Stars of South Africa Vacation & River Cruise from $13,995

River Cruise Team > AMA Waterways > Stars of South Africa Vacation & River Cruise from $13,995

Embark on a full-day exploration along one of the world’s most stunning routes, taking you past the 12 Apostles, Hout Bay and Chapman’s Peak. Stop at the Cape of Good Hope, first rounded in modern times in 1488 by the Portuguese in their attempt to establish trade in the Far East and still a significant landmark for sailors today. Visit Boulders Beach, home to thousands of African penguins, and then be treated to lunch with drinks overlooking beautiful False Bay. (B,L)

Take a cableway up to Table Mountain followed by a trip to the Cape Winelands where you’ll visit two of its best vineyards, complete with wine tasting. A delicious lunch will be included along the way. You also have the choice to explore another side of Cape Town at famous Robben Island, once used as a prison for many political inmates, including Nelson Mandela. Ferry over to the island where you will take a tour led by a former inmate. Back in Cape Town, enjoy lunch and afterwards board the cableway to Table Mountain’s summit, followed by a drive through some of the city’s diverse neighborhoods. (B,L)

Fly to Kasane, Botswana (via Johannesburg), where you’ll be transferred to the Chobe River. Tender boats will take you to the Zambezi Queen moored on the Namibia side of the river. Settle into your stateroom and in the evening, enjoy a Welcome Cocktail Reception and Dinner. (B,D)

Embark on an exhilarating morning boat safari. Return to the Zambezi Queen for lunch. Later in the day, enjoy another thrilling boat safari. (B,L,D)

Join a full-day safari of Chobe National Park in open-top 4×4 vehicles. For lunch, take a seat under the trees and savor a delicious picnic. (B,L,D)

Visit a typical African village where you’ll spend time with the village children as well as its elders. Back on board and following lunch, you’ll have a choice to take a boat safari, bird watch or fish. Enjoy your last evening aboard with a festive African- themed dinner hosted by your crew. (B,L,D)

During breakfast, watch for wildlife as you cruise the Chobe River. Later, transfer to Victoria Falls. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon and in the evening, join a cocktail reception aboard a vintage steam train. (B)

A local guide will take you on a tour of Victoria Falls. In the evening, embark on a private sunset cruise along the Zambezi River, observing a variety of game while enjoying a mix of tapas with drinks. (B)

Fly to Johannesburg and check into the Fairlawns Boutique Hotel. Enjoy a leisurely evening. (B)

Get an in-depth look at Soweto’s unique neighborhoods, the center of the uprising against the apartheid state. Walk the footsteps of Nelson Mandela, followed by a township lunch. Before dinner, gather with a local expert for an informative discussion and afterwards enjoy a multi-course dinner. (B,L,D)

Fly to Greater Kruger National Park in the morning where you’ll be transferred to your luxurious game lodge. During the afternoon, set out on a game drive in search of the country’s “Big Five” and other native wildlife. Spend your first night and every night, if you wish, gathering with fellow travelers, sharing stories of the day’s adventures. (B,L,D)

The early morning is the perfect time to go on safari as the wildlife is prolific. Your open-air vehicle provides the ideal way to explore your private game reserve, located just a stone’s throw from the game-rich Kruger National Park. The rest of the morning can be spent enjoying the facilities at your lodge. Later in the afternoon, you’ll go on another game drive deep into the bush, where you may encounter South Africa’s top predators: cheetahs, hyenas and lions. (B,L,D)

Go on two exhilarating game drives today, as well as enjoy ample leisure time to relax and enjoy your game lodge. (B,L,D)

Be treated to an early-morning game drive before returning to the lodge for breakfast. Afterwards, transfer to the airport for your flight to Johannesburg for your connecting flight home or extend your journey with four nights in magical Rwanda. (B)
Note: Please do not schedule your onward flight until after 4:00 p.m