Online Check-In

AmaWaterways’ online Cruise Check-In process is intended for the convenience of our valued guests. We require that each step of your Cruise Check-In is completed to board our ships. To complete, visit our website at www.amawaterways.com/welcome-check-in. In addition to providing the information required for embarkation, the Cruise Check-In process:

• Ensures your personal information, as it appears on your passport, is correct
• Provides us with an emergency contact in the unlikely event of an emergency

What to Pack

Your Essential Africa River Cruise Packing Guide

When traveling through Africa, it is always advised to travel light. On some itineraries, baggage size and weight are strictly limited. The best advice is “if in doubt, leave it out.”

A safari calls for casual, easy-care clothing that includes some long-sleeved items for protection from mosquitoes and the sun. If you plan on dining at a fine restaurant in a city such as Cape Town or Johannesburg, “smart casual” is the norm – no ties for men or evening dresses for women are necessary. For those traveling to South Africa during the winter months (April - September), it is recommended to bring some warm clothes for chilly early morning and late-night temperatures. Dressing in layers is also recommended, as temperatures rise quickly during the day. Please note plastic bags are discouraged in Botswana and banned in Tanzania and may not be brought into the country. However, Ziploc plastic bags are acceptable for carrying toiletries and medication.

Some recommended items to pack:

• Shorts, jeans and/or long cotton pants (preferably beige or other light color)
• T-shirts and long-sleeved cotton shirts
• Sweater, sweatshirt or warm wrap
• Cotton/wool socks
• Sturdy tennis shoes/walking shoes
• Bathing suit, cover-up and flip flops (for use at lodge/hotel)
• Small flashlight, binoculars, camera equipment and extra batteries/accessories
• Converter and electrical adapter (220v) with a 3-prong plug, although hotels and the Zambezi Queen
  have adapters readily available.
• Travel-sized deodorant, toothpaste, face masks and razors
• Prescription medications in their original containers
• Non-prescription products: aspirin, eye drops, antibacterial cream, etc.
• Feminine products and cosmetics
• Sun protection: hat with brim and neck strap, lip balm, sunscreen (SPF 40+)
• Insect repellent, especially for mosquitoes, hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes
• Money belt or other secure place to keep passport and cash
• Backpack or ‘fanny pack’ large enough to hold camera, binoculars, etc.
• Photocopies of your passport, credit cards and important documents
• Proof of vaccination and negative Covid-19 test, if required

For Your Travels

Tips for Long Flights

• Wear loose-fitting clothing and comfortable shoes.
• Based on current airline regulations in place, you may be required to wear a medical grade mask (or N95/KN95) so you may want to have several with you in order to change during the flight.
• Avoid caffeine, alcohol and carbonated drinks and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
• Alleviate ear pressure by chewing gum, yawning, swallowing or gently blowing your nose.
• Periodically walk up and down the aisle to stretch your legs and get blood circulating. You can also do a few isometric exercises while seated.
• Try to sleep during your overnight flight – an eye mask, noise cancelling headphones and a light sweater or scarf may help you to be more comfortable and sleep so you can acclimate to the local time more quickly.
• Avoid wearing contact lenses during your flight, as recirculated cabin air tends to dry them out.

Travel Protection
If you have not yet taken out travel protection/insurance, please contact your travel agent, independent Insurance broker or AmaWaterways in advance of your trip. Foreign medical care is often paid for in cash prior to treatment and medical evacuation can be very expensive. Travel protection/insurance is STRONGLY recommended for all trips to Africa.

