There’s something magical about rivers and canals. These waterways are full of history and were often used to transport goods from one place to another during ancient years. Home to fascinating wildlife, they are also the best places to experience incredible wildlife encounters. Some will also offer spectacular scenery such as a Niagara Falls walking tour where you can see the incredible falls and explore the river.  Exploring these ancient waterways is a relaxing way to immerse in nature, whether jungle cruising the Amazon or narrow boating the Llangollen Canal.

Here are some of the world’s most unique waterways to discover wildlife.

• The Amazon River    

A river cruise in the Amazon is not your typical cruise. While most cruises are focused on activities and entertainment, your Amazon River cruise is more about discovering fascinating wildlife. You will spend your days exploring the jungles on a small boat that can easily navigate through thick jungles amidst the fast-moving current of the Amazon River. You will be with a guide who is an expert in searching for wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for the rare pink dolphins playing in the water and some rare birds soaring over the Amazon jungle.

• Panama Canal

Cruising the Panama Canal is a bucket-list item for many adventurers. On your cruise, you will have the opportunity to learn about the canal’s intricate lock system and have the incredible opportunity to spot captivating wildlife species. Some cruises will take you to other fascinating places, such as the Mayan Ruins of the Costa Maya in Mexico. You will also have the opportunity to snorkel the underwater sculpture gardens of the Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas, discover tropical sea life on a diving adventure in Cabo San Lucas, or experience fishing in Harvest Caye in Belize.

• The Rhine River

The majestic Rhine River is one of the world’s most popular destinations for cruising, taking you to incredible places like the German Black Forest, Holland’s iconic tulip fields, and the majestic vineyards of the Rhine Valley.

One of the charms of Rhine river cruising is the fun wildlife experiences. Some cruises will take you to extended swamps that have become a breeding ground for different bird species and a resting place for migrating birds. You will also have the chance to visit protected areas home to wild boards, foxes, deer, and other fascinating animals.

• The Mekong River

Flowing from China and passing through Laos and Cambodia before reaching Vietnam, the Mekong River is one of the world’s longest rivers. Some of the highlights of a Mekong River cruise include exploring the charming Vietnamese city of Saigon, discovering ancient temples in Angkor Wat, and discovering endangered species like Asian elephants, the Indochinese tiger, the Mekong giant catfish, and the Irrawaddy dolphins.

• The Llangollen Canal

A popular spot for canal holidays is in Wales, the Llangollen canal is a favoured spot for narrow boaters. It offers many captivating stops, from the picturesque countryside to spectacular World Heritage Sites. You will also visit scenic lakes, such as the Mere at Ellesmere, a gorgeous lake with gardens and lush woodland and home to interesting wildlife, including geese and ducks.