Victoria Falls: Chobe National Park Day Trip with Lunch

If you’re visiting Victoria Falls and craving a memorable safari experience just across the border, this full-day tour to Chobe National Park offers an exciting blend of wildlife encounters, scenic cruises, and cultural border crossings. Many travelers have raved about how this trip combines the best of Botswana’s wildlife with Zimbabwean hospitality—all in a smooth, well-organized package.

What we love about this tour? First, it offers two distinct safari experiences—a peaceful boat cruise on the Chobe River followed by a thrilling game drive in the park. Second, the knowledgeable guides make all the difference; they’re experts at spotting animals and sharing interesting facts. Lastly, the delicious buffet lunch at a scenic lodge provides both good food and a chance to relax amid beautiful surroundings.

One potential consideration is the border crossing process, which some travelers found a bit tedious, especially during busy times. It’s worth preparing for some paperwork and patience. This tour suits those who want a comprehensive, value-packed day of wildlife viewing with convenience and comfort. It’s perfect for adventure lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone looking to see Botswana’s Big 5 in a single day from Victoria Falls.

Key Points

• Complete Experience: Combines river cruise, game drive, and delicious lunch for a full day of safari.
• Wildlife Focus: Ideal for spotting elephants, lions, leopards, and more, with guides who know where to look.
• Border Crossing: Includes immigration procedures between Zimbabwe and Botswana, which can take time.
• Expert Guides: Guides like TH and Max are praised for their knowledge and friendly approach.
• Flexible Itinerary: Tour can start with a boat or land safari, depending on animal movement that day.
• Value for Money: At $160 per person, including meals and transfers, it offers excellent value considering the activities.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect

Hotel Pickup and Border Crossing

We loved how effortless this trip feels from the start. Your day kicks off with a hotel pickup in Victoria Falls or Livingstone, usually in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle. The journey to the Kazungula border takes roughly an hour, during which guides like TH make the crossing smooth and painless—handling immigration formalities so travelers don’t have to stress.

Travelers frequently mention how well-organized the process is, though some note the border crossing can take over an hour during busy periods. Expect to show your passport, and if you’re traveling with children, bringing copies of birth certificates is advised.

Chobe River Boat Cruise

Once across the border, the first highlight is the morning boat cruise along the Chobe River. This is where the magic begins. You’ll board smaller, comfortable boats, often with drinks available, and drift through calm waters teeming with wildlife. Reviewers like Tiffany and Neil describe it as a relaxing yet exhilarating experience—seeing elephants crossing the river, hippos lounging, crocodiles sunbathing, and many bird species.

Many travelers comment on how close animals appear from the water, with some lucky enough to spot predators like lions or leopards from the river’s edge. The feeling of watching an elephant bathing or a family of hippos wallowing is a memory many cherish.

Lunch at a Scenic Lodge

After the cruise, it’s time to refuel. The tour includes a buffet lunch at Chobe Safari Lodge or Chobe Marina Lodge, both praised for their tasty offerings and beautiful settings. Reviewers like Genevieve and Janet highlight how well thought out the meal options are—hot and cold dishes, plenty of choices, and friendly service.

This is also a chance to soak in the views, enjoy a cold drink, and chat about the wildlife sightings from the morning. Many mention the quality of the food exceeds expectations, with some noting the crocodile steak as a standout.

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Afternoon Game Drive in Chobe National Park

Post-lunch, the adventure continues with an afternoon game drive in an open 4×4 vehicle. Guides like Max and TH excel at spotting wildlife—giraffes, elephants, kudu, impalas, and perhaps even the elusive lions or leopard that some fortunate travelers have been lucky enough to see.

The timing of the drive depends on animal activity that day. Reviewers have experienced both starting with a game drive or a river cruise, depending on animal movements, which adds an element of unpredictability and excitement.

Guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness. Many reviewers, including Cassidy and Robert, mention how guides went above and beyond to ensure everyone saw as much as possible. The open vehicles allow for excellent wildlife viewing, making this part of the tour highly rewarding.

