If you’re dreaming of seeing elephants wallowing in floodplains or watching giraffes sip from the Chobe River, then the Chobe Full Day Safari offers a compelling way to tick those wildlife sightings off your bucket list. This tour, operated by Wild Africa Safaris, blends an exciting game drive with a leisurely boat cruise—delivering an immersive wildlife encounter in Botswana’s acclaimed national park.
What makes this experience particularly appealing? First, the knowledgeable guides who bring the park to life with their insights and friendly demeanor. Second, the chance to witness large herds of elephants and other iconic African animals up close in their natural habitat. Third, the boat safari provides stunning, water-level views of animals drinking and swimming, along with fantastic birdwatching opportunities.
A potential consideration? The pace can be quite full, with early starts and a packed schedule, which might be tiring for some travelers. Nevertheless, it’s ideal for those who want a comprehensive, value-packed day of wildlife exploration. If you’re keen on making the most of your time in Botswana and love both land and water safaris, this tour is a solid choice.
Key Points
Comprehensive experience: Combines game drive and boat safari for diverse wildlife viewing.
Expert guides: Knowledgeable and friendly guides enhance the storytelling and spotting chances.
Value for money: At $220 per person, it includes park fees, lunch, drinks, and transfers.
Early start: Begins at 7:30 am, so you’ll need to rise early but get a full day of adventure.
Small group/private setting: The tour is private, making it more personalized and flexible.
Authentic wildlife encounters: Expect sightings of elephants, lions, buffaloes, and birdlife, with reviews highlighting memorable moments.
Introduction: A Day in the Heart of Botswana’s Wildlife
We’ve read about Botswana’s Chobe National Park and seen countless stunning images, but experiencing it firsthand is something else entirely. For travelers looking to combine a morning of game viewing with an afternoon boat cruise, this full-day safari offers a well-rounded day in the wilderness.
What we love most about this tour? Its seamless blend of land and water safaris, the knowledgeable guides, and the inclusion of lunch and drinks—making it a practical, all-in-one adventure. It’s the kind of experience that appeals to wildlife enthusiasts, photography buffs, or anyone eager to enjoy Africa’s iconic landscapes.
One thing to keep in mind: the tour involves some early mornings and a busy schedule, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with moderate physical activity and early starts. But if you’re craving genuine wildlife sightings and the chance to see elephants and birdlife in their element, this trip hits the mark.
Looking for more options in Kasane? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary
Day 1: Wild Encounters on Land and Water
Morning pick-up and game drive
You’ll be collected around 7:30-8:30 am from your hotel, making for a smooth start. The drive to Chobe National Park reveals glimpses of local scenery and sets the tone for the day. Once inside, your guide will lead you through various parts of the park’s flood plains and woodland, where wildlife is abundant.
Expect to see herds of elephants—possibly the highlight for many—alongside lions, buffalo, and other savannah residents. The guides, like Rodgers (mentioned in a glowing review), are praised for their vast knowledge and friendly approach, which makes spotting animals more engaging.
The three-hour game drive offers plenty of opportunities to photograph these majestic creatures and learn about their behaviors from your guide. Reviewers have noted that guides are passionate about wildlife, often sharing stories that deepen understanding of Botswana’s ecosystem.
Lunch break and downtime
After the game drive, you’ll exit the park for a well-deserved lunch, included in the tour. This break provides a chance to relax, refresh, and prepare for the next part of the day.
Day 1: The Chobe River Boat Safari
Afternoon cruise on the Chobe River
Post-lunch, the tour transitions to a 3-hour boat safari along the Chobe River. From the water, the views are dramatically different—more relaxed yet equally exciting. Watching animals come down to drink or swim is a highlight, especially with the river’s natural setting providing a sense of being right in the middle of the action.
Birdwatchers will rejoice, as the river teems with waterfowl, including large numbers of carmine bee eaters, storks, ducks, and other waterbirds. For many reviewers, the boat safari was the standout part, offering unique perspectives that land drives simply can’t match. One guest mentions, “the views of animals drinking from the water and the stunning birdlife are unforgettable.”
