15mins, the Amazon Quest about 10mins - I take about 3-4hours to get round the river safari so you have most of the park which is fully accessible.

From the "what else to do" question, I think you have a very distorted view, possibly second hand, of what the River Safari is. I strongly recommend you visit the website and take a read as looking at the basics like the map and the description will give you a much better idea of the park.

Thanks for the advice!

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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