From Moremi Game Reserve: 5-Day Chobe National Park Safari

Planning a safari in Botswana? This 5-day journey from the heart of Moremi to the stunning Chobe National Park promises unforgettable wildlife encounters, a mix of game drives and river cruises, and cozy lodge stays. While it’s not the cheapest option, the blend of varied landscapes and authentic experiences makes it a worthwhile investment for wildlife lovers.

What we particularly love about this adventure is its focus on diverse habitats — from the lush wetlands of Moremi to the water-rich Savuti and the iconic Chobe Riverfront. The chance to see large herds of elephants, lions trailing buffalo, and an assortment of birdlife makes this an appealing choice. The boat cruise along the Chobe River adds a relaxing, close-up perspective on animals that might otherwise stay hidden.

That said, one thing to consider is the pace — with multiple stops and early mornings, it requires a fair amount of energy and flexibility. Also, the price point of over $2,000 per person might seem steep, but many reviews highlight the value delivered through expert guides and well-organized logistics.

This tour suits wildlife enthusiasts, photography buffs, or travelers wanting a comprehensive taste of Botswana’s iconic parks. If you’re after a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and authenticity, this safari could be just what you’re looking for.

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Key Points

Diverse Wildlife: Experience the rich variety of animals and birds in Moremi, Savuti, and Chobe.
Varied Activities: Combining game drives and a river cruise offers unique wildlife viewing perspectives.
Authentic Camping and Lodge Stays: Two nights camping in Moremi mixed with lodge accommodations.
Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience, sharing insights about animal behavior and park ecology.
Inclusive Price: All meals, drinks, transportation, and activities are covered, simplifying your planning.
Flexible Payment: Book now with the option to pay later, offering peace of mind for flexible planning.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the 5-Day Botswana Safari

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

Starting Point: Moremi Game Reserve and Kwai Concession

The adventure kicks off in Moremi, one of Botswana’s most renowned wildlife parks, famed for its variety of habitats including floodplains, mopane woodlands, and lagoons. Over two nights of camping, you’ll experience the thrill of waking up to the sounds of Africa, with early morning game drives that often reveal elusive predators and a thriving array of resident game species.

Guests often mention the guides’ expertise—“The guides knew exactly where to find the animals, and their knowledge made all the difference,” one reviewer shared. The camping setup immerses you in the Bush, with some noting that the experience can be both exhilarating and a tad challenging—think outdoor showers and more rugged conditions, but well worth it for the closeness to nature.

In the Kwai Concession area, you’ll stay in a lodge, offering a comfortable contrast to the camping nights. The game drives here are prime for spotting animals like elephants, buffalo, and a variety of antelopes, as well as bird species like kingfishers and herons.

Transition to Chobe: Savuti and Riverfront

On day three, the safari moves towards Chobe, passing through Savuti, famous for its waterholes and marshes. This area is a wildlife magnet, especially during the dry season, when animals gather around dwindling water sources. Many reviews highlight the opportunity to see large herds of elephants and predators like lions trailing prey such as buffalo.

One guest mentioned, “We saw lions trailing herds of buffaloes, which was an intense and unforgettable sight.” The driving here is slow and deliberate, designed to maximize animal sightings. The scenery is dotted with waterholes and marshes, making it ideal for spotting resident game. You’ll then head to the riverfront of Chobe, where the landscape shifts to lush, floodplain-style habitat.

Chobe National Park: The Big Game and River Cruise

Chobe’s real highlight is its large herds of elephants — often coming down to the river to drink, wallowing hippos, and crocodiles lounging in the water. The boat cruise on the Chobe River offers a peaceful vantage point for wildlife viewing. Expect to see hippos, crocodiles, and perhaps even some elusive predators like leopard or lion. The cruise is a relaxing way to take in the scenery and observe animals in their natural habitat without the noise of a land vehicle.

Guests frequently comment on the tranquility of the cruise—“Seeing the elephants come down to drink was a real highlight, close enough to see every detail,” one reviewer said. The boat is well-equipped, and guides share insights about the animals and their behaviors, turning the experience into both a wildlife encounter and an educational moment.

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Wildlife Highlights: From Big Cats to Rare Antelopes

The tour’s wildlife sightings are diverse. Expect to see lions trailing herds of buffalo, as well as large groups of zebra and wildebeest. Rare species like puku, roan, and sable antelopes add to the excitement for enthusiasts and photographers alike. The guides’ local knowledge often means spotting species that aren’t always on the usual routes, giving you a better shot at unique sightings.

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Practical Aspects: What to Expect and Tips

The tour includes transportation in a safari vehicle, with professional guides leading game drives and cruises. Meals and drinks are included, simplifying your planning and ensuring you’re well-fueled for each day. The itinerary is carefully structured to balance early mornings and some downtime, but be prepared for long days with plenty of wildlife viewing.

Travelers with a love for outdoor adventure will appreciate the two nights of camping, offering a true bush experience. However, if comfort is your priority, the lodge nights provide a restful retreat.

Important Details and Recommendations

What to bring: Pack warm clothing for early mornings, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, comfortable clothes, a camera, and binoculars.
Restrictions: Pregnant women, those with back problems, or travelers over 95 may find this tour unsuitable.
Flexibility: You can reserve now and pay later, giving you time to plan without immediate financial commitment.
Cancellation policy: Full refunds are possible if canceled 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind.

Price Analysis and Value

At $2,053 per person, this safari is an investment, but many guests consider it well worth the cost. It covers all major activities, accommodations, and meals, avoiding extra expenses during your trip. The combination of camping and lodge stays provides a balanced experience—close to nature with comfort when needed.

The guided game drives and river cruise add value by increasing your chances of sightings and sharing expert insights, crucial for making the most of your time in Botswana.

Who Is This Safari Best For?

This tour appeals most to travelers who love wildlife and want a comprehensive Botswana experience without doing it all independently. It suits those who are comfortable with outdoor camping, as well as guests seeking a mix of adventure and comfort.

It’s perfect if you’re looking for a well-organized, guided adventure that highlights the best of Botswana’s iconic parks and wildlife, with a focus on authentic sightings and memorable moments.

If you’re after a trip that offers both the thrill of the chase and the relaxing moments of a river cruise, this safari delivers. It’s a good fit for nature enthusiasts, photography lovers, and those wanting to tick off some of Africa’s most famous animals from their bucket list.

FAQ

How many nights will I spend camping?
You will camp for two nights in Moremi Game Reserve, experiencing the bush up close and personal.

Are all meals included?
Yes, the tour includes all meals and drinks, making it easy to relax without worrying about extra costs.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Expect to see elephants, lions, buffalo, zebra, wildebeest, and possibly rare antelopes like roan and sable. The variety is quite impressive.

Is the boat cruise included?
Yes, a relaxing boat cruise on the Chobe River is part of the package, offering a different perspective on the animals.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
It’s not suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, or travelers over 95. The pace and outdoor activities require a certain level of mobility.

What should I pack?
Bring warm clothing, sun protection, insect repellent, a camera, binoculars, and comfortable clothes for the game drives and cruise.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations made 24 hours in advance are fully refundable.

Are guides experienced?
Yes, guides are knowledgeable and share their insights throughout the game drives and cruise, enriching your experience.

What transportation is used?
Transportation is in a safari vehicle suitable for game drives, with all transfers included in the package.

Is it worth the price?
Many guests find the value justified by the quality of wildlife viewing, expert guides, and inclusive amenities, making it a worthwhile adventure in Botswana.

To sum it up, this 5-day safari from Moremi to Chobe offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and authentic wildlife encounters. It’s ideal for travelers eager to see Botswana’s most iconic animals, enjoy varied landscapes, and experience the thrill of a guided tour with knowledgeable guides. Whether you’re a wildlife photographer, a nature lover, or simply seeking an unforgettable African adventure, this safari could be just what you’re looking for.