Chobe Safari Overnight Camping Trip

Chobe Safari Overnight Camping Trip: An Authentic Wildlife Adventure with Stellar Views

Taking a tour like the Chobe Safari Overnight Camping Trip is one of those bucket-list moments travelers often dream about. While I haven’t personally been on this exact trip, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary give a vivid picture of what’s in store. This experience combines the awe-inspiring beauty of Victoria Falls with the raw, untouched wilderness of Chobe National Park, all wrapped into one adventurous package.

Three things we love about this tour? First, the balanced mix of activities—from the sunrise of Victoria Falls to intimate game drives and a boat safari. Second, the authentic camping experience that offers a true bush safari vibe, with comfortable tents and even a shower. And third, the knowledgeable guides (like Figo, who gets special mentions) who make the experience memorable with their expertise and friendly attitude.

One possible consideration? The cost of $340 per person might seem steep for some, but when you factor in the included activities, meals, and the unique overnight stay in the wilderness, it’s a strong value for wildlife enthusiasts.

This tour suits travelers seeking an immersive, authentic safari experience—those who appreciate close encounters with nature, don’t mind rustic camping, and want a balanced day of adventure and comfort.

Key Points

• Authentic camping experience with tents that include amenities like showers and seating toilets.
• Diverse activities including Victoria Falls sunrise tour, boat cruise, and game drives.
• Expert guides who are praised for their knowledge and friendliness.
• Incredible wildlife sightings of elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and possibly the Big Five.
• Value for money considering the activities, meals, and overnight stay included.
• Flexible cancellation policy with full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: Victoria Falls and Chobe National Park

The day begins with a pickup around 11:00 am from Victoria Falls or Livingstone lodges, quickly setting the tone for a smooth, hassle-free experience. The drive to Chobe takes approximately 45 minutes, giving you a scenic preview of the landscape before diving into your adventure.

Once there, the first highlight is the sunrise tour of Victoria Falls — a must-see spectacle that showcases one of the world’s largest waterfalls. Although the tour details aren’t fully specified here, a morning visit typically offers spectacular views and fewer crowds, making it ideal for photos and quiet reflection.

After a buffer lunch at Chobe Terrace, the tour shifts gears into wildlife viewing with a safari boat cruise on the Chobe River. As one reviewer noted, sightings of hippos, impalas, elephants, crocodiles, and numerous bird species make this a truly captivating experience. The river cruise not only offers close-up views of animals but also a chance to hear their sounds and see them in their natural habitat—something photos alone can’t fully capture.

Evening: Camping Under the Stars

By late afternoon, you’ll dock off and set up camp, a step that many find surprisingly comfortable. One reviewer mentioned the tents are quite plush, complete with a shower and a sitting toilet, making the bush camping experience more accessible and enjoyable. Dinner under the night sky is a highlight, described as “under the stars in the bush,” which adds a magical touch to the night.

Day 2: Game Drives and Bush Breakfast

Morning starts early at 6:00 am for a 4-hour game drive in a 4×4 vehicle, often regarded as the best part of any safari. As one guest noted, the guides are knowledgeable, and the wildlife is abundant, including the Big Five. Breakfast in the bush adds to the sense of adventure, giving you a true taste of wilderness living.

Back in camp by around 9:30 am, you’ll have some time to relax before heading back to Victoria Falls. The combination of animal encounters, scenic views, and relaxed pace makes this a memorable, well-rounded safari experience.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Authentic Safari and Camping

Unlike many luxury safaris that focus on high-end lodges, this tour offers a genuine bush camping experience. Reviewers loved the comfortable tents with added amenities, emphasizing how the experience feels both adventurous and manageable. This combination is perfect for travelers who want to feel close to nature without sacrificing basic comforts.

Expert Guides Like Figo

The guides are often praised for their extensive knowledge and caring attitude. One guest shared, “Figo was amazing, making sure we were well taken care of and knowing exactly where to find the animals.” Having a guide with such expertise can significantly enhance the experience, especially when trying to spot elusive animals or understand their behaviors.

Wildlife and Scenic Diversity

From the Victoria Falls sunrise to the Chobe River cruise and game drives, this tour captures a diverse array of wildlife and landscapes. Sightings of elephants, crocodiles, hippos, and impalas are almost guaranteed, with many guests noting how close they got to large herds. The chance to see Big Five animals makes this a special choice for wildlife enthusiasts.

Value for Money

For $340 per person, the tour includes meals, activities, transportation, and an overnight in the wilderness. When compared to similar safaris, this offers quite a bit of value, especially given the personalized experience and the intimate group size—maximum 15 travelers.

Practical Details and Tips

Transportation and Group Size

Travelers are picked up from Victoria Falls or Livingstone lodges, with group sizes capped at 15, ensuring a more personal experience. The comfortable transportation makes for easy, stress-free transfers between sites.

Timing and Duration

The 2-day itinerary is packed, with activities scheduled to maximize wildlife sightings and scenic views. The tour starts at 10:00 am for registration, with tour activities running from late morning to early afternoon, then early morning game drives the next day.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

Included are lunch, breakfast, bottled water, dinner under the stars, safari river cruise, and 4-hour game drive. Not included are visas and park entry fees, so travelers should budget accordingly. The free cancellation policy offers peace of mind, with full refunds available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

Who Should Book This?

This trip is ideal for adventure-seeking travelers who enjoy camping and wildlife encounters. It’s well-suited for those who want a balanced experience—combining comfort, adventure, and authenticity—and don’t mind spending a night in the bush.

Final Thoughts

The Chobe Safari Overnight Camping Trip offers a fantastic mix of iconic sights and wildlife, all with the intimacy of a camping safari. The combination of guided game drives, river cruises, and the unforgettable experience of camping under the stars makes this a memorable journey. Paired with knowledgeable guides and a reasonable price, it appeals most to travelers who crave close-up wildlife encounters but also enjoy some comfort and good organization.

This tour captures the essence of what makes safaris special—wild animals in their natural habitat, breathtaking landscapes, and the thrill of an adventure that feels both authentic and personal. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned safari lover, this experience delivers on many fronts.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup from Victoria Falls or Livingstone lodges is included, and transportation to and from the park is arranged.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, there’s a full refund available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start.

What should I bring?
While not explicitly listed, travelers typically need essentials like a hat, sunscreen, camera, and insect repellent. The tents are comfortable, but bring any personal toiletries you might need.

Are children allowed?
Yes, children can participate but must be accompanied by an adult.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Elephants, hippos, crocodiles, impalas, and many bird species are common sightings. Big Five animals are also present.

Is the camping experience comfortable?
According to reviews, the tents are quite good, with amenities like showers and seating toilets, making bush camping enjoyable.

What meals are included?
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner (including a special dinner under the stars) are included.

Are park entry fees covered?
No, park entry fees are not included and should be paid separately.

How many people are in each group?
The tour caps at 15 travelers, creating an intimate group setting.

What makes this tour stand out?
The authentic camping experience combined with expert guides, diverse wildlife sightings, and excellent value make it a top choice for safari lovers.