Rivers & Rails of Africa

SAVE $3,200 per couple!

Discover the true magic of Africa on this extraordinary journey, travelling from the vibrant shores of Cape Town all the way to the thundering, mist filled cascades of Victoria Falls. Along the way, be immersed in breathtaking scenery, rich and diverse cultures, world class wines, and awe inspiring wildlife encounters, all set against the backdrop of Africa's dramatic landscapes. Whether exploring by land, cruising along legendary rivers, or travelling in style by rail, each day unfolds as a new chapter in Africa's incredible story.

Choose from either a 3 night or 4 night train journey to suit your travel style, and experience this remarkable continent like never before.

Highlights

• Sail the Chobe River aboard the Zambezi Queen, spending three nights in a balcony suite with boat and land safaris, a riverside village cultural visit, and a festive African themed dinner amid some of Africa's densest wildlife populations.
• Experience the majesty of Victoria Falls, including a scenic stay, a sunset dinner journey aboard a vintage steam train, and a private sundowner cruise along the Zambezi River complete with drinks, music, and game viewing.
• Travel in timeless style aboard the legendary Rovos Rail, journeying from Victoria Falls to Pretoria over two romantic nights with elegant accommodations, all meals and drinks, and guided off train excursions.

Pricing

13 Nights in a Private Balcony (Middle Deck Cat SB)

From 

$29,485*

per person, twin share

Based on 15 November 2027 departure onboard Zambezi Queen

Inclusions

 4 nights deluxe accommodation in an air-conditioned balcony suite

Bottled water replenished daily

Personalised service from a highly trained Cruise Manager during the cruise and a Tour Director during land packages

Game viewing deck with pool

Main Lounge with panoramic views and bar

All onboard dining, including a traditional African dinner

Regionally inspired cuisine

Welcome Dinner

Complimentary wine, beer and local spirits

Chobe National Park safari

Exclusive private picnic in Chobe National Park

Private boat safaris along the Chobe riverbank and its channels

Visit to an African village for a unique cultural interaction

3 nights at the Cape Grace Hotel in Superior Room with a harbor view, including daily breakfast

Welcome Reception with drinks and tapas

Full-day Cape of Good Hope tour and local lunch with drinks

Cableway to the summit of Table Mountain (weather permitting)

Cape Winelands tour including tastings and lunch OR guided visit to Robben Island followed by lunch

2-night stay at the Victoria Falls Hotel in upgraded Stable Wing room, including daily breakfast

Cocktail reception aboard a vintage steam train followed by dinner on the train

Guided tour of Victoria Falls National Park

Exclusive Sundowner Cruise with tapas, followed by dinner

4-nights journey on the Rovos Rail luxury train in an upgraded Deluxe Suite

All meals and drinks

Excursions accompanied by a qualified guide

24-hour full room service and bar facilities

All airport transfers

Itinerary

Day 1 - Cape Town, South Africa

Arrive in captivating Cape Town, a city framed by majestic mountains and endless beaches. Settle into your elegant hotel and meet your fellow travelers at a warm welcome reception as your African adventure begins.

Day 2 - Cape Town, South Africa

Journey along one of the planet’s most scenic routes past the Twelve Apostles and Chapman’s Peak. Stand at the legendary Cape of Good Hope, visit the penguins of Boulders Beach, and enjoy a seaside lunch overlooking shimmering False Bay.

Day 3  -  Cape Town, South Africa

Ride the cableway to the top of Table Mountain for sweeping views before heading into the Cape Winelands to sample South Africa’s finest vintages. Or, choose to visit Robben Island for a powerful look into the nation’s history, followed by lunch and a stroll through colorful Bo Kaap.

Day 4 - Cape Town, South Africa

Fly to Victoria Falls and transfer to the Chobe River, where tender boats take you to the elegant Zambezi Queen. Enjoy your first evening aboard with a cocktail reception and dinner under the African sky. 

Day 5 - Chobe River, Botswana

Start your day with an exciting boat safari, gliding past elephants and hippos in their natural habitat. After lunch, relax on deck or in the splash pool before another sunset safari along the Chobe’s golden waters. 

Day 6 - Chobe National Park, Botswana

Venture deep into Chobe National Park in open-air 4x4 vehicles to spot giraffe, zebra, and herds of elephants. Pause for a picnic lunch beneath the trees before returning to your floating lodge for a tranquil evening.

Day 7 - Chobe River, Botswana

Visit a local village to meet the residents and learn about daily life along the river. Spend your afternoon bird-watching, fishing, or on a final boat safari before celebrating your last night aboard with a vibrant African-themed dinner.

Day 8 - Chobe River, Botswana

Cruise the Chobe one last time before heading to Victoria Falls. Settle into your hotel, then ride a vintage steam train to the Victoria Falls Bridge for sunset cocktails and dinner overlooking the cascading wonder.

Day 9 - Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Take a guided walking tour of the magnificent Falls and learn about the area’s rich ecosystem. In the evening, unwind with a private sunset cruise on the Zambezi River followed by a lively dinner and local entertainment.

Day 10 - Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Enjoy a relaxed morning and home-hosted lunch in Victoria Falls before boarding the Rovos Rail–one of the world’s most luxurious trains. Settle into your suite as the train begins its scenic journey through Zimbabwe. 

Day 11 - Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe

Explore the famed Hwange National Park, home to one of the world’s largest elephant populations. After your safari, savor brunch onboard as the train rolls through central Zimbabwe’s vast, untamed landscapes.

Day 12 - Tropic of Capricorn & Limpopo River, Zimbabwe

Stop to stroll through the rural village of Gwanda, then cross the Limpopo River into South Africa. Take in the ever-changing scenery from your observation car as the African countryside unfolds before you.

Day 13 - Polowane Nature Reserve, South Africa

Cross the Tropic of Capricorn and visit the Polokwane Nature Reserve, home to white rhinos and diverse wildlife. Continue south through the serene bushveld toward your final destination.

Day 14 - Johannesburg, South Africa

Arrive Pretoria Train Station and transfer to Johannesburg for your journey home.

Your Ship - Zambezi Queen

Glide along the legendary Chobe River aboard the intimate, boutique Zambezi Queen, a purpose built 28 guest ship offering an unforgettable safari experience where panoramic views, wildlife at the water's edge, and warm, attentive service come together in perfect harmony. Designed specifically for wildlife viewing, this eco-friendly vessel uses a water jet propulsion system, fuel efficient generators and a solar heating system, drifting quietly along the river so that animals perceive no threat, offering guests once in a lifetime, up close encounters with the region's incredible wildlife. 

Onboard, the ship's 14 staterooms and suites feature floor to ceiling windows and private balconies, providing uninterrupted views of the river and surrounding wildlife, along with climate control and en suite bathrooms that evoke the feel of a boutique lodge on the water. Relax in the open air Sun Deck complete with a plunge pool, unwind in the shaded lounge areas as you scan the riverbanks for elephants, hippos and birdlife, or enjoy panoramic dining in the ship's elegant restaurant, where menus showcase both international favourites and traditional African dishes.

Terms and Conditions

TERMS & CONDITIONS: All rates are per person in NZD, cruise-only, based on double occupancy in an entry level stateroom, and include port charges and gratuities. Rates reflect savings up to $4,000 per stateroom, based on double occupancy; actual savings vary by itinerary and sailing date. Offer is valid on select 2026, 2027, and 2028 Europe, Mekong, Egypt, and Colombia River cruises (excluding Africa). Guests in balcony staterooms (Cat. C/CB–AA; AmaMagna Cat. AB, AA, SB, SA) receive a complimentary one-category upgrade, excluding suites; subject to availability. Cruise Savings and complimentary upgrade or suites onboard credit are combinable with Combination Cruise Savings, Loyalty Benefits, and the Future Cruise Benefit and Referral Programs. Tour Operators are eligible; additional restrictions may apply. Not combinable with other promotions or discounts. Offer is capacity-controlled, subject to availability, and may be changed or withdrawn without notice. Optional land packages, visas, and airfares are additional. AmaWaterways reserves the right to correct errors or omissions. Standard cancellation penalties apply. For full terms and conditions, please visit Amawaterways.com/nz/terms-conditions/booking-sales. Professional service fees apply.