Embark on a 13-day river cruise with stays in Johannesburg, Victoria Falls, and Kruger Park aboard the Zambezi Queen. Tick the “Big Five” off your bucket list as you explore South Africa’s Greater Kruger National Park, one of the world’s top safari destinations. Begin with a night in Johannesburg, a city undergoing a vibrant revival, before flying to Kasane, Botswana, for a four-night wildlife adventure on the Zambezi Queen. Cruise and drive through Chobe National Park, then marvel at the breathtaking Victoria Falls. After two nights in Johannesburg, conclude with three nights at a luxury lodge, enjoying thrilling game drives led by expert guides.
Highlights
Cruise the Chobe River aboard Zambezi Queen, surrounded by wild beauty
Spot diverse wildlife on thrilling drives through Chobe National Park
Witness majestic Victoria Falls and explore its breathtaking viewpoints
Explore historic Soweto and visit the iconic home of Nelson Mandela
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
Upon arrival at the airport, an AmaWaterways representative will greet you and transfer you to the Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa in the desirable Sandton neighborhood. The hotel's extensive gardens embody the spirit, grace, and elegance of a bygone era.
Fly to Kasane, Botswana, where a warm transfer awaits to the stunning Chobe River. Board a tender boat that will transport you to the luxurious Zambezi Queen, elegantly moored on the picturesque Namibian side of the river. Once you've settled into your spacious stateroom, prepare for an enchanting evening filled with a Welcome Cocktail Reception and a delightful Dinner, setting the perfect tone for your adventure.
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.
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.
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.
Day 6: Disembark | Victoria Falls
1 Breakfast
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.
Day 7: Victoria Falls
1 Breakfast, 1 Dinner
A local guide will take you on a tour of the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls. You can 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.
After breakfast, be taken to the airport for your flight to Johannesburg. Transfer to the Fairlawns Boutique Hotel with its parklike setting and wonderful Spa.
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.
Fly to the Greater Kruger National Park in the morning and transfer to your luxurious game lodge. This region is one of the world's most spectacular, game nature reserves, which you can 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.
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, go on another game drive deep into the bush, where you may encounter South Africa’s top predators: cheetahs, hyenas and lions.
Go on two exhilarating game drives today, as well as enjoy ample leisure time at your game lodge.
Day 13: Kruger National Park Area | Johannesburg
1 Breakfast
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. Note: Please do not schedule your onward flight before 4:30 p.m.
Itinerary is subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please refer to the itinerary schedule provided with your final documents.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
The trip might have been the absolute best of our lifetime (thus far). We particularly want to commend our guide Peter in the Guilin area-he was so incredibly attentive, energetic, enthusiastic-and absolutely dedicated to ensuring that our meals were 100% vegetarian.
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