Airport Security and Check-in
It is important to arrive at least three hours before international flights, and no later than two hours before domestic flights. This will allow ample time to check-in and get through Customs.
Current security regulations require that all liquid items in your carry-on luggage must be no larger than 3 oz. and contained in a clear quart-sized plastic bag. Pack a sufficient supply of any medications you may need and copies of your prescriptions, along with the telephone number of your physician. Some countries require that prescription drugs be kept in their original containers with the prescription label intact

Luggage Restrictions

For the most part, standard airline luggage restrictions apply: 20 kg/44 lbs. for checked luggage on most flights and 8 kg/17 lbs. for carry-on bags. Exceptions are flight sectors: Cape Town/Johannesburg, Victoria Falls/Johannesburg and Johannesburg/Kilimanjaro, Tanzania where maximum luggage restrictions are 23 kg/50 lbs. for checked luggage and 8 kg/17 lbs. for carry-on. For ease of travel at airports, we strongly recommend checked luggage remain under 44 lbs. for your whole journey.

All guests will connect at Johannesburg Airport during one point on their journey. In order to increase operational efficiency and on-time performance, the airport has introduced new baggage restrictions. The acceptable baggage rules are as follows:

1. Only regular-shaped luggage (bags) will be allowed at check-in counters.
2. Bags must have at least one flat surface.
3. Bags with long hanging straps will not be accepted for check-in. Guests will be requested to secure or remove straps before checking in.
4. Round-shaped bags will not be allowed at check-in counters.

Should your baggage not comply with the rules above, guests can visit a baggage-wrapping station to wrap their bags. A fee of R100 will be charged (subject to change). Furthermore, should a guest’s suitcase require the insertion of a flat surface base, there will be no additional charge other than the R100 wrapping fee.

GOLDEN TRAILS OF EAST AFRICA / WILDLIFE & THE FALLS / STARS OF SOUTH AFRICA

Standard airline luggage restrictions of 20 kg/44 lbs. for checked luggage and 8 kg/17 lbs. for carry-on bags.

Exception: If traveling on the Golden Trails of East Africa, small bush planes are used to travel to certain remote safari locations in Tanzania. Guests must travel with soft-sided luggage (e.g. rolling duffel bag) for these Intra-Tanzania flights, as there are strict size and weight limitations on luggage (15 kg/33 lbs.). Any excess luggage can be stored at the Arusha Coffee Lodge at no charge.

RIVERS & RAILS OF AFRICA / DISCOVER AFRICA / GOLDEN TRAILS OF EAST AFRICA WITH CAPE TOWN

Standard airline luggage restrictions of 20 kg/44 lbs. for checked luggage and 8 kg/17 lbs. for carry-on bags.

Exception: If traveling on the Golden Trails of East Africa with Cape Town, small bush planes are used to travel to certain remote safari locations in Tanzania. Guests must travel with soft-sided luggage (e.g. rolling duffel bag) for these Intra-Tanzania flights, as there are strict size and weight limitations on luggage (15 kg/33 lbs.). Any excess luggage can be stored at the Arusha Coffee Lodge at no charge

Health & Well-Being

Vaccinations & Medications

IMPORTANT: Please check with your doctor and local consulates for any applicable vaccination requirements based upon your itinerary destinations and past travel history. Ultimately, vaccination requirements rest with the traveler.

All Itineraries: Passengers going on safari are STRONGLY urged to get a prescription for malaria pills. Depending on your health history, your physician may also recommend certain booster shots such as tetanus and/or Hepatitis A and B. Be sure to bring a sufficient supply of any medications you may require during your trip, as you will have limited access to pharmacies. Please note that in some locations local doctors often expect payment in cash at the time of service.

For guests traveling to Rwanda, a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required. If your doctor has recommended against a yellow fever vaccination, a letter from the doctor must be provided to immigration officials on arrival.

Travel Protection
If you have not yet taken out travel protection/insurance, please contact your travel agent, independent Insurance broker or AmaWaterways in advance of your trip. Foreign medical care is often paid for in cash prior to treatment and medical evacuation can be very expensive. Travel protection/insurance is STRONGLY recommended for all trips to Africa.

