Chobe Full Day Trip

If you’re in Victoria Falls and craving a genuine taste of Africa’s wildlife without spending days on safari, the Chobe Full Day Trip is a fantastic choice. This tour promises a well-rounded experience—combining land-based game drives with a river cruise—that captures the essence of Chobe National Park’s incredible biodiversity.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? Firstly, the expert guides bring the landscape to life with their knowledge and enthusiasm. Secondly, the combination of land and water safaris offers a more complete picture of the wildlife and scenery. Lastly, the smooth logistics and included meals make this an easy, hassle-free day out.

That said, keep in mind that the tour is priced at $170 per person, which is a fair investment considering the length and variety of experiences included. Travelers should also be prepared for an early start around 7:30 AM, to maximize their time in the park.

This trip is ideal for those who want an authentic safari experience, limited time for a longer trip, or simply prefer a hassle-free, guided adventure that delivers a lot of value in one day.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Experience: Combines land game drives with a river cruise for diverse wildlife sightings.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with detailed insights.
• Inclusion of Meals and Transfers: Lunch and refreshments are provided, making the day seamless.
• Flexible and Convenient: Pickup offered, and the tour runs daily with a morning departure.
• Authentic Wildlife Encounters: Focus on Africa’s Big Five, especially elephants and big game.
• Good Value: At $170, you get a full day of adventure with all major fees included.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You Can Expect

Morning Departure and First Stop: Chobe National Park

The tour kicks off early in the morning, around 7:30 AM, aligning with the time when wildlife is most active—especially the big cats and elephants. Once you’re picked up from your accommodation, you’ll head toward Chobe National Park in an air-conditioned vehicle. Expect a comfortable drive with some scenic views along the way.

Arriving at the park, your first adventure is a 4×4 land-based safari. This open vehicle allows you to get up close and personal with Africa’s most iconic animals. The guides are seasoned professionals, often with years of experience, and many reviews praise their ability to spot elusive predators and sizable herds of elephants, which Chobe is famous for.

Traveling deeper into the park, you’ll have the chance to witness Big Five sightings—lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino—though the emphasis is often on elephants and predators like lions and leopards. Reviewers mention guides like “Vusi,” who are “very friendly and helpful,” and their knack for turning a good sighting into a memorable moment. We loved the way guides often shared personal anecdotes and facts about animal behavior, making the game drive both educational and fun.

Midday: Lunch at Chobe Safari Lodge

After a few hours on safari, it’s time to pause for a well-earned lunch at Chobe Safari Lodge. The included meal is a highlight, giving you a chance to relax, rehydrate, and enjoy the scenic views of the river. Many reviewers mention the delicious food and friendly service here, which makes the break a highlight rather than just a pause in your day.

Afternoon: Chobe River Cruise

Post-lunch, you’ll board a river viewing cruise on the Chobe River. This water-based safari offers a different perspective—seeing animals like elephants, buffalo, and hippos along the riverbanks, often with superb bird-watching opportunities. The cruise is a peaceful way to observe wildlife at eye level, and many reviewers describe the experience as “incredible” for spotting animals that might be more elusive during land safaris.

The river cruise is led by guides who are well-versed in bird species and aquatic mammals, adding layers of detail that enrich the experience. It’s common to see elephants bathing, crocodiles basking on the banks, and a variety of birdlife, from kingfishers to fish eagles.

End of the Day and Return

The tour wraps up in the late afternoon, around 4:30 PM, with a comfortable drive back to Victoria Falls. If you’re lucky, you’ll have had a day filled with exciting sightings, stunning landscapes, and plenty of memorable moments.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $170 per person, this experience packs a lot into a single day. The cost covers all park fees, transfers, lunch, and a professional guide, which means no hidden expenses or surprises. Combining land and water safaris gives you a more comprehensive wildlife update than a standard game drive alone, making it excellent value for wildlife enthusiasts wanting a balanced safari experience.

The included expert guiding is a major plus, as it elevates the entire experience. From the reviews, travelers consistently praise guides for their friendliness and knowledge, turning what could be a routine game drive into an engaging adventure filled with interesting facts and animal spotting tips.

Transportation and Logistics

Transportation is arranged via air-conditioned vehicles, making the long drive comfortable and quick. Pickup is offered from Victoria Falls hotels, which adds a layer of convenience. Tours run Monday through Sunday, from early morning to late afternoon, fitting easily into most travel plans.

A notable aspect from reviews is how smoothly everything is organized. Guests have mentioned the “seamless logistics from Afro Dawn Safaris,” which takes the stress out of planning, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area.

What Travelers Love and What to Consider

Reviewers highlight the expert guides, with many mentioning specific guides like “Vusi” who help spot wildlife and share fascinating insights. The combination of land and water safaris is also repeatedly praised for offering a full picture of Chobe’s wildlife.

However, some travelers note the early start (around 7:30 AM) may be tiring, especially if you’re not a morning person. Also, since the tour is priced at $170, it’s worth considering whether the value matches your budget—though, in our view, the included meals, transfers, and expert guiding make it a straightforward choice for most.

Most travelers can participate, and the tour is suitable for those with most physical abilities. It’s an excellent option for families, wildlife lovers, or anyone wanting a full-day, guided experience without the hassle of organizing logistics themselves.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This Trip?

This full-day Chobe safari is best suited for travelers looking for a well-organized, authentic experience that combines variety—land and water safaris, wildlife and scenery—all in one day. It’s ideal for visitors staying in Victoria Falls who want a convenient, high-quality safari without the commitment of multiple days.

The tours’ affordable price point, combined with the knowledge of experienced guides and included meals, makes it a strong value for anyone eager to see Africa’s Big Five in their natural habitat. If you’re after a memorable, hassle-free adventure that balances wildlife encounters with comfort, this trip hits the right notes.

FAQ

What is included in the tour? The tour covers all transfers, park fees, expert guiding, a land safari, a river cruise, and lunch at the lodge.

How long is the tour? The full experience lasts approximately 9 hours, starting early in the morning and returning late afternoon.

Is pickup offered? Yes, pickup from Victoria Falls accommodations is included, making logistics simple.

Do I need a visa or PCR test? Yes, you’ll need to pay for your visa if applicable, and a valid COVID-19 PCR test (less than 72 hours old) is required.

Can most travelers participate? Yes, the tour is designed to suit most travelers, with no strenuous activities involved.

Is the tour suitable for families? Most likely, yes, especially if traveling with older children who are comfortable in vehicles and on boat cruises.

What is the cancellation policy? You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund; cancellations within this window are non-refundable.

To sum it up, the Chobe Full Day Trip from Victoria Falls offers a compelling balance of adventure, comfort, and value. With expert guides leading engaging game drives and a serene river cruise, it provides an authentic taste of Africa’s wildlife that’s hard to beat in a single day. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or simply want a memorable experience during your Zimbabwe visit, this tour provides an excellent introduction to the wonders of Chobe National Park.