River-Cruises

Africa

Roam Far and Wander Wide
Overview

Africa provides for some of the most prolific wildlife viewing available and the chance to glimpse the idyllic landscape that has inspired many a work of art. You can combine a river cruise and safari into one adventure – with five itineraries to choose from – and discover the part of the world that is known for iconic sites like Cape Town’s Table Mountain and the home of revolutionary leader Nelson Mandela.

Wildlife

The mighty roar of the lion, the powerful call of the elephant, the thunderous clap of a rhinoceros herd – Africa’s incredible national parks are most certainly "where the wild things are."

Tarangire-National-Park
Tarangire National Park

Tarangire boasts a variety of wildlife as diverse as its landscape. This picturesque destination is home to all of Tanzania’s most iconic animals, including wildebeest, zebra, gazelle and giraffes.

Lake-Manyara-National-Park
Lake Manyara National Park

Lake Manyara National Park is one of Africa’s alkaline water lakes, which attracts a vast population of water birds and a wide range of animals. The park is famous for its tree-climbing lions.

Ngorongoro-Conservation-Area
Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Often called “Africa’s Eden,” Ngorongoro Crater is the largest intact caldera in the world. An estimated 25,000 large mammals roam through this lush paradise.

Serengeti-National-Park
Serengeti National Park

The UNESCO-designated Serengeti spans 12,000 square miles and teems with the most magnificent wildlife, offering exciting and unrivaled game-viewing.

Kruger-National-Park
Kruger National Park

One of Africa’s largest reserves, Kruger stretches through 7,500 square miles in northeastern South Africa, and borders Zimbabwe and Mozambique. With over 270 animal species, there is much to see and experience.

Lodges & Hotels

Experience uninterrupted game viewing in an untouched African wilderness and wake up to the sounds of the wild during your stay at one of two lodges, each designed for an unforgettable adventure.

Tintswalo-Safari-Lodge
Tintswalo Safari Lodge

Set amidst ancient sycamore trees and nestled along a seasonal river, this luxurious lodge boasts six classic suites (725 sq. ft.). You’ll find both an indoor and outdoor shower, and the deck features a private plunge pool.

Serengeti-Migration-Camp
Serengeti Migration Camp

The 20 deluxe and spacious elevated tents at Serengeti Migration Camp feature 360-degree verandah decks, creating your very own private sanctuary. This camp has been named one of the world’s “Top 10 Hotels” by “Travel + Leisure.”

Serengeti-Pioneer-Camp
Serengeti Pioneer Camp

This wondrous 5-star camp, modeled after the safari retreats of the 1930s, provides an ideal location in a unique area that takes advantage of the early months of the annual migration. The camp comprises ten individually designed luxury tents, complete with en-suite facilities.

Tarangire-Treetops
Tarangire Treetops

Live a dream staying high above marula and baobab trees at one of the world’s most distinctive lodges. Each elevated, open-fronted room offers panoramic views across the Tarangire plains and boasts large bedrooms and exotic double showers.

The-Manor-at-Ngorongoro
The Manor at Ngorongoro

Each of the 20 Manor Cottage suites at this gracious estate features a private deck and courtyard, indoor and outdoor fireplaces, a Victorian-style claw-footed bath and a rainfall shower.

Africa Safaris & Wildlife Cruises

discover-africa
Discover Africa

Experience the beauty and natural wonders of iconic Cape Town; get up close to animals in their natural habitat; and explore one of the “Seven Wonders of the World.” Spend three nights in Cape Town, discovering its many treasures with visits to Cape of Good Hope, Boulders Beach and Table Mountain. You also have a choice to visit the renowned Cape Winelands, or tour famous Robben Island. Next, fly to Kasane, Botswana and cross the border to Namibia to embark on your Chobe River safari cruise through the wondrous Chobe National Park, home to one of Africa’s densest populations of wildlife. Encounter elephants, giraffes, leopards, zebras and buffaloes on excursions by boat and open-air vehicles. Conclude your journey with two nights at the majestic Victoria Falls. You also have the option to extend your trip in Johannesburg, following in the foot-steps of Nelson Mandela.

