Luxury river safaris on the river Chobe

Set to launch the first week in November, the Zambezi Queen is a ‘luxury houseboat safari’ that will cruise along the Chobe river between Namibia and Botswana, just a few kilometres from where four countries meet: Botswana, Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

The Chobe River divides Namibia’s Caprivi Strip from Botswana’s Chobe National Park, and its banks are home to one of the densest populations of wildlife on the African continent. Chobe National Park is home to 120,000 elephants and 400 species of bird, as well as lion, leopard and other predators, while the river itself contains large hippo and crocodile populations. Wildlife viewing is done from the Zambezi Queen itself and from her three high-speed aluminium launch boats. There are also two fibreglass fishing boats so guests can try tigerfish and bream fishing in season (May – Nov). Land-based game viewing is offered by 4x4 in Chobe National Park.

The 45-metre steel hulled river boat features just 14 suites and master suites. All have private balconies and full-length sliding shutters. There's an open-plan lounge with a wood-burning fireplace, an astronomical telescope and a stylish bar area. The top deck features a swimming pool, sunbathing area and shaded seating area, where guests can also have massages and manicures / pedicures. On the third floor is the spacious dining room, which offers unobstructed views of the Chobe River.

A five night tailor-made trip that combines a three night cruise on the Zambezi Queen with two nights' B&B at the Royal Livingstone on the edge of the Victoria Falls in Zambia, costs from £3,295 per person including flights with British Airways.

Packages include collection from Botswana immigration at Kasane or Impilila airstrip in Namibia, all meals and drinks including specially imported South African wines, and all activities, both land and boat based.

Visit coxandkings.co.uk for more information.