HOUSEBOAT EXPERIENCE

THE ZAMBEZI QUEEN COLLECTION – BOTSWANA

Moving along the banks of the great Chobe River, the Zambezi Queen Collection offers unparalleled sophistication in one of the most remote locations on the planet. Best of all, as a guest on these vessels, you can enjoy a truly unique and adventurous river safari holiday while still being surrounded by complete comfort and elegance.

 The banks of the Chobe National Park boast one of the densest populations of elephants on the African continent, estimated at approximately 120,000. The Park is also home to a large number of buffalo, leopard, and lion, along with a variety of antelope and abundant birdlife.

 

HOUSEBOAT EXPERIENCE

THE ZAMBEZI QUEEN COLLECTION – BOTSWANA

Moving along the banks of the great Chobe River, the Zambezi Queen Collection offers unparalleled sophistication in one of the most remote locations on the planet. Best of all, as a guest on these vessels, you can enjoy a truly unique and adventurous river safari holiday while still being surrounded by complete comfort and elegance.

 The banks of the Chobe National Park boast one of the densest populations of elephants on the African continent, estimated at approximately 120,000. The Park is also home to a large number of buffalo, leopard, and lion, along with a variety of antelope and abundant birdlife.

HOUSEBOAT EXPERIENCE

THE ZAMBEZI QUEEN COLLECTION – BOTSWANA

Moving along the banks of the great Chobe River, the Zambezi Queen Collection offers unparalleled sophistication in one of the most remote locations on the planet. Best of all, as a guest on these vessels, you can enjoy a truly unique and adventurous river safari holiday while still being surrounded by complete comfort and elegance.

 The banks of the Chobe National Park boast one of the densest populations of elephants on the African continent, estimated at approximately 120,000. The Park is also home to a large number of buffalo, leopard, and lion, along with a variety of antelope and abundant birdlife.

THE ZAMBEZI QUEEN

Zambezi Queen offers luxury accommodation in the form of 14 tasteful and luxurious suites – ten standard suites and four spacious master suites, all with outer decks so you can soak up the revitalising Chobe River breeze and appreciate uninterrupted views of the unique African landscape beyond.

A stay on-board Zambezi Queen is a different kind of safari. It’s the kind where you get to decide if you want to be up with the birds, or prefer to laze all morning watching game from the comfort of your bed. Our itinerary is flexible so while we have a range of activities on offer, you can choose just how much you want to pack into your holiday or how relaxed you want to be.

Don’t think of your time on Zambezi Queen as a river cruise. Instead, think of it as a floating boutique hotel that departs and returns to the same point, navigating roughly 25km of the Chobe River weather permitting.

Master Suite

For added luxury, choose one of our four Master Suites at the bow of the boat. Not only are Zambezi Queen Master Suites more spacious but they also have two balconies each, and a panoramic view that ensures you never miss a thing! On the larger balcony you’ll find two deckchairs and a table; the perfect place to enjoy your private front-row seat while the boat is sailing.

Zambezi Queen luxury suite with view
Zambezi Queen luxury suite
Zambezi Queen luxury suite's bathroom

Standard Suite

Zambezi Queen Standard Suites have everything you need to relax in luxurious comfort. Each suite opens onto a front facing balcony: watch the river gently flow by, the beautiful landscapes and elephant on the riverbank. Fancy a nap? Simply draw closed your full-length sliding shutters. Two of the Standard Suites are triple rooms with an extra bed, and can accommodate up to three adults each.

Zambezi Queen luxury suite with view
Zambezi Queen suite's bathroom

THE ZAMBEZI QUEEN

Zambezi Queen offers luxury accommodation in the form of 14 tasteful and luxurious suites – ten standard suites and four spacious master suites, all with outer decks so you can soak up the revitalising Chobe River breeze and appreciate uninterrupted views of the unique African landscape beyond.

A stay on-board Zambezi Queen is a different kind of safari. It’s the kind where you get to decide if you want to be up with the birds, or prefer to laze all morning watching game from the comfort of your bed. Our itinerary is flexible so while we have a range of activities on offer, you can choose just how much you want to pack into your holiday or how relaxed you want to be.

