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Classic Kenya & Southern Africa

with AmaWaterways
Nov. 14, 2028 - Nov. 28, 2028
17 days7 ports

Begin your journey in cosmopolitan Johannesburg. Next, take a flight to Kasane, Botswana and transfer 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 elephants 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.

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Itinerary

Day 1: Johannesburg
Day 2: Johannesburg
Day 2: Kasane
Day 3: Chobe National Park
Day 4: Chobe National Park
Day 5: Chobe National Park
Day 5: Victoria Falls
Day 6: Victoria Falls
Day 7: Victoria Falls
Day 8: Victoria Falls
Day 8: Nairobi
Day 9: Nairobi
Day 10: Nairobi
Day 10: Amboseli National Park
Day 11: Amboseli National Park
Day 12: Amboseli National Park
Day 12: Maasai Mara National Reserve
Day 13: Maasai Mara National Reserve
Day 14: Maasai Mara National Reserve
Day 15: Maasai Mara National Reserve
Day 15: Nairobi
Day 1: Johannesburg

Day programme:

ARRIVE IN JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA. On arrival, you will be met by your local AmaWaterways host and transferred to the lovely Fairlawns Boutique Hotel situated in a parklike setting in the Sandton neighborhood of Johannesburg.

Day 2: Johannesburg

Day programme:

JOHANNESBURG – KASANE, BOTSWANA – ZAMBEZI QUEEN – EMBARKATION. In the morning, transfer to the airport for a flight to Kasane. Here, you will be transferred to the Chobe River that forms the border between Botswana and Namibia. Tender boats will transport you to Zambezi Queen, moored on the Namibia side of the river. Settle into your stateroom, enjoy a mid-afternoon snack, and in the evening, be treated to a Welcome Cocktail Reception and Dinner. (B,D)

Day 2: Kasane
Day 3: Chobe National Park

Day programme:

ZAMBEZI QUEEN. Embark on a morning boat safari and experience the Chobe River’s diverse game viewing. Afterwards, return to Zambezi Queen for lunch. As the ship cruises along the Chobe River, you can spend time in the splash pool, visit the spa or perhaps catch up with your favorite book. Later in the day, revel in the panoramic views with another boat safari opportunity. (B,L,D)

Day 4: Chobe National Park

Day programme:

ZAMBEZI QUEEN. Start your day off with a boat safari. Later, a local African village invites you to experience the local culture firsthand. Spend time with the children of the village as well as its elders and learn about their day-to-day life. After lunch on board, you can choose between a boat safari, bird watching or fishing. Spend your last evening aboard reveling in a festive African-themed dinner hosted by your crew—complete with singing and dancing. (B,L,D)

Day 5: Chobe National Park

Day programme:

ZAMBEZI QUEEN – DISEMBARKATION – VICTORIA FALLS, ZIMBABWE. Disembark and join a wildlife safari of Chobe National Park in open-top 4×4 vehicles. Be on the lookout for elephants, giraffes, zebras, sable, warthogs and cape buffaloes. Prides of lions, hyenas and (more rarely) cheetahs may also appear along the way. For lunch, take a seat under the trees and savor a delicious picnic. Later this afternoon, transfer to Victoria Falls, then enjoy a special dinner with live local entertainment at your hotel. (B,L,D)

Day 5: Victoria Falls
Day 6: Victoria Falls

Day programme:

VICTORIA FALLS. Join a local guide for a tour of Victoria Falls. Learn about its history as well as 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 wildlife while enjoying a delicious mix of tapas with drinks. (B)

Day 7: Victoria Falls

Day programme:

VICTORIA FALLS. This morning, you are invited on a leisurely guided walk across the Victoria Falls Bridge, which connects the countries of Zimbabwe and Zambia. Once in Zambia, explore the more intimate side of the Falls and visit the historic town of Livingstone. Later, head back to Zimbabwe for a free afternoon. As a special treat tonight, head out on a safari to seek out the elusive Black Rhino and other nocturnal animals, followed by a three-course bush dinner. (B,D)

Day 8: Victoria Falls

Day programme:

VICTORIA FALLS – LIVINGSTONE, ZAMBIA – FLY TO NAIROBI, KENYA. Enjoy a morning at your leisure, then cross the border into Zambia and fly from Livingstone to Nairobi, where you will be met by an AmaWaterways representative and transferred to the Serena Nairobi Hotel. (B)

Day 8: Nairobi
Day 9: Nairobi

Day programme:

NAIROBI. Enjoy a mid-morning start to your day as you head just outside Nairobi to the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, which operates a successful orphan elephant rescue and rehabilitation center. After lunch in the garden, visit the Giraffe Centre, home to the endangered Rothschild giraffes. Next is a visit to the Karen Blixen Museum on the site of a former coffee plantation. Blixen, a renowned author, wrote her nonfiction memoir Out of Africa, reflecting on her life in Kenya. Enjoy the evening at your leisure. (B,L)

Day 10: Nairobi

Day programme:

NAIROBI-AMBOSELI. This morning, a short flight transports you to Amboseli, an area known for its large elephant herds and spectacular views of 19,341-foot (5,895-meter) Mount Kilimanjaro. The name Amboseli comes from the Maa word meaning “salty, dry place.” Your destination is Tortilis Camp, where you will spend the next two nights in a luxury tent. In the afternoon, you’re invited to join a game drive. (B,L,D)

Day 10: Amboseli National Park
Day 11: Amboseli National Park

Day programme:

AMBOSELI. Today, you may enjoy morning and afternoon game drives. With Amboseli’s underground water springs and components from the snow and ice of Kilimanjaro, the area is ideal for game spotting. Common sightings include giraffes, lions, wildebeest and cheetahs. Keep a sharp eye alert for gazelle, zebra and hyena. Other activities during your stay include a bush breakfast and sundowners.

Day 12: Amboseli National Park

Day programme:

AMBOSELI-MAASAI MARA. A morning flight transports you to the Maasai Mara via Nairobi. On arrival, transfer to Elephant Pepper Camp, located in the heart of the Maasai Mara ecosystem and its vast fertile plains. Take an afternoon game drive to spot the “Big Five”: lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo and rhinos.

Day 12: Maasai Mara National Reserve
Day 13: Maasai Mara National Reserve

Day programme:

MAASAI MARA. Revel in two full days to enjoy game drives to spot the “Big Five.” The camp’s remote location allows for impressive night skies and the unique experience of listening to the sounds of the wild. During your time here enjoy guided walks, evening game drives, bush breakfasts and sundowners. (B,L,D)

Day 14: Maasai Mara National Reserve

Day programme:

MAASAI MARA. Revel in two full days to enjoy game drives to spot the “Big Five.” The camp’s remote location allows for impressive night skies and the unique experience of listening to the sounds of the wild. During your time here enjoy guided walks, evening game drives, bush breakfasts and sundowners. (B,L,D)

Day 15: Maasai Mara National Reserve

Day programme:

MAASAI MARA-NAIROBI. After breakfast, transfer to the airstrip and fly to Nairobi. Then transfer to the Eka Hotel, where your day room is available until 11pm this evening. During this time, a transfer is included to Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, where you will connect to your onward flight. Please do not schedule onward flights before 6pm. (B)

Day 15: Nairobi
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Ship features

Luxury Suite

Luxury Suite

Spacious Staterooms and Suites
Unwind in thoughtfully designed rooms with room to relax and enjoy the river views. Elegant décor and comfortable spaces create a peaceful retreat to start and end the day.

Comfort and Understated Luxury
Experience the art of subtle indulgence in every room. Soft fabrics, marble-tiled bathrooms, and thoughtful touches elevate each room into a sanctuary of effortless luxury.

  • Lower Deck
  • Luxury Suite
  • Private Balcony with Sitting Area

    Luxury Suite
    Category SA

    Category SA

    Spacious Staterooms and Suites

    Unwind in thoughtfully designed rooms with room to relax and enjoy the river views. Elegant décor and comfortable spaces create a peaceful retreat to start and end the day.

    Comfort and Understated Luxury

    Experience the art of subtle indulgence in every room. Soft fabrics, marble-tiled bathrooms, and thoughtful touches elevate each room into a sanctuary of effortless luxury.

