Stars of South Africa aboard Zambezi Queen

15 day expedition
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    Class of Ship

    Small River Ship
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    Sustainability

    Low Impact, Advanced Wastewater Treatment
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    Berths

    28
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    Ice Class

    Not applicable
/media/s4zhaf0m/ship-icon.png
Class of Ship
Small River Ship
/media/2flfscuh/leaf-icon.png
Sustainability
Low Impact, Advanced Wastewater Treatment
/media/dx3mvpdd/bed-icon.png
Berths
28
/media/jzdbslpr/iceclass_2.png
Ice Class
Not applicable

Expedition overview and highlights

Your journey begins with a three-night stay in picturesque Cape Town. Next, fly to Kasane, Botswana to begin your Zambezi Queen safari cruise on the Chobe River. Explore Chobe National Park, home to one of the densest populations of wildlife on the African continent. Spend two nights at the legendary Victoria Falls before flying to Johannesburg for two nights that includes a visit to the township of Soweto. Then fly to Hoedspruit, located in the game-rich country of Greater Kruger National Park. Spend three nights at a luxurious game lodge in this premier eco-tourist destination, known for some of the best “Big Five” viewing in Africa. Experience the thrill of daily game drives, while evenings bring you breathtakingly clear skies.

Map & Cruise Itinerary

Situated amidst majestic mountains and lined with pristine beaches, Cape Town has a rich cultural heritage with extraordinary attractions. After being greeted at the airport by an AmaWaterways representative, transfer to your Cape Town hotel. Get to know your Tour Director and fellow travellers at the Welcome Reception. 

Embark on a full-day exploration along one of the world’s most stunning routes, taking you past the 12 Apostles, Hout Bay and Chapman’s Peak. Stop at the Cape of Good Hope, first rounded in modern times in 1488 by the Portuguese in their attempt to establish trade in the Far East and still a significant landmark for sailors today. Visit Boulders Beach, home to thousands of African penguins, and then be treated to lunch with drinks overlooking beautiful False Bay.

Take a cableway up to Table Mountain followed by a trip to the Cape Winelands where you’ll visit two of its best vineyards, complete with wine tasting. A delicious lunch will be included along the way. You also have the choice to explore another side of Cape Town at famous Robben Island, once used as a prison for many political inmates, including Nelson Mandela. Ferry over to the island where you will take a tour led by a former warden. Back in Cape Town, enjoy lunch, and then visit the colourful historic Bo Kaap neighbourhood before boarding the cableway to Table Mountain’s summit.

In the morning, transfer to the airport for a flight to Victoria Falls. Here, you will be transferred to the Chobe River that forms the border between Botswana and Namibia. Then board tender boats that will take you to the 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. 

Embark on an exhilarating, morning boat safari to explore the Chobe River’s diverse game viewing. Afterwards, return to the Zambezi Queen for lunch. As the Zambezi Queen cruises along the Chobe River, relax on board in the afternoon and enjoy what nature has to offer. Be sure to spend time in the splash pool or perhaps catch-up with your favorite book. Later in the day, revel in panoramic view with another thrilling boat safari. 

Join a full-day safari of Chobe National Park in open-top 4x4 vehicles. For lunch, take a seat under the trees and savour a delicious picnic. 

Visit a typical African village where you’ll spend time with the village children as well as its elders. Back on board and following lunch, you’ll have a choice to take a boat safari, bird watch or fish. Enjoy your last evening aboard with a festive African- themed dinner hosted by your crew. 

Enjoy a morning cruise during breakfast and be on the lookout for wildlife. Afterward, transfer to the legendary Victoria Falls, one of the world’s greatest natural wonders. Spend the afternoon exploring the town or experience one of the many activities offered at your hotel. There is also an optional helicopter flight over Victoria Falls. Later this afternoon, join a cocktail reception with appetisers aboard a vintage steam train and make your way to the Victoria Falls Bridge to watch the sunset over the 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.

 

Fly to Johannesburg. Transfer to the Fairlawns Boutique Hotel with its parklike setting and wonderful Spa.

Get an in-depth look at Soweto’s unique neighbourhoods, the centre of the uprising against the apartheid state. Walk the footsteps of Nelson Mandela, followed by a township lunch. Before dinner, gather with a local expert for an informative discussion and afterwards enjoy a multi-course dinner.

Fly to Greater Kruger National Park in the morning where you’ll be transferred to your luxurious game lodge. During the afternoon, set out on a 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 travellers, sharing stories of the day’s adventures.

The early morning is the perfect time to go on safari as the wildlife is prolific. Your open-air vehicle provides the ideal 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 afternoon, you’ll go on another game drive deep into the bush, where you may encounter South Africa’s top predators: cheetahs, hyenas and lions. 

Go on two exhilarating game drives today, as well as enjoy ample leisure time to relax and enjoy your game lodge. 

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.

