As well as the historical towns and cities that you will get to see on a river cruise, there is also some spectacular scenery to be enjoyed. And, whilst some of this can only be admired from your cabin balcony, stops in various national parks will give you the opportunity to climb ashore and explore these beautiful surroundings.

Here are just three of the many national parks that can be visited whilst on a river cruise.

Kaziranga National Park

The Kaziranga National Park is located on the shores of the Brahmaputra, a lesser known river that flows through India’s Assam region. Whilst a river cruise along this waterway will show you what life is like in the country away from the built-up areas, it will also provide an opportunity to come face to face with Asia’s most deadly predator. The park is known for having the largest population of tigers in the world and, if you’re lucky enough, you may catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures.

Kaziranga is also home to the largest herd of rhino in the world. The fact that gamekeepers are allowed to shoot poachers on sight means that there are many well-protected inhabitants who are given the chance to breed and live a fulfilling life. You can visit the Kaziranga National Park with Noble Caledonia or on board MV Mahabaahu, which we will soon be offering.

Chobe National Park

On an African river safari through the Chobe National Park, you will swap your river ship for a traditional double-decker boat and set off along the Chobe River. With the park’s large population of elephants, there’s a chance you will see these friendly giants bathing and playing in the water as you float past.

This part of Botswana is also home to hippos, jackals, cheetahs and a varied population of bird life. If you are looking for a holiday that mixes luxury river cruising with some once-in-a-lifetime experiences, this is the perfect choice.

Lewis and Clark National History Park

Whilst there is plenty of nature on display here too, history is the main thing that you will find in the Lewis and Clark National Park. Lying at the mouth of the Columbia River, it recognises the significant expedition that passed through here in 1805 and includes a replica of Fort Clatsop – where Lewis, Clark and the rest of the Corps of Discovery spent the winter. Nowadays, friendly rangers can tell you stories of the past and even teach you some of the hunting techniques used by the iconic explorers.

2016 marks 100 years of the US National Park Service, so if you get a chance to visit before the end of the year there may be some special centenary activities on offer

If you love the natural world and want to explore some of these parks as part of a river cruise, get in touch with us today and we’ll find your perfect itinerary.