X

Stars of South Africa

Resort:Stars of South Africa
Operator: AMA Waterways
Destination: Africa, Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, Zimbabwe
Price From: Contact for latest offers

Overview

Your journey begins with a three-night stay in picturesque Cape Town. Next, fly to Kasane, Botswana to begin your Zambezi Queen safari cruise on the Chobe River. Explore Chobe National Park, home to one of the densest populations of wildlife on the African continent. Spend two nights at the legendary Victoria Falls before flying to Johannesburg for two nights that includes a visit to the township of Soweto. Then fly to Hoedspruit, located in the game-rich country of Greater Kruger National Park. Spend three nights at a luxurious game lodge in this premier eco-tourist destination, known for some of the best Big Five viewing in Africa. Experience the thrill of daily game drives, while evenings bring you breathtakingly clear skies.

Itinerary

Day 1 – Cape Town

After being greeted at the airport by an AmaWaterways Representative, transfer to the Cape Grace Hotel. Get to know your Tour Director at the Welcome Reception. (WR)

Day 2 – Cape Town

Embark on a full-day exploration along one of the worlds most stunning routes, taking you past the 12 Apostles, Hout Bay and Chapmans 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)

Day 3 – Cape Town

Take a cableway up to Table Mountain followed by a trip to the Cape Winelands where youll 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 Mountains summit, followed by a drive through some of the citys diverse neighborhoods. (B,L)

Day 4 – Cape Town & Zambezi Queen

Fly to Kasane, Botswana (via Johannesburg), where youll 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)

Day 5 – Zambezi Queen

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)

Day 6 – Zambezi Queen

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)

Day 7 – Zambezi Queen

Visit a typical African village where youll spend time with the village children as well as its elders. Back on board and following lunch, youll 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)

Day 8 – Zambezi Queen & Victoria Falls

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)

Day 9 – Victoria Falls

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)

Day 10 – Johannesburg

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

Day 11 – Johannesburg

Get an in-depth look at Sowetos 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)

Day 12 – Kruger Park

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

Day 13 – Kruger Park

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 stones 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, youll go on another game drive deep into the bush, where you may encounter South Africas top predators: cheetahs, hyenas and lions. (B,L,D)

Day 14 – Kruger Park

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

Day 15 – Kruger Park & Johannesburg

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