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AmaWaterways
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Johannesburg
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Included
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River Cruise&tour
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Zambezi Queen
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luxury
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Safari
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Africa, Chobe
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South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe
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13 days / 12 nights
Wildlife & the Falls
Offer Highlights
Check off the “Big Five” from your bucket list while exploring South Africa’s Greater Kruger National Park, considered one of the world’s premier safari regions. Begin this exhilarating journey with a one-night stay in Johannesburg, a city undergoing a renaissance revival, before flying to Kasane, Botswana for your four-night wildlife adventure on the Zambezi Queen. Get up close to the animals in their natural habitat by water and land in Chobe National Park, and then be swept up in the sheer beauty and power of the incomparable Victoria Falls for two nights. Return to Johannesburg for two nights, giving you time to soak up its rich heritage and follow in the footsteps of Nelson Mandela. Your journey culminates with three nights at a five-star lodge in Greater Kruger National Park. Experience the thrill of twice-daily game drives with highly qualified guides selected for their knowledge and passion.
ARRIVE IN JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA. After being greeted at the airport by an AmaWaterways Representative, transfer to the Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa in the desirable Sandton neighborhood. The hotel’s extensive gardens have captured the spirit, grace and elegance of a bygone era.
KASANE, BOTSWANA – ZAMBEZI QUEEN – EMBARKATION. Fly to Kasane, Botswana where you’ll be transferred to the Chobe River. Tender boats will take you to the Zambezi Queen moored on the Namibia side of the river. Settle into your stateroom and in the evening, enjoy a Welcome Cocktail Reception and Dinner. (B,D)
ZAMBEZI QUEEN. Embark on an exhilarating morning boat safari exploring the Chobe River’s diverse game. Afterwards, return to the Zambezi Queen for lunch. Later in the day, enjoy another thrilling boat safari. (B,L,D)
ZAMBEZI QUEEN. Join a full-day safari of Chobe National Park in open-top 4x4 vehicles. Be on the lookout for elephants, giraffes, zebras, sables, warthogs and cape buffalo. For lunch, take a seat under the trees and savor a delicious picnic. (B,L,D)
ZAMBEZI QUEEN. Start the day off with an unforgettable visit to a typical African village to experience the local culture. Spend time with the village children as well as its elders. After lunch on board, you can go on a boat safari, bird watch or fish. Enjoy a festive African- themed dinner hosted by your crew—complete with music and dancing. (B,L,D)
ZAMBEZI QUEEN – DISEMBARKATION. Disembark your cruise in Kasane. (B)
VICTORIA FALLS. A local guide will take you on a tour of the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls. You’ll learn about its history, and 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 game while enjoying a delicious mix of tapas with drinks, followed by a special dinner with live local entertainment at the hotel. (B,D)
VICTORIA FALLS – JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA. After breakfast, you’ll be taken to the airport for your flight to Johannesburg. Transfer to the Fairlawns Boutique Hotel with its parklike setting and wonderful Spa. (B)
JOHANNESBURG. Take a fascinating tour of Johannesburg and its rich history from colonialism to apartheid, and finally democracy. Get an in-depth look at Soweto’s unique neighborhoods, the center of the uprising against the apartheid state. Walk in the footsteps of Nelson Mandela, visiting the Mandela House located on Vilakazi Street and along the way enjoy a township lunch. Before dinner, gather with a local expert for an informative discussion and afterwards enjoy a multi-course dinner. (B,L,D)
JOHANNESBURG – KRUGER NATIONAL PARK AREA. Fly to the Greater Kruger National Park in the morning where you’ll be transferred to your luxurious game lodge. This region is one of the world's most spectacular, game nature reserves, which you'll discover on your late afternoon game drive in search of the country's "Big Five" and other native wildlife. Spend your first night and every night, if you wish, gathering with fellow travelers, sharing stories of the day’s adventures or simply gazing up at the stunning star-filled African sky. (B,L,D)
KRUGER NATIONAL PARK AREA. The early morning is the perfect time to go on safari as the wildlife is prolific. Your open-air vehicle provides the perfect way to explore your private game reserve, located just a stone’s throw from the game-rich Kruger National Park. The rest of the morning can be spent enjoying the facilities at your lodge. Later in the day, you’ll go on another game drive deep into the bush, where you may encounter South Africa’s top predators: cheetahs, hyenas and lions. (B,L,D)
KRUGER NATIONAL PARK AREA. Go on two exhilarating game drives today, or enjoy some leisure time at your game lodge. (B,L,D)
KRUGER NATIONAL PARK AREA – JOHANNESBURG. Be treated to an early-morning game drive before returning to the lodge for breakfast. Afterwards, transfer to the airport for your flight to Johannesburg for your connecting flight home or extend your journey with four nights in magical Rwanda. (B)
Note: Please do not schedule your onward flight before 4:30 p.m.