The boat’s pace is leisurely, allowing time for photos, wildlife observation, and appreciating the scenery. The guides here are also praised for their expert knowledge of bird species and animal behaviors, making the cruise both educational and visually delightful.
Day 2: A Quick Look (Optional)
While the itinerary provided is brief about the second day, it’s clear that most of the focus is on the full day of game drive and boat safari. Some tours might offer additional activities or options, but the core experience provides ample opportunity for wildlife encounters and photography.
What Travelers Say: Real Insights from Reviews
The consistent praise across reviews highlights Rodgers’ guiding skills—described as “the best decision” by one traveler—and the stunning views they witnessed. A guest mentioned that the full-day game drive was the “perfect choice,” allowing for a comprehensive experience that tripled as a wildlife education and an adventure.
Another reviewer appreciated the excellent wine selection during the day, which, along with the included lunch and drinks, added a touch of luxury to the safari. The small-group/private setup also received high marks, offering a more personalized experience and allowing guides to focus on individual interests.
One key insight from the reviews is how early starts are rewarded with quieter game drives and better animal sightings, especially of lions and elephants. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge significantly enrich the experience, turning a standard safari into something memorable.
The Practical Side: Transportation, Duration, and Cost
This tour is designed for convenience and comfort. Pickup is arranged from your hotel, and all park fees, lunch, and drinks are included in the $220 cost, which is quite reasonable considering the scope of activities and the high-quality guides.
The entire day spans approximately 12 hours, beginning at 7:30 am, so travelers should be prepared for early mornings. The private nature of the tour means more flexibility, and smaller groups tend to have a better chance of personalized wildlife spotting.
While the tour doesn’t include flights, it covers ground transfers, park entry fees, and all meals and drinks, making it a straightforward, hassle-free package. Travelers are encouraged to bring their cameras, binoculars, and sun protection to enhance their experience.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This safari is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts eager to see a wide variety of animals in their habitat, especially elephants, lions, and birdlife. It’s perfect for those who want a full-day, all-inclusive experience without the hassle of organizing separate activities.
Families with children over three years old will find it manageable, given the moderate physical activity and early start. It also suits travelers who value guided insight and a personalized, private tour setting.
If you’re looking for a quick overview or a less intensive experience, this might be too full-on, but for those aiming to get a true feel for Botswana’s wilderness, this tour delivers.
The Sum Up
The Chobe Full Day Safari with game drive and boat cruise offers a well-rounded, authentic wildlife experience that captures the best of Botswana’s iconic park. With expert guides, the chance to see elephants and birdlife up close, and the convenience of lunch and drinks included, it provides excellent value for passionate wildlife lovers.
The combination of land and water safaris means you’ll witness the animals from different perspectives—each more stunning than the last. The personalized, small-group approach makes it feel special, yet accessible for most travelers.
While the early start can be a challenge, the rewards—a diverse array of wildlife sightings and memorable landscapes—are well worth it. This tour is an excellent choice for anyone wanting a comprehensive, immersive day in Botswana’s wilderness, especially if you’re eager to combine adventure with comfort and expert guidance.
FAQ
What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 7:30 am, so be prepared for an early start to maximize your day.
Does the tour include park fees?
Yes, all park entry fees are included in the price.
What is included in the price?
Your tour includes lunch, drinks, beers, wines, spirits of choice, snacks, ground transfers, and park fees.
Is this tour private or in a group?
It’s a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, offering more flexibility and personalized attention.
How long is the entire experience?
Expect approximately 12 hours, from pickup in the morning to returning in the evening.
Can children join this tour?
Yes, children from age 3 and above can join, but must be accompanied by an adult.
What wildlife will I see?
Expect elephants, lions, buffalo, giraffes, and a variety of bird species, especially waterfowl and bee eaters.
What should I bring?
Bring your camera, binoculars, sun protection, and comfortable clothing for outdoor activities.
To sum it up, this safari offers a comprehensive look into Botswana’s wildlife with a good balance of adventure, comfort, and expert guidance. It’s best suited for travelers who want a full, authentic experience in a single day, and those eager to see the Big Five and vibrant birdlife in one of Africa’s most renowned parks.