3 Nights Capetown, 4-night Safari Cruise, 2 Nights Victoria Falls
Dates & Prices
rivers-rails-of-africa
Rivers & Rails of Africa

Relive the romance of a bygone era traveling on the world’s most luxurious and historic train, the Rovos Rail. Before experiencing the timeless grace and high romance of African exploration via this legendary train, you’ll spend three nights in Cape Town. Cradled by the imposing Table Mountain, Devil’s Peak and Lion’s Head, Cape Town is known for its majestic beauty, offering a blend of cosmopolitan city life and outdoor adventure. From here, fly to Kasane, Botswana for your four-night Zambezi Queen wildlife and safari cruise. Revel in the Chobe National Park’s breathtaking scenery and marvel at its mighty elephants splashing in the water and the stealthy lions ruling over the plains. Continue to the UNESCO-designated Victoria Falls for two nights prior to spending your last three nights traveling 1,000 miles through Zimbabwe and on to South Africa. Experience five-star cuisine, excellent South African wines, extraordinary scenery, amazing wildlife and a safari at Hwange Game Reserve as you journey through southern Africa.

3 Nights Cape Town, 4-night Safari Cruise, 2 Nights Victoria Falls, 3 Nights Rovos Rail
Dates & Prices
wildlife-and-the-falls
Wildlife and the Falls

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. Choose either Tintswalo or Makanyi luxury safari lodges, both known for their exceptional amenities, service and cuisine. Experience the thrill of twice-daily game drives with highly qualified guides selected for their knowledge and passion.

1 Night Johannesburg, 4-night Safari Cruise, 2 Nights Victoria Falls, 2 Nights Johannesburg, 3 Nights Greater Kruger National Park
Dates & Prices
stars-of-south-africa
Stars of South Africa

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.

3 Nights Cape Town, 4-night Safari Cruise, 2 Nights Victoria Falls, 2 Nights Johannesburg, 3 Nights Greater Kruger National Park
Dates & Prices
golden-trails-of-africa
Golden Trails of Africa

Your journey begins with an overnight stay in Johannesburg (option to start with 3 nights in Cape Town). Next, fly to Kasane, Botswana and board the Zambezi Queen, your wildlife river cruise vessel on the Chobe River for the next 4 nights. Enjoy two nights at Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. From here, fly to Johannesburg for two nights at your intimate, all-suite hotel. Depart to Nairobi where a connecting flight brings you to your Tanzania safari. Enjoy two nights at three of the four luxury Tanzanian lodges: Tarangire Treetops, The Manor at Ngorongoro, and the luxury-tented Serengeti Migration Camp or Serengeti Pioneer Camp.

1 Night Johannesburg (Or 3 Nights Cape Town), 4-night Safari Cruise, 2 Nights Victoria Falls, 2 Nights Johannesburg And 7 Nights Tanzania
Dates & Prices

What’s Included on Your Wildlife Cruise

SPACIOUS STATEROOMS
  • 4 nights deluxe accommodation in an air-conditioned balcony suite
  • Bottled water replenished daily
AN ARRAY OF AMENITIES
  • Personalized service from a highly trained Cruise Manager during the cruise and a Tour Director during programs
  • Game viewing deck with pool
  • Main Lounge with panoramic views and bar
DINING AND CUISINE
  • All onboard dining, including a traditional African dinner
  • Regionally inspired cuisine
  • Welcome Dinner
  • Complimentary wine, beer and local spirits
A WORLD OF EXPLORATION
  • Chobe National Park safari
  • Exclusive private picnic in Chobe National Park
  • Private boat safaris along the Chobe riverbank
  • Visit to an African village for a unique cultural interaction

WHAT’S INCLUDED ON YOUR AFRICA SAFARI

DISCOVER AFRICA LAND PACKAGE
  • 3 nights at the Cape Grace by Fairmont in an upgraded Luxury room, including daily breakfast
  • Welcome Reception with drinks and tapas
  • Full-day Cape of Good Hope tour and local lunch with drinks
  • Cableway to the summit of Table Mountain
  • Cape Winelands tour including tastings and lunch OR guided visit to Robben Island followed by lunch
  • 2-night stay in upgraded Stable Wing rooms at the Victoria Falls Hotel, including daily breakfast
  • Cocktail reception aboard a vintage steam train followed by dinner
  • Guided tour of Victoria Falls National Park
  • Exclusive sundowner Cruise with drinks and tapas
  • All airport transfers
RIVERS & RAILS OF AFRICA LAND PACKAGE
  • 3 nights at the Cape Grace by Fairmont in an upgraded Luxury room, including daily breakfast
  • Welcome Reception with drinks and tapas
  • Full-day Cape of Good Hope tour and local lunch with drinks
  • Cableway to the summit of Table Mountain
  • Cape Winelands tour including tastings and lunch OR guided visit to Robben Island followed by lunch
  • 2-night stay at the Victoria Falls Hotel in upgraded Stable Wing room, including daily breakfast
  • Cocktail reception aboard a vintage steam train followed by dinner
  • Guided tour of Victoria Falls National Park
  • Exclusive sundowner Cruise with drinks and tapas
  • 3-nights journey on the Rovos Rail luxury train in an upgraded Deluxe Suite
  • All meals and drinks
  • Excursions accompanied by a qualified guide
  • 24-hour full room service and bar facilities
  • All airport transfers
WILDLIFE & THE FALLS LAND PACKAGE
  • 1 night in Johannesburg at the luxurious Fairlawns Boutique Hotel in a Grand Château suite, including breakfast
  • 2-night stay at the Victoria Falls Hotel in an upgraded stable wing room, including daily breakfast
  • Cocktail reception aboard a vintage steam train followed by dinner
  • Guided tour of Victoria Falls National Park
  • Exclusive sundowner Cruise with tapas
  • 2 nights in Johannesburg at the Fairlawns Boutique Hotel in a Chateau suite, including daily breakfast
  • Special dinner and presentation
  • Soweto tour with local lunch
  • 3 nights in a suite at an exclusive and luxurious lodge (Tintswalo Safari Lodge)
  • Daily morning, afternoon and evening game drives
  • All meals, drinks and laundry service
  • All airport transfers
STARS OF SOUTH AFRICA LAND PACKAGE
  • 1 night in Johannesburg at the luxurious Fairlawns Boutique Hotel in a Grand Château suite, including breakfast
  • 2-night stay at the Victoria Falls Hotel in an upgraded stable wing room, including daily breakfast
  • Cocktail reception aboard a vintage steam train followed by dinner
  • Guided tour of Victoria Falls National Park
  • Exclusive sundowner Cruise with tapas
  • 2 nights in Johannesburg at the Fairlawns Boutique Hotel in a Chateau suite, including daily breakfast
  • Special dinner and presentation
  • Soweto tour with local lunch
  • 3 nights in a suite at an exclusive and luxurious lodge (Tintswalo Safari Lodge)
  • Daily morning, afternoon and evening game drives
  • All meals, drinks and laundry service
  • All airport transfers
GOLDEN TRAILS OF EAST AFRICA LAND PACKAGE
  • 1 night at the Fairlawns Boutique Hotel, including daily breakfast
  • 2-night stay at the Victoria Falls Hotel in an upgraded Stable Wing room, including daily breakfast
  • Cocktail reception aboard a vintage steam train followed by dinner
  • Guided tour of Victoria Falls National Park
  • Exclusive sundowner Cruise with tapas
  • 2 nights at Fairlawns Boutique Hotel, including daily breakfast
  • Special dinner and presentation
  • Soweto tour with local lunch
  • 1 night at Arusha Coffee Lodge
  • 2 nights at Tarangire Treetops
  • 2 nights at The Manor at Ngorongoro
  • 2 nights at Serengeti Migration Camp or Serengeti Pioneer Camp
  • Daily game drives with no more than 6 guests per vehicle
  • Day room in Arusha
  • All airport transfers

Rwanda Extension

REQUEST A QUOTE

Rwanda offers unimaginable beauty with the utterly spellbinding Volcanoes National Park—home to the rare Mountain Gorillas and Golden Monkeys. Extend any of our five itineraries with four amazing nights, discovering Rwanda’s natural wonders and wildlife on an epic adventure.

