Exploring Zimbabwe and Chobe National Park in 10 Days: A Balanced Look at an Authentic African Safari
Travelers looking to uncover the highlights of southern Africa often find themselves torn between planning multiple trips or settling for a rushed, superficial experience. The 10 Day Zimbabwe and Chobe NP Tour, offered by DK Tours & Safaris, promises a comprehensive journey through some of the region’s most iconic sights, wildlife, and cultural sites. This tour stands out for its well-structured itinerary, knowledgeable guides, and the mix of adventure and history it offers.
What we love most? First, the impressive variety—from ancient ruins to breathtaking waterfalls. Second, the focus on wildlife in Hwange and Chobe, which consistently delivers up-close encounters. Third, the seamless organization, with reviews highlighting professional guides and smooth transfers. The potential downside? The tour involves quite a bit of travel and early mornings, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a busy schedule. This trip appeals to travelers eager for rich wildlife experiences, cultural insights, and natural wonders all wrapped in one package.
Key Points
- Diverse itinerary covers Zimbabwe’s historic sites, national parks, and Botswana’s Chobe National Park.
- Expert guides with excellent reviews enhance the experience with local knowledge.
- Wildlife viewing in Hwange and Chobe is a major highlight, with large herds and predator sightings.
- Cultural visits at Great Zimbabwe and Matobo Hills offer a glimpse into Africa’s ancient civilizations.
- Balanced pace with plenty of activities, including game drives, river cruises, and guided walks.
- Value for money given the variety of experiences included, from game-viewing to UNESCO sites.
A Practical Overview of the Itinerary
Looking for more options in Harare? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Day 1: Arrival in Harare
The adventure kicks off with an easy transfer from Harare International Airport to Jacana Gardens Lodge. If you arrive early, there’s an optional city tour—perfect for stretching your legs and getting a first taste of Zimbabwe. You might stroll through Harare’s gardens, visit local art galleries, or explore the bustling farm produce markets. This optional activity helps you ease into the local vibe before the safari portion begins.
Day 2: The Magnificence of Great Zimbabwe
The journey to Great Zimbabwe National Monument is a highlight. This ancient stone city, spanning 722 hectares, was once the heart of a powerful kingdom from the 11th to 15th centuries. Traveling here means stepping into a site that combines awe-inspiring architecture with a sense of mystery. As one reviewer notes, “We had close encounters with elephants, hippos, and other wildlife,” thanks to guides who are well-versed in both history and nature.
Standing amidst the ruins, you’ll understand why this UNESCO World Heritage site is so revered. It’s not just a collection of stones; it’s a symbol of Zimbabwe’s identity, having inspired the country’s name.
Day 3: The Sacred Grounds of Matobo National Park
Next, we explore Matobo Hills, renowned for granite formations and abundant wildlife. The park is home to more than 175 bird species, including the highest concentration of black eagles in the world. The area is also famous for its rhino populations—white and black rhinos are protected within the park’s designated zones, making sightings more likely than in many other parks.
According to reviewers, “The game includes sable antelopes, impala, and leopards,” and guides are praised for their professionalism. The granite formations aren’t just scenic—they’re steeped in history, with ancient rock art and significant cultural sites scattered throughout. It’s a place where natural beauty and history coexist.
Days 4–5: The Big Five and Elephants at Hwange
Hwange National Park is arguably Zimbabwe’s crown jewel for wildlife lovers. It’s renowned for its massive elephant herds—over 65,000 elephants roam here, often dominating waterholes during the dry season. You’ll join game drives that focus on predator activity, especially during the late afternoon when lions, leopards, and cheetahs are most active.
One reviewer remarked, “Hwange offers a safari experience that rivals Kenya’s Serengeti but without the crowds,” highlighting the park’s exclusivity and vastness. The guides’ local expertise shines here, often spotting animals that are elusive to newcomers.
On Day 5, another game drive may reveal more of Hwange’s impressive biodiversity, including rhinos, buffalo, and various antelopes. The early mornings and late afternoons maximize wildlife sightings, so packing binoculars and patience will pay off.
Day 6–7: The Marvel of Victoria Falls
No trip to Zimbabwe would be complete without witnessing the Victoria Falls, one of the seven natural wonders of the world. A 3-hour guided tour takes you through the rainforest, showcasing the massive Baobab trees, the cascading falls, and local markets brimming with crafts and artifacts.
An optional sunset cruise on the Zambezi River offers a relaxing way to reflect on the day’s sights, with drinks, snacks, and stunning sunset views. Many reviewers rave about the guides’ knowledge, often mentioning the “great insights about the falls and local flora and fauna.”
The following day is free for optional activities like helicopter flights, whitewater rafting, or bungee jumping—perfect for adrenaline junkies. Alternatively, some travelers choose to relax at the hotel pool or explore local markets.
