Long gone are the days when African safaris were only taken in crowded minibuses. Today there are many ways from which you can explore the African wilderness whether it’s on foot, in open vehicles, on horseback, from the air or on water. Each activity allows travellers to see the beautiful animals and spectacular scenery from a new perspective.

Here are 4 of the best African safari activities available:

Hot Air Balloon during the Great Wildebeest Migration – Kenya

One of the most exhilarating activities available on a safari in Kenya is a hot air balloon trip during the wildebeest migration in the Masai Mara. The great migration of 2 million wildebeest, 400,000 zebra and thousands of gazelle is one of the world’s greatest natural events.  Every year, these fascinating creatures begin an epic 1000 mile journey starting in the Masai Mara and ending in the Serengeti in search of fresh grazing and water. With an experienced pilot, you’ll float majestically above the millions of migrating animals taking in panoramic views across the Mara plains. Best taken at sunrise or sunset, you’ll watch the migration in awe from as high as 1000 feet. When you’ve landed you’ll be treated to a glass of champagne and dinner in the bush!

Track the Chimps at Mahale Mountains – Tanzania

Lying on the shores of the fresh water Lake Tanganyika in south-west Tanzania, you’ll find Mahale Mountains National Park. Surrounded by a beautiful tropical forest it is home to the largest population of chimpanzees in the world and some of Africa’s last remaining. You’ll be taken on a long walk through the dense forest to track the chimps and you’ll also spot the likes of red colobus, red and blue tailed monkeys as well as many bird species as you go. When you reach the chimpanzees, you’ll witness these amazing creatures with their uncanny human features swinging effortlessly between the vines, playing and grooming each other. This is an unforgettable experience on a Tanzania safari.

Mekoro Canoe Trip through the Okavango Delta – Botswana

The Okavango Delta in Botswana is the world’s largest inland delta and a truly miraculous sight. Surrounded by the Kalahari desert, the delta is fed by the Okavango River that flows inland into Lake Ngami instead of into the sea. It forms a complex network of rivers into the adjoining lands that are replenished between the month of April and June after the rains in Angola. On a Botswana safari you can enjoy mekoro canoe trips down the intricate channels and shimmering lagoons of the Delta. You’ll be poled down the waters of the Delta in a dugout canoe as you sit back and enjoy the stunning scenery and rich wildlife congregating at the water’s edge. Thousands of elephant, buffalo and antelope thrive in the Delta as do zebra, giraffe and plenty of plains game. The birdlife is outstanding too with over 400 species!

Whale Watching along The Garden Route – South Africa

South Africa is one of the best destinations in the world for whale watching and the unspoilt coastline of The Garden Route is the perfect place from which to see these fascinating creatures. This beautiful stretch of coast is over a thousand miles long running from Cape Town to the scenic town of Port Elizabeth and is made up of sandy coves, mountain ranges, fruit orchids, waterfalls, rivers and valleys. The best time of year to visit The Garden Route is between July and December when large numbers of southern right, bryde and killer whale come to calve. It can be arranged for you to get up close to these whales on a boat trip which makes for a remarkable experience. You may also get to see dolphin, Cape Fur Seals, penguins and Great White sharks. If you’d prefer to keep your feet on dry land, there are also many strategic viewing points along the coastline.

Author Bio: Kelly Elmore writes for Africa Exclusive, a luxury tour operator specialising in luxury safari holidays to Africa.