AmaWaterways Expands Its Africa Collection With Four New Itineraries Debuting in 2026

New journeys showcase Kenya, Zanzibar, Namibia and the Skeleton Coast alongside AmaWaterways’ signature Chobe River cruise and Victoria Falls experience

  

CALABASAS, CA, November 17, 2025 – AmaWaterways today announced a major expansion of its popular Africa Safaris & Wildlife Cruise program, introducing four new itineraries beginning August 2026. Designed to highlight the continent’s remarkable diversity, these new journeys combine a luxurious three-night Chobe River cruise aboard the intimate 24-passenger Zambezi Queen with immersive land programs featuring Victoria Falls and newly added destinations such as Kenya, Namibia, Zanzibar and the Skeleton Coast.

 

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 travelers seeking an authentic and enriching African experience beyond its iconic wildlife, combining boutique accommodations, expert local guides, and AmaWaterways’ signature personalized 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 your preferred Travel Advisor, call 1.800.626.0126, or visit AmaWaterways.com.

 

About AmaWaterways

Founded in 2002 by pioneering river cruise executives Rudi Schreiner, Kristin Karst and Jimmy Murphy, AmaWaterways offers unparalleled river cruise experiences with 31 custom-designed ships sailing Europe’s major rivers; Southeast Asia’s Mekong River; Africa’s Chobe River; Egypt’s Nile River and Colombia’s Magdalena River (2025). The company was recently voted “Best River Cruise Line” by the world’s leading cruise reviews site Cruise Critic, and is renowned for its warm and welcoming crew; innovative and sustainable ship design; wellness activities (including a wide choice of included small group shore excursions featuring biking and hiking options); and award-winning, locally sourced cuisine paired with complimentary fine wine. Modern, spacious, and tastefully decorated, most AmaWaterways ships welcome an average of just 150 guests and feature onboard amenities such as a stunning Main Lounge, specialty Chef’s Table restaurant, hair and massage salons, Sun Deck walking track and heated outdoor swimming pools with swim-up bars. AmaWaterways leads the river cruise industry in innovation, highlighted by the launch of the revolutionary AmaMagna. The company also offers a variety of themed sailings and brand relationships, with sailings geared towards active travelers and families, as well as group and charter options. https://www.amawaterways.com