The boat is a good idea (thanks for the tip) as a river runs next to the furthermost road out of view from traffic, as for wildlife sharks in the river and leopards on the land is the most I have to fear as i live near the coast. Leopards generally leave people alone so there shouldn't be a problem there even if i was unarmed (Gun laws are as strict if not stricter here than in the UK). The major issue would be the locals and escape and evasion tactics. The sun is also not that bad if you are used to it
. Getting lost is nearly impossible but I can use a map and compass and I own them, I also own a GPS. (i find it useful for identifying water sources as South Africa is a water poor country.)