Chobe day trip from Victoria Falls- 06:30am to 18:30 hours

Travelers seeking a well-rounded day of wildlife viewing, scenic river cruises, and authentic African landscapes will find this Chobe day trip from Victoria Falls a compelling choice. Organized by Africana Tours, this adventure offers a mix of early morning game drives, a luxurious buffet lunch, and a breathtaking sunset cruise—all within one rewarding day.

What makes this tour stand out are its expert guides, the chance to see animals in their natural habitat, and the iconic Chobe River sunset. However, the early start and border crossings can be a bit hectic, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with long days and a bit of travel fatigue. Overall, if you’re after a genuine wildlife experience with a touch of river beauty, this trip delivers excellent value.

Contents show

Key Points

Early Start: Begins at around 5:30 am, perfect for catching animals while they’re most active.
Full-Day Wildlife Access: 5-hour game drive in Chobe National Park with chances to see lions, elephants, giraffes, and more.
Scenic Lunch: Buffet meal at Cresta Mowana, a highly-rated lodge offering a comfortable break.
Sunset Cruise: Ends with a riverboat cruise during sunset—arguably the most visually striking part of the day.
Border Crossings: Includes border formalities, which can be tricky if you lack necessary documents like birth certificates.
Expert Guides: Well-reviewed guides, like Duncan and Lance, are praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Introduction to the Experience

This Chobe day trip offers a well-balanced mix of land and water safaris, packed into one long but rewarding day. We love how the early morning game drive allows you to see wildlife in their most active state—animals tend to be more visible before the day heats up and humans arrive in larger numbers. Plus, the chance to view these creatures in their natural environment makes for unforgettable photos and stories.

Another highlight is the sunset river cruise. Watching the sun set over the Chobe River, with elephants swimming and birds gathering, offers some of the most stunning scenery you’ll find in Southern Africa. It’s a magical way to end the day. And let’s face it—snapping those perfect sunset shots while on the boat is worth every penny.

The third thing we love is the thoughtful organization and the professionalism of the guides, who are known for their vast knowledge and friendly attitudes. One reviewer mentioned a “top-notch guide with a lot of knowledge,” making the experience both educational and fun.

A potential consideration is the border crossing, which can be a bit tense if you’re not prepared with the right documentation, especially for minors. Also, the early start means you’ll need to be ready to wake up before dawn—something not everyone loves, but definitely worth it for the wildlife sightings.

This tour appeals most to travelers who enjoy wildlife photography, natural landscapes, and a full-day adventure. It’s ideal for those who don’t mind a packed schedule and appreciate the value of combining multiple experiences—game drives, lunch, and boat cruises—into one seamless day.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Kasane

The Itinerary in Detail

Early Morning Pick-up and Border Formalities

The adventure kicks off around 5:30 am, with pickup from your Victoria Falls accommodation. The early start is crucial for beating the crowds and catching animals before the heat of midday. The drive to the Botswana border takes about an hour, during which your guide will likely share insights about the upcoming wildlife encounters.

Border crossing involves formalities, and travelers should be prepared with birth certificates for minors (hard or soft copies), along with any necessary visas or authorization letters if traveling without both parents. Reviewers noted that having these documents in order smooths the process—without them, crossing can be tense.

The Game Drive in Chobe National Park

Once inside the park, you’ll hop into safari jeeps for about five hours of game viewing. This is the core of the experience, where expert guides like Duncan and Lance are praised for their extensive knowledge and keen eyesight. On the road, expect to see elephants, lions, buffaloes, giraffes, and leopards if luck’s on your side—reviewers commented on the abundance of wildlife, even noting that rhinos are not present in Chobe.

One reviewer described the drive as “crazy,” with elephants, giraffes, and buffaloes wandering freely, often very close to the road. Early morning is the best time for animals to be active, so this period offers the most exciting viewing. The safari is private, which means fewer distractions and a more intimate experience.

More Great Tours Nearby

Buffet Lunch at Cresta Mowana Lodge

After the game drive, you’ll enjoy a buffet lunch at Cresta Mowana, one of the best lodges in Kasane. The meal offers a well-deserved break and a chance to reflect on your morning adventures. The lodge provides comfortable surroundings and the option to bring a swimsuit if you want to relax by the pool during your free time.

