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Itinerary
Day programme:
ARRIVE IN JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA. After being greeted at the airport by an AmaWaterways Representative, transfer to Fairlawns Hotel.
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 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 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 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 programme:
ZAMBEZI QUEEN – DISEMBARKATION. Disembark your cruise in Kasane. (B)
Day programme:
VICTORIA FALLS. Zambezi River sundowner cruise with drinks and tapas, followed by dinner
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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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.
Ship features
Luxury Suite
Suite Features
- In-room temperature control and fan
- Spacious en-suite bathrooms
- Large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, toiletries, bathrobes and slippers
- Floor-to-ceiling windows, sliding glass doors and sliding shutters for privacy and protection from the sun
- Outside balcony
- Complimentary Wi-Fi and electronic safe
- Complimentary bottled water replenished daily
Category SA
Stateroom Features
- In-room temperature control and fan
- Deluxe hotel-style bedding and oversized king beds (can also be configured as two single beds)
- Spacious en-suite bathrooms
- Large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, toiletries, bathrobes and slippers
- Floor-to-ceiling windows, sliding glass doors and sliding shutters for privacy and protection from the sun
- Outside balcony
- Complimentary Wi-Fi and electronic safe
- Complimentary bottled water replenished daily
Category SB
Stateroom features include:
- In-room temperature control and fan
- Deluxe hotel-style bedding and oversized king beds (can also be configured as two single beds)
- Spacious en-suite bathrooms
- Large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, toiletries, bathrobes and slippers
- Floor-to-ceiling windows, sliding glass doors and sliding shutters for privacy and protection from the sun
- Outside balcony
- Complimentary Wi-Fi and electronic safe
- Complimentary bottled water replenished daily
Main Restaurant
Situated on the 3rd level, the dining room offers unobstructed views on three sides. Experience delectable dishes such as butternut and macadamia soup and fillet of beef with bordelaise sauce paired with the perfect wine.
Restaurant Features:
- All meals included during the cruise with complimentary wine and beer
- Enjoy delicious cuisine while observing the surrounding wildlife
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.”
Tarangire National Park
Tarangire boasts a variety of wildlife as diverse as its landscape. This picturesque destination is home to all of Tanzania’s most iconic animals, including wildebeest, zebra, gazelle and giraffes.
Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara National Park is one of Africa’s alkaline water lakes, which attracts a vast population of water birds and a wide range of animals. The park is famous for its tree-climbing lions.
Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Often called “Africa’s Eden,” Ngorongoro Crater is the largest intact caldera in the world. An estimated 25,000 large mammals roam through this lush paradise.
Serengeti National Park
The UNESCO-designated Serengeti spans 12,000 square miles and teems with the most magnificent wildlife, offering exciting and unrivaled game-viewing.
Kruger-National-Park
One of Africa’s largest reserves, Kruger stretches through 7,500 square miles in northeastern South Africa, and borders Zimbabwe and Mozambique. With over 270 animal species, there is much to see and experience.
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.
Tintswalo Safari Lodge
Set amidst ancient sycamore trees and nestled along a seasonal river, this luxurious lodge boasts six classic suites (725 sq. ft.). You’ll find both an indoor and outdoor shower, and the deck features a private plunge pool.
Serengeti Migration Camp
The 20 deluxe and spacious elevated tents at Serengeti Migration Camp feature 360-degree verandah decks, creating your very own private sanctuary. This camp has been named one of the world’s “Top 10 Hotels” by “Travel + Leisure.”
Serengeti Pioneer Camp
This wondrous 5-star camp, modeled after the safari retreats of the 1930s, provides an ideal location in a unique area that takes advantage of the early months of the annual migration. The camp comprises ten individually designed luxury tents, complete with en-suite facilities.
Tarangire Treetops
Live a dream staying high above marula and baobab trees at one of the world’s most distinctive lodges. Each elevated, open-fronted room offers panoramic views across the Tarangire plains and boasts large bedrooms and exotic double showers.
The Manor at Ngorongoro
Each of the 20 Manor Cottage suites at this gracious estate features a private deck and courtyard, indoor and outdoor fireplaces, a Victorian-style claw-footed bath and a rainfall shower.
Authentic Experiences
National Park Safaris
From massive herds of impala to lounging lions, the diversity of this region sets it apart from any other location in the world and allows for exhilarating encounters with the mighty animal kingdom.
