5 Day Chobe National Park Accommodated Tour Safari

Discovering the 5 Day Chobe National Park Accommodated Tour Safari: A Balanced Look

We recently explored an enticing 5-day safari package that combines the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls with a game-rich experience in Chobe National Park. This tour, offered by Zambezi Expedition, promises an immersive journey through some of southern Africa’s most iconic sights.

What immediately drew us in were three standout features: the chance to see Victoria Falls from multiple viewpoints, the exhilarating sunset cruise on the Zambezi River, and the incredible wildlife viewing opportunities in Chobe’s boat safaris—especially the large herds of elephants. Also appealing was the well-organized itinerary, with clear logistics and a small group size of no more than 15 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

However, it’s worth noting that this tour is non-refundable, which means travelers should be prepared for the possibility of weather disruptions or minimum group sizes affecting the schedule. This setup suits travelers who value planning and flexibility in their trips and are eager to fill their days with memorable adventures. This tour is ideal for those seeking a guided, all-in-one experience combining natural wonders and wildlife, with a good balance of activity and leisure.

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Combines Victoria Falls sightseeing with a Chobe game drive and boat safari.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with detailed explanations.
• Authentic Encounters: Opportunities to see hippos, crocodiles, and large elephant herds up close.
• Well-Organized Itinerary: Clear schedule with pickup, transfers, and included activities.
• Small Group Size: Intimate groups of up to 15 travelers promote a personalized experience.
• Price-Value Balance: At $1,350 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive package, especially considering all included activities.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Day 1: Arrival and Sunset Cruise on the Zambezi River

Your adventure kicks off when you’re met by your guide at Prinlin Safari Travels and transferred to your hotel. The true highlight begins in the afternoon with a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. As the boat glides along, you’ll get fantastic views of hippos and crocodiles lounging along the riverbank, animals that tend to emerge as the sun begins to set. The cruise lasts about two hours, and drinks and snacks are served as you relax with spectacular scenery.

This part of the tour really emphasizes the peaceful beauty of the Zambezi and offers prime photo opportunities of wildlife in their natural habitat. Reviewers often mention the guide’s attentive service and the tranquil ambiance, making this sunset cruise a favorite activity. One noted, “They responded promptly and provided all the information needed, making me trust I’d get the experience I was looking for.”

Day 2: Victoria Falls and Wildlife Encounters

Early morning, after breakfast, it’s time for the tour of Victoria Falls, one of the world’s most famous natural wonders. The tour concentrates on the Zimbabwean side, where you’ll explore multiple viewpoints along the width of the falls from Viewpoint 1 to 16. Expect to walk through lush, misty rainforests that flank the falls, offering a cool respite from the spray and a chance to see the falls from different angles.

You’ll visit major sights like the Main Falls, Horseshoe Falls, Rainbow Falls, the Boiling Pot, and Cataract Island, each offering unique perspectives and photo ops. The experience is enhanced by the guide’s extensive knowledge, with reviewers praising guides like Beula for their insightful explanations about the animals and landscape. One reviewer shared, “The guide was amazing in explaining about the animals.”

Optional activities, like the famous Flight of Angels, high-wire adventures, or elephant riding, are available if you want to extend your day (note that these are not included in the base price). The included Victoria Falls ticket ensures you don’t have to worry about entry fees, making this a hassle-free experience.

The Value of Guided Tours and Small Groups

Throughout the tour, the small group size (maximum 15 people) makes for a more personalized, engaging experience. You’ll benefit from the guides’ expertise—something that notably impressed past travelers. One review states, “The guides were informative and everything was top-notch, with no complaints.”

Wildlife Safari in Chobe National Park

Though not explicitly detailed in the itinerary, the tour’s highlight is the game viewing in Chobe National Park. The park is renowned for its large groups of elephants, large herds that often gather around riverbanks, and abundant wildlife viewable from boat safaris. The reviews commend the knowledgeable guides for their ability to spot animals and explain their behaviors, making the wildlife encounters both fun and educational.

The boat safaris typically offer close-up views of elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and possibly predators like lions. These excursions are particularly praised for their authenticity and the chance to see animals in their natural environment.

Practical Details and Logistics

Duration and Flexibility

This package spans roughly two days of active sightseeing and safari experiences. The included pickup service adds convenience, and the small group size means you won’t feel like just another face in the crowd. The tour operates with a confirmed schedule—with the start time at noon—and the activities are well-paced to avoid rushed sightseeing.

Cost and Value

At $1,350 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive package that includes transfers, a guided Victoria Falls tour, a sunset cruise, and game viewing activities. When you consider the cost of individual activities, park entry, and guided tours, this fee provides good value—especially in a region where private safaris or flights can quickly get expensive.

Additional Considerations

The tour is non-refundable, so it’s best suited for travelers who are confident in their plans. Weather can impact activities, but the company offers alternative dates or full refunds if cancellations occur due to poor conditions. The maximum group size of 15 ensures a more intimate experience, but it also means you should book early to secure a spot.

Authentic Traveler Perspectives

From reviews, we learn that guests appreciated the thoughtful planning and attention to detail. One shared, “The experience was top-notch, with guides providing detailed explanations,” highlighting the quality of guiding and organization. Another highlighted the abundance of animals seen, especially the large herds of elephants, which are a highlight in Chobe.

The guides seem to be a key part of the experience, not just for their knowledge but also for their enthusiasm and ability to spot wildlife. Past travelers also note the smooth communication and prompt responses from the tour operator, making the whole process stress-free.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This safari package is ideal for travelers seeking a balanced mix of sightseeing, wildlife, and relaxing river cruises. It’s perfect for those who value guided tours with expert commentary and small group settings.

If you’re looking for a comprehensive, hassle-free experience that covers major attractions in Victoria Falls and Chobe National Park, this tour delivers. It suits travelers who are comfortable with moderate physical activity, as the sightseeing involves walking and boat rides.

Finally, those who appreciate authentic encounters and expert guides—and are flexible enough to accept the non-refundable policy—will find this safari to be a memorable adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes transfers, a guided tour of Victoria Falls, a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River, and wildlife viewing activities in Chobe National Park. It also covers park entry tickets for Victoria Falls.

How many days does the tour last?
The core activities are spread over approximately two days, with the first day featuring the sunset cruise and the second day dedicated to Victoria Falls and game viewing.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, you will be picked up from specified points and transferred between activities, making logistics smooth and straightforward.

What is the group size?
The maximum number of travelers per group is 15, ensuring a more personal and engaging experience.

Are meals included?
The tour details focus on activities and transfers; specific meal inclusions are not mentioned, so you may want to plan for meals outside scheduled activities.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The experience requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This 5-day safari offers a well-rounded and thoughtfully curated experience of Victoria Falls and Chobe National Park. Its strength lies in the combination of spectacular scenery, wildlife encounters, and expert guiding, making it an excellent choice for travelers wanting a hassle-free yet immersive adventure.

The tour’s small group size and detailed itinerary ensure you’ll get plenty of personal attention, informative commentary, and authentic wildlife sightings. While the non-refundable policy requires some planning certainty, the overall value and quality of the experience make it worth considering.

If your goal is to see the highlights of southern Africa with knowledgeable guides and in a comfortable setting, this safari could be the perfect fit. Expect awe-inspiring views, close encounters with wildlife, and a memorable journey through some of Africa’s most iconic landscapes.