Botswana: 9-Day Chobe, Delta, and Victoria Falls Safari Tour

Botswana: 9-Day Chobe, Delta, and Victoria Falls Safari Tour

If you’re dreaming of a safari that combines iconic wildlife, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable water-based adventures, this 9-day Botswana tour offers just that. From the vast plains of Chobe National Park to the tranquil waters of the Okavango Delta, and finally to the thunderous spectacle of Victoria Falls, this journey promises a blend of adventure, scenery, and authentic African wildlife encounters.

What really makes this tour stand out are the knowledgeable guides who bring the experience to life, the diverse ways to see wildlife (game drives, mokoro, river cruises), and the chance to visit some of Africa’s most famous sights. A notable highlight is the mokoro ride — a peaceful, close-up exploration of the Delta that’s hard to match.

One thing to consider is the early mornings and long drives, which are essential to maximize wildlife sightings and the overall experience. If you’re not a fan of early starts, this might require some mental preparation.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who love wildlife, scenic water rides, and don’t mind a bit of physical activity. It’s perfect for those who want a well-rounded, immersive experience in Botswana’s most renowned wildlife and natural sites.

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Key Points

Diverse Wildlife Encounters: From game drives in Chobe to mokoro rides in the Delta, you’ll see animals up close.
Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides help you understand wildlife behavior and history, enriching your experience.
Multiple Water Experiences: Sunset river cruises and mokoro rides offer a different perspective on Botswana’s waterways.
Authentic and Comfortable: Accommodation features en-suite tents and mid-range lodges, balancing comfort with authenticity.
Active Schedule: Early morning game drives and scheduled activities require a good level of fitness and flexibility.
Value for Money: The tour covers park fees, many meals, boat cruises, and activities, making the $4,200 price point quite reasonable for a comprehensive experience.

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An In-Depth Look at the Tour

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Starting Point: Rest and Prepare in Maun

The journey begins with a pickup from the airport and a relaxing overnight stay at a mid-range lodge. It’s a good chance to settle in, meet your fellow travelers, and enjoy a quiet dinner before the safari kicks off. Reviewers mention that the lodge provides a comfortable base, allowing for some downtime before the adventure begins.

Victoria Falls Day Trip

After breakfast, the tour takes you on a guided drive to Victoria Falls, where an experienced guide ensures you don’t miss any of the key sights. The walk around the falls offers spectacular views, and the guide is often praised for their knowledge, sharing interesting facts about the falls’ history and geology. The visit is followed by lunch, giving you time to relax before the afternoon activity — a sunset cruise down the Zambezi River.

The sunset cruise is a highlight that many reviewers treasure. The boat glides quietly on the water, offering stellar views of wildlife like crocodiles, hippos, and various birds, all silhouetted against the fading sun. The calm waters and chance to see animals in their natural habitat make it a peaceful yet exciting experience.

Into the Heart of Chobe and Savuti

Next, your safari heads to Kasane, where the real game viewing begins. The drive to Savuti in Chobe National Park involves a scenic journey with lots of stops for wildlife spotting. The guides are especially skilled at tracking animals, and visitors note their passion and knowledge, which adds a layer of excitement.

Your base for two nights, in well-appointed en-suite Meru tents, provides a cozy yet authentic camping experience. The tents are praised for their comfort, with hot showers and good bedding. Early morning game drives reveal animals in their most active state, and reviewers mention the thrill of spotting elephants, lions, and leopards in the soft morning light.

A visit to the rock paintings in Savuti adds a cultural touch, giving insight into ancient inhabitants of the area. Guides often share stories behind these artworks, enriching the experience beyond just wildlife viewing.

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Exploring the Okavango Delta by Mokoro

The transition to the Okavango Delta is a highlight of the tour. The drive from Khwai to the Mokoro station is scenic, and upon arrival, you’ll hop into a traditional mokoro — a dug-out canoe steered by an experienced poler. As one reviewer explained, “You’re so close to the water and wildlife, it’s like being part of the environment.”

The mokoro ride lasts around three hours, taking you through the Delta’s narrow channels and wide open plains. The tranquility of gliding through this pristine landscape is hard to beat, and your guides will point out birds, crocodiles, and semi-aquatic antelopes like the red lechwe. Many travelers comment on how peaceful and intimate this experience feels, a true highlight of the trip.

