Chobe Extended Day Trip

If you’re considering a day trip from Victoria Falls to experience some of Botswana’s most iconic wildlife and landscapes, the Chobe Extended Day Trip offers a compelling package. Guided by professionals, this tour combines the thrill of a game drive with the tranquility of a river cruise, all wrapped up with included meals and transportation. We’ve looked into this experience to help you decide if it’s worth your time and money.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the early start, which maximizes wildlife sightings before the crowds arrive, the comprehensive itinerary that balances land and water safaris, and the knowledgeable guides who help you spot animals and share insights along the way. Plus, the included meals make it a convenient, no-hassle experience.

One thing to keep in mind is that the timing can be tight, especially if transportation experiences delays, as some reviews mention. It’s best suited for travelers who are okay with full days, enjoy wildlife photography, and want a genuine safari experience without the crowds. If you’re after a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation, this trip could be just right.

Contents show

Key Points

Early morning start maximizes wildlife viewing opportunities.
Includes both game drive and boat cruise, offering diverse perspectives of the park.
Meals are included, adding value and convenience.
Guides are praised for their knowledge, enhancing the experience.
Transport logistics are smooth, but expect early pickup and long day.
Some reviews mention minor delays, so flexibility helps.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Experience

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

The Early Start and Border Crossing Experience

The tour kicks off at around 5 a.m. with hotel pickups in Victoria Falls, ensuring you’re on the road before the park gets busy. As one reviewer, Carlos, noted, “The transportation was on point,” highlighting the reliability of the transfer service. The drive through Zambezi National Park is roughly an hour, and during this time, you can already spot wildlife along the roadside—an exciting preview of what’s to come.

Crossing the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe is straightforward if you’ve arranged your visas in advance, as Janet shared. She found the process smooth, describing it as “easy,” especially after buying her double visa at the airport. This early start means you’re not competing with larger tourist groups for sightings.

The Game Drive in Chobe National Park

Once inside Chobe National Park, the highlight is the game drive. The guides, often praised for their expertise, take you into areas where animals are active before the heat of the day. Reports from travelers like Ben underline the quality of this part, noting that guides like LT went above and beyond to spot the Big Five and provide detailed animal information. You might see lions, elephants, buffalo, and even elusive predators like leopard or cheetah.

The small group size (often a shared vehicle with others) offers intimacy and better wildlife encounters. Reviews indicate that this part of the trip is the most memorable, especially thanks to guides who are well-versed in animal behavior and habitat.

Lunch at Chobe Safari Lodge

Around noon, you’ll pause for a buffet lunch at the Chobe Safari Lodge. The setting is comfortable, and the food typically receives good marks—Janet called her lunch “superb.” However, some travelers, like Carlos, noted that drinks weren’t included, and paying with USD sometimes posed issues if your notes weren’t “good” quality. Still, the relaxed break gives you time to recharge before the next leg.

More Great Tours Nearby

The 3-Hour Chobe River Cruise

Post-lunch, the tour transitions to a 3-hour boat cruise on the Chobe River. This part of the trip offers a different wildlife perspective—birds, crocodiles, hippos, and elephants are often spotted bathing or grazing near the water. Reviewers like Dagmar mentioned that the cruise provided excellent animal sightings and a chance to relax.

The river cruise also promises spectacular sunset views, a favorite among travelers. As you drift along, you can take in the scenery, observe wildlife at close range, and enjoy a peaceful moment after the morning’s excitement.

There's plenty more to explore in Botswana

Return to Victoria Falls

The day concludes with the drive back to Victoria Falls, usually around 8 p.m., giving you a full day of safari adventure. Some reviews, such as Hirofumi’s, point out that delays can occur, so flexibility helps. The return trip offers a chance to reflect on a day well spent among Africa’s famed wildlife.

Value and Practical Considerations

Price and What You Get

At $245 per person, this trip offers a lot. The package includes park fees, all activities, transportation, meals, and taxes, making it a good value considering the comprehensive experience. For travelers who want to see Big Five animals and enjoy a luxury-style river cruise without the hassle of organizing multiple bookings, this is quite appealing.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour covers almost everything, but a few extras are on you to arrange. For instance, international flights, airport transfers, personal items, and visas aren’t included. Also, drinks during lunch are extra, so budget for those. It’s worth noting that some reviewers experienced minor hiccups, like Carlos mentioning the surprise about drink payments and USD notes preferences.

Practical Tips

Bring your passport, as border crossing is involved.
Pack sunscreen, a hat, and long sleeves to shield from the sun during the game drive.
Be prepared for an early start and a long day—this isn’t a relaxed, half-day adventure.
Expect small group sizes and attentive guides, which make animal sightings more likely.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Several travelers shared helpful tips based on their experiences. Janet highlighted her smooth border crossing and excellent game drive and cruise, praising guides like Owen and Cobra. She found the lunch particularly “superb,” adding that the whole day was well-organized.

Carlos, while overall positive, pointed out the unpleasant surprise about drinks and limited payment options, emphasizing the importance of bringing proper USD notes. Hirofumi experienced a delay in pickup, reminding travelers that timing isn’t always perfect but the experience remains worthwhile.

Ben and Dagmar’s reviews underscore the tour’s value for wildlife photography and relaxed breaks during the extended lunch, making the day more enjoyable for those who prefer a balance of activity and downtime.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts who want a comprehensive day exploring both land and water habitats. If you appreciate professional guides with good knowledge and enjoy breathtaking scenery, you’ll likely find this trip rewarding. It’s also ideal for travelers looking for value-packed excursions that include meals and transportation, eliminating the need for extra planning.

However, if you’re not an early riser or prefer more flexibility in your schedule, this full-day commitment might be a challenge. Those prone to delays or looking for a highly relaxed pace should consider the potential for timing issues, especially with border crossings and transportation.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The Chobe Extended Day Trip combines adventure, comfort, and convenience into a single package. The game drive and river cruise provide contrasting wildlife encounters—land and water—making it a well-rounded safari experience.

The professional guides and included meals add real value, especially for travelers who want an all-in-one day without the hassle of organizing multiple activities. While some minor issues with timing and drinks payments exist, they don’t overshadow the overall quality.

This trip suits nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers eager to see Botswana’s iconic wildlife without leaving Victoria Falls for more than a day. It’s a practical choice for those wanting an authentic safari experience with a touch of comfort and ease.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

Do I need a visa to cross from Zimbabwe to Botswana?
Yes, you’ll need a visa if you don’t already have one. Many travelers buy a double visa at the airport, which the reviews suggest is straightforward.

What should I bring on the day of the trip?
Bring your passport, sunscreen, sunhat, and long sleeves for sun protection. It’s also wise to have some USD notes for drinks or additional expenses.

Is this tour suitable for kids or seniors?
The experience involves long hours and early mornings, so it’s best for travelers who are comfortable with full-day safaris and early starts.

How many people are typically in the group?
While the exact group size isn’t specified, reviews mention small group sizes on game drives, which enhances wildlife viewing.

Are drinks included in the tour?
No, drinks during lunch are not included. Expect to pay extra for beverages, sometimes with specific payment preferences.

How flexible is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the trip for a full refund, offering some peace of mind if plans change unexpectedly.

In essence, the Chobe Extended Day Trip is a thoughtfully designed safari experience that balances adventure with comfort. It’s a wonderful way to glimpse Botswana’s wildlife while enjoying the scenic beauty of the Chobe River, all within a manageable day trip from Victoria Falls.