As we board the AMA Waterway’s Zambezi Queen, we can hardly contain our excitement. Is it because this unique River Boat has won Best River Boat in Class four years in a row/ Is it because there are only 28 fellow passengers on this floating Deluxe Hotel, or that every aspect of this ship speaks to First Class? We both think it is all of that, plus the fact that we ARE ON SAFARI! We enjoy a truly great Welcome Dinner prepared by our boat staff and sleep comes easy as we are lulled by the slow motion of the boat, and the sights and smells of Africa.

We could sleep in today, but REALLY? We are ON SAFARI. Our expert on board guide points out an abundance of wildlife as we pass by. Our boat is so stealth, wildlife just carries on as usual. We find out the Chobe River is a lifeline here, providing water, food, and a grand entrance to the Chobe National Park. We are in tears as we observe not one, but two sets of Mother/calf Elephant pairs at the waterfront. It seems the youngsters are more into splashing water everywhere than actually drinking. We see a Giraffe Family meandering on the plains, a large variety of birds we cannot begin to remember the names of, and we are just in day 1. Again great food, wonderful drinks, great entertainment, brings sleep with a welcome.

Today is our first day on land safari. We are met at the dock by our guide in an Open-Top 4X4 vehicle, and we are off to see the wildlife. We get a chance to sit quietly and watch as a “Pride” of Lions honors us. We see more Giraffe, Zebra, and Elephants. Our guide has prepared a picnic lunch for us to enjoy. We are exhausted but so very fulfilled as we return to our River Boat and the luxury of a home cooked meal and our luxurious room. During an onboard briefing held every day, we learn we actually crossed from Botswana to Namibia, and will be crossing back to Botswana.

Check back next week for Part 3 of Africa Beckons, But in Comfort Please.