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Camping in the Delta and Wildlife Viewing

Camping in the Delta involves setting up camp after a relaxed afternoon. The experience is very authentic, with meals cooked over a campfire surrounded by the sounds of the wild. The warm bucket showers and cozy tents are well-loved by reviewers, providing comfort amid nature.

The Mokoro Experience Expanded: Close Encounters

One of the most praised parts of the tour is the additional mokoro cruise, which takes you along uncharted channels and side waterways inaccessible by motorboats. The sense of being immersed in the environment, surrounded by wildlife like crocodiles, birds, and the elusive lechwe, makes this a truly special moment. As one reviewer put it, “You feel almost like you’re part of the Delta itself.”

End of the Tour and Return Home

The tour concludes with a drive back to Maun, where an Xaa Safaris representative ensures you’re transferred safely to your hotel. Many travelers note that the trip leaves them with vivid memories of Africa’s wild beauty and a deeper appreciation for its ecosystems.

The Practicalities: What to Expect and What to Bring

Transport and Group Size: The tour features a mix of game drives, boat trips, and mokoro rides, all in comfortable vehicles and boats. Group sizes are generally small enough to allow personalized attention, with guides tailoring the experience based on wildlife activity.

Accommodation: The mix of lodge stays and camping in en-suite tents balances comfort with adventure. Reviewers mention that the tents are surprisingly comfortable, with hygienic hot showers and decent bedding.

Activities: Early mornings are the best time for game drives, as animals are most active. The schedule allows plenty of time for wildlife viewing, photography, and relaxing in the wilderness.

Price and Value: At $4,200 per group, the cost covers most activities, park fees, meals, and accommodations. Considering the inclusiveness and the range of experiences, this represents good value for those wanting a comprehensive Botswana safari.

What to Pack: Think lightweight, breathable clothing, a hat, insect repellent, sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, binoculars, and a camera. Pack light, especially for the mokoro ride, which involves some physical maneuvering.

Restrictions and Tips: The tour isn’t suitable for children under 6, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues. Early mornings and long drives are part of the experience, so be prepared for an active schedule.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This Botswana safari is a well-rounded experience that offers a genuine taste of Africa’s wild landscapes and wildlife. The knowledgeable guides and diverse activities make it ideal for travelers seeking both adventure and education. If you’re drawn to scenic water-based excursions, like river cruises and mokoro rides, this tour delivers in spades.

While the early starts and long days might be demanding for some, the payoff is the chance to see animals in their most active moments and experience Botswana’s natural beauty up close. The blend of luxury camping and authentic safari life makes it appealing for those wanting a balance of comfort and adventure.

This safari is perfect for wildlife lovers, photography enthusiasts, and curious travelers who want a deep dive into Botswana’s most iconic sights. It offers excellent value by including most activities, park fees, and comfortable accommodations, making it a smart choice for a comprehensive, memorable trip.

FAQs

What’s included in the tour?
The tour covers airport pick-up, guided game drives, boat cruises, mokoro rides, park fees, meals, and accommodations at mid-range lodges and tents.

Are meals included?
Yes, most meals are included, including lunch and dinner during the trip, with picnic lunches and campfire dinners in the Delta.

How many people are in the group?
While the exact group size isn’t specified, the experience features shared activities in small groups, ensuring a personalized feel.

Can I join if I don’t have a lot of outdoor experience?
Yes. The activities are suitable for most travelers, but be prepared for early mornings and some physical activity, especially on game drives and mokoro rides.

What should I bring for the mokoro ride?
Pack light, comfortable clothing, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, and your camera. The mokoro involves sitting and some physical maneuvering, so comfort is key.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 6 years, due to the early starts and nature of activities.

Is it safe to get close to wildlife?
Guides are experienced and knowledgeable, maintaining safe distances and respecting wildlife. The mokoro and boat trips bring you close, but always follow guide instructions for safety.

How flexible is the schedule?
The itinerary is quite structured to maximize wildlife sightings and experiences, but guides are generally accommodating to weather or wildlife conditions.

This 9-day Botswana safari offers a balanced blend of adventure, comfort, and authentic wildlife encounters. If you’re looking to explore Botswana’s iconic landscapes while enjoying diverse water and land safaris, this tour is a compelling option.