6-day Hwange, Chobe & Victoria Falls Combo

Experience the Best of Southern Africa in Just 6 Days

For those craving an adventure across some of Africa’s most iconic landscapes, this 6-day Hwange, Chobe & Victoria Falls combo offers a well-rounded taste of wildlife, natural beauty, and cultural highlights. As a seasoned travel writer, I’ve seen many tours, but the glowing reviews and thoughtful itinerary of this one stand out.

What makes this experience particularly appealing? First, the personalized service ensures a private, intimate journey rather than a crowded group tour. Second, the inclusion of meals and transfers removes logistical headaches, letting you focus fully on spotting elephants and lions. Third, the itinerary balances wildlife safaris, scenic beauty, and cultural exploration — all at a competitive price of around $2,320 per person.

That said, it’s worth noting that the admission tickets for Hwange and Chobe are not included, so there’s a small extra cost involved. Still, travelers who value expert guides, well-planned logistics, and authentic wildlife encounters will find this tour a rewarding choice.

This tour is best suited for those seeking a comprehensive Southern African safari experience without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. Perfect for first-timers and seasoned travelers alike, who want to combine adventure with comfort.

Key Points

• Expert-guided safaris in Hwange and Chobe offer insightful wildlife spotting.
• All-inclusive transfers, meals, and activities simplify the experience.
• The private tour format ensures personalized attention and flexibility.
• You get a perfect mix of wildlife, waterfalls, and river cruises.
• Good for travelers who prefer a balanced, well-organized itinerary.
• The tour provides stunning views and authentic encounters—with excellent guides.

A Closer Look at the 6-Day Itinerary

Days 1-3: Hwange National Park – Encountering Zimbabwe’s Big Game

Your adventure kicks off with a two-hour transfer from Victoria Falls Airport to Hwange Safari Lodge, a comfortable base for your wildlife adventures. The lodge’s location is convenient, with easy access to the park’s renowned game viewing.

One of the highlights here is the late afternoon game drive on Day 1, which extends into the night. Reviewers like Roos_Z mention that this drive offers “good chances of encountering the big cats,” making it a prime opportunity to see lions, leopards, and perhaps even a elusive night-time predator. The guides are praised for their knowledge and responsiveness, with Webster, the tour operator, noted for being very helpful and attentive.

Day 2 is a full-day safari, where you’ll explore Hwange via the Main Camp gate, using multiple viewing platforms for the perfect wildlife photo ops. Lunch is picnic-style, with the option to relax at a viewing spot amidst elephants, giraffes, and possibly a herd of buffalo. The park itself is likened to East Africa’s Serengeti but without crowds, giving you a more intimate encounter with nature.

On Day 3, you’ll have another full day in Hwange, with the flexibility to focus on your favorite animals or bird species. Reviewers like Kundai appreciate the helpful guides and the friendly staff, which add a personal touch to each outing. The park’s vastness and diversity create a sense of adventure, and the chance to see shy predators like wild dogs or elusive antelopes keeps things exciting.

Days 4-5: Victoria Falls & Chobe National Park – Waterfalls, River Cruises, and Game Drives

Day 4 introduces you to the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls. After a scenic two-hour transfer, you’ll enjoy a guided tour of the falls, lasting about two and a half hours. The sheer power and scale of the falls leave most visitors speechless. The tour also includes a stroll through the Open Curio Markets, perfect for picking up souvenirs.

At 4 pm, the tour switches gears to a sunset cruise along the Zambezi River. This two-hour boat trip offers a relaxed way to see wildlife along the riverbanks—hippos, crocodiles, elephants—and capture that iconic African sunset. Reviewers like John_L rave about the amazing views and friendly staff, noting that the drinks, snacks, and smooth logistics make it a memorable experience.

Day 5 is dedicated to exploring Chobe National Park in Botswana, starting early with a full-day safari. The morning kicks off with a 3-hour game boat cruise on the Chobe River, where animals like elephants and buffalo come down to drink. Then, after a buffet lunch at Chobe Marina Lodge, you’ll hop into custom 4×4 vehicles for a land safari in the upper Chobe River area, known for its shy predators and fewer crowds.

