From Victoria Falls: Chobe National Park Small Group Tour

If you’re eyeing a day of Southern Africa wildlife without the hassle of multiple planning, this tour from Victoria Falls to Chobe National Park in Botswana offers a balanced mix of adventure and comfort. While it’s not a private experience, the small group size and expert guides make for an engaging safari that’s packed with sightings and scenic moments.

What we love about this tour? First, it includes two different game experiences—a river cruise and a land drive—that significantly boost your chances of spotting big game like elephants, buffalo, and even the Big Five. Second, the knowledgeable guides like Gift and July are noted for their patience and insight, making wildlife encounters more meaningful. Third, the value for money shines through with included lunch, transfers, and expert commentary, making this a convenient yet immersive day trip.

One thing to consider: the tour relies heavily on Mother Nature and the animals’ schedules, so sightings aren’t guaranteed, especially for elusive predators. If you’re after a perfectly curated Big Cat sighting, keep expectations in check. Still, if you’re keen on a comprehensive, well-organized safari with friendly guides, this trip suits wildlife enthusiasts, first-timers, and anyone looking for a taste of Botswana’s incredible flora and fauna.

Key Points

• Small group size offers more personal attention from guides and a less crowded safari experience.
• Two game drives—a river cruise and land safari—maximize wildlife viewing opportunities.
• Expert guides like Gift and July are praised for their patience, knowledge, and storytelling.
• Includes lunch and transfers, offering excellent value and convenience.
• Mother Nature’s unpredictability means sightings can vary; patience is key.
• Border crossing smoothly managed, with simple logistics between Zimbabwe and Botswana.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Departure and Transfers

The tour kicks off early, with a pickup at 7:30 am from Victoria Falls. The transportation is described as very comfortable, with reviews highlighting the professionalism and friendliness of guides like Simon. The journey from Zimbabwe to Botswana takes about an hour, passing scenic views and giving a first taste of the border crossing experience—generally smooth according to most travelers. The transfer process involves meeting a Botswana guide at the Kazungula border, simplifying what can often be a stressful border crossing for visitors.

This transfer component is a significant plus—it means you don’t need to worry about navigating border formalities yourself. Instead, you can relax and enjoy the ride, knowing your guides are experienced at handling the logistics. For many, this smooth transition adds to the overall pleasure of the day.

Morning Game Drive: A River Safari

Once across the border, the first highlight is the Chobe River cruise. This is a chance to see wildlife from a unique perspective—floating quietly along the water, you’ll have close-up views of elephants bathing, hippos lounging, crocodiles basking, and water birds flitting overhead. Most reviews rave about the over 150 elephants seen drinking and bathing, and the opportunity to observe their behavior up close.

Your guides, like July, are praised for their detailed explanations of animal behavior and bird identification, making the cruise both relaxing and educational. Many reviewers mention how the river cruise feels peaceful yet full of life, with endless opportunities to snap photos or just soak in the sights.

The included tea, coffee, and biscuits add a cozy touch to the morning, setting a casual tone before heading for lunch. Expect the cruise to last until around 12:30 pm, giving ample time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Lunch on the Riverbank

After the morning cruise, you’ll head to a hotel on the riverbank for a delicious buffet lunch. Reviewers often point out that the lunch is more than just a quick bite — it’s a well-prepared meal with a variety of options, served in a scenic setting. This break allows you to recharge and swap stories about the wildlife sightings so far, often with panoramic views of the river.

The lunch experience is a highlight for many, as it combines good food with a tranquil environment, perfect for unwinding before the afternoon game drive.

Afternoon Land Safari: Chobe National Park

Post-lunch, the adventure continues in open-air safari vehicles into Chobe National Park. This part is where your chances of spotting the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros) come into play. While sightings depend on luck and animal activity, guides like Gift are known for their patience and eagle eyes, often navigating the terrain to find elusive wildlife.

Several reviewers mention how game drives are intense, with many sightings happening within minutes of starting. One reviewer notes: “During the morning game drive, we rarely went more than a few minutes without amazing wildlife sightings.” That’s a testament to the skill of guides and the richness of Chobe’s wildlife population.

