AmaWaterways has announced a significant expansion of its Africa Safaris & Wildlife cruise program, with 4 new itineraries scheduled to commence in August 2026. The enhanced portfolio is designed to present a broader scope of the continent's natural and cultural diversity. Each journey combines a 3-night luxury river cruise aboard the 24-guest Zambezi Queen on the Chobe River with comprehensive land-based safaris.
The new itineraries, which range from nine to eighteen nights, introduce destinations previously absent from the line's collection, including Kenya, Namibia, Zanzibar, and Namibia's Skeleton Coast. The company's CEO, Catherine Powell, reflected that the Africa program was among the first she experienced upon becoming CEO and left a lasting impression. She stated that the expansion is intended to provide guests with further opportunities to experience wildlife, connect with local cultures, and explore landscapes, all within a framework of comfortable, sustainable tourism.
The new offerings include a journey from Cape Town to Victoria Falls; an itinerary featuring Cape Town, Victoria Falls, and an extended stay in Greater Kruger National Park; a cross-regional experience combining Southern Africa with Kenya's renowned reserves; and a journey focused on the landscapes of Namibia. These itineraries are structured to blend wildlife viewing with cultural exposure, utilizing boutique accommodations and local guides.
Central to these journeys is the Zambezi Queen, a 28-passenger vessel designed specifically for wildlife observation on the Chobe River. The ship incorporates several eco-friendly technologies, including a solar heating system and water jet propulsion. It features private balcony suites, an open-air Sun Deck with a plunge pool, and includes a selection of complimentary beverages.