Bird Watching and Fishing
Hook a tiger fish, or one of the many bream species. Prefer bird watching? Since the Chobe River is home to more than 450 species, you’ll be able to spot a host of birds.
Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda
Discover Rwanda’s natural wonders and wildlife on an epic adventure with the magnificent Mountain Gorillas, a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience to see the gorillas in the mist.
African Village Visit
During your cruise along the Chobe River, you will visit one of the villages along its banks and meet the wonderful residents there. Many guests wish to give back after visiting the village. If you’d like to coordinate a donation to any African village, please contact us at giveback@amawaterways.com.
Boma Dinner
BOMA (British Officers Mess Area) is a circular-shaped gathering point, normally with a fire pit, where people gather to cook, eat, sing and socialize.
Rovos Rail
When wood-paneled coaches and world-class staff greeted adventurers ready to be whisked off on the safari of their dreams…
Wishing you could harken back to this golden age of African rail safari? Where you could roll through the countryside aboard a locomotive, taking in the impressive wildlife and rugged landscape of Africa? Don’t let this bygone era pass you by! You too can enjoy the romantic and nostalgic atmosphere for yourself as you board a luxurious Rovos Rail vintage train and travel through the heart of some of Africa’s most vividly captivating sights on our Rivers & Rails of Africa itinerary.
The Distinguished Way to Travel
Traveling via train was once the most distinguished way to travel. It was glamorous, chic, and posh. Trains were dazzling works of art and the subjects of Agatha Christie novels. Travelers would dress in their absolute finest and delight in the utter luxury of taking one’s time—after all, life is about more than just the destination.
Since its establishment in 1989, Rovos Rail has earned an international reputation for its truly world-class travel experiences. Five-star cuisine, excellent South African wines, and extraordinary views await our explorers when traveling in turn-of-the twentieth-century style throughout this 995-mile route.
Safari in Luxury
Your trip aboard Rovos Rail will start with a sendoff at the colonial-era rail station in Victoria Falls. From there, wind your way through the timeless beauty of the African bush – where you may spot various herds of wildlife roaming or galloping by. As you travel to your next destination, you can relax in the train’s glamorous lounges, which feature plush seating and picture windows. You will also enjoy your meals in the exquisite Victorian dining room, where crisp linen and polished silver are paired with elegant cuisine and fine wines. Dressing up for dinner is all part of the fun here – with cocktail attire for ladies and jackets and ties for gentlemen.
Watching the World Go By
After your visit to Zimbabwe’s Hwange Game Reserve, you will continue towards the metropolitan city of Pretoria, where you will be met by lush mauve blossoms and Jacaranda trees lining streets – and possibly even a flock of preening peacocks that congregate nearby. Through it all, you’ll be able to watch the world roll by at the pace of a time gone by – but with some modern amenities and considerations, such as air-conditioned suites and lounges. There are no radios or television sets on board to preserve the authenticity of travel at the turn of the century, but travelers may use laptops or mobile devices within the privacy of their own suite.
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.
Rooibos Tea
For the tea connoisseur, pick up some fresh rooibos tea, “red tea”, that can only grow in the Cederberg region of the Western Cape. It’s well-known for its antioxidant properties and had a mild, earthy flavor.
Zulu Shield
Take a piece of Africa home with you with a traditional Zulu shield (sizes range from small decorative to large life-size). With intricate beadwork, Zulu Shields are beautiful in both color and craftsmanship.
Lounge & Bar
With panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows throughout the boat, everywhere you go you can take advantage of magnificent wildlife viewing.
Bar includes local & imported spirits, wine and beers
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.
Gift Shop
The onboard boutique offers a variety of souvenirs for purchase.
Local Entertainment
One of the most enriching ways to discover Africa is through its spirited dance, as well as its music, which varies throughout the continent. While cruising, be treated to an African-themed dinner, combining the traditional food, music and dance of the Chobe River region.
Plunge Pool
Take a cooling dip and feel refreshed while watching the passing scenery and wildlife upon the Chobe River.
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
All guests under the age of 18 are to be in a stateroom with an adult and must remain supervised at all times; their safety is the responsibility of the accompanying adult(s). In the case where a triple or quad occupancy stateroom is not available or not selected, children under the age of 10 at the time of embarkation may share a stateroom with two adults only in circumstances where the child is able to share the bed with the adults – no additional bed will be provided. Please be aware that balcony staterooms of any kind may be unsafe for minors if left unsupervised. There is a minimum age limit of 4 years old, unless otherwise agreed upon by AmaWaterways.