However, it’s important to understand that this isn’t a zoo—animal sightings depend on natural behavior and terrain. Some reviews mention longer waits or fewer predators, but overall, the drive offers fascinating glimpses into African wildlife activity.

Border Return and Final Drop-off

Once the afternoon safari wraps up, you’ll be taken back to the Kazungula border for your return to Victoria Falls. Many travelers comment positively on how smooth and efficient the process is, with some noting how the guides handle border formalities and vehicle transfers seamlessly. Expect to be back in Victoria Falls around 6:30 pm, after a full day of adventure.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

The combination of a river cruise and land safari is perfect for travelers who want a well-rounded wildlife experience without the need for separate bookings. The inclusion of lunch, transfers, and guided commentary makes this package particularly good value—especially considering the cost of individual activities.

Guides like Gift and July are consistently praised for their patience, knowledge, and friendly demeanor, enriching your understanding of both animals and local ecosystems. If you’re someone who appreciates detailed explanations and a relaxed pace, this tour will likely leave you satisfied.

Plus, the small group format means fewer crowds and more personalized attention. This is especially meaningful on safaris where spotting elusive animals can be a game of patience and skill.

Considerations and Potential Drawbacks

While this tour offers a comprehensive experience, it’s worth noting that sightings are not guaranteed. The success of wildlife viewing depends on animal activity and weather conditions, which are beyond anyone’s control. Some reviews mention that the boat safari felt a bit long and repetitive, as animals often congregate in the same spots, especially around water.

Border crossing is usually smooth, but travelers should be prepared for a wait, and it’s always wise to check whether your private arrangements align with tour descriptions—some confusion around private versus group tours has been noted, especially with bookings made through third-party platforms.

The cost of entrance fees to Chobe National Park isn’t included in the price, so budget accordingly.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is perfect for wildlife lovers eager to see elephants, buffalo, and other iconic species, especially if they prefer a small, guided group experience over a large coach tour. It’s also great for those who want a mix of river and land safaris without the hassle of organizing separate activities.

If you’re new to safaris or want to avoid the logistical stress of border crossings and vehicle arrangements, this tour offers a convenient, well-organized package. However, if you’re seeking guaranteed predator sightings or private exclusivity, you might want to explore other options.

Final Thoughts

This small-group day trip from Victoria Falls to Chobe National Park offers a rich combination of river and land safaris, guided by passionate and knowledgeable guides. It delivers great value with inclusive lunch, transfers, and seasoned guides who understand the wildlife inside and out.

While it’s not a private tour and sightings depend on nature’s unpredictable timing, most guests walk away with memorable animal encounters and stunning scenery. The smooth border crossing and relaxed pace make it ideal for first-timers or those wanting a hassle-free safari experience. If you’re looking for a fun, authentic way to connect with Africa’s wildlife, this tour is a solid choice.

FAQ

Is this a private tour?
No, it’s a small-group experience, which means you’ll share the vehicle with a few other travelers. Most reviews suggest it feels quite personal, even if not exclusive.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes transfers from Victoria Falls, a Chobe River cruise, a land game drive in Chobe National Park, lunch, and professional guides.

Are there any extra costs?
Yes, the entrance fee to Chobe National Park is not included, so you should budget for that separately.

What is the duration of the tour?
It lasts approximately 10 hours, starting at 7:30 am and returning in the early evening.

How is the border crossing managed?
Guides handle the border formalities, making the process smooth and straightforward. Expect a transfer to Botswana and back, with minimal hassle.

What kind of wildlife might I see?
Most guests see elephants, buffalo, hippos, crocodiles, giraffes, and sometimes lions and zebras. Sightings depend on animal activity and weather conditions.

Is it suitable for children or seniors?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues should check the vehicle comfort and duration.

What is the guide experience like?
Guides like Gift and July are well known for their patience, knowledge, and ability to spot animals efficiently, making the experience more engaging.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour start time.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, sun protection, binoculars, camera, and some cash for optional expenses are recommended.

In summary, this tour offers a fantastic way to spend a day immersed in Chobe’s wildlife, with reliable organization, knowledgeable guides, and a good mixture of water and land safari experiences. It’s perfect for those wanting a memorable, hassle-free day trip that combines scenic beauty with wildlife encounters—ideal for wildlife enthusiasts or first-time safari hunters.