Note: Please do not schedule your onward flight before 4:30 p.m

Fares & Departure Dates

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 Luxury Suite 

Zambezi Queen Room Luxury Suite King Photogam 8565 Edit
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The ideal choice for your river cruise expedition holiday.

Capacity Up to 2
Beds Over-size king or twin configuration
Rooms 1 room
Footage 300 sq ft.
Windows Yes
Balcony Yes
View River
Location Lower and Middle Deck
Suitable for Couples
Accessibility None
Amenities In-room temperature control and fan, deluxe hotel-style bedding and oversized king beds (can also be configured as two single beds), spacious en-suite bathrooms, large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, toiletries, bathrobes and slippers, floor-to-ceiling windows, sliding glass doors and sliding shutters for privacy and protection from the sun, outside balcony, complimentary Wi-Fi and electronic safe, complimentary bottled water replenished daily.
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 Category SA 

Zambezi Queen Room Suite King Photogam 9380 Edit
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Comfortable and stylish, these cabins are ideal for river cruising and offer ample river views.

Capacity Up to 2
Beds Queen or twin configuration
Rooms 1 room
Footage 235 sq ft.
Windows Yes
Balcony Yes
View River
Location Lower and Middle Deck
Suitable for Couples and Solo Travellers
Accessibility None
Amenities In-room temperature control and fan, deluxe hotel-style bedding and oversized king beds (can also be configured as two single beds), spacious en-suite bathrooms, large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, toiletries, bathrobes and slippers, floor-to-ceiling windows, sliding glass doors and sliding shutters for privacy and protection from the sun, outside balcony, complimentary Wi-Fi and electronic safe, complimentary bottled water replenished daily.
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 Category SB 

Zambezi Queen Room Suite King Photogam 9073 Edit (1)
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These Category SB Staterooms offer great comfort and modern luxury.

Capacity Up to 2
Beds Queen or twin configuration
Rooms 1 room
Footage 215 sq ft.
Windows Yes
Balcony Yes
View River
Location Middle Deck
Suitable for Couples and Solo Travellers
Accessibility None
Amenities In-room temperature control and fan, deluxe hotel-style bedding and oversized king beds (can also be configured as two single beds), spacious en-suite bathrooms, large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, toiletries, bathrobes and slippers, floor-to-ceiling windows, sliding glass doors and sliding shutters for privacy and protection from the sun, outside balcony, complimentary Wi-Fi and electronic safe, complimentary bottled water replenished daily.
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About the Ship

Zambezi Queen Exterior DSC 3313 (1)

Designed specifically for wildlife viewing, the intimate 28-passenger Zambezi Queen made her debut in one of the world’s most captivating places, Africa’s legendary Chobe River. As she drifts along the river, animals perceive no threat, affording you with once-in-a-lifetime up-close game experiences. Additionally, to ensure no harm to the environment, the eco-friendly Zambezi Queen uses a water jet propulsion system, fuel-efficient and low-emission generators, and a solar heating system. An enclosed, air-conditioned dining room, lounge and bar grace the top deck, as well as an open-air Sun Deck complete with plunge pool. Suites feature private balconies where you can enjoy unobstructed views of the river and African landscape. Throughout the day, be treated to complimentary South African wines, beer, local spirits, soft drinks and bottled water. And on one special night, enjoy an African-themed dinner with traditional dishes and entertainment.

Zambezi Queen Room Luxury Suite King Photogam 8565 Edit

Thoughtfully designed

Your lavish suite with an outside balcony is perfect for game-viewing and enjoying the scenery on the Chobe River.

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A Sustainable Journey

Built with sustainability and community engagement in mind, the Zambezi Queen incorporates eco-conscious technologies and supports local economies through guided excursions and onboard cultural experiences.

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Sun Deck Plunge Pool

Luxuriate and take a refreshing dip in the intimate plunge pool while marvelling at the incredible scenery before you – one of the best views on the entire ship!

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Inviting Public Spaces

With panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows throughout the boat, everywhere you go you can take advantage of magnificent wildlife viewing.

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While on board the Zambezi Queen, our guests will dine in absolute opulence whilst taking in the unique African surrounds. Situated on the 3rd level, the dining room offers unobstructed views on three sides. Experience delectable dishes such as butternut and macadamia soup and fillet of beef with bordelaise sauce paired with the perfect wine.

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Award Winning Dining

The ship can accommodate special dietary requirements, including vegan, gluten-free and lactose-free options. Guests can enjoy complimentary beverages such as water, tea, coffee, fruit juices and soft drinks throughout the day.

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Upper Deck

  • 1 Dining Room
  • 2 Lounge
  • 3 Pool Deck

 

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Main Deck

  • Luxury Suites 20 & 21
  • Category SA Staterooms 22/23/24/26/28/29
  • Category SB Staterooms 25 & 27

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Lower Deck

  • 4 Gift Shop
  • 5 Cruise Manager's Desk
  • 6 Boarding Area
  • Luxury Suites 10 & 11
  • Category SA Staterooms 12 & 13

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