Chobe and Savuti, Botswana
Zambezi Queen
A luxury cruise along the meandering Chobe River
Cruise serenely along the wide, remote stretches of the Chobe River between Botswana and Namibia aboard a luxury houseboat in the utmost comfort.
The 42m (138 foot) Zambezi Queen offers a true five-star experience in this most adventurous of locations, with 14 air-conditioned understated suites styled by South African designer Jenni Button.
All enjoy floor to ceiling windows and private balconies to look out at the passing riverbanks, an ecosystem home to one of the densest populations of elephant on the African continent – around 120,000 individuals – as well as a large number of buffalo, leopard and lion, a variety of antelope and abundant birdlife.
Dining at the restaurant is a real treat, with meals made from seasonal ingredients sourced from local markets for a sophisticated take on authentic regional flavours. There’s also a bar, open deck area for sundowners and a pool to cool off in.
There are a number of exciting activities to get involved with during your cruise, from water based safaris on the ship’s tender which can get right up to wildlife at the water’s edge, to guided walks and visits to local villages. The Chobe River is also a premier fishing destination for bream and tigerfish, a particularly prized game fish.
Highlights
Water-based safari
Guided walks
Fishing
Bird watching
Cultural visits
14 suites
Restaurant and bar
Lounge
Plunge pool
Trip Inspiration
Plan your trip to Botswana
Whatever you want from your adventure in Botswana, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.
Places to combine Zambezi Queen with
Etosha National Park
Encounter by Ongava is an intimate safari camp set within Ongava Game Reserve, on the southern edge of Etosha National Park. You’ll be surrounded by Mopane woodland and wildlife moving freely through the landscape.
There are eight spacious walk-in tents: seven standard tents and one paired tent that works well for families or small groups. Each tent has an en-suite bathroom with an outdoor shower and a private deck.
You can head out on game drives across the 30,000-hectare Ongava Game Reserve. The area is known for its rhino population, as well as lion, zebra and antelope, including the endemic black-faced impala. We especially recommend private guided nature walks, where you can slow down, appreciate the small details and explore with minimal impact. There may be the chance to approach white rhino on foot, as well as spend time bird watching.
For a wider safari experience, take a guided excursion into nearby Etosha National Park, Namibia’s prime savannah wilderness area. At the Ongava Visitor Centre, learn about the region’s geology, wildlife, plants and ecology.
Back at camp, slow down by the pool, settle into the library or gather at the bar as evening falls. The day softens into drinks, quiet conversation and the sounds of the reserve.
