Skip to main content

The Authentic Cruise Company

Banner Image

Golden Trails of East Africa

with AmaWaterways
Oct. 11, 2026 - Oct. 27, 2026
17 days9 ports

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.

  • brand-new ship
  • Cruise
  • Dining
  • https://20bet20.it
  • https://casino-iceland.com/
  • https://slots-gem.at
  • Luxury Cruise
  • Prestige
  • Reservations Now Open
  • Seabourn
  • Seabourn dining
  • SERENITY SUITE
  • Seven Seas Prestige
  • SEVEN SEAS SUI
  • The Prestige Loft S
  • The SkyView Luna

Itinerary

Day 1: Johannesburg
Day 2: Johannesburg
Day 2: Victoria Falls
Day 3: Chobe National Park
Day 4: Chobe National Park
Day 5: Chobe National Park
Day 6: Kasane
Day 6: Victoria Falls
Day 7: Victoria Falls
Day 8: Victoria Falls
Day 9: Johannesburg
Day 10: Johannesburg
Day 11: Arusha
Day 11: Tarangire National Park
Day 12: Tarangire National Park
Day 13: Tarangire National Park
Day 13: Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Day 13: Lake Manyara
Day 14: Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Day 15: Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Day 15: Serengeti National Park
Day 16: Serengeti National Park
Day 17: Serengeti National Park
Day 17: Arusha
Day 1: Johannesburg

Day programme:

ARRIVE IN JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA. After being greeted at the airport by an AmaWaterways Representative, transfer to Fairlawns Hotel.

Day 2: Johannesburg

Day programme:

JOHANNESBURG – KASANE, BOTSWANA – ZAMBEZI QUEEN – EMBARKATION. 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 2: Victoria Falls
Day 3: Chobe National Park

Day programme:

ZAMBEZI QUEEN. Embark on an exhilarating morning boat safari. Return to the Zambezi Queen for lunch. Later in the day, enjoy another thrilling boat safari. (B,L,D)

Day 4: Chobe National Park

Day programme:

ZAMBEZI QUEEN. Join a full-day safari of Chobe National Park in open-top 4×4 vehicles. For lunch, take a seat under the trees and savor a delicious picnic. (B,L,D)

Day 5: Chobe National Park

Day programme:

ZAMBEZI QUEEN. Visit a typical African village spending time with the village children as well as its elders followed by lunch on board. During the afternoon, you can go on a boat safari, bird watch or fish, and then cap the day off with a festive African-themed dinner. (B,L,D)

Day 6: Kasane

Day programme:

ZAMBEZI QUEEN – DISEMBARKATION. Disembark your cruise in Kasane. (B)

Day 6: Victoria Falls
Day 7: Victoria Falls

Day programme:

VICTORIA FALLS. Zambezi River sundowner cruise with drinks and tapas, followed by dinner

Day 8: Victoria Falls

Day programme:

VICTORIA FALLS – JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA. After breakfast, you’ll be taken to the airport for your flight to Johannesburg. Transfer to the Fairlawns Boutique Hotel with its parklike setting and wonderful Spa. (B)

Day 9: Johannesburg

Day programme:

JOHANNESBURG. Take a fascinating tour of Johannesburg and Soweto. Walk in the footsteps of Nelson Mandela, visit Mandela’s former home at Sanctuary Mandela, savoring one of Mandela’s favorite meals cooked by his former at-home chef for lunch. In the evening, enjoy a multi-course dinner. (B,L,D)

Day 10: Johannesburg

Day programme:

JOHANNESBURG – KILIMANJARO, TANZANIA – ARUSHA, TANZANIA. Fly to Kilimanjaro where you will be met by an AmaWaterways Representative and transferred to the Arusha Coffee Lodge. (B,D)

Day 11: Arusha

Day programme:

ARUSHA – TARANGIRE NATIONAL PARK. Journey to Tarangire National Park, where you’ll go on an adventurous safari before checking into Treetops Lodge. (B,L,D)

Day 11: Tarangire National Park
Day 12: Tarangire National Park

Day programme:

TARANGIRE NATIONAL PARK, TANZANIA. Experience the wonders of Tarangire with a full day of activities, including a morning bushwalk, an afternoon safari and a sunset drive. This is home to the highest number of breeding bird species in the world along with thousands of elephants, huge herds of buffalo, stately fringe-eared oryx and the towering kudu. (B,L,D)

Day 13: Tarangire National Park

Day programme:

TARANGIRE – NGORONGORO, TANZANIA. Visit a local village before enjoying a game drive through Manyara National Park, home to tree-climbing lions, giraffes, cheetahs, monkeys, impalas and baboons. Be treated to a picnic en route to The Manor at Ngorongoro. (B,L,D)

Day 13: Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Day 13: Lake Manyara
Day 14: Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Day programme:

NGORONGORO CRATER, TANZANIA. Go on a full-day exploration to the awe-inspiring Ngorongoro Crater. Once a gigantic volcano, it’s the world’s largest intact caldera offering a unique environment virtually unchanged since the dawn of time. The nearly three million years old caldera shelters one of the most beautiful wildlife havens on earth. Deep within the crater, some 25,000 large mammals wander the plains, lakes and forests. A picnic will be served on the crater floor, followed by further exploration before heading back to The Manor. (B,L,D)

Day 15: Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Day programme:

NGORONGORO – SERENGETI, TANZANIA. Fly to the Serengeti and in the afternoon, go on a game drive to see the “Big Five.” (B,L,D)

Day 15: Serengeti National Park
Day 16: Serengeti National Park

Day programme:

SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK, TANZANIA. Explore the vast Serengeti via an open safari cruiser during the morning and after lunch. It is not possible to say with any accuracy where the Great Migration of the Wildebeest will be located at any one time. There are several determining factors; however, one can be assured that if there is a good chance of seeing it, then this can be accomplished from the Pioneer Camp or Migration Camp. (B,L,D)

Day 17: Serengeti National Park

Day programme:

SERENGETI – ARUSHA, TANZANIA. Take your final safari drive in the morning, and then transfer to the airstrip for your flight back to Arusha. Lunch will be served in the gardens of the lodge before your final transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport or extend your journey with four nights in magical Rwanda. (B,L)Note: Please do not schedule your onward flight until after 6:00 p.m.

Day 17: Arusha
Region Banner

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.
    Back To Top
    START NOW

    Get in touch with our team to start planning

    Our team will get back to you to provide you more information.

    Need support now? Call and speak to a member of our team today for more details on +44 (0)1491 528 988 or email info@authenticcruises.co.uk.