River cruising in Europe is a popular vacation idea, but AmaWaterways can take you well beyond Europe’s well-traveled rivers. AmaWaterways’ luxury cruise itineraries in Asia, Africa and Colombia let you explore these exotic destinations in comfort.
Cruise down the mighty Mekong in Cambodia and Vietnam, drift past elephants in Botswana's Chobe River, cruise along the ancient Nile in Egypt, or wind through Colombia's jungle-lined Magdalena .
No matter which cruise itinerary you choose, you’ll find spacious staterooms, fine dining, personalized service, and exclusive excursions—even in remote, off-the-beaten-path destinations.
Here are four AmaWaterways cruises to add to your bucket list.
Mekong cruise in Southeast Asia
Cruising the Mekong in Vietnam and Cambodia introduces you to vibrant communities and authentic experiences along the Mekong River, the lifeblood of Southeast Asia. Your local onboard guide offers expert insight into each destination.
At Vietnam’s Sa Dec market, vendors smile shyly while showing you their daily catch. In Cambodia, you'll visit Silk Island, where artisans create silk masterpieces, from silkworm farming to hand-weaving on traditional looms.
Later, monks perform a blessing ceremony at Vipassana Dhura monastery, chanting while tossing jasmine flowers. You’ll see traditional Khmer folk dancers perform aboard the AmaDara and then take an oxcart tour through Kampong Tralach village, where waving children greet you along the way.
Exploring Egypt by river cruise
While the Mekong immerses you in Southeast Asia's living traditions, AmaWaterways’ Secret of Egypt & the Nile takes you back 5,000 years to the birthplace of civilization itself.
On this AmaWaterways cruise, you’ll stand in awe of Egypt’s pyramids as they rise tall from the desert sands and explore the Temple of Karnak, the largest religious complex in Egypt. You’ll enjoy a private lunch at the regal Abdeen Presidential Palace and visit with Nubian villagers who invite you into their village.
Cruising in Colombia, the Land of a Thousand Rhythms
From Egypt's ancient wonders, a river cruise on Colombia's Magdalena River pulses with a different energy. On your AmaWaterways cruise, you’ll explore Colombia as the Land of a Thousand Rhythms, moving to the beat of cumbia and vallenato during exclusive performances.
Visit Mompox, a town frozen in time that embodies colonial village life, and watch skilled artisans create incredible filigree jewelry. Then, explore Santa Barbara de Pinto, learning traditional fishing net-weaving and watching artisans hand-roll tobacco. Finally, in Cartagena, visit the UNESCO-designated San Felipe Castle, which defended against French and British attacks.
African Safari by river cruise
From Colombia's vibrant rhythms, Africa's Chobe River delivers an entirely different kind of magic: the call of the wild.
On an Africa cruise with AmaWaterways, you’ll board the luxurious Zambezi Queen and venture into the heart of Chobe National Park, home to one of Africa’s largest elephant herds. On daily morning and evening boat safaris, you’ll see the rich wildlife that call the region home, coming so close that you can often hear the grunt of the hippos.
Join a full-day safari in open-top 4x4 vehicles. Look out for elephants, giraffes, zebras, sable, warthogs, and cape buffaloes, while prides of lions, hyenas, and cheetahs are often seen along the way.
End your journey at the world-famous Victoria Falls, one of the World's Seven Natural Wonders. The mist rises so high that it creates its own weather system; you may get wet, and on sunny days, rainbows dance in the spray.
Bucket-list adventures
AmaWaterways takes you to the places you've always wanted to see—and shows them to you in ways you never expected. These are the bucket-list adventures that become your best travel stories—and experiences you’ll never forget.
Exclusive AAA member benefits
AAA members receive discounts on AmaWaterways: $300 savings on 7-, 10- and 11- night cruises and $600 off 14-night cruises. Plus, with AmaWaterways’ Europe itineraries, AAA members receive a welcome gift of wine and chocolates, and on Asia, Africa, Egypt, and Colombia sailings, AAA members receive a $50 per stateroom onboard credit.
Set sail on your bucket-list adventure
To start planning your river cruise adventure, contact a AAA Travel Advisor today, and take advantage of your exclusive AAA member benefits to enhance your experience.