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AmaWaterways
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Johannesburg
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Included
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River Cruise
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Zambezi Queen
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luxury
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Africa, Zambezi
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South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Kenya
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15 days / 14 nights
Classic Kenya & Southern Africa
Offer Highlights
Begin your journey in cosmopolitan Johannesburg. Next, take a flight to Kasane, Botswana and transfer to Namibia for a three-night wildlife adventure aboard Zambezi Queen, where unforgettable wildlife encounters in Chobe National Park await. Marvel at the beauty and power of Victoria Falls over three nights. Your adventure continues in Kenya with two nights in the capital city of Nairobi, renowned for its cultural heritage and diverse culinary scene. Then fly south to the striking landscapes of Amboseli, where vast savannahs are dotted with acacia woodlands and wetlands, and herds of elephants roam beneath the spectacular backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro. You will also spend time immersing yourself in the beauty of the legendary Maasai Mara, considered the crown jewel of Kenyan safaris.
ARRIVE IN JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA. On arrival, you will be met by your local AmaWaterways host and transferred to the lovely Fairlawns Boutique Hotel situated in a parklike setting in the Sandton neighborhood of Johannesburg.
JOHANNESBURG – KASANE, BOTSWANA – ZAMBEZI QUEEN – EMBARKATION. In the morning, transfer to the airport for a flight to Kasane. Here, you will be transferred to the Chobe River that forms the border between Botswana and Namibia. Tender boats will transport you to Zambezi Queen, moored on the Namibia side of the river. Settle into your stateroom, enjoy a mid-afternoon snack, and in the evening, be treated to a Welcome Cocktail Reception and Dinner. (B,D)
ZAMBEZI QUEEN. Embark on a morning boat safari and experience the Chobe River’s diverse game viewing. Afterwards, return to Zambezi Queen for lunch. As the ship cruises along the Chobe River, you can spend time in the splash pool, visit the spa or perhaps catch up with your favorite book. Later in the day, revel in the panoramic views with another boat safari opportunity. (B,L,D)
ZAMBEZI QUEEN. Start your day off with a boat safari. Later, a local African village invites you to experience the local culture firsthand. Spend time with the children of the village as well as its elders and learn about their day-to-day life. After lunch on board, you can choose between a boat safari, bird watching or fishing. Spend your last evening aboard reveling in a festive African-themed dinner hosted by your crew—complete with singing and dancing. (B,L,D)
ZAMBEZI QUEEN – DISEMBARKATION – VICTORIA FALLS, ZIMBABWE. Disembark and join a wildlife safari of Chobe National Park in open-top 4x4 vehicles. Be on the lookout for elephants, giraffes, zebras, sable, warthogs and cape buffaloes. Prides of lions, hyenas and (more rarely) cheetahs may also appear along the way. For lunch, take a seat under the trees and savor a delicious picnic. Later this afternoon, transfer to Victoria Falls, then enjoy a special dinner with live local entertainment at your hotel. (B,L,D)
VICTORIA FALLS. Join a local guide for a tour of Victoria Falls. Learn about its history as well as the flora and fauna that make this area so unique. In the evening, embark on a private sunset cruise along the Zambezi River. Relax on board as you observe a variety of wildlife while enjoying a delicious mix of tapas with drinks. (B)
VICTORIA FALLS. This morning, you are invited on a leisurely guided walk across the Victoria Falls Bridge, which connects the countries of Zimbabwe and Zambia. Once in Zambia, explore the more intimate side of the Falls and visit the historic town of Livingstone. Later, head back to Zimbabwe for a free afternoon. As a special treat tonight, head out on a safari to seek out the elusive Black Rhino and other nocturnal animals, followed by a three-course bush dinner. (B,D)
