3 Days in Victoria Falls & Chobe National Park Combo

Exploring the 3 Days in Victoria Falls & Chobe National Park Combo

If you’re considering a trip to Zimbabwe’s iconic Victoria Falls paired with a safari in Chobe National Park, this 3-day package offers a well-rounded experience. It’s designed for travelers craving a blend of breathtaking natural wonders, adrenaline-pumping activities, and authentic wildlife encounters. While it packs a lot into a short time, it balances adventure and relaxation, making it a solid choice for those wanting maximum highlights without extensive planning.

What stands out most? The guided waterfall tour that brings you up close and personal with the “Smoke that Thunders,” the raft experience on the Zambezi River, and the wildlife safari in Chobe—each activity offers a unique perspective on this part of Africa. Plus, the value for money is impressive, especially considering the combination of activities and included meals. One thing to keep in mind? The adventurous pace might be a bit intense for travelers with limited mobility or those seeking a more relaxed itinerary.

This tour is best suited for active travelers who love a mix of sightseeing and adventure, and aren’t afraid to get their hands a little dirty or their hair a little wet. If you’re looking for a comprehensive, fun-filled few days with memorable views and wildlife, this could be just what you need.

Key Points

• Diverse experiences: Combines sightseeing, adventure, and wildlife in one package.
• Guided tours: Expert guides enrich the experience with insightful commentary.
• Value-packed: Includes meals, transfers, and multiple activities for a reasonable price.
• Authentic wildlife: Close encounters with elephants, lions, buffalo, and giraffes in Chobe.
• Unmatched views: Panoramic helicopter flights and scenic river cruises.
• Active itinerary: Suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness.

A Full Breakdown of the 3-Day Adventure

This tour offers a carefully curated schedule that balances iconic sights with adrenaline-fueled activities. Here’s what to expect day-by-day, with insights on why each stop is worth your time—and what to consider.

Day 1: Victoria Falls – The Grand Entrance

The tour kicks off with a visit to Victoria Falls, a natural marvel famously called the “Smoke that Thunders.” The falls themselves are a sight to behold — a single, colossal sheet of water plummeting into the Zambezi gorge. The guide will take you into the rainforest that surrounds the falls, which is constantly moist and lush, teeming with unique flora and birdlife. Expect to learn fascinating facts about this ecosystem, which is a botanist’s paradise.

It’s noteworthy that 70% of the falls’ views are seen from this rainforest, so your perspective is pretty comprehensive. Expect a two-hour visit, during which knowledgeable guides like Marvel (as mentioned in reviews) share captivating stories and facts that deepen your appreciation for this wonder.

Next, you’ll cross the Victoria Falls Bridge, an engineering marvel that spans the Zambezi River. It’s not just a pretty structure—it’s a border crossing between Zimbabwe and Zambia, offering fantastic photo opportunities, especially with rainbows forming over the spray of the falls.

Midday brings a relaxing break at Lookout Cafe, perched on the rim of Batoka Gorge. Here, you can enjoy good food with panoramic views of the gorge and the falls. It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely lunch, soaking in the scenery.

The day wraps up with a river cruise along the Zambezi, where you can unwind, sip a cold drink, and enjoy the tranquility of the river while spotting birds and hippos. The buffet lunch is appreciated for its variety, including salads, cold meats, cheeses, and biscuits. Reviewers highlight the quality and the attentive crew, which makes this a peaceful yet memorable experience.

Day 2: Adrenaline and Aerial Views

The second day is all about adrenaline and breathtaking perspectives. The morning begins with a white-water rafting adventure on the Zambezi—about 23 km of challenging rapids ranging from class 3 to 5. This activity is the highlight for many thrill-seekers, and guest reviews mention how well-organized and safe the experience is, with helpful guides and thorough safety briefings. Expect a full six hours of splashes and excitement, with lunch served on top of the gorge for a scenic reward.

After the adrenaline rush, you’ll hop into a 12-minute helicopter flight over Victoria Falls. This is a crowd favorite, offering a bird’s-eye view of the falls and the surrounding landscape. Guests describe it as “phenomenal,” noting that it’s a perfect way to capture the scale and beauty of the falls from vantage points impossible to reach on foot. Photographers will love the opportunity to snap rainbows arching over the water.

Day 3: Chobe National Park – African Wildlife at Its Best

The final day transports you to Chobe National Park in Botswana, famous for its large herds of elephants and abundant wildlife. The full-day safari includes a boat cruise followed by a game drive in open 4×4 vehicles. The boat cruise offers a relaxed, close-up view of elephants, hippos, and crocodiles along the riverbanks, often with impressive herds of elephants crossing or bathing.