Health & Safety Protocols

Our teams are experienced with enhanced health and safety protocols and are ready and eager to safely welcome you on board. Our experienced Cruise Managers and crew have undergone special training and will be advised and guided by a Public Health Officer. As always, our crew will be on hand to take care of all the details so you can relax and enjoy your much-anticipated river cruise vacation.

Physical Requirements
AmaWaterways itineraries are as active as you want them to be. While your days on the river give ample opportunity to relax on board, land programs and excursions to places such as Cape Town, Victoria Falls and Johannesburg require a moderate amount of walking. Facilities and services for passengers with disabilities differ depending on the destination and, in some cases, may be limited or non-existent. Passengers requiring special assistance must be accompanied by someone who is physically able to provide such support. In fairness to other guests, transfers and shore excursions adhere to a set schedule and cannot be delayed to accommodate those with physical limitations. AmaWaterways and its affiliates are not responsible for any denial of services by airline carriers, cruise vessels, hotels, lodges, coaches, local guides or operators, or any other independent suppliers.

Handicapped Facilities
The Zambezi Queen and lodges are not equipped with handicapped facilities such as ramps or elevators, and hallways and doors may not be wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs or scooters. Motor coaches, minibuses, small charter planes, private tender boats and vehicles used for transfers, game drives and shore excursions may also lack handicapped access.

Medical
Please consult your physician prior to travel if you have a medical condition that might pose limitations during your AmaWaterways safari and cruise vacation. Any condition requiring special attention must be reported to AmaWaterways at the time of booking.

Health Precautions
We recommend that passengers drink only bottled water, which will be readily available the duration of your trip. Applying insect repellent is also strongly advised.

Special Diets
If you have any special dietary requirements, please advise AmaWaterways prior to your departure. We will make every effort to accommodate your requests, although local supplies and seasonality may sometimes limit our ability to do so

Air with AmaWaterways

• Excellent Fares
• Trusted Airlines
• Quality Experience
• Transfers (to and from airport are included)
• Peace of Mind

Learn About Your Destination

It may be helpful to do some research on the places you plan to visit in Africa and the amazing animals that live there. You might wish to learn a few key words and phrases, especially if you wish to explore a bit on your own.
Be careful when venturing alone into unfamiliar areas and avoid excessive displays of jewelry and/or money.
All of us who travel abroad should be goodwill ambassadors.

WEATHER
Average Temperatures and Rainfall*

                   JAN      FEB     MAR     APR     MAY     JUN      JUL     AUG     SEPT    OCT     NOV      DEC

   BOTSWANA - Kasane

   SOUTH AFRICA - Johannesburg

   SOUTH AFRICA – Cape Town

   SOUTH AFRICA – Kruger Park Area

   TANZANIA - Arusha

   ZIMBABWE – Victoria Falls

    RWANDA – Kigali

*Temperatures in Fahrenheit and rainfall measurements are in inches.

 For current weather conditions in Africa, check out www.weather.com or www.accuweather.com

Time Zones

South Africa, Botswana, Namibia and Zimbabwe – UTC + 2 hours

East Africa: Tanzania – UTC + 3 hours; Rwanda – UTC + 2 hours

*UTC (Coordinated Universal Time)

Airport & Transfer Information

INTERNATIONAL ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE TRANSFERS

Cruise Embarkation & Disembarkation

Embarkation

After two nights in Victoria Falls, you will transfer to Namibia where Zambezi Queen will be waiting for you. Transfer time will take approximately two hours.

Disembarkation

Disembarkation time will be late morning. All guests will be transferred via private tender boat back to Kasane Immigration and on to Kasane Airport for the two-hour flight to Johannesburg.

Hotel Information

Hotel Arrival & Departure Information
The official hotel check-in time for the Cape Grace Hotel & Fairlawns Boutique Hotel is 2:00 PM local time. If your flight arrives in the morning, luggage can be dropped off at the hotel before check-in and delivered to your room later.