On our Africa Safaris & Wildlife Cruise program, due to safety precautions, there is a minimum age limit of 12 years old, unless otherwise agreed upon by AmaWaterways.
AmaWaterways does not provide child-specific programs or child-minding facilities. Please reach out to us if you have any further questions regarding our child policy.
Dress Code
Comfortable, layered clothing adaptable to changing weather conditions is always advisable for daytime excursions. For the evening, “Casually elegant” attire is recommend and you may want to pack something a little dressier for the Captain’s night/Farewell Dinner – similar to how one would dress to dine at a 5-star restaurant. Comfortable shoes are recommended for excursions and workout clothing if you plan to take part in any wellness activities, active tours or use the onboard gym. Depending on the time of year, clothing that can be layered is highly recommended.
Smoking Policy
Smoking is forbidden on all internal areas on the Zambezi Queen. Smoking is only permitted on the outside area of the entertainment deck.
Dietary Requirements
Please let us know prior to your departure if you have any special dietary requirements (e.g. vegan, diabetic, gluten-free, etc.). We will make every effort to accommodate your requests, with the resources available to us.
Disabled Facilities
Physical Requirements
AmaWaterways’ itineraries are as varied and active as you want them to be. Shore excursions and land packages require a moderate-to-challenging amount of walking and sites may have steps and/or uneven terrain. The embarkation/disembarkation points between ship and shore may not be able to accommodate guests with mobility issues.
Due to uneven terrain, cobblestones, stairs, temples, dirt roads and a lack of accessible facilities, our itineraries are not recommended for guests with limited mobility requiring the use of mobility aids like wheelchairs, scooters or any other mechanical devices. We kindly request guests requiring special assistance be accompanied by a companion who is physically able to provide such assistance, as AmaWaterways crew is unable to assist guests with personal tasks or hygiene needs. If there is uncertainty of a prospective guest’s fitness to travel or ability to independently care for their personal needs, please inform AmaWaterways as soon as possible. This will allow us to consider and discuss possible accommodations to ensure your safety and comfort during the cruise.
Throughout your river cruise it is likely the ship will be docked next to one or two other river ships. It is important to note that in these cases, disembarkation/embarkation may include walking up the stairs and through the adjacent ship(s) lobby or Sun Deck to reach the shore. You may also need to embark or disembark via a narrow gangway or occasionally cross an uneven surface to enter or exit the ship. These are typical situations that are beyond the control of AmaWaterways.
Accessible Facilities
Due to lack of space and facilities, shipboard accommodations and storage for mobility aids like wheelchairs, scooters or any other mechanical devices are unavailable and accessible facilities are extremely limited in most destinations. In addition, motorcoaches, boats and minibuses used for transfers and shore excursions are not equipped with the devices and tools necessary for full accessibility.
Mobility Devices
Guests may bring personal mobility devices (wheelchairs, electric scooters and walking frames) onboard our ships. However, devices must be stored in the guest’s stateroom and cannot be used in the dining room or lounge and must adhere to local standards and limitations. AmaWaterways Cruise Directors, crew and guides are unable to push wheelchairs on board or on shore.
Transfers and shore excursions adhere to a set schedule and cannot be adjusted for unexpected delays due to physical limitations. AmaWaterways and its affiliates are not responsible for any denial of services by airline carriers, cruise vessels, hotels, motorcoaches, local guides/operators or other independent suppliers.
Medical Facilities
There is no doctor or nurse aboard your cruise. Please consult your physician prior to traveling if you have a medical condition that might pose limitations during your trip. Please advise us at time of the booking if you have any medical conditions requiring special attention during your trip.
Internet and Wi-Fi Access
Free Wi Fi is available but may be limited and sporadic during certain times of the day due to the ships isolated location.
Laundry
Laundry services are available on board for a fee. Price lists are available in your stateroom. Please note that clothes cannot be dry cleaned on board.
Excursions
Africa Cruise & Land Safari: All excursions are included.
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
- If traveling on Rovos Rail, men must wear a jacket and tie, and women a cocktail dress or pantsuit at dinner each night on the train
Upper Deck
- (1) Dining Room
- (2) Lounge & Bar
- (3) Pool Deck
Middle Deck
- Master Suites
- Category SA Staterooms
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Category SB Staterooms
Lower Deck
- (4) Gift Shop & Cruise Manager’s Desk
- (5) Boarding Area
- Master Suites
- Category SA Staterooms
Get in touch with our team to start planning
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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.