Later, the game drive takes you deeper into the park, where you can expect to see lions, buffalo, giraffes, and other iconic animals. The reviews consistently mention the quality of wildlife sightings, with some travelers noting that elephants and buffalo are seen “frequently” and that the guides are knowledgeable, helping guests spot elusive animals.

The combination of water-based and land-based safaris gives a rounded view of the Chobe ecosystem, with plenty of opportunities for fantastic photos and close encounters. The full six hours are packed with activity, but the structured schedule ensures enough time to enjoy each part fully.

Practical Aspects and Value

The price tag of $820 per person covers a lot. With included transfers, meals, and activities, this package is a solid deal for the value it offers. Notably, the Victoria Falls entry fee ($50) and optional extras like helicopter flights ($25) and rafting ($10) are separate, meaning the upfront cost covers a comprehensive experience.

Transport is a key highlight—air-conditioned vehicles pick you up and drop you off at each scheduled activity, removing the stress of logistics. Small group sizes (maximum of 15 travelers) ensure more personalized interactions and better access to guides’ knowledge.

While the itinerary is packed, reviews mention it’s suited for those with moderate physical fitness. Some activities, like rafting and walking in the rainforest, require a bit of stamina, but guides are attentive and helpful. Travelers who want a mix of sightseeing, adventure, and wildlife will appreciate the diversity.

Things to Consider

• The Victoria Falls entry fee of US$50 isn’t included, so budget accordingly.
• Activities like helicopter flights and rafting have additional costs if booked separately.
• The schedule is tight; expect early mornings and full days, so packing light and comfortable is best.
• The adrenaline activities are exhilarating but might be unsuitable for those with fears of heights or water.

Authentic Experiences and Reviewer Insights

Guests frequently mention the expert guides, such as Marvel, who deliver interesting facts and personalized service. The guides’ local knowledge elevates the experience—whether pointing out rare bird species or sharing stories about the wildlife.

Reviewers also highlight the delicious food, especially the buffet lunches and tapas-style snacks during the boat cruises and safaris, making the days feel even more special. The scenic helicopter flight emerges as a highlight, with many describing it as “unforgettable” and “phenomenal”.

One traveler noted that the rafting trip was “challenging but worth every splash,” adding that the safety measures made it accessible even for newcomers. The Chobe Safari consistently earns praise for its abundance of animals and the chance to see elephants and lions up close.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This combo package is perfect for adventurous travelers who want a well-organized, all-in-one experience. It suits those eager to see Victoria Falls from multiple angles—on foot, from above, and from the river—while also indulging in a safari that brings you face-to-face with Africa’s most iconic wildlife.

If you’re looking for a value-for-money, action-packed itinerary that covers the essentials and more, this tour is a compelling choice. However, if you prefer a more relaxed, less packed holiday or have mobility limitations, some activities might feel a bit demanding.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
The $820 fee covers all activities, transfers, two lunches, and refreshments. Entry fees for Victoria Falls are extra, at US$50.

Are the activities suitable for all fitness levels?
The tour is designed for travelers with a moderate fitness level. Activities like rafting and walking in the rainforest require some stamina, but guides are helpful.

How long are the activities?
Most activities, such as the falls tour and river cruise, last around 1-2 hours, while rafting takes about six hours, and the helicopter flight is 12 minutes.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, activities like the helicopter flight ($25), rafting ($10), and sunset cruise ($10) are extra. The Victoria Falls entry fee is also separate.

What is the best time to do this tour?
While the tour details don’t specify seasons, the experience is generally best when the water levels are high, and the weather is warm.

How many people will be on the tour?
The maximum group size is 15 travelers, providing a more intimate experience.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, air-conditioned vehicles are used for pickups and transfers, making the journey as comfortable as possible.

Wrapping Up

This 3-day Victoria Falls & Chobe package shines as an excellent pick for those wanting a comprehensive, adventure-filled experience. You’ll see iconic sights, tackle exciting activities, and come face-to-face with Africa’s extraordinary wildlife—all in just a few days.

It’s best suited for active travelers who love a blend of sightseeing, adrenaline, and wildlife, and appreciate good organization and authentic experiences. With knowledgeable guides, stunning vistas, and memorable encounters, it offers great value for the price, especially considering the diversity of activities packed into such a short trip.

If you’re looking to tick off the major highlights of Victoria Falls and Chobe in one go, this tour delivers on the promise of adventure, beauty, and genuine wildlife encounters—making it unforgettable.