Less Waste, More Conscious Choices
Our onboard cleaning products and toiletries are biodegradable, and waste is carefully sorted, stored, and treated off-board—nothing is released into the river. The goal is simple: leave nothing but ripples behind.
Cruise with a Conscience
Celebrating Earth Month on the Chobe River
There’s something special about April on the Chobe River. The landscape is lush, the wildlife is thriving, and the river carries with it a gentle reminder—of how precious this place is, and how important it is to protect it.
While Earth Month (and Earth Day on the 22nd) is a global call to pay attention to our impact, for us it’s a continuation of what we aim to do every day. As proud custodians of this remarkable stretch of river that borders the Chobe National Park, we don’t take our responsibility lightly.
On board the Zambezi Queen and Chobe Princesses, sustainability isn’t a trend or a tick-box—it’s simply part of how we operate. From the way we manage waste to the people we employ, every decision is made with care for this place and the communities who call it home.
You may not notice it as you glide past elephant herds and watch fish eagles dive, but there’s a lot going on behind the scenes to ensure your cruise is as gentle on the environment as possible. These are just some of the ways you may notice:
Fresh Water, Thoughtfully Used
We purify river water through a multi-stage filtration system, easing pressure on local freshwater sources. Water-saving taps and showers help reduce usage, and our grey and black water systems ensure everything is treated responsibly. Guests are encouraged to reuse towels and linen—not because it’s trendy, but because it matters.
Energy That Works With Nature
Solar panels help power our Chobe Princesses and heat water, with fuel-efficient generators used sparingly. At night, the Zambezi Queen runs on battery power, so the sounds of the wild aren’t drowned out by engines. We also use water-jet propulsion, which is gentler on the riverbed and aquatic life than traditional propellers.
A Shared Journey
We know we can’t do it alone. Guests are an essential part of our approach to sustainability—and joining in doesn’t require big changes. It’s the little things that make a difference:
- Respect wildlife by keeping your distance and observing quietly.
- Conserve resources by using water and power mindfully.
- Pack with care, bringing reusable items and eco-friendly toiletries.
These small acts help ensure the Chobe remains a place of wonder for generations to come.
More Than a Cruise
When you travel with us, you’re part of a story that’s about more than just the scenery (though it is spectacular). It’s a story of people—of local team members who’ve grown with us, developed new skills, and now support over 130 families along the riverbanks.
It’s also a story of community partnerships. We prioritise sourcing produce and handmade items from nearby, so the food on your plate and the art on board reflect the region and support local entrepreneurs.
And it’s a story told through our guides—passionate individuals who share their deep knowledge of the Chobe’s ecosystems and cultures. Their stories bring the river to life, helping guests connect with this place in meaningful, lasting ways.
Why Earth Month Still Matters
For us, Earth Month is a chance to reflect, to push ourselves a little further. It might be adding more solar capacity, finding new ways to reduce waste, or exploring more local sourcing opportunities.
But most importantly, it’s about continuing to do right by the Chobe—quietly, consistently, and with heart.
We invite you to experience a river safari that feels good on every level. Cruise in comfort, connect with nature, and know that your journey supports something bigger.
