Chobe day trip with lunch: From Victoria Falls

Exploring Chobe from Victoria Falls: An Authentic Day Trip Experience

Our review investigates an intriguing full-day tour from Victoria Falls to Chobe National Park, operated by Journey Beyond Nature Safaris. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, the detailed itinerary and glowing feedback suggest it offers a genuine, action-packed encounter with Botswana’s iconic wildlife — perfect for adventurous travelers eager to see the Big 5 in their natural habitat.

What we love about this experience: the combination of boat and land safaris, offering diverse perspectives; the included buffet lunch, which is highly praised for its quality and ambiance; and the expert guides, whose local knowledge and professionalism elevate the whole day.

A possible consideration is the border crossing, which requires a passport and a USD 25 park fee. Travelers should plan for this logistical step. This trip suits wildlife enthusiasts, photography lovers, or anyone wanting a comprehensive safari experience in just a day.

Contents show

Key Points

Diverse game viewing: Both river cruise and land safari provide a rounded wildlife experience.
Expert guides: Knowledgeable local guides enrich the journey with insights and spotting tips.
Delicious included lunch: A buffet with ambient seating and tasty food makes this a feast for the senses.
Flexible booking: You can reserve your spot now and pay later, with options to cancel 24 hours in advance.
Border crossing convenience: Seamless transfers with guides at both borders simplify what might seem complicated.
Wildlife focus: Designed to maximize sightings of elephants, lions, and hopefully the Big 5.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Chobe Day Trip from Victoria Falls

Looking for more options in Botswana? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Starting Point and Early Morning Pickup

The day begins bright and early around 07:20AM, with a hotel pickup in Victoria Falls. The convenience of hotel transfers means you can relax and focus on the anticipation of what’s ahead. The group is typically small to medium-sized, which allows for a more personalized experience. As you’re driven towards the Kazungula Border, the scenery shifts from the Zimbabwean town into the lush surroundings of Botswana.

Border Crossing and First Encounters with Chobe

Crossing into Botswana involves a straightforward process — your guides handle the border formalities, ensuring a smooth transition. This is one of those practical details that, if not managed well, can be a stress point. Luckily, with experienced guides like those from Journey Beyond Nature Safaris, you’ll likely find it hassle-free.

Morning Game Viewing: Boat Safari on the Chobe River

Once in Botswana, the first major activity is a boat cruise along the Chobe River. This part of the trip is praised for its “stunning views” and the chance to see wildlife from a different angle. The boat cruise usually begins around 08:00AM and lasts until about 12:30PM, providing ample time to spot elephants bathing, crocodiles basking, and hippos lurking beneath the surface.

Guests have noted how the early morning light enhances the landscape, making for ideal photography conditions. The boat is equipped with refreshments, including tea, coffee, and biscuits, helping to keep everyone energized. The river is a magnet for wildlife, especially during the cooler parts of the day, so expect to see large herds of elephants — for many travelers, this is one of the trip’s highlights.

More Great Tours Nearby

Lunch Break and Rest

Back on land, a buffet lunch awaits at a nearby hotel. Reviewers mention the “nice lunch ambient” and “delicious food,” which provides a welcome rest and refueling after the morning’s activities. The lunch is served in a relaxed setting, perfect for swapping wildlife stories and enjoying the lush surroundings.

There's plenty more to explore in Botswana

Afternoon Game Drive in Chobe National Park

After lunch, the adventure continues in a safari vehicle, heading into the heart of Chobe National Park for an afternoon game drive starting around 13:30PM. The guides will seek out lions, buffalo, and other animals, with the possibility of spotting predators like leopards or even a glimpse of the elusive Big 5. The scenery on this drive is equally impressive — open plains, riverbanks, and bushveld, all teeming with life.

Travelers have described the guides as “excelent,” adding that their expertise significantly enhances the experience. The shorter, afternoon drive typically wraps up around 16:30PM, just in time for the journey back to the border.

Return Journey and Reflections

The group is then transferred back to the Kazungula Border, where your guides assist with formalities. A Zimbabwean guide meets you for the return transfer to Victoria Falls, completing the full day of safari activities. The entire experience from pickup to drop-off typically spans around 9 hours, making it a full yet manageable day trip.

Price and Value

At $155 per person, this tour is reasonably priced considering the combination of activities, transportation, guide expertise, and lunch included. The USD 25 park fee is an additional cost, but it covers access to the park’s stunning landscapes and wildlife. From reviews, the value shines through the well-organized itinerary, friendly guides, and the chance to witness the Big 5 — all in one day.

Why This Tour Works Well

Several reviewers, like the traveler who called it “well organized” and praised the “nice lunch ambient,” emphasize the smooth flow and quality of food. The combination of a river cruise and land safari provides varied wildlife encounters, and the guides’ local knowledge makes all the difference in spotting elusive creatures.

Practical Tips for Travelers

Bring your passport for border crossing.
USD 25 park fee payable in cash — plan accordingly.
Wear comfortable, neutral-colored clothes suitable for safaris.
Bring your camera, binoculars, and sun protection.
Opt for an early booking since the trips are popular, especially in peak seasons.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This full-day trip is ideal for travelers who want to maximize their wildlife sightings without the hassle of planning multiple separate activities. It suits those with limited time in the area but eager to see elephants, lions, and the Big 5 in a natural setting. Wildlife photography enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse vantage points, especially the river cruise.

Couples, small groups, or solo travelers who enjoy organized, guided safaris will find this trip balanced and rewarding. It’s also a good option for families with older children interested in wildlife — just ensure everyone is comfortable with the early start and outdoor activities.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

In terms of value for money, this tour delivers a comprehensive wildlife experience packed into a single day, with the added bonus of a delicious included lunch. The multi-faceted approach — boat cruise plus land drive — means you’re more likely to encounter a broad array of animals, from graceful elephants to stealthy predators.

The professionalism of guides like those from Journey Beyond Nature Safaris, combined with the well-organized logistics, makes for a smooth, enjoyable adventure. The scenery along the Chobe River is truly breathtaking, and the chance to see the Big 5 in one day is a highlight that many travelers will cherish.

While the border crossing is a logistical step to keep in mind, it’s well-managed when with experienced operators. This trip strikes a pleasing balance of adventure, comfort, and value, making it a top contender for anyone seeking a memorable safari day from Victoria Falls.

FAQs

Do I need a visa for this tour?
You might need a visa depending on your nationality, as the trip involves crossing into Botswana. Check your visa requirements beforehand.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, a buffet lunch, drinks, a game cruise on the Chobe River, and a land safari drive.

Are there any extra costs?
Yes, the USD 25 park fee is not included and must be paid in cash. It’s best to carry some USD in small denominations.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for babies under 1 year, but older children with an interest in wildlife and outdoor activities should enjoy it.

How long does the entire trip last?
The full-day trip runs approximately 9 hours, from early morning pickup to late afternoon return.

What should I bring?
A valid passport, camera, sun protection, comfortable clothes, and a hat are recommended.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in planning.

—

This Chobe day trip from Victoria Falls combines scenic river views, memorable wildlife encounters, and excellent organization — a solid choice for travelers seeking a practical yet immersive safari experience.