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
47 dates available
| Date | Ship | Balcony | Suite | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11 Oct 2026 | Zambezi Queen | £15,173 | £16,195 | View |
| 08 Nov 2026 | Zambezi Queen | £14,235 | £15,257 | View |
| 28 Feb 2027 | Zambezi Queen | £14,005 | £14,720 | View |
| 07 Mar 2027 | Zambezi Queen | £14,611 | — | View |
| 14 Mar 2027 | Zambezi Queen | £14,873 | — | View |
| 21 Mar 2027 | Zambezi Queen | £14,642 | £15,357 | View |
| 28 Mar 2027 | Zambezi Queen | £14,535 | £15,557 | View |
| 04 Apr 2027 | Zambezi Queen | £15,242 | £15,957 | View |
| 11 Apr 2027 | Zambezi Queen | — | £17,187 | View |
| 24 Oct 2027 | Zambezi Queen | — | £16,526 | View |
| 07 Nov 2027 | Zambezi Queen | £14,258 | £15,280 | View |
| 14 Nov 2027 | Zambezi Queen | £13,554 | £14,576 | View |
| 21 Nov 2027 | Zambezi Queen | £14,082 | £14,797 | View |
| 05 Mar 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £13,807 | £14,792 | View |
| 12 Mar 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £13,807 | £14,792 | View |
| 19 Mar 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £13,881 | £14,866 | View |
| 26 Mar 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £13,881 | £14,866 | View |
| 02 Apr 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £14,652 | £15,636 | View |
| 09 Apr 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £14,800 | £15,784 | View |
| 16 Apr 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £14,874 | £15,858 | View |
| 23 Apr 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £14,874 | £15,858 | View |
| 30 Apr 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £14,696 | £15,681 | View |
| 07 May 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £14,992 | £15,681 | View |
| 21 May 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £14,770 | £15,755 | View |
| 28 May 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £14,844 | £15,829 | View |
| 04 Jun 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £15,244 | £16,229 | View |
| 11 Jun 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £15,688 | £16,377 | View |
| 25 Jun 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £15,467 | £16,451 | View |
| 09 Jul 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £15,689 | £16,673 | View |
| 16 Jul 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £15,689 | £16,673 | View |
| 23 Jul 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £15,911 | £16,895 | View |
| 30 Jul 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £15,911 | £16,895 | View |
| 06 Aug 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £15,911 | £16,895 | View |
| 20 Aug 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £15,911 | £16,895 | View |
| 27 Aug 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £16,207 | £16,895 | View |
| 03 Sep 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £15,363 | £16,347 | Viewing |
| 10 Sep 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £15,215 | £16,199 | View |
| 24 Sep 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £15,067 | £16,051 | View |
| 01 Oct 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £15,393 | £16,377 | View |
| 08 Oct 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £15,244 | £16,229 | View |
| 15 Oct 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £15,244 | £16,229 | View |
| 22 Oct 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £14,800 | £15,784 | View |
| 29 Oct 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £14,800 | £15,784 | View |
| 05 Nov 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £14,178 | £15,162 | View |
| 12 Nov 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £14,030 | £15,014 | View |
| 19 Nov 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £13,807 | £14,792 | View |
| 26 Nov 2028 | Zambezi Queen | £13,807 | £14,792 | View |