Day 1
ARRIVE IN KIGALI, RWANDA
After arriving at Kigali Airport, you will be met by an AmaWaterways Representative and transferred to Kigali Serena Hotel for the evening.

Day 2
KIGALI – VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK
After breakfast, you’ll be taken on a tour of Kigali. Visit the Genocide Memorial, a sobering reminder of the country’s tragic past. Enjoy lunch at the Hotel Des Mille Collines, the inspiration for the film “Hotel Rwanda” and then drive to Musanze, the base for gorilla trekking at Volcanoes National Park. Check into The Bishop’s House. (B,L,D)

Day 3
VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK
For those wishing to go on a trek, you’ll transfer in the morning to Volcanoes National Park.* Depending on your fitness level, you’ll be placed into the appropriate group. Your lead guide will brief you on the trekking procedures before driving up the mountain to the starting point. Trekking can take anywhere between two to six or more hours if the gorillas move. Nothing can quite prepare you for your encounter with these magnificent Mountain Gorillas, a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience to see the gorillas in the mist. With a free afternoon, you can take a tour of the scenic twin lakes of Burera and Ruhondo, or visit the outdoor markets in Ruhengeri. (B,L,D)

Day 4
VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK – KIGALI
Enjoy the morning at leisure or go on another trek to see more Mountain Gorillas or the Golden Monkeys.* After lunch at the lodge, you’ll drive back to Kigali. Check into the Serena Hotel. (B,L)

Day 5
KIGALI
After breakfast, transfer to Kigali International Airport for your onward flight. (B)

Rwanda post-tour extension DATES & PRICES

Mar, Nov–Dec $4,695 per person
April $4,395 per person
May $4,795 per person
Jun–Oct $5,195 per person

* Single Supplement: 50% of per person pricing listed above.

* Prices do not include Mountain Gorilla or Golden Monkey trekking permits. Trekking permits must be purchased at the time of booking:

  • Mountain Gorilla permit: $1,500 per person, per day
  • Golden Monkey permit: $100 per person, per day
Intra-Africa Air:

One way Johannesburg to Kigali $525 per person
One way Serengeti to Kigali $550 per person

Homebound international flights return from Kigali.

Rwanda-Post-Tour-Extension
Rwanda-Post-Tour-Extension
Rwanda-Post-Tour-Extension

Authentic Experiences

Along with wildlife-filled safaris, visits to Africa’s most stunning, historically important cities and the iconic Victoria Falls – one of the most enriching ways to ‘find Africa’ is through the cultures and traditions of its people.

National-Park-Safaris
National Park Safaris

From massive herds of impala to lounging lions, the diversity of this region sets it apart from any other location in the world and allows for exhilarating encounters with the mighty animal kingdom.

Bird-Watching-and-Fishing
Bird Watching and Fishing

Hook a tiger fish, or one of the many bream species. Prefer bird watching? Since the Chobe River is home to more than 450 species, you’ll be able to spot a host of birds.

Rovos-Rail
Rovos Rail

Experience the timeless grace of African exploration and of steam locomotives rolling through the countryside, taking in the impressive wildlife on the Rivers & Rails of Africa itinerary.

Gorilla-Trekking-in-Rwanda
Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

Discover Rwanda’s natural wonders and wildlife on an epic adventure with the magnificent Mountain Gorillas, a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience to see the gorillas in the mist.

African-Village-Visit
African Village Visit

During your cruise along the Chobe River, you will visit one of the villages along its banks and meet the wonderful residents there. Many guests wish to give back after visiting the village. If you’d like to coordinate a donation to any African village, please contact us at giveback@amawaterways.com.