Don’t think of your time on Zambezi Queen as a river cruise. Instead, think of it as a floating boutique hotel that departs and returns to the same point, navigating roughly 25km of the Chobe River weather permitting.

Master Suite

For added luxury, choose one of our four Master Suites at the bow of the boat. Not only are Zambezi Queen Master Suites more spacious but they also have two balconies each, and a panoramic view that ensures you never miss a thing! On the larger balcony you’ll find two deckchairs and a table; the perfect place to enjoy your private front-row seat while the boat is sailing.

Zambezi Queen luxury suite with view
Zambezi Queen luxury suite
Zambezi Queen luxury suite's bathroom

Standard Suite

Zambezi Queen Standard Suites have everything you need to relax in comfort. Each suite opens onto a front facing balcony: watch the river gently flow by, the beautiful landscapes & elephants on the riverbank. Fancy a nap? Simply draw closed your full-length sliding shutters. Two of the Suites are triple rooms with an extra bed, and can accommodate up to three adults.

Zambezi Queen luxury suite with view
Zambezi Queen suite's bathroom

THE ZAMBEZI QUEEN

Zambezi Queen offers luxury accommodation in the form of 14 tasteful and luxurious suites – ten standard suites and four spacious master suites, all with outer decks so you can soak up the revitalising Chobe River breeze and appreciate uninterrupted views of the unique African landscape beyond.

A stay on-board Zambezi Queen is a different kind of safari. It’s the kind where you get to decide if you want to be up with the birds, or prefer to laze all morning watching game from the comfort of your bed. Our itinerary is flexible so while we have a range of activities on offer, you can choose just how much you want to pack into your holiday or how relaxed you want to be.

Don’t think of your time on Zambezi Queen as a river cruise. Instead, think of it as a floating boutique hotel that departs and returns to the same point, navigating roughly 25km of the Chobe River weather permitting.

Master Suite

For added luxury, choose one of our four Master Suites at the bow of the boat. Not only are Zambezi Queen Master Suites more spacious but they also have two balconies each, and a panoramic view that ensures you never miss a thing! On the larger balcony you’ll find two deckchairs and a table; the perfect place to enjoy your private front-row seat while the boat is sailing.

Zambezi Queen luxury suite with view
Zambezi Queen luxury suite
Zambezi Queen luxury suite's bathroom

Standard Suite

Zambezi Queen Standard Suites have everything you need to relax in luxurious comfort. Each suite opens onto a front facing balcony: watch the river gently flow by, the beautiful landscapes and elephant on the riverbank. Fancy a nap? Simply draw closed your full-length sliding shutters. Two of the Standard Suites are triple rooms with an extra bed, and can accommodate up to three adults each.

Zambezi Queen luxury suite with view

THE CHOBE PRINCESSES

Refurbished Sept 2024! A perfect choice for exclusive use for small groups or families. As you drift down the Chobe River and spot incredible wildlife scenes, you’ll be able to completely relax in an intimate river safari experience. With only a small number of guests per boat staying in one of the three Chobe Princesses is like being on your very own houseboat. The entire boat can also be booked exclusively, giving you your very own private villa on the water. Two of our Chobe Princess houseboats have four cabins each: three Standard and one Superior Cabin. The third Princess is larger with five cabins: three Standard and two Superior Cabins – one with a front balcony and the other located on the upper (top) deck.

SUPERIOR CABIN

Instead of sliding windows, our Chobe Princess Superior Cabins each have their own private balcony. Imagine waking in the morning and stepping out onto your balcony facing Chobe National Park. Later, while the boat is sailing, you’ll have a front-row seat to the incredible landscapes and wildlife on the riverbanks. What’s more, the top cabin has an elevation that’s excellent for wildlife spotting.

New refurbished superior room on Chobe Princess boat.

STANDARD CABIN

Chobe Princess Standard Cabins have beautiful big windows that slide open to let in those ever-changing river views. Listen to the soft grunt of hippo as you watch for elephant at the water’s edge – all from the comfort of your king-size bed. Cabin interiors have soft tan linens, and a soothing colour scheme of riverine blues and whites that blend with the natural landscape.

