Wildlife and the Falls aboard Zambezi Queen

13 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

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.

Wildlife and the Falls aboard Zambezi Queen

After being greeted at the airport by an AmaWaterways Representative, transfer to the Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa in the desirable Sandton neighbourhood. The hotel’s extensive gardens have captured the spirit, grace and elegance of a bygone era.

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)

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)

Join a full-day safari of Chobe National Park in open-top 4x4 vehicles. Be on the lookout for elephants, giraffe, zebra, sable, warthog and cape buffalo. For lunch, take a seat under the trees and savor a delicious picnic. (B,L,D)

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)

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. Later this afternoon, join a cocktail reception with appetizers aboard a vintage steam train and make your way to the Victoria Falls Bridge to watch the sunset over the Falls. (B)

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)

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)

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 neighbourhoods, the centre 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)

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)

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)

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.

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 

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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 

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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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