VICTORIA FALLS – LIVINGSTONE, ZAMBIA – FLY TO NAIROBI, KENYA. Enjoy a morning at your leisure, then cross the border into Zambia and fly from Livingstone to Nairobi, where you will be met by an AmaWaterways representative and transferred to the Serena Nairobi Hotel. (B)
NAIROBI. Enjoy a mid-morning start to your day as you head just outside Nairobi to the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, which operates a successful orphan elephant rescue and rehabilitation center. After lunch in the garden, visit the Giraffe Centre, home to the endangered Rothschild giraffes. Next is a visit to the Karen Blixen Museum on the site of a former coffee plantation. Blixen, a renowned author, wrote her nonfiction memoir Out of Africa, reflecting on her life in Kenya. Enjoy the evening at your leisure. (B,L)
NAIROBI-AMBOSELI. This morning, a short flight transports you to Amboseli, an area known for its large elephant herds and spectacular views of 19,341-foot (5,895-meter) Mount Kilimanjaro. The name Amboseli comes from the Maa word meaning “salty, dry place.” Your destination is Tortilis Camp, where you will spend the next two nights in a luxury tent. In the afternoon, you're invited to join a game drive. (B,L,D)
AMBOSELI. Today, you may enjoy morning and afternoon game drives. With Amboseli’s underground water springs and components from the snow and ice of Kilimanjaro, the area is ideal for game spotting. Common sightings include giraffes, lions, wildebeest and cheetahs. Keep a sharp eye alert for gazelle, zebra and hyena. Other activities during your stay include a bush breakfast and sundowners.
AMBOSELI-MAASAI MARA. A morning flight transports you to the Maasai Mara via Nairobi. On arrival, transfer to Elephant Pepper Camp, located in the heart of the Maasai Mara ecosystem and its vast fertile plains. Take an afternoon game drive to spot the “Big Five”: lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo and rhinos.
MAASAI MARA. Revel in two full days to enjoy game drives to spot the "Big Five." The camp’s remote location allows for impressive night skies and the unique experience of listening to the sounds of the wild. During your time here enjoy guided walks, evening game drives, bush breakfasts and sundowners. (B,L,D)
MAASAI MARA. Revel in two full days to enjoy game drives to spot the "Big Five." The camp’s remote location allows for impressive night skies and the unique experience of listening to the sounds of the wild. During your time here enjoy guided walks, evening game drives, bush breakfasts and sundowners. (B,L,D)
MAASAI MARA-NAIROBI. After breakfast, transfer to the airstrip and fly to Nairobi. Then transfer to the Eka Hotel, where your day room is available until 11pm this evening. During this time, a transfer is included to Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, where you will connect to your onward flight. Please do not schedule onward flights before 6pm. (B)
Zambezi Queen
Glide along the Chobe River aboard the Zambezi Queen, a boutique 28-guest ship where panoramic views, wildlife at the water’s edge, and warm service create an unforgettable safari experience.
The Zambezi Queen is unlike any other in AmaWaterways’ fleet. With space for just 28 guests, she sails the Chobe River along the Botswana–Namibia border. Elephants, hippos, and abundant birdlife can be seen directly from the deck. Days include game viewing by boat, traditional mokoro safaris, and guided village tours, while evenings feature award-winning dining paired with South African wines. Designed with sustainability in mind, the ship uses environmentally friendly systems to preserve the region’s fragile ecosystem. With her boutique floating-lodge style, warm service, and seamless integration with land-based safaris, the Zambezi Queen offers a truly unique way to experience Africa.
Unique Features
Here, the river itself is alive with elephants drinking at dawn, hippos surfacing in the afternoon, and birds filling the sky. To sail the Chobe is to witness Africa’s great wildlife in its natural rhythm.
Luxury Suite
SuiteSpacious Staterooms and SuitesUnwind in thoughtfully designed rooms with room to relax and enjoy the river views. Elegant décor and comfortable spaces...
Category SA
SuiteSpacious Staterooms and SuitesUnwind in thoughtfully designed rooms with room to relax and enjoy the river views. Elegant décor and comfortable spaces...
Category SB
SuiteSpacious Staterooms and SuitesUnwind in thoughtfully designed rooms with room to relax and enjoy the river views. Elegant décor and comfortable spaces...
The ship has one Main Restaurant where guests enjoy a mix of international favorites and locally inspired dishes, often featuring regional ingredients and South African wines. Meals are served with panoramic river views, and vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary needs are happily accommodated.
Main Restaurant
ComplimentaryThe ship has one Main Restaurant where guests enjoy a mix of international favorites and locally inspired dishes, often...
Get a glimpse of what awaits you aboard your AmaWaterways cruise ship, where every moment on board is designed to make your journey feel effortless and memorable.
Lounge & Bar
This versatile space hosts a bar, dance floor, plenty of comfortable couches and big windows on thre...
Pool Deck
The top deck features an open-air Sun Deck complete with a plunge pool. Unlike a typical river cruis...
Local Entertainment
Onboard Performances and Musical EveningsThroughout many voyages, the ship’s lounge transforms into...
Boutique
The onboard boutique offers a variety of souvenirs for purchase.
While there is no dedicated gym, the ship emphasizes relaxation and connection with nature. Guests can enjoy the plunge pool on the Sun Deck, shaded lounge areas for wildlife viewing, and spa treatments on request. Active exploration is built into the itinerary with boat safaris, fishing, and cultural excursions ashore.
Plunge Pool
Take a cooling dip and feel refreshed while watching the passing scenery and wildlife upon the Chobe...
Onboard Spa
Indulge in the ultimate in relaxation by pampering yourself with a variety of massage and facial tre...
Upper Deck
- Dining Room
- Lounge
- Pool Deck
Main Deck
- Luxury Suites
- Category SA Staterooms
Category SB Staterooms
Lower Deck
- Boutique
- Boarding Area
- Luxury Suites
- Category SA Staterooms
Choose your cabin
Balcony
French or outside balcony with river views
2 options
Suite
Spacious suite with premium extras
1 option
82 dates available
| Date | Ship | Balcony | Suite | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 08 Oct 2026 | Zambezi Queen | £17,105 | £17,873 | View |
| 13 Oct 2026 | Zambezi Queen | £19,549 | £20,087 | View |
| 15 Oct 2026 | Zambezi Queen | £17,710 | £18,248 | View |
| 11 Mar 2027 | Zambezi Queen | — | £18,058 | View |
| 23 Mar 2027 | Zambezi Queen | £18,911 | £19,679 | View |
| 25 Mar 2027 | Zambezi Queen | £16,915 | £17,683 | View |
| 30 Mar 2027 | Zambezi Queen | £19,311 | £20,079 | View |
| 01 Apr 2027 | Zambezi Queen | £17,315 | £18,083 | View |
| 06 Apr 2027 | Zambezi Queen | £19,311 | £20,079 | View |
| 08 Apr 2027 | Zambezi Queen | £17,315 | £18,083 | View |
| 20 Apr 2027 | Zambezi Queen | £19,311 | £20,079 | View |
| 22 Apr 2027 | Zambezi Queen | £17,315 | £18,083 | View |
| 29 Apr 2027 | Zambezi Queen | £17,690 | £18,458 | View |
| 04 May 2027 | Zambezi Queen | £18,911 | £19,679 | View |
| 06 May 2027 | Zambezi Queen | £16,915 | £17,683 | View |
| 18 May 2027 | Zambezi Queen | £19,141 | £19,679 | View |
| 20 May 2027 | Zambezi Queen | £17,145 | £17,683 | View |
| 27 May 2027 | Zambezi Queen | £17,520 | £18,058 | View |
| 17 Jun 2027 | Zambezi Queen | £17,315 | £18,083 | View |
| 22 Jun 2027 | Zambezi Queen | — | £20,310 | View |
| 24 Jun 2027 | Zambezi Queen | — | £18,314 | View |
| 07 Sep 2027 | Zambezi Queen | — | £20,660 | View |
| 09 Sep 2027 | Zambezi Queen | — | £18,664 | View |
| 19 Oct 2027 | Zambezi Queen | £19,618 | £20,156 | View |
| 21 Oct 2027 | Zambezi Queen | £17,622 | £18,160 | View |
| 04 Nov 2027 | Zambezi Queen | £17,145 | £17,683 | View |
| 16 Nov 2027 | Zambezi Queen | £18,911 | £19,679 | View |
| 18 Nov 2027 | Zambezi Queen | £16,915 | £17,683 | View |
| 23 Nov 2027 | Zambezi Queen | £18,911 | £19,679 | View |
| 25 Nov 2027 | Zambezi Queen | £16,915 | £17,683 | View |
| 07 Mar 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £18,787 | £19,527 | View |
| 09 Mar 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £16,754 | £17,494 | View |
| 21 Mar 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £18,787 | £19,527 | View |
| 23 Mar 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £16,754 | £17,494 | View |
| 28 Mar 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £18,935 | £19,675 | View |
| 30 Mar 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £16,902 | £17,642 | View |
| 04 Apr 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £19,484 | £20,224 | Viewing |
| 06 Apr 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £17,450 | £18,190 | View |
| 11 Apr 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £19,484 | £20,224 | View |
| 13 Apr 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £17,450 | £18,190 | View |
| 18 Apr 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £19,558 | £20,298 | View |
| 20 Apr 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £17,524 | £18,264 | View |
| 02 May 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £19,380 | £20,120 | View |
| 04 May 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £17,347 | £18,087 | View |
| 16 May 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £19,973 | £20,713 | View |
| 18 May 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £17,939 | £18,679 | View |
| 23 May 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £20,121 | £20,861 | View |
| 25 May 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £18,087 | £18,827 | View |
| 30 May 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £20,817 | £21,557 | View |
| 01 Jun 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £18,784 | £19,524 | View |
| 13 Jun 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £20,817 | £21,557 | View |
| 15 Jun 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £18,784 | £19,524 | View |
| 20 Jun 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £20,817 | £21,557 | View |
| 22 Jun 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £18,784 | £19,524 | View |
| 27 Jun 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £20,817 | £21,557 | View |
| 29 Jun 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £18,784 | £19,524 | View |
| 04 Jul 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £20,817 | £21,557 | View |
| 06 Jul 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £18,784 | £19,524 | View |
| 11 Jul 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £20,817 | £21,557 | View |
| 13 Jul 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £18,784 | £19,524 | View |
| 18 Jul 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £20,965 | £21,705 | View |
| 20 Jul 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £18,932 | £19,672 | View |
| 25 Jul 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £20,965 | £21,705 | View |
| 27 Jul 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £18,932 | £19,672 | View |
| 08 Aug 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £20,965 | £21,705 | View |
| 10 Aug 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £18,932 | £19,672 | View |
| 29 Aug 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £20,565 | £21,305 | View |
| 31 Aug 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £18,532 | £19,272 | View |
| 12 Sep 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £20,491 | £21,231 | View |
| 14 Sep 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £18,458 | £19,198 | View |
| 26 Sep 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £20,343 | £21,083 | View |
| 28 Sep 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £18,310 | £19,050 | View |
| 03 Oct 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £20,669 | £21,409 | View |
| 05 Oct 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £18,635 | £19,375 | View |
| 10 Oct 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £20,447 | £21,187 | View |
| 12 Oct 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £18,413 | £19,153 | View |
| 17 Oct 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £19,558 | £20,298 | View |
| 19 Oct 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £17,524 | £18,264 | View |
| 31 Oct 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £18,935 | £19,675 | View |
| 02 Nov 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £16,902 | £17,642 | View |
| 14 Nov 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £18,639 | £19,379 | View |
| 16 Nov 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £16,606 | £17,346 | View |