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Devil's Cataract in Zimbabwe

Safari Cruise along the Zambezi River - South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe

South Africa to Zimbabwe - Example 9 Day Cruise aboard Zimbabwean Dream
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At the edge of a fast-paced world, southern Africa’s beautiful, tranquil landscapes await. From Johannesburg to Victoria Falls, you’ll not only discover spectacular panoramas and tumultuous histories, but also incredible wildlife and carefully crafted menus that reflect the flavors and savors of Africa. This in-depth tour will take you to the heart of one of the most beautiful natural reserves—Chobe National Park. On board your ship, you’ll discover the secrets of Lake Kariba—a veritable oasis at the other end of the earth—before taking in the grandeur of what David Livingstone called the “smoke that thunders,” Victoria Falls. 
Lion in Chobe National ParkVictoria Falls, ZambiaHippo in Chobe National ParkElephant herd crossing the Chobe river at sunsetDevil's Cataract in Zimbabwe
Highlights
  • Hike to Victoria falls, where you will have exceptional views
  • Encounter hippos, crocodiles, elephants and other wildlife
  • Discover the traditions of Impalila Island from a local
  • Visit Chobe National Park for a water safari experience
Activities
Places Visited
Activity Level: Variable
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Johannesburg, South Africa

Before lunch, meet your guide at the hotel and depart by a coach. Have lunch before visiting the Apartheid Museum which opened in 2001. It is famous the world over for being the first museum centering on South African history in the 20th century, and more particularly on Apartheid. Afterward, set off for a panoramic tour of the city. In addition to being South Africa’s financial capital, Johannesburg is also the city of superlatives. It is indeed the richest town in Africa, with the tallest buildings and widest social discrepancies, but is also infused with one of the best atmospheres you can ever come across. Arrive at a four-star hotel LS where you are welcome to settle into your rooms before dinner. Spend the night at the hotel.

Day 2: Fly to Kasane, Botswana

  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
This morning you'll fly from Johannesburg to Kasane, Botswana. Transfer from the airport to your lodge on board a small private boat. During this water-transfer, you can observe numerous bird species living among the flooded flatlands. You may even catch a glimpse of a few hippos or crocodiles basking in the sun! Receive warm greetings from the crew upon arrival and settle into your comfortable lodge. Enjoy your dinner and spend the night at the lodge in absolute tranquility at the heart of the wilderness.

Day 3: Chobe National Park

  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Enjoy a full-day jeep safari journey to explore the Chobe National Park, home to more than 1/4 of the total elephant population in Africa. You'll have lunch in a “floating restaurant” in the middle of the river where the views of the surrounding nature are unparalleled. Afterward, board a small private boat and sail along the Chobe River all the way to Sedudu Island and its marshes. Enjoy your dinner and spend the night at the lodge.

Day 4: Impalila Island

  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Today, you'll visit the villages on Impalila Island, Namibia, to discover the traditional Namibian houses, culture, and customs. Return to the lodge for lunch. This afternoon, you can enjoy leisure time at the lodge, taking advantage of the pool and comfortable fittings, or join a discovery of the Zambezi River on a small private boat. After having dinner at the lodge, a local will tell you all about the traditions of this particular island. Overnight at the lodge.

Day 5: Kasane | Lake Kariba | Embark the African Dream

This morning partake in one last water safari in the Chobe National Park area. After lunch, transfer to the Kasane airport. Aboard private planes, you will be amazed at the stunning panoramas over Lake Kariba and the changing landscapes of the wilderness during your flight from Kasane to Kariba. You will transfer to the ship and settle into your cabins. Begin sailing across Lake Kariba, which reaches over 140mi/200km in length and spanning a distance of approximately 25mi/40km at its widest point, the lake flooded flatlands, hills and forests alike, creating unique and emblematic landscapes. Enjoy your dinner and night on board.

Day 6: Lake Kariba | Sailing to Spurwing Island

At sunrise, set sail through the rare and mysterious landscapes of Lake Kariba where drowned trees reach skywards from the depths of the reflecting water. Set out on a small private boat to discover the small waterways going into the Matusadona National Park and its unique wildlife. Gliding along their meanders, large bends and small, unspoiled inlets, you’ll be amazed by the magical atmosphere all around. Return on board for lunch. This afternoon, we’ll sail towards Palm Bay. When the sun starts to set, we'll set out on a small private boat to admire the changing colors of the sky. Have dinner and spend the night on board.

Day 7: Lake Kariba | Matusadona National Park

This morning, journey out on a safari to discover the area around Matusadona National Park. Bordered by the Sanyati and Ume Rivers, this 1,400km²/540 sq mi-large untouched area is home to numerous animal species such as elephants, hippos, crocodiles, buffalos as well as thousands of birds, among which the legendary African Sea Eagle, the majestic Yellow-billed Stork, or the Black Heron with its interesting hunting method. You might be lucky enough to cross paths with a big cat or two! The history of the park is closely linked with that of the lake: during the construction of the dam, the rising floodwaters affected the native wildlife although the damage was mitigated by Operation Noah, an initiative which saved the lives of over 6,000 animals. This rescue operation allowed for large mammals, big cats, impalas and more to be moved to Matusadona where hunting is strictly prohibited. Enjoy your lunch on board and start sailing again. During this time, take the opportunity to join the round table and learn more about the creation of the lake, its inhabitants as well as its ecosystem. 

Day 8: Kariba | Disembark | Victoria Falls

  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
At sunrise, set sail towards Kariba to disembark and transfer to the airport. Discover the gigantic Kariba Dam which was created in 1955 to form Lake Kariba. Today, the dam serves as a source of electric power for 70% of Zimbabwe. Learn about the history and legends surrounding the creation of the lake, including the tale of NyamiNyami, the river god. Fly to Victoria Falls onboard private planes. Lunch will be served on a Zambezi River cruise, upstream from the falls. This afternoon, disembark the boat for a walking tour of the falls where the views are among the most exceptional in the world. Observe where the Zambezi River plunges over the cliff to become the widest waterfall in the world, creating the “smoke that thunders.” Tonight, enjoy dinner and spend the night at a four-star hotel.

Day 9: Victoria Falls

  • 1 Breakfast
Enjoy your breakfast this morning. If you wish, there is an optional early morning excursion to soar over Victoria Falls in a helicopter (must be booked before departure). 

Ship/Hotel

Zimbabwean Dream

Zimbabwean Dream

Zimbabwean Dream

Introducing the Zimbabwean Dream, a ship that sails along Lake Kariba. Newly built in 2018 and specially outfitted for the exploration of Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. Get an up-close and personal experience with nature at the ends of the world on board the Zimbabwean Dream as it sails along the most beautiful bends of the region for fantastic views of the surrounding wonderland.

Johannesburg - Hotels

Protea Hotel OR Tambo Airport

Protea Hotel OR Tambo Airport

The Protea Hotel OR Tambo Airport is in Johannesburg, South Africa. It is just minutes away from the airport and has an aviation theme. There are 3 room types, a fitness center, a swimming pool, a restaurant and you can watch planes take off and land from your window.
Exterior

Protea Hotel Balalaika Sandton

Protea Hotel Balalaika Sandton is near to the airports in the area and is in the heart of the business and entertainment district. It features two sections, the Balalaika and the Crown Court. It's 330 guest rooms are air conditioned and decorated with a classic style. The hotel also offers two dining options, a fitness center and a business center.
Upgrade

Fairlawns Boutique Hotel

The award-winning Fairlawns Hotel has been a benchmark for luxury boutique hotels in Johnnesburg almost 20 years, offering guests and unique and exclusive sanctuary during their visit to Johannesburg. Nestled outside the exciting business areas of Sandton, Woodmead, Sunninghill and Rivonia, the Fairlawns is a well-kept secret that balances proximity to these thriving cities with peace and tranquility.
The sun sets over Kruger National Park

More Johannesburg Hotels

Some of the world's best safaris depart from the "City of Gold" known as Johannesburg in South Africa. Once you've explored this modern metropolitan city, set out to Kruger National Park to spot the Big Five on a safari game drive and relax at your luxury safari lodge. You can also dive deeper into the heart of Africa on a Chobe River cruise!

Dates & Prices

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Early Bird Discount 2026 28544
Book your 2026 voyage by September 30, 2025, and enjoy 15% savings on select European river and ocean/coastal cruises, or 8% savings on Mekong and Africa cruises. This exclusive offer excludes holiday cruises,  is non-retroactive, and cannot be combined with any other offer. Additional restrictions may apply. Please contact us for details.
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Suite
17 square meters. 6 suites, all open to the outside. Suites include a safe, air-conditioning, 22V voltage and adapters, TV, hairdryer, lounge chairs, and exterior sofas
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Balcony Suite
17 square meters. 2 suites, open to the outside with a private balcony. Balcony Suites include a safe, air-conditioning, 22V voltage and adapters, TV, hairdryer, lounge chairs, and exterior sofas

Notes

15% discount for children between 7-15 years sharing a cabin with adult
Children under 7 years old are not allowed for security reasons.

Solo travelers are subject to a single supplement.
Included
  • 8 Breakfasts, 8 Lunches, 8 Dinners
  • 4 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Travel assistance and repatriation insurance
  • Accommodation in double cabins
  • Excursions included in the package selected
  • All port fees
  • Wi-fi access
  • All meals are served in one service. Breakfast is buffet style, and lunch and dinner are served at the table
  • In the case of cruises offering extensions in hotels, the catering services are only as those detailed in the programs concerned
  • Gratuities
  • Domestic Flights
Excluded
  • Gratuities
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Drinks from the special lists, or drinks ordered during excursions or transfers
  • Cancellation and baggage insurance
  • Routings (unless otherwise stated), airport taxes, and handling fees
  • All services not mentioned in the program
  • International flights and their taxes

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