Wrap-up and Return

After the game drive, the group reunites at the border for the journey back to Victoria Falls or Livingstone. The entire trip typically lasts around 12 hours, with flexible start times and options to reserve and pay later, which adds convenience.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $160 per person, this trip packs in a lot. It’s not just a game drive; it’s a multi-activity safari that covers river, land, and cultural border crossings. The cost includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation in air-conditioned vehicles, a buffet lunch, a boat cruise, a game drive, and a knowledgeable guide.

Considering the quality of wildlife sightings, the comfort of the included meals, and the seamless logistics, most reviewers agree this represents excellent value. The only extra costs are park entrance fees and the $25 government tax, which are transparent and manageable.

What Travelers Should Know

• Timing: The best days depend on animal movement; guides adapt the schedule accordingly.
• What to Bring: Passports are essential; comfortable clothing, sun protection, and binoculars are recommended.
• Border Formalities: Can take time, especially during busy periods, so patience is key.
• Meal Options: The buffet lunch includes hot and cold dishes, with vegetarian options available.
• Group Size: Typically small to mid-sized groups, allowing for personalized attention and better wildlife spotting.
• Flexibility: You can start with a boat or land safari, depending on animal activity that day.
• Booking: Keep your plans flexible with the “reserve & pay later” option.

Authentic Traveler Insights from Reviews

Guests have shared that guides like TH and Max are exceptionally knowledgeable, often sharing interesting facts about animals and park history. Many reviewers appreciated the smooth border crossing, with some saying it was “easy” and “well-organized,” which is crucial for a stress-free experience.

Wildlife sightings seem to depend on the day, but most guests report seeing a wide variety of animals, including elephants, lions, giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, and even leopards. Tiffany mentions that her group saw lions and elephants up close, and Cassidy highlights the variety of animals seen on both water and land safaris.

Food quality is another highlight, with multiple reviews complimenting the buffet lunch as “plentiful” and “delicious,” making the long day more enjoyable. Several travelers suggest bringing extra snacks or water to stay hydrated, especially during hot weather.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This Victoria Falls: Chobe National Park Day Trip offers a well-rounded safari experience that combines scenic river cruises, thrilling game drives, and delicious meals within one full day. It’s best suited for wildlife enthusiasts who want to maximize their time and see the Big 5 without multiple trips. The guides’ expertise and the variety of activities make it ideal for travelers seeking an authentic, hassle-free safari.

If you’re after a value-packed adventure that captures the essence of Botswana’s wildlife, this tour delivers. The seamless logistics, friendly guides, and stunning scenery mean you’ll come away with plenty of unforgettable moments.

However, if border formalities or a long day are a concern, plan accordingly—bringing patience and essentials like passports and snacks. This trip offers a practical way to experience Botswana’s wilderness, especially for those short on time but eager for a genuine safari experience.

FAQs

Do I need a visa or special documentation?
Yes, you’ll need your passport, and for children, copies of birth certificates are recommended. The border crossing is straightforward but can take some time during busy periods.

How long does the entire day last?
Expect around 12 hours from hotel pickup to return, including border formalities, travel, cruises, and game drives.

Is there a specific order for the activities?
The schedule can vary based on animal movement, but typically, the morning begins with a river cruise, followed by lunch, then an afternoon game drive. Some tours start with a game drive or cruise, depending on the day.

Are drinks included?
Drinks are provided on the boat cruise and at the lodge, but additional beverages during lunch or at the border may require extra payment.

What should I bring?
Passport, sun protection, comfortable clothing, binoculars, and possibly extra water or snacks. Some reviewers also suggest taking cash for tips and additional drinks.

Are children allowed?
Children between 0 and 18 should carry a copy of their birth certificate; the tour isn’t suitable for babies under 1 year.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations up to 24 hours in advance are refundable, offering some flexibility for changing schedules.

In summary, this tour presents an excellent opportunity to see wildlife in its natural habitat, enjoy scenic boat rides, and experience Botswana’s stunning landscapes—all while traveling comfortably and confidently from Victoria Falls. Whether you’re a first-time safari-goer or a seasoned wildlife lover, this trip offers a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and authentic encounters.

You can check availability for your dates here: