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 nine itineraries to choose from – and discover iconic sites like Cape Town’s Table Mountain, Victoria Falls, the Skeleton Coast and Soweto, 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."

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.

Africa Safaris & Wildlife Cruises

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

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

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

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

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

Begin your journey in cosmopolitan Johannesburg, and then you are off to Namibia, where a three-night wildlife adventure aboard Zambezi Queen awaits, with incredible wildlife encounters throughout Chobe National Park. Immerse yourself in the beauty and power of Victoria Falls for three nights, then venture to Namibia’s most captivating landscapes. Begin in the NamibRand Nature Reserve, where endless red dunes and golden grasslands offer striking vistas by day and some of the world’s most spectacular stargazing by night. On the Skeleton Coast, windswept shores are dotted with remnants of stories past. In Etosha National Park, one of Africa’s top safari destinations, you can look for elephants, rhinos, lions and countless antelopes.

1 Night In Johannesburg, 3-night Wildlife Cruise, 3 Nights in Victoria Falls and 8 Nights in Namibia

Embark on an unforgettable journey through some of Southern Africa’s most acclaimed destinations, including the renowned Greater Kruger National Park—home to the iconic “Big Five.” Begin your adventure in vibrant Cape Town, where you’ll experience must-see sights such as the Cape of Good Hope, Boulders Beach, and historic Robben Island. Next, fly north to our iconic Zambezi Queen for a three-night wildlife safari. Explore Chobe National Park by both water and land, encountering extraordinary wildlife in their natural environment. Continue to Victoria Falls, where you’ll spend three nights marveling at this natural wonder. After two nights in Johannesburg, your adventure concludes with three nights at a five-star tented lodge in Greater Kruger National Park, featuring outstanding amenities and twice-daily guided game drives.

3 Nights in Cape Town, 3-night Wildlife Cruise, 3 Nights in Victoria Falls, 2 Nights Johannesburg And 3 Nights at 5-Star Tented Safari Lodge in Greater Kruger National Park

From iconic Cape Town, South Africa, to the magnificent Victoria Falls, experience the beauty of the destinations along your journey through Southern Africa. Start your adventure in Cape Town, where you will discover treasured experiences at the Cape of Good Hope, Boulders Beach and Robben Island. Next, fly to Victoria Falls, one of the seven wonders of the natural world, and head west to embark on your Chobe River cruise. Explore the Chobe National Park, home to one of Africa’s densest populations of wildlife, during your time on board Zambezi Queen. Conclude your journey with three nights at the majestic Victoria Falls. You may also choose to extend your journey with an additional two nights in Johannesburg for an enriching conclusion to your adventure. 

3 Nights in Cape Town, 3-night Wildlife Cruise and 3 Nights in Victoria Falls with the option to extend with 2 Nights in Johannesburg 

After a night in Johannesburg, you’ll be whisked to Namibia for a three-night wildlife adventure aboard Zambezi Queen, where unforgettable wildlife encounters in Chobe National Park await. Marvel at the beauty and power of Victoria Falls over three nights. Your adventure continues in Kenya with two nights in the capital city of Nairobi, renowned for its cultural heritage and diverse culinary scene. Then fly south to the striking landscapes of Amboseli, where vast savannahs are dotted with acacia woodlands and wetlands, and herds of elephant roam beneath the spectacular backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro. You will also spend time immersing yourself in the beauty of the legendary Maasai Mara, considered the crown jewel of Kenyan safaris. 

1 Night in Johannesburg, 3-night Wildlife Cruise, 3 Nights in Victoria Falls and 7 Nights in Kenya, with the option to extend with 4 Nights in Zanzibar 

What’s Included on Your Wildlife Cruise

SPACIOUS STATEROOMS
  • 3- or 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

Rwanda Extension

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.

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.

The Distinctive Zambezi Queen

Designed specifically for wildlife viewing, the intimate 28-passenger Zambezi Queen made her debut on Africa’s legendary Chobe River. As she drifts along, animals perceive no threat, affording you with once-in-a-lifetime up-close game experiences. Suites feature private balconies for unobstructed views of the wildlife and landscapes. 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. 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.

Discover Zambezi Queen
Zambezi-Queen-Ship
Life On Board At A Glance
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.

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
Known for its massive population of elephants, majestic Baobab trees and abundant and varied wildlife and bird varieties... Read more
“Safari,” in Swahili (one of the main languages spoken in Tanzania), translates simply into the word “journey.” Read more
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
Revolutionary, activist, philanthropist, Noble Peace Prize Winner, President.Read more
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
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
One of the most enriching ways to ‘find Africa’ is through the cultures and traditions of its people. Read more
Humans are both the biggest threat and the greatest hope for Rwanda’s real-life gorillas in the mist.Read more