Boma-Dinner
Boma Dinner

BOMA (British Officers Mess Area) is a circular-shaped gathering point, normally with a fire pit, where people gather to cook, eat, sing and socialize.

Sought-After Souvenirs

What will you bring home from your Africa cruise? Below are two guest – and crew – favorites that support local artisans and villages.

Rooibos-Tea
Rooibos Tea

For the tea connoisseur, pick up some fresh rooibos tea, “red tea”, that can only grow in the Cederberg region of the Western Cape. It’s well-known for its antioxidant properties and had a mild, earthy flavor.

Zulu-Shield
Zulu Shield

Take a piece of Africa home with you with a traditional Zulu shield (sizes range from small decorative to large life-size). With intricate beadwork, Zulu Shields are beautiful in both color and craftsmanship.

The Distinctive Zambezi Queen

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.

Discover Zambezi Queen
Zambezi-Queen-Ship
Life On Board At A Glance
Ama Waterways
Balcony Suites

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

Ama Waterways
Award-Winning Cuisine

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.

Ama Waterways
Inviting Public Spaces

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

Ama Waterways
Sustainable Cruising

To preserve its wildlife surroundings the Zambezi Queen was designed to be environmentally friendly.

Ama Waterways
Impeccable Service

Our professional and friendly crew will go above and beyond to ensure you have a memorable experience.

Local-Entertainment
Local Entertainment

One of the most enriching ways to discover Africa is through its spirited dance, as well as its music, which varies throughout the continent. While cruising, be treated to an African-themed dinner, combining the traditional food, music and dance of the Chobe River region.

Regional Cuisine

While enjoying your African adventure, you will be exposed to a variety of flavorful dishes, each with its own unique flair. Our expert chefs aboard the Zambezi Queen thoughtfully prepare each dish and design each meal to please your palate, whether you are enjoying a traditional African dish during our African-themed dinner or a Western favorite.

Local Recipes

Savor the local flavor at home by trying some of our delicious African recipes.

  • Oxtail Stew
    Believe in the magic of potjie with this South African oxtail stew recipe.
  • Malva Pudding
    A sweet South African dessert cherished by many.
  • Lemon Meringue Pie
    The Zambezi Queen’s culinary secret recipe lies in the crust.
Oxtail-Stew

Africa Discover More

Learn more about the fascinating wildlife, vibrant culture and stunning natural parks that are a part of your Africa Safari & Wildlife Cruise.

Chasing Waterfalls
Upon seeing Victoria Falls for the first time, 19th century Scottish missionary and explorer Dr. David Livingstone exclaimed, “no one can imagine the beauty..." Read more
tarangire-roam-if-you-want-to
Tarangire, Roam If You Want To
Known for its massive population of elephants, majestic Baobab trees and abundant and varied wildlife and bird varieties... Read more
a-walk-on-the-wild-side
A Walk On The Wild Side
“Safari,” in Swahili (one of the main languages spoken in Tanzania), translates simply into the word “journey.” Read more
Out Of Africa, Always Something New
Thrill with your own Out of Africa-like experience with a visit to Tanzania’s UNESCO World Heritage Site the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.Read more
tracing-the-steps-of-nelson-mandela
Tracing The Steps Of Nelson Mandela
Revolutionary, activist, philanthropist, Noble Peace Prize Winner, President.Read more
the-river-of-dreams
The River of Dreams
Where else but the incredible Chobe River can you see the mighty hippo frolic alongside you in the water, spouting water from its nostrils. Read more
roaming-among-giants
Roaming Among Giants
Known as ‘the Land of the Giants,’ Chobe National Park is home to Africa’s largest elephant population and one of the densest concentrations of wildlife in the world. Read more
finding-africa
Finding Africa
One of the most enriching ways to ‘find Africa’ is through the cultures and traditions of its people. Read more
protecting-rwandan-gorillas
Protecting Rwandan Gorillas
Humans are both the biggest threat and the greatest hope for Rwanda’s real-life gorillas in the mist.Read more