16 Day AmaWaterways River Cruise from Johannesburg to Chobe River 2026

Day 1 Chobe River

After landing, an AmaWaterways Representative will greet you and assist with your transfer to the Fairlawns Hotel in Johannesburg. Settle in and enjoy some time to relax before your journey begins.

Day 2 Chobe River

Embark on an exhilarating morning boat safari to explore the Chobe River’s diverse game viewing. Afterwards, return to the Zambezi Queen for lunch. As the Zambezi Queen cruises along the Chobe River, relax on board in the afternoon and enjoy what nature has to offer. Be sure to spend time in the splash pool or perhaps catch-up with your favorite book. Later in the day, revel in panoramic view with another thrilling boat safari. (B,L,D)

Day 3 Chobe River

Join a full-day safari of Chobe National Park in open-top 4x4 vehicles. Be on the lookout for elephants, giraffe, zebra, sable, warthog and cape buffaloes. Prides of lions, hyenas and (more rarely) cheetahs could be encountered along the way. For lunch, take a seat under the trees and savor a delicious picnic. (B,L,D)

Day 4 Chobe River

Start the day off with an unforgettable visit to a typical African village to experience the local culture first hand. 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 with a festive African-themed dinner hosted by your crew—complete with singing and dancing. (B,L,D)

Day 5 Chobe River

This morning, disembark your cruise in Kasane. (B)

Day 6 Chobe River

Join your guide for a walking tour of Victoria Falls, learning about its history and the rich plant and animal life that thrives in the surrounding rainforest.

Day 7 Chobe River

Take a guided walk across the Victoria Falls Bridge, explore the Zambia side of the Falls, and visit the historic town of Livingstone.

Day 8 Chobe River

Transfer to Victoria Falls Airport and fly to Windhoek, the capital city of Namibia. The influence of the German colonial period can still be seen today in architecture, street names and cuisine. On arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel.

Day 9 Chobe River

Meet your local guide for breakfast at your hotel where they will brief you on your upcoming adventure, as well as answer any questions.

Day 10 Chobe River

Join an excursion to Namib-Naukluft National Park at sunrise to see the towering dunes—some of the highest free­standing sand dunes in the world—while the light is soft. Explore the areas around Sossusvlei and Deadvlei before returning to the lodge.

Day 11 Chobe River

Bid farewell to NamibRand and travel northwest through the desert landscapes of Namib-Naukluft National Park. Along the way, take in striking vistas, including the impressive Gaub and Kuiseb Canyons.

Day 12 Chobe River

Set out on a catamaran cruise to discover the vibrant marine life off the coast. Keep watch for seals, dolphins, and—depending on the season—Southern Right and Humpback whales.

Day 13 Chobe River

After breakfast, transfer to Swakopmund Airport for your flight to Etosha. Arrive at your secluded lodge overlooking the savannah.

Day 14 Chobe River

Begin the day with an exciting wildlife safari into the heart of Etosha National Park to seek out more of its remarkable animal and bird species.

Day 15 Chobe River

Drive east through magnificent Namibian landscapes and stop in Outjo to visit the Himba Living Museum. The Himbas are an Indigenous semi­nomadic people who adhere to their ancestors’ way of life and traditions. Connect with the community as they go about their daily routines and learn about their traditions, including the distinctive red ochre paste applied to their hair and skin.

Day 16 Chobe River

Join your scheduled transfer to Windhoek Airport for your onward flight. Note: Hotel check-out time is 10:00 a.m.