Tour Operator, River Cruises and Safari drives in the Chobe

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Introduction

If you’re considering a trip to the Chobe National Park in Zimbabwe, chances are you’re craving a mix of wildlife adventure, scenic beauty, and maybe even a quick visit to the iconic Victoria Falls. We recently looked into a tour package offered by SM Tours & Travel that covers river cruises, game drives, and a day trip to Victoria Falls—so you don’t have to.

What caught our eye? Stunning river views, experienced guides, and affordable pricing at just $52 per person make this experience intriguing. On the flip side, a recent review pointed out that the wildlife sightings might not always meet expectations, which is worth considering if your goal is to see lions up close.

This tour seems best suited for travelers wanting a budget-friendly, flexible option with a focus on scenic experiences rather than hardcore wildlife photography. It’s ideal if you’re after an introduction to the area’s natural beauty without breaking the bank, and are okay with some unpredictability along the way.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Affordable Price Point: At $52, this tour offers a decent mix of river and land safaris along with Victoria Falls trips.
Experienced Guides: Staff includes accredited and provisional guides with years of experience, promising informative commentary.
Scenic Highlights: Expect breathtaking sunset views, animals coming to water, and close encounters with river wildlife.
Limited Wildlife Spotting: As per recent review, some guests felt wildlife sightings could be slow or less exciting than anticipated.
Flexibility & Convenience: Pick-up from hotels and the option to reserve and pay later adds ease.
Restrictions & Precautions: Strict rules on what you can bring or do, designed to protect the environment and ensure safety.

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Exploring the Experience: What to Expect

Chobe Sunset Cruise: A Visual Feast at Dusk

The highlight for many is the Chobe sunset cruise, running from 3 PM to 6 PM. Imagine gliding along the river, with the sky ablaze with colors as the sun dips behind the horizon. This cruise around Sedudu Island—located between Botswana and Namibia—offers a chance to witness animals like elephants swimming across the river to reach the mainland, or coming down to drink at water’s edge.

Guests will enjoy refreshments onboard, although bringing your own alcohol or snacks is welcomed. The cruise’s relaxed pace makes it an ideal time to soak in the scenery, listen to the guides’ commentary, and snap photos of the vibrant sunset hues.

While the views are undeniably spectacular, some reviews mention that wildlife sightings during this time can be hit-or-miss. One guest noted, “Not surprising, we waited 20 minutes in front of the lions,” which hints that animal activity might not always align with sunset timing. Still, the overall atmosphere—calm water, golden light, and animal activity—can make this a memorable experience.

Game Drives: Early Morning & Afternoon Encounters

The game drives are split into two main times: early mornings (6:00 AM to 9:30 AM) and late afternoons (3:00 PM to 6:00 PM). These are classic safari hours, when animals are most active and visible.

The early morning drive offers the chance to spot predators like lions and leopards in the cooler parts of the day. On the flip side, the afternoon drive often finds animals heading toward the river to quench their thirst, providing opportunities for sighting elephants, buffalo, and antelope.

Guides will take you into Chobe National Park, with the possibility of encountering a variety of animals. The tours include tea and cookies, making the mornings a bit more comfortable. Importantly, clients are picked up from their hotels, simplifying logistics.

However, reviewing recent feedback, some travelers felt that wildlife sightings, particularly of large cats, might be limited. One review stated that despite waiting in front of lions, the experience was underwhelming—highlighting that animals might not always be in the right place at the right time. Nonetheless, many find the game drives offer a beautiful, up-close look at the park’s flora and fauna—if you’re patient.

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Full-Day Victoria Falls Trip: A Classic Excursion

Just an hour’s drive from Chobe lies the magnificent Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The tour includes crossing into Zimbabwe, with a full-day itinerary that lets you marvel at the roaring waterfalls, walk along the famous viewpoints, and take photos of the mist rising high into the sky.

This experience is perfect for those wanting a quick escape from the safari to see one of Africa’s most iconic sights. The trip includes a bottle of water for the day, and the guide handles border crossings, making it relatively straightforward.

