Full Day Safari Adventure in Chobe From Victoria Falls

If you’re looking to add a wildlife-filled day to your Victoria Falls adventure, the Full Day Safari in Chobe offered by African Fairytale Tours & Safaris might be just what you need. While we haven’t gone on this specific trip ourselves, it consistently earns high marks for its well-rounded, exciting experience.

What makes this tour stand out? First, you get to see Africa’s largest elephant population up close — a genuinely breathtaking sight. Second, the combination of a game drive and river safari ensures a varied wildlife experience, from land-based sightings to water-based encounters. Third, the included lunch at a four-star riverside lodge offers a chance to relax amid stunning surroundings.

A potential consideration? The tour does not include drinks, so you’ll want to bring some water or extra beverages if you prefer to stay hydrated or enjoy a cold drink during the day. This adventure is best suited for those eager for an authentic, full-day safari with a mix of land and river wildlife viewing.

Overall, if you’re craving a comprehensive, accessible wildlife experience just outside Victoria Falls, this trip offers excellent value and memorable encounters — especially if you’re a fan of elephants and river scenery.

Key Points

• Large Elephant Populations: Chobe hosts Africa’s biggest herds, providing awe-inspiring views.
• Diverse Wildlife: Lions, giraffes, buffalo, hippos, crocodiles, and more await your gaze.
• Two in One: Experience both a game drive and a river cruise in one day.
• Well-Organized Transport: Includes hotel transfers, making logistics smooth.
• Delicious Lunch: Buffet at a 4-star riverside lodge adds comfort to the adventure.
• Flexible Booking: Pay later option and cancellation up to 24 hours in advance provide peace of mind.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Experience

Border Crossing and Transportation

Your day begins early with a hotel pickup in Victoria Falls, setting a comfortable tone for the day ahead. The transfer takes you across the border into Botswana, which means you’ll need to carry your travel documents and be prepared for a brief border process. The bus or vehicle used is typically spacious and air-conditioned, ensuring a comfortable ride as you leave Zimbabwe behind and enter the wild landscapes of Chobe.

The Game Drive Safari

Once inside Chobe National Park, you’ll hop into a 4×4 vehicle for your three-hour game drive. These open-sided vehicles are perfect for wildlife observation, allowing unobstructed views and ample photo opportunities. The guides — often very knowledgeable — will not only point out animals but also share insights about Chobe’s ecosystem and animal behaviors.

From elephants wandering through the bush to lions lounging in the shade, this part of the tour offers the classic safari experience. Reviewers have noted the guides, such as those from African Fairytale Tours, are well-informed, making the drive both educational and exciting. You might find yourself captivated by the sight of large herds of elephants or the grace of giraffes browsing trees.

The River Safari

After the land adventure, you’ll board a luxury boat for a 3-hour cruise along the Chobe River. This part of the tour gets you close to wildlife at the water’s edge — elephants swimming across the river, hippos wallowing in the mud, and crocodiles resting on the banks. Birdlife is also abundant, with kingfishers, herons, and fish eagles adding color to the scenery.

One reviewer appreciated the close-up views of wildlife at the waterside and mentioned how watching elephants swim and hippos wallow was a real highlight. The boat’s relaxed pace allows you to soak in the scenery and take plenty of photos.

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Lunch and Relaxation

Midday, you’ll pause for a buffet lunch at a riverside lodge, often rated as four-star quality. The food is generally described as plentiful and tasty, offering a good variety. While reviewers didn’t mention gourmet standards, the buffet provides enough sustenance for the afternoon ahead. Expect a comfortable setting with views of the river, ideal for recharging before your second activity.

The Afternoon Activity

In the afternoon, you’ll switch to the remaining safari activity — either another game drive or boat cruise — so you get to experience both land and water perspectives of Chobe’s wildlife. This flexibility allows for a more comprehensive view of the park’s animal life and lush scenery.

Return to Victoria Falls

Your day concludes with a return transfer back to Victoria Falls, typically in the late afternoon. The journey offers a chance to relax and reflect on the day’s adventures. Many travelers find the combination of land and water safaris, plus the opportunity to see Africa’s iconic wildlife, well worth the investment.

The Value of This Tour

At $178 per person, this tour provides a substantial amount of time in the park — around six hours of wildlife viewing, plus lunch and transportation. Considering the park fees are included, the price reflects good value for a full-day experience. The combo of a game drive and boat safari means you’re not just looking at animals on land but also engaging with their aquatic environment.

The tour is especially appealing for those with limited time but who still want an authentic safari experience. It suits families, couples, and even solo travelers eager to tick off a wildlife highlight from their Victoria Falls trip.

Practical Tips

• Pack comfortable, neutral-colored clothing suitable for safaris.
• Bring sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses for daytime protection.
• Remember, drinks are not included, so bring water and any other beverages you’d like.
• The tour offers flexibility to reserve and pay later, making it easier to plan your trip.

Authentic Experiences and Reviews

While only two reviews are available, they highlight some valuable insights. One traveler mentioned that food was plentiful and good, though not gourmet, and found the drums and dancing at the lodge to be “a bit amateur but great fun.” This suggests the overall experience is friendly and relaxed, with touches of local culture.

Reviewers also praised the guides’ knowledge, which adds a layer of trust and educational value to the tour. Knowing that guides are well-informed helps you feel confident in spotting wildlife and understanding their behaviors.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This safari day trip is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive wildlife experience without the hassle of multiple bookings or overnight stays. It’s perfect if you’re already in Victoria Falls and crave a full day immersion in African nature.

Wildlife enthusiasts, first-time safari visitors, or those with limited time will find this tour offers a balanced mix of adventure and comfort. It’s also a good choice for families, as the activities are straightforward and suited for a range of ages.

However, if you’re looking for a very personalized or luxury experience, you might find this tour a bit more structured and group-oriented.

Final Thoughts

This Full Day Safari Adventure in Chobe from Victoria Falls offers an engaging, well-organized way to experience Botswana’s wildlife. The combination of game drives and river safaris ensures you see animals from multiple angles, with the added benefit of a comfortable lunch amidst stunning scenery.

The value for the cost is solid, especially given the inclusion of park fees and transfers. Guides provide knowledgeable commentary, and the scenery — from elephants at the water’s edge to lions on the prowl — is unforgettable.

If your goal is to witness elephants in their natural setting, enjoy a relaxed boat cruise, and cover a lot of ground in a single day, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s ideal for those eager to balance adventure, comfort, and authentic wildlife encounters in a single package.

FAQ

Do I need a visa to cross into Botswana for this tour?
Yes, you’ll typically need valid travel documents and may need a visa depending on your nationality. Check your passport and border requirements before booking.

How long is the total tour from start to finish?
The entire day usually lasts around 8-10 hours, including transfers, border crossing, game drives, lunch, and the river cruise.

Are drinks included in the tour?
No, all beverages are not included. It’s recommended to bring water and any other drinks you prefer.

What is the group size like?
While the exact size varies, most tours involve small to medium groups, ensuring a more personal experience.

Can the tour be canceled or rescheduled?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and booking is flexible with the pay-later option.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most likely yes, especially if they enjoy wildlife and outdoor activities; however, check with the provider regarding age restrictions or specific considerations.

To sum it up, this safari day trip combines convenience, value, and authentic wildlife encounters perfectly suited for travelers looking to make the most of their time near Victoria Falls. Whether it’s your first safari or a return visit, the chance to see elephants, lions, and hippos in their natural environment with knowledgeable guides makes this tour a solid choice for your African adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: