2 Day Zambezi Rafting Rhino Safari &Chobe National Park Tour

Planning a quick escape that combines heart-pumping adventure with incredible wildlife encounters? This 2-day Zambezi Rafting Rhino Safari & Chobe National Park Tour offers just that—an action-packed journey through some of Southern Africa’s most iconic landscapes. From the roaring rapids of the Zambezi to the quiet grace of elephants along the Chobe River, this tour promises a variety of memorable moments, all at a reasonable price.

What really makes this experience stand out is the blend of adrenaline and nature. You get to feel the thrill of white-water rafting, see endangered rhinos in their natural habitat, and relax with a scenic river cruise and game drive. Yet, a key consideration is the physically demanding nature of the activities—rafting can be intense, so it’s best suited for those in good health and with a sense of adventure.

This tour is perfect for adventure lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those wanting a multi-country experience without the hassle of planning each step. It’s also great for travelers short on time but eager to see a lot in just two days.

Key Points

• Adrenaline-pumping rafting on the Zambezi River for Grade 3 to 5 rapids, with expert guides ensuring safety.
• Close encounters with endangered white rhinos, with a guided walking safari led by armed rangers.
• Chobe River cruise offering relaxed wildlife viewing of elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and birdlife.
• Exciting game drive in Chobe National Park with opportunities to see lions, leopards, buffalo, and the largest elephant populations.
• Well-organized logistics, including border crossings, transfers, and all entrance fees included.
• Value for money with a full day of diverse activities for $327 per person.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at This 2-Day Adventure

Day 1: Zambezi White-Water Rafting & Rhino Safari

Your adventure kicks off early in the morning with a pickup from your Livingstone hotel, setting the stage for a day filled with adrenaline and awe. The first highlight is the half-day white-water rafting on the mighty Zambezi River. Guided by experienced professionals, you’ll suit up in safety gear—helmet, life jacket, wetsuit if necessary—and then descend into the Batoka Gorge. The rapids are graded 3 to 5, including the famous “Stairway to Heaven” and “Oblivion,” promising both thrills and breathtaking views.

The guides, such as Harrison, and the safety briefing beforehand help ease apprehensions, especially if you’ve never braved rapid waters before. The experience is both exhilarating and scenic, with the roaring water contrasting sharply against the lush gorge walls. Reviewers mention that guides are attentive and knowledgeable, making the rapid ride both safe and fun.

After the adrenaline rush, you’ll head back to your accommodation for a quick rest and refresh. The afternoon switches gears to wildlife: at Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, you’ll embark on a game drive that feels more like a relaxing safari. The highlight here is the guided walking safari to see white rhinos—an experience that is both humbling and special. With a trained, armed ranger by your side, you’ll get close enough to admire these majestic creatures, and you’ll appreciate how rare and vulnerable they are.

Travelers have described the experience as “a humbling opportunity to see rhinos in their natural environment” and appreciate the small group size, which enhances the intimacy of the encounter. The day wraps up with a scenic drive back to your lodge, often at sunset, providing a stunning finale to an action-packed day.

Day 2: Chobe National Park Safari

Bright and early, you’ll cross into Botswana via the Kazungula border, an easy process with border assistance included. The day begins with a 3-hour Chobe River cruise—a peaceful way to see wildlife from the water. As the boat glides along, you’ll spot herds of elephants cooling off at the banks, hippos bathing, and crocodiles basking on the shores. Birdlife flourishes here, making it a delight for birdwatchers.

The cruise is complemented by a buffet lunch at a riverside lodge in Kasane, giving you time to relax and enjoy local flavors while soaking in the river views. Many reviews praise the quality of the lunch, describing it as “delicious and well-presented,” perfect for refueling before the afternoon activities.

Post-lunch, your adventure continues with a game drive into Chobe National Park in an open 4×4 vehicle. This classic safari experience offers close-up sightings of lions, leopards, buffalo, giraffes, and—most famously—massive herds of elephants. The guides are seasoned experts who can pick up on animal tracks and behaviors, increasing the chances of sightings. Reviewers often mention that the park’s large elephant populations are a real highlight and that the guides’ knowledge adds depth to the experience.