Because this is a full-day activity, you’ll want comfortable shoes, a camera, and a readiness to be dazzled by the sheer power of the falls. Expect to return to your hotel with plenty of photos and memories.

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Is the Tour Worth the Price?

At $52 per person, the tour offers value for money, especially considering it includes multiple activities—river cruise, game drives, and Victoria Falls day trip. The price reflects the level of service, the experience of guides, and the convenience of hotel pickups.

However, the wildlife sightings might not always meet expectations, especially for those hoping for guaranteed lion or leopard encounters. Reviews also suggest that some guests felt the wildlife activity was slow or unremarkable at times.

That said, the scenic moments—the sunsets, the river animals, the close-up views of Victoria Falls—are the kind of things that can turn an ordinary trip into something special. If you’re flexible and open-minded, this tour can be a great way to get a taste of Chobe’s natural beauty without overspending.

Practical Details & Important Information

Included in the Tour

River Cruise: Refreshments are provided, but bringing your own alcohol or snacks is encouraged.
Safari Drives: Tea and cookies are offered, making early mornings a bit more comfortable.
Victoria Falls Daytrip: A bottle of water is included for the full-day activity.

Restrictions & Rules

The tour enforces strict guidelines to ensure safety and environmental protection. Items like pets, weapons, large luggage, drones, and swimming gear are prohibited. Smoking, vaping, alcohol, and drugs are also not allowed aboard, aligning with park regulations.

Booking & Cancellation

You can reserve your spot with the option to pay later, adding flexibility. Cancellations are permitted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which is useful if your plans change unexpectedly.

Language & Accessibility

The tours are conducted primarily in English. It’s important to note that the tour isn’t suitable for babies under one year or those with non-folding wheelchairs, strollers, or mobility scooters.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This package offers a cost-effective way to experience some of the highlights of Chobe and Victoria Falls. It’s well-suited for travelers seeking a balanced mix of scenery and wildlife, with manageable costs and straightforward logistics. The experienced guides and included amenities enhance the experience, making it accessible and relatively comfortable.

However, if your main goal is to see big cats or witness highly active wildlife, you might find this tour a little limited. The wildlife sightings, based on recent reviews, can sometimes be slow or less dramatic, which is typical of guided safaris that operate on animal movement patterns and luck.

For those on a budget, or travelers looking for a flexible, scenic adventure with a touch of wildlife and one of the world’s most famous waterfalls nearby, this tour could be a good fit. Just keep your expectations in check and enjoy the slower, more relaxed pace of Chobe’s natural setting.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour isn’t recommended for babies under 1 year, and there are restrictions on strollers and child carriers. Check with the operator for specific age policies.

Can I bring my own alcohol or snacks?
Yes, during the river cruise, you are welcome to bring your own beverages and snacks besides what’s provided.

What is included in the price?
The package includes river cruise refreshments, tea and cookies during safaris, and a bottle of water for the Victoria Falls trip.

Are guides experienced?
Yes, guides are accredited or have provisional certification with several years of experience, ensuring informative and safe excursions.

How long is the entire tour?
The river cruise is 3 hours, the game drives are in two segments (morning and afternoon), and the Victoria Falls trip is a full day, making for a full schedule.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothes suitable for warm weather, sunscreen, a hat, and camera gear are recommended. Check the restrictions on luggage and personal items before packing.

Is there a chance to see big cats?
While the early morning drive offers the chance to see lions and leopards, recent reviews suggest sightings can be scarce or delayed.

How do I book?
You can reserve via the tour website with the option to pay later, providing flexibility in planning.

What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours before the activity for a full refund.

In summary, this tour by SM Tours & Travel offers an affordable way to experience the natural beauty of the Chobe River, enjoy spectacular sunsets, and visit Victoria Falls—all with experienced guides and convenient logistics. While wildlife sightings may vary, the scenic moments and opportunity to see iconic landmarks make it a solid choice for travelers seeking a budget-friendly introduction to this stunning region.