AmaWaterways adds Four New Africa Itineraries Debuting in 2026

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New itineraries will spotlight Kenya, Zanzibar, Namibia and the Skeleton Coast, joining AmaWaterways’ signature Chobe River cruise and Victoria Falls experience in an expanded lineup of African journeys.

AmaWaterways has unveiled a significant expansion of its Africa Safaris & Wildlife Cruise portfolio, announcing four new itineraries set to launch in August 2026. The enhanced program is designed to showcase the continent’s extraordinary natural and cultural diversity, pairing a three-night luxury cruise on the 24-guest Zambezi Queen along the Chobe River with in-depth land experiences.

In addition to time at Victoria Falls, the new offerings introduce a range of destinations not previously featured in the collection, including Kenya, Namibia, Zanzibar and the dramatic Skeleton Coast. The expanded lineup aims to provide travellers with a richer, more varied exploration of Africa’s landscapes and wildlife, while maintaining the high-end comfort and personalised service for which AmaWaterways is known.

Each new itinerary blends exceptional wildlife viewing with opportunities to experience the region’s rich culture, cuisine and landscapes. Ranging from 9 to 18 nights, the new journeys include From the Cape to the Falls, Iconic Africa, Classic Kenya & Southern Africa and African Wonders & the Skeleton Coast.

“Our Africa program is very meaningful to me, as it was one of the first cruises I experienced with AmaWaterways after becoming CEO and it truly left an unforgettable impression,” said Catherine Powell, CEO of AmaWaterways. “We’re thrilled to offer even more opportunities for our guests to experience the trip of a lifetime - seeing wildlife right on the riverbanks, connecting with amazing people, and exploring the rich cultures and landscapes that make this region so special. Our guests can now explore even more of Southern and Eastern Africa in comfort and style, while supporting local communities through sustainable tourism.”

Among the highlights:

• From the Cape to the Falls (9 or 11 nights): A journey from Cape Town to Victoria Falls featuring penguin encounters at Boulders Beach, multiple river and land safaris, and an optional two-night Johannesburg extension.
• Iconic Africa (14 nights): Featuring Cape Town, Victoria Falls and a three-night stay in Greater Kruger National Park, home to the “Big Five.”
• Classic Kenya & Southern Africa (14 or 18 nights): A cross-regional experience combining the Chobe River and Victoria Falls with Kenya’s Amboseli and Maasai Mara reserves and an optional Zanzibar extension.
• African Wonders & the Skeleton Coast (15 nights): Showcasing the landscapes of Namibia, including NamibRand Nature Reserve, Etosha National Park, and the dramatic Skeleton Coast.

These new itineraries, available for 2026 and 2027 departures, were created for travellers seeking an authentic and enriching African experience beyond its iconic wildlife, combining boutique accommodations, expert local guides, and AmaWaterways’ signature personalised service.

At the heart of each journey is the intimate 28-passenger Zambezi Queen, designed for up-close wildlife viewing along Africa’s legendary Chobe River. Eco-friendly and thoughtfully crafted, she features a solar heating system, low-emission generators, and water jet propulsion. Guests enjoy private balcony suites with unobstructed river views, an open-air Sun Deck with plunge pool, and complimentary South African wines, beer, spirits, and soft drinks throughout the day.

For more information or to reserve an AmaWaterways river cruise and land package, contact AmaWaterways on 1800 867 126 (AU) or 0800 005 636 (NZ) or visit amawaterways.au or amawaterways.nz.

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