    • Lower Deck
    • Luxury Suite
    • Private Balcony with Sitting Area

    Luxury Suite
    Category SA
    Category SB

    Category SB

    Spacious Staterooms and Suites
    Unwind in thoughtfully designed rooms with room to relax and enjoy the river views. Elegant décor and comfortable spaces create a peaceful retreat to start and end the day.

    Comfort and Understated Luxury

    Experience the art of subtle indulgence in every room. Soft fabrics, marble-tiled bathrooms, and thoughtful touches elevate each room into a sanctuary of effortless luxury.

    • Main Deck
    • Category SB
    • Private Balcony

    Main Restaurant

    Main Restaurant

    The ship has one Main Restaurant where guests enjoy a mix of international favorites and locally inspired dishes, often featuring regional ingredients and South African wines. Meals are served with panoramic river views, and vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary needs are happily accommodated.

    African Excursions

    African Excursions

    Sail through Botswana’s Chobe National Park, where elephants gather along the shoreline, hippos surface, and vibrant birdlife fills the skies. An African safari, all seen from the unique perspective of your river ship.

    Morning Boat Safari Along the Chobe River

    Glide at dawn in a private safari boat to see elephants drinking, hippos surfacing, and crocodiles warming on the banks.

    Full-Day 4×4 Safari Through Chobe National Park

    Explore deeper into Chobe in an open-top vehicle. Spot lions, buffalo, and giraffes before pausing for a picnic under the trees.

    Visit a Subiya Village Along the Chobe

    Meet the Subiya people, discover fishing and music traditions, and watch the colorful Seperu dance that celebrates milestones.

    Afternoon Birdwatching, Fishing, or Boat Cruise
    Choose a gentle river outing: watch vibrant birdlife, cast a line for local fish, or drift quietly as wildlife gathers nearby.

    African Excursions
    Special Interest Tours

    Special Interest Tours

    From spiritual landmarks to hands-on traditions, each experience reveals the people, flavors, and stories that make this region so captivating.

    African Excursions
    Special Interest Tours
    Land Packages

    Land Packages

    Extend Your Journey

    Stay and explore your destination a little longer before or after your cruise. AmaWaterways’ curated land extensions pair perfectly with your river itinerary, offering the same luxury, care, and sense of place found on board.

    Seamless Travel from Ship to City

    Your Cruise Manager continues with you on land, ensuring every detail—from transfers to luggage—runs smoothly so you can simply relax and enjoy the destination.

    Hand-Selected Hotels in Prime Locations

    Stay steps from world-famous landmarks in luxurious hotels chosen for their comfort, style, and connection to each destination.

    Expertly Curated Experiences

    Each extension includes activities like guided city tours, museum visits, and wine tastings designed to reveal the culture and character of every destination.

    Daily Breakfast Included

    Begin each morning with a satisfying breakfast at your hotel—an easy, thoughtful touch that adds comfort and convenience to your time on land.

    Lounge & Bar

    Lounge & Bar

    This versatile space hosts a bar, dance floor, plenty of comfortable couches and big windows on three sides and is used for everything from the morning port talks, daytime reading and chatting to scenic cruising, afternoon tea and evening entertainment.

    Lounge & Bar
    Pool Deck

    Pool Deck

    The top deck features an open-air Sun Deck complete with a plunge pool. Unlike a typical river cruise that travels from one port to the next, the Zambezi Queen was designed for an entirely different purpose—to facilitate optimal game viewing along the Chobe.

    Lounge & Bar
    Pool Deck
    Local Entertainment

    Local Entertainment

    Onboard Performances and Musical Evenings
    Throughout many voyages, the ship’s lounge transforms into a stage for local ensembles, jazz duos, and classical quartets

    Select sailings have Music Hosts, conductors and musicians who guide you through historical context, lead onboard performances, and deepen your connection with the region’s musical heritage.

    Live Regional Performances On Ship

    Even on non-themed sailings, enjoy musical offerings like local performances, curated playlists, and connections to the musical stories of the rivers you traverse.

    Lounge & Bar
    Pool Deck
    Local Entertainment
    Boutique

    Boutique

    The onboard boutique offers a variety of souvenirs for purchase.

    Plunge Pool

    Plunge Pool

    Take a cooling dip and feel refreshed while watching the passing scenery and wildlife upon the Chobe River.