The day concludes around 5 pm with a return across the border, leaving you with plenty of stunning images and stories. The combination of river cruise and land safari ensures a well-rounded wildlife experience, making it a full, rewarding day.

What’s Included and What to Consider

This tour covers most essentials—transport between activities, park entry fees, professional guides, and all safety gear for rafting. The cost of $327 per person is a good deal considering the range of activities packed into two days, especially given the inclusion of border assistance and lunch.

However, visa fees for Zambia and Botswana aren’t included, so travelers should plan accordingly—obtaining a KAZA Univisa is highly recommended for smoother border crossings. Also, activities like rafting require a certain level of physical fitness, and the tour is not suitable for pregnant women, young children under 12, or anyone with back or neck issues.

Participants should pack comfortable shoes, swimwear, waterproof shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a camera. The tour starts early (Day 1 at 7:30 am, Day 2 at 6:30 am), so punctuality is key to making the most of your day.

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The Real Value of This Tour

At $327, this experience offers a compelling mix of adventure and wildlife for the price point. The white-water rafting on the Zambezi is a highlight for thrill-seekers, providing both adrenaline and scenic vistas. The opportunity to walk with rhinos is rare, making this a meaningful and immersive encounter with endangered species. Meanwhile, the Chobe River cruise and game drive offer classic safari moments, packed with diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes.

It’s a tour that balances high-energy activities with peaceful wildlife viewing—perfect for travelers who crave variety without overextending their travel budget. The well-organized logistics, experienced guides, and inclusive fees make it especially suitable for those wanting a seamless adventure.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This tour suits adventurous travelers eager to combine high-adrenaline activities with wildlife safaris. It’s ideal for those with moderate fitness levels who can handle rafting and walking safaris. Animal lovers will appreciate the chance to see white rhinos and elephants in their natural habitats.

Families with children over 12, couples, or solo travelers looking for a balanced, action-packed trip will find this experience rewarding. However, those seeking a more relaxed or luxury safari might find this tour a bit too intense or physically demanding.

The Sum Up

The 2 Day Zambezi Rafting Rhino Safari & Chobe National Park Tour offers a well-rounded adventure, blending the excitement of white-water rafting with the serenity of wildlife encounters across two countries. Its value lies in the diversity of activities, the opportunity for rare animal sightings, and the professional organization that keeps logistics smooth.

Travelers who love a bit of adrenaline but also want meaningful wildlife moments will find this tour a perfect fit. It’s especially suitable for those who want to maximize a short trip with diverse, authentic experiences that showcase the best of Zambia and Botswana.

Whether you’re screaming down rapids or quietly watching elephants at water’s edge, this tour delivers a memorable, action-packed journey through some of Africa’s most stunning scenery.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is recommended for travelers aged 15 and above due to the physically demanding activities like rafting. Children under 12 are not suitable.

Do I need a visa to participate?
Yes, visa fees are not included. A KAZA Univisa is recommended for easier border crossings between Zambia and Botswana.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, waterproof shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, insect repellent, and your passport. Quick-dry clothes are also recommended.

How long does each activity last?
The rafting is a half-day experience, the wildlife safari in Mosi-oa-Tunya lasts a few hours, the Chobe River cruise is about three hours, and the game drive in Chobe lasts roughly three hours.

Are the activities physically demanding?
Yes, rafting and walking safaris require a good level of fitness. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, or people with back or neck conditions.

What is the tour group size?
While not explicitly stated, reviews suggest it’s a shared group tour, often with small groups, enhancing the personal experience.

Can I purchase photos or videos of the trip?
Yes, professional rafting photos and videos are available for purchase if you want to relive the adventure later.

This tour offers a fantastic way to enjoy Zambia and Botswana’s natural beauty in a compact, action-filled package—ideal for those wanting adventure, wildlife, and scenic splendors all rolled into two memorable days.

You can check availability for your dates here: