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.
Wildlife and the Falls
At A Glance
On our cruises, you will enjoy an extensive lineup of included tours. We always include a large variety of activities so that you can choose how you want to explore. No matter your preference, your days will be full of discovery and wonder.
| Day 1 | Johannesburg | Arrival transfer and hotel check-in |
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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.
| Day 2 | Johannesburg | Late morning flight to Kasane, Botswana |
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| | Welcome Cocktail & Dinner |
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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)
| Day 3 | Zambezi Queen | Chobe River safaris by boat |
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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)
| Day 4 | Zambezi Queen | Full day safari of Chobe National Park by open top 4x4 vehicle with picnic lunch |
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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)
| Day 5 | Zambezi Queen | Morning visit to local African village |
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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)
| Day 6 | Zambezi Queen | DISEMBARKATION |
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| Victoria Falls | Transfer to Victoria Falls |
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| | Sunset cocktail reception aboard a vintage steam train, followed by dinner |
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During breakfast, watch for wildlife as you cruise the Chobe River. Later in the morning, transfer to Victoria Falls. Spend the afternoon at leisure and in the evening, join a cocktail reception aboard a vintage steam train, followed by dinner. (B,D)
| Day 7 | Victoria Falls | Guided tour of Victoria Falls |
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| | Zambezi River sundowner cruise with drinks and tapas |
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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. (B)
| Day 8 | Johannesburg | Flight to Johannesburg |
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After breakfast, you’ll be taken to the airport for your flight to Johannesburg. Transfer to the Fairlawns Boutique Hotel and enjoy a free evening at leisure. (B)
| Day 9 | Johannesburg | Soweto tour with lunch |
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| | Special dinner and presentation |
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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)
| Day 10 | Kruger Park | Flight to Hoedspruit (Greater Kruger National Park) |
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| | Lunch at lodge and afternoon safari |
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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)
| Day 11 | Kruger Park | Morning and afternoon safaris |
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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)
| Day 12 | Kruger Park | Morning and afternoon safaris |
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Go on two exhilarating game drives today, as well as enjoy ample leisure time at your game lodge. (B,L,D)
| Day 13 | Kruger Park | Early morning safari |
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| Johannesburg | Return flight home |
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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 until after 4:00 p.m.