If you’re dreaming of sleeping under the stars surrounded by wild elephants, lions, and other iconic safari animals, this 2-day camping tour in Chobe National Park might just be your perfect escape. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews from travelers and detailed itineraries highlight what makes it a standout adventure.
What appeals most? First, the intimate small group setting—with just up to eight people—means plenty of personal space and chances for authentic wildlife sightings. Second, the all-inclusive meals and camping equipment remove the hassle of extra planning, letting you focus on the experience. Third, the knowledgeable guides and their passion for the park shine through, making every game drive engaging and insightful.
One thing to consider is that this tour requires good weather, as outdoor camping and open vehicle safaris depend heavily on clear skies. Also, it’s quite a short trip—just two days—so those seeking a more leisurely or extended safari might want to explore other options.
This experience suits travelers craving an authentic, close-to-nature adventure with a manageable time commitment, especially those keen on wildlife photography, learning about conservation, or simply wishing to witness Africa’s iconic animals in their natural environment.
- Small group size enhances personal attention and wildlife spotting chances
- All meals included offers convenience and value, with fresh, well-cooked food provided
- Expert guides bring the park to life with their in-depth knowledge and passion
- Camping gear provided makes the experience accessible and hassle-free
- Wildlife sightings include elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, crocodiles, hippos, and aquatic species
- Weather-dependent nature of the trip means flexibility in case of poor conditions
What’s Included and How It Adds To The Value
For $350.21 per person, this tour packs a lot into a two-day experience. The price covers all meals, camping equipment, and guided game drives, which means no hidden costs or extra surprises. The camping gear includes tents, towels, washing rags, and lamps or LED lights, ensuring you’re comfortable in the wilderness.
The small group setting—limited to eight travelers—keeps the atmosphere intimate. Based on reviews, guides like Haskins and Venus are praised for their professionalism and friendly approach, making the wildlife encounters both educational and fun. This personalized attention often results in better animal sightings and a richer understanding of the park.
Itinerary Breakdown
Looking for more options in Kasane? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Day 1: Wildlife Encounters and Sunset Views
The trip kicks off around 8:30 am, with pickup from Kasane, Botswana. Upon arriving at Chobe National Park, the first sights will likely be the famous herds of elephants gathering at the Chobe River. Reviewers emphasize that elephants are “a plenty,” and seeing them swim, drink, or cross to the island is unforgettable.
The park is also home to buffalos, impalas, crocodiles, hippos, lions, and leopards. Expect to see quite a variety of aquatic animals, which adds a different dimension to your safari. The scenery is complemented by the chance to spot crocodiles basking on the banks and hippos making splashes in the water.
Day 2: Game Drive and Farewell
After breakfast at camp, the adventure continues with a game drive in an open safari vehicle. This is the prime time for animal sightings, as the guides use their experience to track wildlife in their natural habitat. Reviewers mention watching lions hunt and giraffes engaging in unusual interactions, highlighting how dynamic and unpredictable the park’s animal activity can be.
The game drive lasts about 3 hours, culminating in a final chance to see wildlife before heading back to Kasane. The whole experience is designed to maximize sightings while respecting the animals’ space, which guides like Mec and others excel at.
Camping Experience and Facilities
Camping in the wild isn’t just about sleeping in a tent; it’s about enjoying nature. The provided equipment is described as sufficient and comfortable, with essentials like towels and lighting. Many reviewers appreciated the convenience—no need to lug your own gear—and the opportunity to wake up to the sounds of wildlife.
The nightly dinner and lunch are included, and reviews praise the delicious food, with one mentioning the chef’s pasta as a highlight. Given the remote setting, the quality of meals adds significant value to the trip.
Wildlife Sightings: What You Might Expect
From elephants to lions, the diversity here is impressive. Reviewers have seen herds of elephants near the river, lions hunting, and giraffes engaging in curious interactions. The proximity to lions, as one reviewer noted, was “incredible,” which indicates the guides’ skill in positioning vehicles for optimal views while maintaining safety.
The park’s aquatic life also features prominently—hippos and crocodiles are common sights, often in close proximity to the land animals, making the experience even richer for wildlife lovers.
Guides and Overall Experience
Guides like Haskins and Venus are singled out for their friendliness and expertise. Reviewers appreciated their efforts to make everyone feel comfortable and their ability to spot animals efficiently. Their insightful commentary helped guests understand animal behaviors and park ecology, turning a simple game drive into a learning experience.
The small group size fosters a friendly atmosphere, encouraging questions and discussion. Many reviews mention feeling well cared for and safe, especially in a wilderness environment.
Practical Considerations: Transportation, Timing, and Group Size
The tour begins early, around 8:30 am, allowing for a full day of activities. Pickup is offered from Kasane, simplifying logistics. The group size is capped at eight, which balances intimacy with the opportunity to see a variety of animals.
Weather can impact the trip—bad weather might lead to cancellations, but the company offers full refunds or rescheduling options. The short duration makes this a great option for travelers with limited time but wanting a genuine safari experience.
Verdict on Value and Experience
This tour offers excellent value considering the inclusive meals, quality guides, and intimate setting. While it’s a brief trip, most reviewers agree that it delivers a memorable experience packed with wildlife sightings and authentic bush camping.
The only potential downside is the dependency on good weather, which is typical for outdoor camping adventures. But the flexibility of the tour’s cancellation policy helps mitigate this risk.
This safari is ideal for travelers who want an authentic wilderness experience without the commitment of a longer trip. It suits those interested in wildlife photography, learning about conservation, or simply wanting to spend a night immersed in nature. The small group size also makes it perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small groups who prefer a more personal adventure.
If you’re after luxury, this might not be your best fit, but if you value close encounters with wildlife, guided knowledge, and camping in the wild, this tour hits the right notes. It’s also a great choice for first-time safari-goers eager to get a taste of Botswana’s iconic animals.
Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup from Kasane is offered, and the tour provides comfortable transportation to and from the park.
How many people will be in my group?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a small and personalized experience.
What should I bring?
While camping equipment and essentials like towels and lights are provided, it’s good to bring your own sunscreen, insect repellent, and any personal items you need for comfort.
Are meals included?
Yes, all meals—dinner and lunch—are covered in the price, including well-prepared, satisfying food.
What wildlife can I expect to see?
You’re likely to see elephants, lions, leopards, buffalos, crocodiles, hippos, and a variety of aquatic species.
What happens if the weather turns bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.
For anyone eager to experience Botswana’s wildlife in a genuine setting, this 1-night camping tour in Chobe National Park offers a compelling mix of adventure, education, and authentic bush camping. The small group size, guided game drives, and all-inclusive approach create a hassle-free and immersive experience that’s hard to beat for the price.
While it’s a short trip, the opportunities for wildlife sightings and the chance to sleep under the stars make it a memorable highlight for safari travelers. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned safari enthusiast, this tour brings you close enough to the animals and nature that you’ll leave with stories to tell for years.