Full Day Chobe National Park Big 5 Safari

Planning a safari that hits all the high notes while fitting into a single day? The Full Day Chobe National Park Big 5 Safari offers just that, and more. With a great reputation backed by consistent five-star reviews, this tour promises a chance to see an impressive array of wildlife in one of Africa’s most renowned parks.

What we love about this experience is its combination of boat rides and game drives—offering a dynamic view of the park’s landscape and animals. The affordable price of $185 per person gives good value considering the length of the tour, the variety of wildlife, and the expert guiding. Plus, the fact that it’s designed for a small group (max 15 travelers) means a more intimate, less rushed experience.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour starts around noon and lasts roughly 9 to 10 hours, so it’s a full day out. Travelers who prefer early mornings or shorter excursions might want to consider other options. This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers with moderate physical fitness who are eager to see Africa’s Big 5 and enjoy a mix of scenic river and land safaris.

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Key Points

Comprehensive Experience: Combines boat cruise and game drives for varied wildlife viewing.
Affordable for Value: At $185, it offers a full day’s worth of activities and sightings.
Small Group Size: Max 15 travelers, enhancing comfort and personal attention.
Expert Guides: Led by knowledgeable guides like Cobra, who have received positive feedback.
Wildlife Variety: Expect elephants, lions, giraffes, cheetahs, wild dogs, and more.
Flexible Cancellation: Free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.

What to Expect from the Full Day Chobe Safari

This tour is crafted to give you the best of Chobe National Park’s wildlife and scenery in one day, making it ideal for travelers short on time but keen on a rich experience.

Looking for more options in Victoria Falls? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Starting Point and Duration

The adventure begins in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, with pickup offered at your accommodation or designated meeting point. The tour kicks off around 12:00 PM and lasts approximately 9 to 10 hours, returning you to the original meeting point at the end of the day.

Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Chobe National Park

The core of this experience revolves around an exciting game drive through the park, which is renowned for its large herds of elephants and diverse wildlife. One reviewer, Kristine, shared that their guide, Cobra, led them to see a male lion, giraffes, and many elephants, along with hippos, highlighting the park’s variety. The vehicle used for safaris is described as very comfortable, which makes long hours in the vehicle much more bearable.

River Cruise and Lunch

A notable feature is the boat ride on the Chobe River, giving a different perspective of the animals. Reviewers like Shelley mention seeing hippos, water buffalo, and numerous bird species during the cruise. The boat ride is a fantastic opportunity to observe animals like elephants and crocodiles from a relaxed vantage point, and the scenery along the river is often breathtaking, especially as the sun filters through the trees.

Game Drive in the Park

Following the cruise, the safari continues with a land game drive, where you can spot the Big 5 — lions, elephants, buffalo, leopard, and rhino — plus other species such as kudu, eland, and zebra. The small group size and knowledgeable guides mean you’ll get insightful commentary and close-up sightings, which makes the experience both fun and educational.

Wildlife and Scenery

From the reviews, it’s clear that guests frequently see elephants in large herds, lion prides, and various antelope species. Shelley mentioned tons of birds, adding a birdwatcher’s delight to the trip. The chances of seeing cheetahs and wild dogs are high enough to make this safari particularly exciting for wildlife enthusiasts.

Guides and Transportation

The guides are praised for their friendliness and expertise. Kristine highlighted driver Francis, who handled transport logistics smoothly, including navigating the Botswana border. That small detail hints at the level of organization and professionalism you can expect.

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Value for Money

For $185 per person, you’re getting a full day of wildlife viewing, including admission tickets, lunch, and both boat and land safaris. Considering the length and diversity of the experience, many guests agree that it offers excellent value—especially when compared to multi-day safaris that can run into hundreds or thousands of dollars.

Practicalities and Tips

Physical Fitness: Moderate fitness level is recommended; expect some time in vehicles and walking around at stops.
Timing: Starting late in the day, this tour is suited for those who prefer a relaxed pace and a full day of activity.
Group Size: Small groups (max 15) mean more personalized attention and fewer crowds.
Weather Considerations: As with any outdoor activity, good weather is essential. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll either get a different date or a full refund.
Cancellation Policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, providing flexibility for your plans.

Authentic Experiences and Unique Insights

One reviewer, Shelley, described their day as “sightseeing by river boat and land safari,” emphasizing the variety of animal encounters. The diversity of wildlife sightings, from hippos and birds to big cats and wild dogs, makes this tour stand out for those wanting a comprehensive safari experience in a single day.

Another point of value is the small group size, creating a more intimate atmosphere where guides can focus on individual interests and answer questions in detail. Guests like Kristine appreciated the comfortable vehicle and the professional service provided by the guides.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This safari is perfect for wildlife lovers eager to see Africa’s Big 5 and other iconic animals without committing to multiple days. It’s suitable for visitors who are okay with a full day out starting around noon, and those who enjoy a mix of boat and land experiences. If you value small groups, expert guides, and good value for money, you’ll find this tour hard to beat.

On the flip side, travelers looking for early morning safaris or overnight adventures may prefer other options. Also, those with limited mobility might want to consider the physical demands of the game drives and boat rides.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour covers game drives, a boat cruise, lunch, and admission tickets to Chobe National Park. Pickup is offered from Victoria Falls.

How long does the safari last?
It runs for approximately 9 to 10 hours, starting around noon and returning in the evening.

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
While not explicitly stated, the moderate physical fitness level required suggests it’s best for older children or families comfortable with a full day out in nature.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance, making it flexible if your schedule shifts.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see?
Expect to see elephants, lions, giraffes, zebra, buffalo, cheetahs, wild dogs, hyenas, and more. The diversity is impressive for a single-day tour.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 15 travelers, which allows for a more personalized experience.

Who are the guides?
Guides like Cobra are experienced and knowledgeable, with reviews highlighting their friendliness and ability to spot animals efficiently.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, reviewers have mentioned very comfortable vehicles that make long hours in transit more enjoyable.

Final Thoughts

The Full Day Chobe National Park Big 5 Safari is a solid choice for those looking to maximize wildlife sightings in a single day. Its combination of boat and land safaris, small group size, and positive reviews point to a well-organized, enjoyable adventure. While it’s not suited for very early risers or those seeking a multi-day experience, it offers a balanced, value-packed way to enjoy some of Africa’s most iconic landscapes and animals.

If you’re after a practical, authentic, and memorable safari experience without breaking the bank, this tour should be on your radar. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a comprehensive wildlife fix while enjoying the comfort and intimacy of a small-group adventure.

In summary, this tour pairs convenience with adventure, making it a smart pick for wildlife enthusiasts and first-time visitors alike. Just remember to pack your camera, binoculars, and sense of curiosity—you’re in for a day to remember.