Discover Africa River Cruise: South Africa & Victoria Falls
This trip is one of our favorite AmaWaterways river cruises in Africa. Cruise the Chobe River and Victoria Falls, plus local touring in beautiful Cape Town!
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 3 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 Botswana and 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 2 nights at the majestic Victoria Falls. There are also countless options for handcrafted pre- and post-cruise touring; ask our Africa specialists for inspiration!
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1
Situated amidst majestic mountains and lined with pristine beaches, Cape Town offers a rich culture and heritage with extraordinary attractions. After being greeted at the airport by an AmaWaterways Representative, enjoy a transfer to the luxurious Cape Grace Hotel. Get to know your tour director and fellow travelers at a welcome reception this evening.
Cape Grace Hotel
Day 2
Embark on a full-day exploration along one of the world’s most stunning driving routes, taking you past the 12 Apostles, Hout Bay, and Chapman’s Peak. Stop at the Cape of Good Hope, first rounded in modern times in 1488 by the Portuguese in their attempt to establish trade in the Far East and still a significant landmark for sailors today. Visit Boulders Beach, home to thousands of African penguins, and then be treated to lunch with drinks overlooking beautiful False Bay.
Cape Grace Hotel
Day 3
You have a choice of two excursions today, depending on your interests. Take a cableway
up to the top of Table Mountain for spectacular views of the city and surrounding areas, followed by a trip to the Cape Winelands. South African wine is world-renowned, and you’ll get to visit two of its best vineyards, complete with wine tasting. A sumptuous lunch will be included along the way.
Or choose to explore another side of Cape Town at famous Robben Island, once used as a prison for many political inmates, including Nelson Mandela. You’ll ferry over to the island, where you will take a tour led by a former inmate. Back in Cape Town, enjoy lunch and afterwards board the cableway to Table Mountain’s summit, followed by a drive through some of the city’s diverse neighborhoods.
Cape Grace Hotel
Day 4
Today marks the beginning of your safari river cruise on the Chobe River—one of the best places in the world to see large herds of elephants! Fly to Kasane, Botswana (via Johannesburg), where you’ll be transferred to the Chobe River, and tender boats will take you to the fabulous Zambezi Queen cruise vessel. Settle into your stateroom and in the evening, enjoy a welcome cocktail reception and dinner.
Zambezi Queen
Day 5
This morning, head out on a thrilling water safari! Venture out by tender boat to get up close and personal with huge herds of elephants, buffalo, lions, crocodiles, zebras, and more that are drawn to the water. You’ll also see a huge variety of birdlife and plant life as you breathe in African air around you.
After your morning activities, enjoy lunch on board while using your unique vantage point to spot wild animals and drink in the expansive views. In the afternoon, enjoy another water-based safari adventure. After a delicious dinner, settle down for a restful and tranquil night in your luxurious suite.
Zambezi Queen
Day 6
Today, join a full-day safari of the world-famous Chobe National Park in open-top 4×4 vehicles. You’ll have the chance to spot wildlife like giraffes, zebras, lions, leopards, and more! For lunch, take a seat under the trees and savor a delicious al fresco picnic. As the sun begins to sink and the animals wake up from their afternoon naps, enjoy another game drive as you make your way back to Chobe River.
Zambezi Queen
Day 7
Visit a typical African village this morning, where you’ll spend time with the village children and elders. Back on board and following lunch, you’ll have a choice to take a boat safari, go birdwatching, or fish for tiger and bream in the river. In the evening, you’re in for a treat. Enjoy a traditional African dinner, served with festive African singing and dancing. You can even join in the festivities if you feel like it!
Zambezi Queen
Day 8
During breakfast, watch for wildlife as you cruise the Chobe River. Later, bid farewell to your friendly boat crew and transfer to Victoria Falls. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon, perhaps indulging in a relaxing spa treatment. In the evening, join a cocktail reception aboard a vintage steam train, followed by a special dinner.
Victoria Falls Hotel
Day 9
Today, a local guide will take you on a tour of Victoria Falls, the world’s largest waterfall and one of the Seven Wonders of the World. In the evening, embark on a private sunset cruise along the Zambezi River, observing a variety of game while enjoying a mix of tapas with drinks.
Victoria Falls Hotel
Day 10
After breakfast, bid adieu to Zimbabwe as you head to Victoria Falls Airport. You have the option to fly home via Johannesburg or extend your journey. Head to East Africa for an entirely different safari experience, or perhaps spend a few nights at a stunning tropical beach resort. Ask our Africa specialists about the best handcrafted touring options for your travel dates!
About this vacation
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