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African Wonders & the Skeleton Coast Cruise Land

From Johannesburg, South Africa to Windhoek, Namibia
Length: 16 Days - Departs: Thu, Oct 15, 2026
Operator
Departure
Oct 15, 2026
Arrival
Oct 30, 2026

Please see below brochure cabin pricing

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All the River Operators Offers & More:

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Exclusive Limited Time Only, Extra 5% Off + Reduced Deposits

Mention Promo Code: PT3607
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Exclusive Limited Time Only, Extra 5% Off + Reduced Deposits

Exclusive Limited Time Only, Extra 5% Off + Reduced Deposits

Promotion Details
Book with us and receive an additional 5% off + $200 per person reduced deposit.
Must Book By Sun, Nov 30, 2025
View Promotion Terms & Conditions ›

A USD $200 per person deposit is required. Loyalty Savings will apply as follows: USD$100 / C$120 / £70 / €80 per person. Additional deposit required for Africa and Egypt reservations upon booking confirmation. The Future Cruise Benefit savings of 5% is based on the per person cruise fare , excluding port charges and intra-air (if applicable) and is determined after all applicable promotions, savings and Future Cruise Credits (if applicable) have been applied. All savings are applicable to new reservations only and do not apply to any existing reservation. The Future Cruise Benefit savings of 5% is applicable to new FIT and Group reservations, and is not applicable to 2-for-1 deals (50% off deals), FAMs, interline, part/full charter or special-fare bookings. Future Cruise Benefit reservations are subject to the normal terms and conditions of our Passenger Ticket Contract.

Save $250 per Active or Retired Military Member

Mention Promo Code: PT2711
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Save $250 per Active or Retired Military Member

Save $250 per Active or Retired Military Member

Promotion Details
Save $250 per active or retired military member or veterans on any of our river cruises, excluding Africa Safaris & Wildlife Cruises or receive 2-For-1 cruise fares on select 2025 river cruises (ask your Travel Consultant for applicable dates.)
Must Book By Wed, Dec 31, 2025
View Promotion Terms & Conditions ›

Military offers are only applicable to active or retired military or veterans with valid military ID or discharge certificate, and only applies to new FIT and Group reservations. Military $250 Discount is per eligible person, applicable to cruise only; and is combinable with other promotions and discounts available at the time of booking. Military 2-for-1 Cruise Savings is only valid on select sailings and based on double occupancy; and is not combinable with any other promotions. 2-for-1 Cruise Savings applies to the cruise fare only, excluding port charges. Military 10% Single Supplement is applicable to solo travelers in lieu of 2-for-1 Cruise Savings; and is not combinable with any other promotions. Offers are limited to availability, capacity controlled and subject to change or termination without notice. Stateroom upgrades, optional land programs, airfares and gratuities are additional.


River Cruise Itinerary

Add 3 Nights Cape Town Pre-cruise (In lieu of Johannesburg) Add 4 Nights Rwanda Post-cruise <div class="col-sm-6" styl

  1. Day 1
    Thu, Oct 15, 2026
    ARRIVE IN JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA. n 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.
  2. Day 2
    Fri, Oct 16, 2026
    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)
  3. Day 3
    Sat, Oct 17, 2026
    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)
  4. Day 4
    Sun, Oct 18, 2026
    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)
  5. Day 5
    Mon, Oct 19, 2026
    ZAMBEZI QUEEN ''' DISEMBARKATION ''' VICTORIA FALLS, ZIMBABWE. Disembark and join a wildlife safari of Chobe National Park in open-top 4x4 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)
  6. Day 6
    Tue, Oct 20, 2026
    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)
  7. Day 7
    Wed, Oct 21, 2026
    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)
  8. Day 8
    Thu, Oct 22, 2026
    FLY TO WINDHOEK, NAMIBIA. Transfer to Victoria Falls Airport and fly to Windhoek. On arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Windhoek, translated from the Afrikaans language to mean '''Wind Corner,''' is Namibia'''s capital and largest city. The influence of the German colonial period can still be seen today in architecture, street names and cuisine. This evening, your local guide will meet you for dinner at your hotel and brief you on your upcoming adventure, as well as answer any questions. (B,D)
  9. Day 9
    Fri, Oct 23, 2026
    WINDHOEK ''' NAMIBRAND RESERVE. This morning, depart from Windhoek, driving southwest through the scenic Khomas Hochland Highlands before heading down the Great Escarpment into the Namib Desert below. Enjoy a picnic lunch along the way. At more than 825 sq miles (2,150 square km), the NamibRand Nature Reserve is one of the largest reserves in southern Africa. Established in the 1980s when Albi Bruckner integrated several livestock farms into a protected wilderness area, the reserve now stands as a model of conservation success. Here, you will check in at Kwessi Lodge, with its stunning desert and red dune views. Following check-in, be treated to a shared sundowner nature drive within the NamibRand Nature Reserve. (B,L,D)
  10. Day 10
    Sat, Oct 24, 2026
    NAMIBRAND RESERVE. Early risers can join an excursion into the Namib Naukluft National Park, entering the park gates at sunrise to capture the dunes while the light is soft, and the shadows accentuate their towering shapes and curves. This area boasts some of the highest free-standing sand dunes in the world. Once you have explored the areas around Sossusvlei and Deadvlei, return to your lodge in the early afternoon for lunch. Enjoy the rest of the afternoon at your leisure, either relaxing in your luxurious accommodation or participating in a variety of guided activities such as biking, scenic drives and walks. (B,L,D)
  11. Day 11
    Sun, Oct 25, 2026
    NAMIBRAND RESERVE ''' SWAKOPMUND. Bid farewell to the reserve and continue northwest through the ever-changing desert landscapes of the Namib Naukluft National Park, including the impressive Gaub and Kuiseb canyons. You will reach the Atlantic coast at the port town of Walvis Bay, once a whaling station and major stopover point in the 18th century for sea travel between South Africa and the Netherlands. Continue north to the seaside town of Swakopmund, where you will stay for the next two nights. You will have time this afternoon to explore the town center and wander along the waterfront before enjoying dinner at a favorite local seafood restaurant. (B,L,D)
  12. Day 12
    Mon, Oct 26, 2026
    SWAKOPMUND. This morning, join a catamaran cruise, where you may be able to see the aquatic mammals that thrive off the coast of Swakopmund, including seals, dolphins, and'''between mid-summer and fall'''Southern Right and Humpback Whales. The afternoon is at your leisure, and your AmaWaterways guide will have suggestions on what to see and do. (B,L,D)
  13. Day 13
    Tue, Oct 27, 2026
    SWAKOPMUND ''' ETOSHA. After breakfast, transfer to Swakopmund Airport and fly to Etosha, where you will arrive at your secluded lodge with lovely savannah views. If time allows, you may join a guided game drive within the renowned Etosha National Park. Be on the lookout for elephants, lions, springbok, zebras and the elusive black rhino. (B,L,D)
  14. Day 14
    Wed, Oct 28, 2026
    ETOSHA. Start the day with an exciting game drive into the heart of Etosha National Park to see more of the region'''s game and bird species. After lunch, enjoy ample free time where you can take a dip in the refreshing infinity pool and keep an eye out for wildlife at the neighboring watering holes. Later, join an afternoon game drive. You may also opt to spend the entire day exploring the National Park and its wildlife, with a picnic lunch included. (B,L,D)
  15. Day 15
    Thu, Oct 29, 2026
    ETOSHA ''' WINDHOEK. This morning, head east through the magnificent Namibian landscapes and villages. Along the route, you will stop in Outju and visit the Himba Living Museum. The Himbas are an Indigenous semi-nomadic people who adhere to their ancestors''' way of life and traditions. Connect with the villagers as they continue with their daily routines and learn about the unique distinctive red ochre paste they apply to their skin and hair. Following this experience, continue onward to Windhoek. The day concludes with a farewell dinner with your local AmaWaterways guide. (B,L,D)
  16. Day 16
    Fri, Oct 30, 2026
    DEPART WINDHOEK. Join your scheduled transfer to Windhoek'''s airport for your onward flight. Please be mindful that your check-out time is at 10:00am. (B)

Countries Visited

Botswana, South Africa, Zimbabwe

Rivers Visited

Chobe

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Inclusions

  • JOANNESBURG
  • Arrival and departure airport transfer
  • 1 night at your Johannesburg hotel in a Chateau Suite, including daily breakfast and complimentary Wi-Fi
  • Services of a local AmaWaterways Host
  • ZAMBEZI QUEEN WILDLIFE & SAFARI CRUISE
  • 3 nights''' accommodation in a balcony suite
  • Welcome Cocktail Reception and Dinner
  • All meals included during the cruise with complimentary wine, beer and local spirits
  • Boat safaris along the Chobe riverbank
  • Visit to a Chobe River village for a cultural interaction with the community
  • Special African-themed dinner
  • Land safari with lunch in Chobe National Park
  • VICTORIA FALLS
  • 3-night stay at the Victoria Falls Hotel in a deluxe room, including daily breakfast and complimentary Wi-Fi
  • Guided tour of Victoria Falls National Park
  • Sundowner cruise on the Zambezi River with drinks and tapas
  • Visit to Zambia side of Victoria Falls including Livingstone
  • Evening rhino spotting safari followed by a bush dinner
  • NAMIBIA
  • 8 nights at 4- and 5-star accommodation from tented camps, hotels and lodges, including all meals from Day 9 through Day 16, and complimentary Wi-Fi
  • AmaWaterways safari guide throughout
  • Air-conditioned safari vehicle with onboard fridge, water and pop-top roof
  • Visit some of the world'''s highest free-standing dunes at Sossusvlei
  • Visit the Skeleton Coast including wildlife cruise aboard a catamaran
  • Fly Swakopmund to Etosha National Park over Damaraland with its red landscapes and stunning rock formations
  • Morning and afternoon game drives in Etosha National Park
  • Visit the Indigenous Himba Living Museum
  • Land Package
  • 1 night at the Fairlawns Boutique Hotel, including daily breakfast
  • 2-night stay at the Victoria Falls Hotel in an 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
  • Complimentary beer, wine and local spirits at game lodges
  • Exclusive Sundowner Cruise with tapas, followed by dinner
  • 2 nights at Fairlawns Boutique Hotel, including daily breakfast
  • Special dinner and presentation
  • Soweto tour with local lunch
  • 1 night at Arusha Coffee Lodge
  • 2 nights at Tarangire Treetops
  • 2 nights at The Manor at Ngorongoro
  • 2 nights at Serengeti Migration Camp or Serengeti Pioneer Camp
  • Daily game drives with no more than 6 guests per vehicle
  • Day room in Arusha
  • All airport transfers

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Ship Information

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Cabins

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Life on Board

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Questions & Answers
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Question: Will the day-by-day itinerary change?

Yes, the river cruise itineraries may change due to reasons such as inclement weather or unforeseen events. Your safety is the number one concern aboard and all precautions necessary will be taken in order to ensure passenger safety, including changing itineraries. Please note that when itineraries do change, the ship staff will do their best to substitute any missed port with an alternative destination.

Question: In what language is the river cruise conducted?

The river cruise will be conducted in English only.

Customer Reviews

Overall Rating
4.2
Accommodations
4.7
Itinerary
4.3
Professional Staff
4
Repeat with Operator
4
Value for Money
4

Ratings based off 6 reviews - currently showing 2 reviews with comments only

All of the trip leaders were extremely friendly and knowledgeable about the areas and animals. I'd like to give a shout out to Beverly, Dalia, Frank, Derrick, and the two best drivers Emmanuel, and God bless.

This was the most incredible life experiences! The AmaWaterways Cruise - African Wildlife and Falls exceeded all expectations. The Zambezi Queen cruising on the Chobe River in Namibia with side land safari in Botswana allowed you to see wildlife in their natural habitat and to experience a true African village and understand their lifestyle. The Water Safaris [5] lead by Francis viewed elephants, baboons, crocodiles, hippos, cape buffaloes and others up close. The staff led by Bernard was always there - friendly, helpful and proud of Namibia. The food was outstanding - gourmet quality comparable to first class restaurants anywhere. The Land Safari into Chobe National Park was also excellent viewing elephants really upclose - 5 feet or so. Our next visit was to Victoria Falls, standing at the grand hotel Victoria Falls Hotel. There room was vintage and modern 1920â??s; the food again was outstanding. Two experiences stood out: [1] the visit to the Falls - massive and magnificent and [2] the steam engine ride to Zambia. Then, we visited Jo-burg - an ok experience. Finally, we were off to the Makanyi Lodge and Game Reserve - a totally incredible and peak experience. The Lodge has seven cabins- 2.500 sq.ft. - with living room, bedroom and massive bath including outdoor shower. The food was 5 star, including Kudu tenderloin. During our five safaris, we experiences lions, giraffes, zebras, hippos, cape buffaloes, rhinos - black and white, hyenas, and sunsets.

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AffordableTours.com is a travel agent for AmaWaterways. Brochure Price is based on the itinerary's highest brochure price. Our price reflects our base price for the same departure as Brochure Price. All prices, itineraries, accommodations and dates are subject to change without notice and at any time. All prices are USD per person and based on double occupancy. Availability is limited and must be reconfirmed at time of booking. All prices change frequently and our website prices are not guaranteed until a deposit has been received by us. The prices on our website are intended to serve as a guide only and may not accurately reflect current prices. We are not responsible for errors, omissions, or changes in these prices until a booking has been confirmed by one of our agents. Please call us toll free at 1-800-342-0019 to confirm current prices and availability. Prices listed are per person, cruise only, and based on double occupancy.

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