Check-out times vary, but are typically between 10:00 am and 12:00 noon. This mainly applies to guests who have booked extra nights with AmaWaterways. If you have a late afternoon or evening flight, you can ask your hotel to store your bags in their luggage room until you depart for the airport.

CAPE TOWN
Cape Grace Hotel
West Quay Road
Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
Cape Town, South Africa
Tel: +27 21 410 7100

VICTORIA FALLS
Victoria Falls Hotel
1 Mallet Drive
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
Tel: +263 13 44751

JOHANNESBURG
Fairlawns Boutique Hotel
1 Alma Road Morningside Manor
Sandton 2004, South Africa
Tel: +27 11 804 2540

ARUSHA
Arusha Coffee Lodge
Dodoma Road
Arusha, Tanzania
Tel: +255 758 306 252

KRUGER NAT’L PARK AREA
Tintswalo Safari Lodge
Kruger Park, 1350
South Africa
Tel: +27 15 793 9013

Travel Money Tips

Currency per Country

• South Africa: Rand (ZAR)
• Botswana: Pula
• Tanzania: Tanzanian Shilling
• Zimbabwe: (Victoria Falls): Zimbabwe Dollar* or US Dollar

*Credit card charges will be in USD. USD currency issued later than 2011 may be accepted at certain establishments.

• Rwanda: Rwanda Franc

Tipping Currency

• South Africa: Rand (US dollars may be used but most locals prefer Rand)
• Botswana: US Dollar, Rand, British Pound Sterling and Euro are equally acceptable
• Tanzania: Tanzanian Shilling, US Dollar
• Zimbabwe: Zimbabwe Dollar or US Dollar

ATM Machines

Throughout South Africa, ATM machines are available in all major cities and towns, at airports, and often in shopping malls and hotel lobbies.

In Botswana, ATMs are not widely available, even in urban areas.

In Tanzania, ATMs are only available at branches of major banks, so guests should bring sufficient US currency for incidentals and gratuities.

In Zimbabwe, there are ATM machines within a short distance of the Victoria Falls Hotel and all cash withdrawals are made in US dollars. However, ATMs are notorious for running out of cash or limit the amount of withdrawal to $50 or less.

Credit Cards

Throughout South Africa, credit cards are generally accepted at all lodges, hotels, restaurants and shops on our itineraries. In Zimbabwe, credit cards are, for the most part, accepted at major hotels, restaurants and shops and should be considered the preferred way of payment. The hotels and lodges being used in Tanzania also accept all major credit cards. Regardless of your destination, we recommend using MasterCard or Visa to ensure no complications.

On Board Zambezi Queen

Language
The onboard language is English. All staff, crew and local guides are completely fluent.

Reception
There are no fixed reception hours on board; however the ship’s Cruise Manager will be available to guests throughout their stay.

Smoking
Smoking is not permitted anywhere inside the ship. Smoking is only permitted outside on the Entertainment Deck (upper deck).

Ship Schedule
There is no fixed sailing schedule on the Chobe River. During your river safari days you will explore 13.5 miles/22 kilometers of remote river under wide, open skies. Each day explore the surrounding area via smaller boats or go on fishing excursions or safari game drives. The Zambezi Queen cruises at certain hours of the day to offer the best wildlife viewing and scenery; guests can enjoy unobstructed views from the upper deck as well as their private suites.

The captain will use his discretion in regards to current weather conditions when cruising along the Chobe. Due to local laws the ship does not cruise after 6:00 pm.

Stateroom Information

Telephone
While staterooms are not equipped with telephones, there is an onboard phone that can be used in case of emergency.

Climate Control
Staterooms have circulating fans and air-conditioners. The large open balconies have screens designed to let cool breezes in and keep bugs out.

Electricity
Electricity on board is 220v. Adapters are available.

Stateroom Amenities
Each stateroom provides bathrobes, slippers, a hair dryer, soap, body wash and conditioning shampoo.