The guides here receive praise for their local knowledge and patience, helping you spot elusive wildlife like lions resting under trees or shy antelopes. The mix of boat and land safaris offers a well-rounded perspective of the park’s ecological richness.

Day 6: Return & Farewell

Your last morning in Victoria Falls involves a short transfer to the airport, depending on your flight schedule. This offers a chance to reflect on your trip and share your favorite moments, be it a pride of lions, a powerful waterfall, or a sunset cruise.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

While the upfront cost might seem high at $2,320 per person, the inclusion of meals, transfers, and guided safaris makes it a hassle-free package. The reviews underscore the quality of guides and accommodations, which most travelers find to be above average for safari tours.

The itinerary balances active wildlife viewing with downtime, giving you the chance to truly savor each experience. It’s also designed to maximize your time, with early starts and efficient transitions, ensuring you see the best of Hwange, Chobe, and Victoria Falls.

Transport & Logistics

Transportation is smooth, with air-conditioned vans and private transfers. The tour’s private format means you won’t be stuck in a large group, allowing for more tailored wildlife viewing and personal interaction with guides like Webster, who’s known for his responsiveness.

Wildlife & Scenic Encounters

Expect to see a wide variety of animals, from elephants bathing in the river to lions resting in the shade. The game drives and boat safaris are carefully timed to catch animals at their most active, especially during dawn and dusk.

Accommodations & Meals

Staying at Hwange Safari Lodge provides a cozy base with good amenities, and meals are included, saving you from the expense and planning hassle of finding food on your own. The included picnic lunches in Hwange are a nice touch, allowing you to dine overlooking wildlife.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive southern Africa safari without the stress of organizing multiple trips. It suits first-timers eager to see iconic wildlife, waterfalls, and river scenes, as well as seasoned safari lovers wanting a quick yet fulfilling adventure.

If you appreciate knowledgeable guides—as reviewers praise for their responsiveness and local expertise—you’ll enjoy the personalized approach. And for those who value seamless logistics and all-in-one packages, this tour ticks all boxes.

Final Thoughts

This 6-day combo is a strong choice for anyone seeking a well-organized, authentic African safari experience. From the vast plains of Hwange to the thundering Victoria Falls and the wildlife-rich waters of Chobe, you’ll cover some of southern Africa’s most iconic sights in just under a week.

The reviews confirm that the guides, accommodations, and planning make a significant difference, ensuring you get the most out of each moment. With included meals and transfers, the focus stays on the wildlife, scenery, and those unforgettable sunsets.

While it’s not an ultra-luxury experience, the quality, intimacy, and authenticity make it a valuable option for travelers wanting an immersive, hassle-free adventure. If you’re dreaming of elephants, lions, and waterfalls, this tour offers an excellent way to check those boxes and return home with stories worth telling.

FAQ

What’s included in this tour?
Meals (breakfasts, lunches, dinners), transfers, guided safaris, and a sunset river cruise are included. The tour operates privately, so it’s just your group.

Are the park entrance fees included?
No, the admission tickets for Hwange and Chobe are not included, so there will be a small additional cost to cover these.

How long are the game drives?
Game drives typically last around 3 hours, often extending into the evening or early night, especially in Hwange. The boat cruise in Chobe is 3 hours long.

What is the accommodation like?
You’ll stay at Hwange Safari Lodge in Zimbabwe, praised for its friendly staff and comfortable rooms, providing a cozy base for your adventures.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, especially those comfortable with early mornings and outdoor adventures. It’s generally suitable for all ages with an interest in wildlife and natural scenery.

How far in advance should I book?
The tour is often booked around 113 days in advance, so planning early helps secure your preferred dates.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a private tour, there’s some flexibility, but most arrangements follow the set itinerary for optimal wildlife viewing.

What makes this tour stand out?
The personalized service, expert guides, and a balanced mix of wildlife, waterfalls, and river experiences, all within a well-structured 6 days, make it a noteworthy option.

This detailed, well-rounded tour offers an excellent way to experience southern Africa’s wildlife and natural marvels while enjoying the comfort of private, guided service. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, the memories made here are sure to last a lifetime.