There's plenty more to explore in Kasane

Sunset River Cruise

Post-lunch, you’re taken to the Chobe River for a sunset cruise. This part of the tour is what many reviewers highlight as the most stunning element. The boat glides smoothly along the river, offering views of game grazing on islands, elephants swimming, and a wealth of birdlife along the banks.

The timing of the sunset is perfect, often happening mid-cruise, allowing everyone to capture those iconic photos. One user called it the “best sunset on the planet,” noting how the colors just explode during this moment. The cruise also offers a relaxed, informal atmosphere, with snacks provided and plenty of opportunities to snap photos of wildlife against the vibrant sky.

Return Journey

The cruise ends around 6:30 pm, and then it’s back to the border. The drive back to Victoria Falls takes about an hour, with a few additional formalities at the border. Expect to arrive back at your hotel late in the evening, around 6:30 pm, depending on seasonality and border crossing times.

Practical Details and What You Need to Know

Transportation: The tour provides return transfers from Victoria Falls, making it hassle-free. The vehicles are comfortable, and the group size tends to be manageable, ensuring you’re not lost in a crowd.

Price & Value: At $150 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive experience—covering park fees, a full game drive, buffet lunch, and a sunset cruise. Considering the inclusivity and the quality of guides, it’s a solid value for anyone wanting a full day of wildlife and scenic beauty.

Timing: The early start means you’ll be out of bed before sunrise, but it’s worth it for the wildlife sightings. The entire trip runs from 6:30 am to about 6:30 pm, so be prepared for a long, but rewarding day.

Age Restrictions: Children under 18 need to bring birth certificates and possibly travel authorizations if minors are not accompanied by both parents. This is crucial to ensure smooth border crossings.

Languages: The tour is offered in English, French, and Chinese, which makes it accessible for a diverse range of travelers.

Authentic Experiences from Reviews

One traveler shared how the private safari allowed them to leave before the crowds, “leaving right from the hotel,” which gave them a more exclusive experience. They also appreciated the knowledgeable guides and the incredible diversity of animals seen, even if they missed rhinos (which aren’t in Chobe).

Another reviewer called their day “incredible,” emphasizing how well-organized everything was, and highly recommended it. The guide’s friendly demeanor and extensive knowledge seem to make all the difference, adding depth to the wildlife encounters.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This Chobe day trip delivers a full-day immersion into some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife and scenic landscapes. The combination of early game drives, a scenic buffet lunch, and a sunset cruise provides excellent value for travelers who want variety in one trip. It’s especially suited for those who like guided group adventures, wildlife photography, and the chance to see animals in the wild.

While the early morning start might be a challenge for some, the payoff—early morning sightings, fewer crowds, and stunning sunset views—makes it worthwhile. The tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and picture-perfect moments.

If you’re looking for a reliable, well-organized day that blends wildlife, scenery, and cultural border crossings, this trip is a strong contender. Just remember to pack your patience for border formalities and be ready for a day packed with incredible sights.

FAQ

What time does the trip start?
The tour begins around 5:30 am with pickup from your Victoria Falls accommodation.

How long is the game drive?
The game drive lasts approximately five hours, giving plenty of time to spot a variety of animals.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a buffet lunch at Cresta Mowana is part of the package, providing a relaxing break mid-day.

What wildlife might I see?
Expect to see lions, leopards, giraffes, elephants, buffaloes, and other animals common in Chobe National Park.

Are border crossings complicated?
Border formalities are included, but travelers must carry birth certificates for minors to avoid delays.

Is the sunset cruise worth it?
Absolutely. Reviewers often describe the sunset as breathtaking and highlight the opportunity to photograph elephants swimming and game grazing.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing, sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, camera, and documents for border crossing.

Can I book this trip and pay later?
Yes, the tour offers a ‘Reserve & Pay Later’ option, giving flexibility with your travel plans.

How many people are in the group?
Group sizes are managed to ensure a comfortable experience, typically small to medium groups.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making the booking risk-free.

This full-day adventure offers a fantastic blend of wildlife encounters, scenic views, and cultural border crossings. Ideal for wildlife lovers and those craving an authentic African experience, it promises memorable moments and stunning photos—just be ready for an early start and a long, exciting day.