In-room Safe
All staterooms have a safe for your personal use. We recommend placing your passport and valuables in the safe whenever you are away from your room.

Onboard Facilities & Amenities

Medical Facilities
Doctors and nurses are not employed on board the Zambezi Queen. In the event medical assistance is needed, the closest hospital will be contacted (either in Kasane or Victoria Falls). Passengers are strongly urged to secure adequate travel insurance for medical emergencies.

Gift Shop
The gift shop stocks African curios, sunglasses, clothing, hats and other basic necessities.

Laundry
If you require laundry services, simply notify our crew. Items will be taken ashore for service and returned within 24 hours. Please inquire about the prices on board.

Your Leisure Time
The Zambezi Queen has a small collection of books, board games and binoculars for viewing scenery and wildlife

Bar
Due to the private setting and schedule of early morning activities, the onboard bar closes at 10:00 PM every night. At this time the lights on the top deck will shut off. Beer, wine, spirits, soda and bottled water are complimentary. Premium brands have an additional charge.

Entertainment Deck
The third-floor Entertainment Deck has a dining room, lounge, bar and a sunbathing area with a small pool for a cool, refreshing dip.

Eco-Friendly Pool
The Sun Deck has a small environmentally-friendly pool for your enjoyment. This pool is filled with filtered water from the Chobe River and is drained and refilled each day. No harmful chemicals are ever added to the water in order to protect the wildlife living in and along the river.

Wi-fi
Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the ship. Please note that because of the ship’s isolated position, access can be sporadic.

Laundry Services

Laundry services are available at all lodges free of charge. Hotel laundry services are also available for a small fee at hotels and on the Zambezi Queen.

Onboard Dining

All meals on board the Zambezi Queen are included in your tour price and are served in the dining area on the top deck. Open seating allows you to sit at different tables for each meal if you wish to meet fellow guests.

Breakfast is served buffet style, along with a variety of cooked to order options such as eggs and omelettes. Lunches and dinners are a mix of order from a menu and buffet-style meals in the dining area. An African themed dinner will be served on one of the evenings.

Complimentary soft drinks, bottled water, beer, spirits and wine are included. Coffee is available at the bar or can be ordered from the wait staff. Premium brand alcohol is available at an additional charge.

Onboard Crew

The staff consists of approximately 20 English-speaking Namibian crew members, most of whom do not stay overnight on the boat.

Key personnel include the Captain, Cruise Manager and boat guides. All AmaWaterways crewmembers, from the nautical crew to stateroom stewards, are thoroughly trained to ensure you enjoy the best vacation possible

Excursions & Game Drives

Daily Activities
The ship’s printed Program features updated information about daily activities. Different onshore activities and excursions are offered to passengers each day, such as game drives, private boat cruises, village walking tours, and fishing excursions. During inclement weather, including high winds, the Zambezi Queen may need to stay put in one place for longer than usual. Never fear – the boat will be tendered in an area with scenic views and weather should not adversely impact most planned activities. Alternative activities may be offered.

Vehicle and Boat Safety
To avoid serious injury, passengers must remain seated whenever their game drive vehicle, minibus or private boat is in motion. Game drives offer an exhilarating opportunity to observe many different wild animals from a very close distance. These animals are accustomed to game viewing vehicles; even so, do not exit the vehicle unless directed to do so by your guide. Be sure not to leave any valuable items in any transfer vehicle, game vehicle or private boat; watch your step if you are being transferred in a motor coach with stairs; take time to note any available emergency exits; and always check for traffic when exiting any vehicle.

Other Game Drive Guidelines
Another reason to remain seated in your game vehicle is that it is important not to “break the shape” of the vehicle; animals view the vehicle as a single object. Upon standing up they will realize you are separate and may decide to flee! Your guides will be happy to explain this in greater detail. Feel free to ask your guides any questions you may have, as they are experts of the area and can provide well informed answers.