    Plunge Pool
    Onboard Spa

    Onboard Spa

    Indulge in the ultimate in relaxation by pampering yourself with a variety of massage and facial treatments while cruising the Chobe River, available for a nominal fee.

    Age Restriction

    Age Restriction

    Guests must be at least 4 years old to travel with AmaWaterways, unless otherwise approved. Children under 18 must share a stateroom with an adult and remain supervised at all times, as balcony staterooms may be unsafe for unattended minors. On Africa Safaris & Wildlife Cruises, the minimum age is 12 due to safety considerations. AmaWaterways does not provide child-specific programs or childcare services.

    Age Restriction
    Dress Code

    Dress Code

    Dress aboard AmaWaterways ships is comfortable and casually elegant. On all ships, something a little dressier is recommended for the Welcome and Farewell dinners. Guests sailing in warmer destinations such as Vietnam, Cambodia, Egypt, and Colombia should pack breathable fabrics, sun protection, and modest attire for temple visits.

    In primarily Muslim countries like Egypt, Jordan, and the UAE, guests should dress respectfully, with women covering shoulders and arms and men wearing collared shirts and lightweight pants.

    Age Restriction
    Dress Code
    Smoking Policy

    Smoking Policy

    Smoking is not permitted inside any AmaWaterways ship. It is only allowed in designated areas located at the aft of the Sun Deck. For the comfort and safety of all guests, we kindly ask that you observe this no-smoking policy while on board.

    Age Restriction
    Dress Code
    Smoking Policy
    Dietary Requirements

    Dietary Requirements

    Please advise your Travel Agent or call us directly to advise if you have any dietary restrictions or allergies prior to embarkation. In most cases, we will do our best to accommodate special dietary requests and food allergies, but with one exception: Kosher. This diet has specific rules regarding food and its preparation and the shipboard environment does have limitations that prevent us from being able to adequately cater to this dietary need. Please note, though we can provide options to accommodate food allergies and sensitivities, we cannot guarantee there will not be any cross-contamination.

    Age Restriction
    Dress Code
    Smoking Policy
    Dietary Requirements
    Limited Mobility

    Limited Mobility

    The ship does not have an elevator, and some areas involve stairs or uneven ground during excursions. While the crew provides assistance, the ship and activities may not suit guests with significant mobility challenges. Guests with limited mobility are encouraged to contact AmaWaterways’ reservations team for guidance before booking.

    Age Restriction
    Dress Code
    Smoking Policy
    Dietary Requirements
    Limited Mobility
    Medical Facilities

    Medical Facilities

    AmaWaterways ships do not have onboard medical facilities or medical staff. In the event that assistance is needed, appropriate medical services can be contacted from shore, though response times may vary depending on the ship’s location. In Europe, medical services can easily be called from shore if required. Response times elsewhere can vary. Guests are strongly encouraged to obtain comprehensive travel insurance that includes coverage for medical treatment and evacuation while overseas.

    Age Restriction
    Dress Code
    Smoking Policy
    Dietary Requirements
    Limited Mobility
    Medical Facilities
    Internet Access

    Internet Access

    Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi is available in your room and in all public areas, making it easy to stay connected, share photos, or check in with loved ones during your journey.

    Age Restriction
    Dress Code
    Smoking Policy
    Dietary Requirements
    Limited Mobility
    Medical Facilities
    Internet Access
    Laundry

    Laundry

    Laundry services are available on all AmaWaterways ships for an additional fee, with price lists provided in your stateroom. Please note that dry cleaning is not available on board.

    Age Restriction
    Dress Code
    Smoking Policy
    Dietary Requirements
    Limited Mobility
    Medical Facilities
    Internet Access
    Laundry
    Excursions

    Excursions

    The ship sails exclusively on the Chobe River along the Botswana–Namibia border, a region famed for its high concentration of elephants and diverse wildlife, complementing AmaWaterways’ Africa safari programs.

    Each itinerary features a variety of guided excursions designed to showcase local culture, history, and cuisine. Choose from gentle walking tours, active hikes or bike rides, and immersive experiences such as wine or beer tastings, cooking classes, and visits to local artisans.

    Age Restriction
    Dress Code
    Smoking Policy
    Dietary Requirements
    Limited Mobility
    Medical Facilities
    Internet Access
    Laundry
    Excursions
    What's Included

    What's Included

    Your journey includes all meals, soft drinks, local beer and wine, daily wildlife excursions, and Wi-Fi where available. Premium beverages, gratuities, and some optional activities may be additional, but the core safari-river experience is included.

    All ships in Europe, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Egypt have a fitness center with exercise equipment (hours vary by ship).

    Every ship also offers a gift shop with accessories, souvenirs, and essential items for your convenience.

    Many ships include spa or salon services—Europe offers hair treatments, beauty services, and massages; Portugal and the AmaDara in Vietnam & Cambodia each feature an onboard spa; and Egypt offers similar massage services upon request.

    Guests can also enjoy refreshing pools across destinations: whirlpools or heated pools in Europe (with saunas on select ships)

    Age Restriction
    Dress Code
    Smoking Policy
    Dietary Requirements
    Limited Mobility
    Medical Facilities
    Internet Access
    Laundry
    Excursions
    What's Included
    Language

    Language

    The official language on board all AmaWaterways ships is English, and most crew members, guides, and Cruise Managers are fluent. Announcements and lectures are conducted in English. On Latin Experience cruises, a bilingual atmosphere is offered, with both English and Spanish spoken.

    Age Restriction
    Dress Code
    Smoking Policy
    Dietary Requirements
    Limited Mobility
    Medical Facilities
    Internet Access
    Laundry
    Excursions
    What's Included
    Language
    Payment Methods

    Payment Methods

    Onboard payments vary by region. In Europe, charges are in euros and may be paid in cash or by credit card. In Vietnam & Cambodia, payments are accepted in Vietnamese dong or U.S. dollars.

    Age Restriction
    Dress Code
    Smoking Policy
    Dietary Requirements
    Limited Mobility
    Medical Facilities
    Internet Access
    Laundry
    Excursions
    What's Included
    Language
    Payment Methods
    Solo Travellers

    Solo Travellers

    We warmly welcome solo travellers who wish to explore the world, meet kindred cruisers and become a part of our extended AmaWaterways family. With a variety of itineraries in fascinating destinations, you have every reason to take advantage of special savings reserved exclusively for solo travellers.

    A Warm Welcome

    Begin your river cruise with a guided ship tour created for solo travelers, offering a friendly introduction that helps you feel comfortable and confident from the very start.

    Social Time, Your Way

    Select invitations to cocktail gatherings or the Captain’s Table offer friendly ways to meet others, but you always have the freedom to enjoy time independently.

    Small Groups, Big Connections

    Our small onshore experience groups make it easier to meet fellow travelers and connect with knowledgeable local guides, creating meaningful opportunities to explore and learn at your own pace.

    Dining That Feels Natural

    Select dining tables are thoughtfully set for five, offering comfortable spaces that encourage easy conversation without the pressure of joining a larger group on your own.

    Care That Feels Personal

    Our Cruise Manager and crew offer thoughtful attention to solo travelers, providing warm guidance and support to ensure you feel comfortable and welcome throughout your journey.

    Single Occupancy Staterooms

    On select European ships like AmaCello, AmaDante, AmaDolce, and AmaLyra, enjoy our Waived Single Supplement. These ships feature a few specially designed single occupancy staterooms with French balconies (140 sq. ft.). Just pay the standard cruise fare, no extra fees. 

    Upper Deck

    Upper Deck

    • Dining Room
    • Lounge
    • Pool Deck
    Upper Deck
    Main Deck

    Main Deck

    • Luxury Suites
    • Category SA Staterooms
    • Category SB Staterooms

    Upper Deck
    Main Deck
    Lower Deck

    Lower Deck

    • Boutique
    • Boarding Area
    • Luxury Suites
    • Category SA Staterooms

    AMAWaterways

    With over two decades of experience on the world’s rivers, our family-owned and operated company has remained focused on what we do best: providing our guests with innovative and unforgettable travel experiences. As recipient of Cruise Critic's coveted "Best River Cruise Line" award, AmaWaterways offers you exciting journeys that are unrivaled on the rivers. Each day brings a genuine smile that warms the heart, every river a new culture that inspires, and each course a moment to savor and share.
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