Location: Zambezi Queen, Chobe River, Botswana
- The Zambezi Queen operates along the Chobe River, which forms the northern border of Chobe National Park in Botswana. The river is renowned for its diverse wildlife and stunning scenery, with abundant elephant herds, hippos, crocodiles, and a wealth of bird species. The houseboat offers panoramic views of the river and the surrounding wilderness, providing a unique perspective of the park. The Zambezi Queen is docked at Kasane, a gateway town near Chobe National Park, which is easily accessible from Kasane International Airport (BBK), just a short drive away.
Accommodation:
- The Zambezi Queen offers 14 luxurious, air-conditioned suites, all designed to maximize comfort and provide beautiful views of the river and wildlife. Each suite features large windows to take in the panoramic vistas and has been thoughtfully furnished to offer a chic yet relaxed atmosphere, blending contemporary design with traditional African accents.
- Suites: Each suite is equipped with king-size beds (which can be converted to twin beds), en-suite bathrooms with showers, air conditioning, and ample storage space. Some suites have private balconies where guests can enjoy their surroundings in peace.
- Presidential Suite: For those seeking the ultimate in luxury, the Presidential Suite provides a more spacious option, with a larger living area and private balcony. This suite offers an exclusive experience with enhanced services and premium amenities.
- Family Suites: The Zambezi Queen offers family suites that are ideal for families or small groups. These suites provide more space and comfortable accommodations for multiple guests.
Dining Experience:
- The Dining Room: The Zambezi Queen features an elegant, yet casual dining room where guests can enjoy a variety of gourmet meals prepared by skilled chefs. The menu is inspired by local flavors and international dishes, with an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Meals are served in an open-plan dining area with panoramic views of the river.
- Al Fresco Dining: The boat has an outdoor deck area where guests can enjoy al fresco meals while watching the stunning scenery. Dining under the stars is a magical experience that allows guests to enjoy the tranquility of the river in a relaxed atmosphere.
- Bar: The bar area offers a selection of fine wines, cocktails, and beverages, perfect for enjoying a drink while watching the wildlife along the riverbanks.
- In-Room Dining: Guests can also enjoy in-room dining, allowing them to dine in the privacy and comfort of their suites.
Activities:
- Game Viewing from the Boat: One of the main attractions of staying on the Zambezi Queen is the opportunity to see wildlife up close from the comfort of your suite or the viewing deck. The Chobe River and its banks are home to a significant population of elephants, buffaloes, hippos, and other animals. The boat offers guided game viewing cruises that allow guests to observe these animals in their natural habitat.
- Safari Drives: The Zambezi Queen offers game drives in the nearby Chobe National Park, where guests can venture on land safaris to see more of the park’s incredible wildlife, including lions, leopards, giraffes, and various antelope species. These drives are conducted by experienced guides who know the park’s best spots for wildlife viewing.
- Boat Safaris: Guests can also embark on boat safaris along the Chobe River, where they can explore the river’s unique ecosystem and watch elephants, crocodiles, and hippos up close as they drink and bathe on the banks. The boat safaris offer a peaceful and intimate experience to connect with the river’s natural surroundings.
- Fishing: The Chobe River is home to a variety of fish species, and guests can take part in catch-and-release fishing excursions while enjoying the serene river atmosphere.
- Birdwatching: The river and surrounding areas are rich in birdlife, with over 450 species recorded in the region. The Zambezi Queen offers guided birdwatching excursions, where guests can spot a range of species, including kingfishers, storks, and herons.
Facilities:
- Swimming Pool: The Zambezi Queen has a plunge pool located on the upper deck, offering a refreshing way to cool off while enjoying the panoramic views of the river and surrounding wilderness.
- Viewing Decks: The boat features multiple viewing decks, offering guests the opportunity to relax and watch wildlife and scenic vistas from a comfortable vantage point. The upper deck is equipped with comfortable seating, perfect for relaxing after a day of safari activities.
- Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi is available in the public areas of the Zambezi Queen, allowing guests to stay connected with friends and family while onboard.