In respect of your surroundings, do not smoke or litter on any game drive. We are grateful stewards of the wild and wish to maintain Africa’s unspoiled natural beauty

Recommended Gratuities

Although we leave gratuities to your discretion, many of our guests have asked for general tipping guidelines. Gratuities may be charged on a credit card or given in cash.

For your convenience, gratuities for transfer drivers, porters, hotel staff as well as local guides throughout your trip have been covered by AmaWaterways. Below you will find the list of those people who gratuities have not been included. If your AmaWaterways Tour Director, Cruise Manager and Zambezi Queen staff leave a great impression on you, then in turn we hope you will embrace this with the gratuity you see fit. For this reason, it’s important that each guest has realistic expectations and guidelines for tipping.

• Zambezi Queen Onboard Staff (To be divided evenly among all crew members): US$20-25 per person, per day
• AmaWaterways Tour Guide: From Cape Town to Johannesburg US$7-12 per person, per day

Safari Lodge Stay
As a general rule, you should tip all game lodge and camp personnel on the last day of your stay. The lodge should provide a tipping box in the lobby for gratuities. If not, you can hand the tip to the lodge manager.

• Safari Ranger/Guide: US$10-20 per person, per day
• Game Tracker (South Africa only): US$5 person, per day
• Butler/Waiter at Lodges: US$5 person, per day
• General Lodge Staff: US$10-20 person, per day

Contact Information

Our representatives are available to help with any needs that may arise during your vacation. If for any reason you require assistance, please use the appropriate contact information below.

SOUTH AFRICA & ZIMBABWE
Tel: +27 21 713 0296
Emergency: +27 72 798 3265

ZAMBEZI QUEEN
Tel: + 27 21 715 2412
Mobile: + 27 83 431 7399

TANZANIA
24-Hour Emergency Contact:
Tel: +255 75 478 6409 or +255 75 478 6405

Please refer to the phone numbers below and/or on your travel documents and advise the ship of any delays or changes to your schedule. If for any reason you require assistance, our representatives are at your service.

AmaWaterways Headquarters
1-800-626-0126 or 1-818-428-6198
Monday-Friday: 6 a.m. - 6 p.m. Pacific Standard Time
Saturday: 7 a.m. - 1 p.m. Pacific Standard Time

Helpful Calling Information

Telephone dialing instructions for international calls:
Replace the “+” symbol with the international access number for the country you are in (e.g., for international calls from North America, dial 011+ country + city code + number)

AmaWaterways - UK*
44 (0) 333 305 3909
Monday-Friday: 09h00-17h30
Saturday: 09h00 -17h00
After hours number (for extreme emergencies only): 44 (0) 333 305 3930

Hotel Information

Hotel Arrival & Departure Information
The official hotel check-in time for the Cape Grace Hotel & Fairlawns Boutique Hotel is 2:00 PM local time. If your flight arrives in the morning, luggage can be dropped off at the hotel before check-in and delivered to your room later.

Check-out times vary, but are typically between 10:00 am and 12:00 noon. This mainly applies to guests who have booked extra nights with AmaWaterways. If you have a late afternoon or evening flight, you can ask your hotel to store your bags in their luggage room until you depart for the airport.

CAPE TOWN
Cape Grace Hotel
West Quay Road
Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
Cape Town, South Africa
Tel: +27 21 410 7100

VICTORIA FALLS
Victoria Falls Hotel
1 Mallet Drive
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
Tel: +263 13 44751

JOHANNESBURG
Fairlawns Boutique Hotel
1 Alma Road Morningside Manor
Sandton 2004, South Africa
Tel: +27 11 804 2540

ARUSHA
Arusha Coffee Lodge
Dodoma Road
Arusha, Tanzania
Tel: +255 758 306 252

KRUGER NAT’L PARK AREA
Tintswalo Safari Lodge
Kruger Park, 1350
South Africa
Tel: +27 15 793 9013