New refurbished standard cabin on Chobe Princess boat

A CULINARY EXPERIENCE

From a creamy bowl of warming porridge in the morning to a helping of decadent white chocolate parfait at night, dining on Zambezi Queen is an indulgent treat. Using seasonal ingredients sourced from local markets, meals on board our luxury houseboat consist of a full English breakfast, a buffet lunch and a choice of two plated menu options for dinner. Every mouthwatering dish is prepared by our locally trained Namibian kitchen staff, who combine authentic local flavours with their passion for creating sophisticated meals suited to discerning palates.

click to view Sample Itineraries

Departures for 2-night stays are on a Monday and Wednesday. The 3-night leaves on a Friday and the 4-nights on a Monday.

ENQUIRE NOW

THE CHOBE PRINCESSES

Refurbished September 2024! A perfect choice for exclusive use for small groups or families. As you drift down the Chobe River and spot incredible wildlife scenes, you’ll be able to completely relax in an intimate river safari experience. With only a small number of guests per boat staying in one of the three Chobe Princesses is like being on your very own houseboat. The entire boat can also be booked exclusively, giving you your very own private villa on the water. Two of our Chobe Princess houseboats have four cabins each: three Standard and one Superior Cabin. The third Princess is larger with five cabins: three Standard and two Superior Cabins – one with a front balcony and the other located on the upper (top) deck.

SUPERIOR CABIN

Instead of sliding windows, our Superior Cabins have their own private balcony. Imagine waking in the morning and stepping out onto your balcony. Later, while the boat is sailing, you’ll have a front-row seat to the incredible landscapes and wildlife on the riverbanks. What’s more, the top cabin has an elevation that’s excellent for wildlife spotting.

New refurbished superior room on Chobe Princess boat.

STANDARD CABIN

Chobe Princess Standard Cabins have beautiful big windows that slide open to let in those ever-changing river views. Listen to the soft grunt of hippo as you watch for elephant at the water’s edge – all from the comfort of your king-size bed. Cabin interiors have soft tan linens, and a soothing colour scheme of riverine blues and whites that blend with the natural landscape.

New refurbished standard cabin on Chobe Princess boat

A CULINARY EXPERIENCE

From a creamy bowl of warming porridge in the morning to a helping of decadent white chocolate parfait at night, dining on Zambezi Queen is an indulgent treat. Using seasonal ingredients sourced from local markets, meals on board our luxury houseboat consist of a full English breakfast, a buffet lunch and a choice of two plated menu options for dinner. Every mouthwatering dish is prepared by our locally trained Namibian kitchen staff, who combine authentic local flavours with their passion for creating sophisticated meals suited to discerning palates.

click to view Sample Itineraries

Departures for 2-night stays are on a Monday and Wednesday. The 3-night leaves on a Friday and the 4-nights on a Monday.

ENQUIRE NOW

THE CHOBE PRINCESSES

Refurbished September 2024! A perfect choice for exclusive use for small groups or families. As you drift down the Chobe River and spot incredible wildlife scenes, you’ll be able to completely relax in an intimate river safari experience. With only a small number of guests per boat staying in one of the three Chobe Princesses is like being on your very own houseboat. The entire boat can also be booked exclusively, giving you your very own private villa on the water. Two of our Chobe Princess houseboats have four cabins each: three Standard and one Superior Cabin. The third Princess is larger with five cabins: three Standard and two Superior Cabins – one with a front balcony and the other located on the upper (top) deck.

SUPERIOR CABIN

Instead of sliding windows, our Chobe Princess Superior Cabins each have their own private balcony. Imagine waking in the morning and stepping out onto your balcony facing Chobe National Park. Later, while the boat is sailing, you’ll have a front-row seat to the incredible landscapes and wildlife on the riverbanks. What’s more, the top cabin has an elevation that’s excellent for wildlife spotting.

New refurbished superior room on Chobe Princess boat.

STANDARD CABIN

Chobe Princess Standard Cabins have beautiful big windows that slide open to let in those ever-changing river views. Listen to the soft grunt of hippo as you watch for elephant at the water’s edge – all from the comfort of your king-size bed. Cabin interiors have soft tan linens, and a soothing colour scheme of riverine blues and whites that blend with the natural landscape.

New refurbished standard cabin on Chobe Princess boat

A CULINARY EXPERIENCE

From a creamy bowl of warming porridge in the morning to a helping of decadent white chocolate parfait at night, dining on Zambezi Queen is an indulgent treat. Using seasonal ingredients sourced from local markets, meals on board our luxury houseboat consist of a full English breakfast, a buffet lunch and a choice of two plated menu options for dinner. Every mouthwatering dish is prepared by our locally trained Namibian kitchen staff, who combine authentic local flavours with their passion for creating sophisticated meals suited to discerning palates.

click to view Sample Itineraries

Departures for 2-night stays are on a Monday and Wednesday. The 3-night leaves on a Friday and the 4-nights on a Monday.

ENQUIRE NOW

ACTIVITIES

GAME VIEWING

Each day, you’ll venture out by tender boat to get up close and personal with huge herds of elephant, buffalo, lion, crocodile, zebra and more that are drawn to the water. You’ll also see a huge variety of birdlife and plant life as you breathe in African air around you.

Game viewing on the Chobe River is at its most exceptional from March to November when the weather is drier and the animals are more mobile as they search for food and water. Summer and spring also offer unique opportunities as you witness the landscape burst into life after the first rains of the season.

zambezi fishing

FISHING

Thanks to our unique location, we offer excellent fishing safaris all year round.  Our highly knowledgeable guides, the tackle and bait we supply as well as well stocked cooler boxes make fishing in Africa an experience to remember.

Choose to stay on board the Chobe Princesses houseboats which offer smaller “tender” boats and greater flexibility when it comes to your itinerary. If you choose to stay on Zambezi Queen, we’ll do our best to accommodate a fishing trip wherever possible. Fishing boats are subject to availability.

Note: All tiger fishing is strictly on a catch and release basis only.

BIRDING

With over 450 species, a mix of terrains and a dramatic African backdrop, the Chobe River is the perfect setting for a highly rewarding birdwatching safari. Birding season starts in September, when the first migrants arrive, boosting the bird population by up to 20% compared to the winter months.

Whether you’re a guest on the Zambezi Queen, on one of her three Chobe Princesses, you’ll have access to your own knowledgeable guide and tender boat for your birding safari.

Witness the planet’s most diverse birdlife!

Lilac-breasted Roller
photographic safari boat

PHOTO SAFARIS

One of the wildlife photographers’ hotspots in Africa. And, because this is a water-based safari, you’ll be able to take unique shots in a safe environment.

You’ll have access to our custom-designed photographic safari boat that caters for 6 clients. The boat contains custom-designed swivel chairs that give you greater stability and 360-degree views. Every seat is equipped with a mounting for resting SLR cameras and you’ll get your own experienced safari guide who’ll help you find that perfect shot.

Note: Bring your own photographic equipment. The optimal lens to bring is an 80–400mm zoom. Please let us know at the time of booking your holiday if you’d like to use our customised photographic safari boat.

CULTURAL TOURS

You’ll be able to travel by tender boat to a local Namibian village on the floodplains of the East Caprivi. Meet the Subiya tribe village elders and locals and gain a greater understanding of how the inhabitants of this 100-year old village live, including learning more about their daily challenges and traditions.

Pick up a woven basket, beaded jewellery or a carved wooden animal as a memento from your trip – sales of these crafts empower village inhabitants by helping them earn a living. If you want to give the children of the village gifts, bring along school stationery, books or clothing – all will be highly appreciated. Finally, enjoy a display of traditional dancing and singing at the end and join in the fun!

cultural tour
Lady climbing baobab tree

BAOBAB TREE OUTING

Discover one of Africa’s most ancient Baobab trees, otherwise known as the “Tree of Life”. Take a 6km walk through the scenic Impalila Island trails or transported by vehicle, upon request. This remarkable Baobab dates 2000 years old, and if you dare you can climb to the top where you are able to see the junction of four countries – Namibia, Botswana, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

ACTIVITIES

GAME VIEWING

Each day, you’ll venture out by tender boat to get up close and personal with huge herds of elephant, buffalo, lion, crocodile, zebra and more that are drawn to the water. You’ll also see a huge variety of birdlife and plant life as you breathe in African air around you.