Days 8–9: The Wilds of Chobe National Park
Crossing into Botswana, you’ll spend two days in Chobe National Park, famed for its enormous elephant populations and river-based safaris. The boat cruise on the Chobe River provides a unique vantage point for wildlife viewing—expect to see hippos, crocodiles, and scores of elephants lounging along the banks.
Reviewers consistently highlight guide expertise here, noting “the boat cruise is considered one of the trip’s major highlights,” with the opportunity for close-up wildlife encounters. Early morning game drives complement the boat safaris, often revealing big cats and nocturnal animals before they retreat during the heat of the day.
On Day 9, you might revisit the river or relax at Chobe Safari Lodge, with plenty of time to shop or unwind after several days of exploration.
Day 10: Departure
The tour wraps up with a transfer back to Victoria Falls Airport, depending on your flight schedule. The seamless organization ensures that you’re not left worrying about logistics—just the memories of an action-packed, awe-inspiring adventure.
What We Think About the Tour
Value for Money: At $4,395 per person, this tour packs in a lot—multiple UNESCO heritage sites, national parks, river cruises, and expert-guided safaris. The reviews praise the quality of guides and the smooth logistics, which add to its value.
Guides and Organization: Multiple travelers lauded the professionalism of guides like Webster, Owen, and Enock. Their local knowledge, attention to detail, and friendly demeanor make the experience more enriching and less stressful.
Wildlife Encounters: Hwange and Chobe consistently impress visitors with their large herds, predator sightings, and birdlife. The organized game drives and boat cruises maximize chances for memorable animal encounters.
Cultural and Historical Depth: Visiting Great Zimbabwe and Matobo Hills provides a meaningful connection to Africa’s past, making this more than just a safari—it’s a cultural journey as well.
Pace and Comfort: With early mornings and full days, the tour demands a good physical condition but offers a comprehensive look at the region’s highlights. The group size of up to 12 keeps it intimate and manageable.
Potential Drawbacks: For some, the intense schedule might feel rushed, especially if you prefer slower-paced travel or more leisure time. Also, optional activities like helicopter rides or lion walks come at an additional cost, so budget accordingly.
Who Would Love This Tour?
This trip is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, history buffs, and adventure seekers who want a well-rounded experience. If you enjoy guided tours with knowledgeable hosts, and don’t mind a busy schedule, you’ll find this itinerary highly rewarding. It’s also suited for travelers who want to cover multiple highlights without the hassle of planning each step—an all-in-one adventure through Zimbabwe and Botswana.
Final Thoughts
The 10 Day Zimbabwe and Chobe NP Tour offers an impressive blend of natural, cultural, and historical experiences. From ancient ruins and waterfalls to vast wildlife parks and river cruises, it captures the essence of southern Africa’s diverse attractions. The guides’ expertise and the thoughtfully curated itinerary make it a worthwhile choice for those seeking a comprehensive safari adventure without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.
While it requires some stamina, those who embrace the schedule will leave with a treasure trove of memories and a deeper understanding of the region’s natural wonders and cultural roots. For anyone eager to see elephants, explore ancient sites, and stand in awe of Victoria Falls, this tour delivers on its promises.
FAQ
How many days is the tour?
It’s a 10-day experience, covering Zimbabwe’s key sites and Botswana’s Chobe National Park.
Does the tour include all meals?
Breakfast is included for 9 days, and 3 dinners are included. Lunches are also covered, but some optional activities might require additional payment.
Are transfers included?
Yes, pickup from Harare Airport and transfers between locations are part of the package.
What is the group size?
The maximum number of travelers is 12, keeping the experience intimate and personalized.
Are there optional activities?
Yes, activities such as helicopter flights, canoeing, bungee jumping, and lion encounters are available at additional costs.
Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Moderate physical fitness is recommended, as the schedule involves early mornings, game drives, and walking in varied terrains.
What wildlife can I expect to see?
You’ll likely see elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, rhinos, buffalo, and a wide array of bird species, especially in Hwange and Chobe.
Is the tour family-friendly?
The description and itinerary cater more to adult travelers and those comfortable with a busy schedule. Check with the provider for family-specific options.
What is the price point relative to the experience?
Given the inclusion of major parks, UNESCO sites, guided safaris, and river cruises, the cost offers good value for an immersive southern Africa adventure.
How do I cancel if needed?
You can cancel up to 6 days in advance for a full refund, with options for partial refunds if canceled earlier.
In summary, this tour offers a balanced, well-organized journey through Zimbabwe and Botswana’s top attractions. It’s ideal for travelers who crave authentic wildlife encounters, historical insights, and scenic beauty—all within a manageable, guided adventure.