Game viewing on the Chobe River is at its most exceptional from March to November when the weather is drier and the animals are more mobile as they search for food and water. Summer and spring also offer unique opportunities as you witness the landscape burst into life after the first rains of the season.

zambezi fishing

FISHING

Thanks to our unique location, we offer excellent fishing safaris all year round.  Our highly knowledgeable guides, the tackle and bait we supply as well as well stocked cooler boxes make fishing in Africa an experience to remember.

Choose to stay on board the Chobe Princesses houseboats which offer smaller “tender” boats and greater flexibility when it comes to your itinerary. If you choose to stay on Zambezi Queen, we’ll do our best to accommodate a fishing trip wherever possible. Fishing boats are subject to availability.

Note: All tiger fishing is strictly on a catch and release basis only.

BIRDING

With over 450 species, a mix of terrains and a dramatic African backdrop, the Chobe River is the perfect setting for a highly rewarding birdwatching safari. Birding season starts in September, when the first migrants arrive, boosting the bird population by up to 20% compared to the winter months.

Whether you’re a guest on the Zambezi Queen, on one of her three Chobe Princesses, you’ll have access to your own knowledgeable guide and tender boat for your birding safari.

Witness the planet’s most diverse birdlife!

Lilac-breasted Roller
photographic safari boat

PHOTO SAFARIS

One of the wildlife photographers’ hotspots in Africa. And, because this is a water-based safari, you’ll be able to take unique shots in a safe environment.

You’ll have access to our custom-designed photographic safari boat that caters for 6 clients. The boat contains custom-designed swivel chairs that give you greater stability and 360-degree views. Every seat is equipped with a mounting for resting SLR cameras and you’ll get your own experienced safari guide who’ll help you find that perfect shot.

Note: Bring your own photographic equipment. The optimal lens to bring is an 80–400mm zoom. Please let us know at the time of booking your holiday if you’d like to use our customised photographic safari boat.

CULTURAL TOURS

You’ll be able to travel by tender boat to a local Namibian village on the floodplains of the East Caprivi. Meet the Subiya tribe village elders and locals and gain a greater understanding of how the inhabitants of this 100-year old village live, including learning more about their daily challenges and traditions.

Pick up a woven basket, beaded jewellery or a carved wooden animal as a memento from your trip – sales of these crafts empower village inhabitants by helping them earn a living. If you want to give the children of the village gifts, bring along school stationery, books or clothing – all will be highly appreciated. Finally, enjoy a display of traditional dancing and singing at the end and join in the fun!

cultural tour
Lady climbing baobab tree

BAOBAB TREE OUTING

Discover one of Africa’s most ancient Baobab trees, otherwise known as the “Tree of Life”. Take a 6km walk through the scenic Impalila Island trails or transported by vehicle, upon request. This remarkable Baobab dates 2000 years old, and if you dare you can climb to the top where you are able to see the junction of four countries – Namibia, Botswana, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

ACTIVITIES

GAME VIEWING

Each day, you’ll venture out by tender boat to get up close and personal with huge herds of elephant, buffalo, lion, crocodile, zebra and more that are drawn to the water. You’ll also see a huge variety of birdlife and plant life as you breathe in African air around you.

Game viewing on the Chobe River is at its most exceptional from March to November when the weather is drier and the animals are more mobile as they search for food and water. Summer and spring also offer unique opportunities as you witness the landscape burst into life after the first rains of the season.

zambezi fishing

FISHING

Thanks to our unique location, we offer excellent fishing safaris all year round.  Our highly knowledgeable guides, the tackle and bait we supply as well as well stocked cooler boxes make fishing in Africa an experience to remember.

Choose to stay on board the Chobe Princesses houseboats which offer smaller “tender” boats and greater flexibility when it comes to your itinerary. If you choose to stay on Zambezi Queen, we’ll do our best to accommodate a fishing trip wherever possible. Fishing boats are subject to availability.

Note: All tiger fishing is strictly on a catch and release basis only.

Lilac-breasted Roller

BIRDING

With over 450 species, a mix of terrains and a dramatic African backdrop, the Chobe River is the perfect setting for a highly rewarding birdwatching safari. Birding season starts in September, when the first migrants arrive, boosting the bird population by up to 20% compared to the winter months.

Whether you’re a guest on the Zambezi Queen, on one of her three Chobe Princesses, you’ll have access to your own knowledgeable guide and tender boat for your birding safari.

Witness the planet’s most diverse birdlife!

photographic safari boat

PHOTO SAFARIS

One of the wildlife photographers’ hotspots in Africa. And, because this is a water-based safari, you’ll be able to take unique shots in a safe environment.

You’ll have access to our custom-designed photographic safari boat that caters for 6 clients. The boat contains custom-designed swivel chairs that give you greater stability and 360-degree views. Every seat is equipped with a mounting for resting SLR cameras and you’ll get your own experienced safari guide who’ll help you find that perfect shot.

Note: Bring your own photographic equipment. The optimal lens to bring is an 80–400mm zoom. Please let us know at the time of booking your holiday if you’d like to use our customised photographic safari boat.

cultural tour

CULTURAL TOURS

You’ll be able to travel by tender boat to a local Namibian village on the floodplains of the East Caprivi. Meet the Subiya tribe village elders and locals and gain a greater understanding of how the inhabitants of this 100-year old village live, including learning more about their daily challenges and traditions.

Pick up a woven basket, beaded jewellery or a carved wooden animal as a memento from your trip – sales of these crafts empower village inhabitants by helping them earn a living. If you want to give the children of the village gifts, bring along school stationery, books or clothing – all will be highly appreciated. Finally, enjoy a display of traditional dancing and singing at the end and join in the fun!

Lady climbing baobab tree

BAOBAB TREE OUTING

Discover one of Africa’s most ancient Baobab trees, otherwise known as the “Tree of Life”. Take a 6km walk through the scenic Impalila Island trails or transported by vehicle, upon request. This remarkable Baobab dates 2000 years old, and if you dare you can climb to the top where you are able to see the junction of four countries – Namibia, Botswana, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

 Why not add these unique experiences to your itinerary?

1. EXCLUSIVE FLYING SAFARI

A fantastic product to combine with a unique river experience. These safaris combine private flights with unique safari lodges at handpicked destinations. A private aircraft allows quick, seamless transitions between destinations. This saves precious safari time that is wasted waiting for commercial or standard safari commuter flights. Depart from Johannesburg on a flying safari and visit exquisite lodges in the Okavango Delta and Mana Pools. End the journey in Victoria Falls, from where you will be transferred to boates in Kasana. Or we can plan your flying safari to visit the Chobe National Park, where you will board the Zambezi Queen. 

MORE ABOUT FLYING SAFARIS

2. ROVOS RAIL

THE ULTIMATE LUXURY AFRICAN TRAIN JOURNEYS

A perfect add on to your river experience! Why not take the Rovos Rail to or from Victoria Falls? Since its establishment in 1989, Rovos Rail has earned an international reputation for its truly world-class travel experiences. Step aboard the vintage wood-panelled coaches and sit back as some of the most varied scenery imaginable unfolds beyond the windows. With discreet and friendly service, top cuisine and a selection of South Africa’s finest wines, Rovos Rail harks back to a simpler, more elegant era encompassing the timeless grace and high romance of African exploration.

MORE ABOUT ROVOS RAIL

3. CLASSIC SAFARI EXPERIENCE

A classic safari is a snapshot of the very best Africa has to offer. Using our firsthand expertise, we create unique travel experiences capturing Africa’s abundant wildlife, scenic splendour, cultural heritage and breathtaking biodiversity.

Whether you are planning a multi-generational holiday, exclusive honeymoon, or simply the ultimate safari experience, our classic safaris explore the most iconic places in southern Africa. Whichever destination you choose, we source the most luxurious properties, best game viewing, top guides and unique experiences, combined with the most convenient transportation options, to create the holiday of a lifetime.

MORE ABOUT classic safari