Exploring Chobe National Park through this full-day tour promises a peek into some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife scenes. While we haven’t been on this exact trip ourselves, the detailed itineraries and reviews give us a clear picture of what travelers can expect. It’s a well-rounded experience that combines the serenity of a river cruise with the thrill of a game drive, all set against a backdrop of stunning landscapes and abundant animals.
What really catches the eye are three key features: the chance to see elephants and lions up close from the boat, the delicious buffet lunch overlooking the river, and the expert guidance that helps spot elusive wildlife in the park. That said, the $144 price point, while providing a comprehensive experience, does include some extra costs like park entry fees and optional transportation from Victoria Falls, which are worth considering when planning your budget. This tour will suit nature lovers eager for a full day of wildlife viewing, photography, and relaxed sightseeing.
Key Points
- Balanced Experience: Combines river cruise, buffet lunch, and game drive for a full day of wildlife encounters.
- Expert Guides: Guides are knowledgeable, enhancing the chances of spotting animals and understanding their behavior.
- Beautiful Scenery & Wildlife: Expect to see elephants, lions, antelopes, zebras, and more in their natural environment.
- Value for Money: The $144 price includes guiding, lunch, drinks, and transfers, but additional fees apply.
- Flexibility & Convenience: Option to reserve and pay later offers flexibility; hotel pickup from Kasane, Kazungula, and Lesoma adds convenience.
- Limited for Children: Not suitable for kids under 4, making it more tailored for adult travelers or older children.
An In-Depth Look at What the Tour Offers
Looking for more options in Chobe National Park? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Morning: Starting with a River Cruise
The adventure begins with a boat cruise along the Chobe River, a highlight that many reviews emphasize as a magical way to see wildlife. The guides, often praised for their friendliness and expertise, are crucial here—they’re able to point out animals you might miss on your own, such as crocodiles sunning themselves on the banks or water birds perched silently.
The cruise usually lasts a few hours, and travelers report the experience as quite relaxing yet full of wildlife surprises. Expect elephants wading into the water, lions lounging on the shore, and perhaps some hippos grumbling in the depths. The close proximity of water species and the chance to photograph them from a stable boat makes this part of the tour particularly special.
Midday: Buffet Lunch with a View
After the cruise, you’ll head to a restaurant on the riverbank for a buffet lunch. Reviewers mention the variety and quality of food positively, noting that the options are wide enough to cater to different tastes, with fresh ingredients and a scenic setting. The meal provides a good chance to relax, refresh, and enjoy the views of the river while recharging for the afternoon game drive.
The lunch stop is usually at a beautiful lodge, offering ample space and a peaceful atmosphere. Many travelers find this part refreshing, especially after the morning’s activity, with some describing it as a “delicious break” before heading into the wilderness again.
Afternoon: The Game Drive
The tour resumes with a game drive in Chobe National Park, usually in an open-sided vehicle equipped for optimal wildlife viewing. The guides, often highlighted in reviews for their local knowledge and eye for detail, help uncover animals that might otherwise go unnoticed.
You’ll likely see large herds of elephants, which are a signature feature of Chobe, along with Cape buffalo, lions, antelopes, zebras, and possibly some predators in action. Many reviews mention the high concentration of wildlife and the long-lasting sightings, making the game drive especially rewarding.
A key point is the 360-degree visibility offered by the open vehicle, allowing you to scan for animals in all directions. Throughout the drive, refreshments are served, keeping everyone comfortable and energized.
More Great Tours NearbyPractical Details and Considerations
- Transportation: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Kasane, Kazungula, and Lesoma. For travelers coming from Victoria Falls, there’s a $45 per person supplement for transport, which is an important factor when budgeting.
- Cost Breakdown: The $144 price covers guiding, lunch, drinks, and water. However, park entry fees at $15 per person are extra, and alcohol is not included.
- Timing: The full-day duration balances early starts with a relaxed pace, allowing ample time for each activity.
- Group Size: While not specified, tours of this nature tend to be in small to medium groups, enhancing the experience and guiding attention.
- Suitability: Not recommended for children under 4, but ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and travelers seeking a comprehensive Botswana safari experience.
Authentic Insights and Tips from Reviews
Many travelers appreciated the knowledgeable guides, noting how their insights made wildlife sightings much more meaningful. Some mentioned specific guides by name, highlighting their ability to spot animals quickly and share interesting facts about their behavior.
Seeing elephants and lions in their natural habitat from both the river and the vehicle was described as “unforgettable,” especially with the added benefit of being able to photograph animals in a natural setting. One reviewer pointed out that “the views are stunning,” and the experience of watching elephants crossing the river was evocative and powerful.
Limitations and Things to Keep in Mind
While the experience is generally praised, some reviews suggest that additional costs (like park entry and transportation from Victoria Falls) can add up, so budget accordingly. Also, since children under 4 are not permitted, families with young kids might need to consider alternative options.
Weather can also influence your experience—hot, sunny days mean bringing sunglasses and sun protection, especially during open vehicle drives. The tour is typically scheduled to maximize wildlife sightings, but patience is key; animals are wild and unpredictable.
Why This Tour Offers Real Value
This full-day trip to Chobe National Park ticks many boxes for wildlife lovers. It combines a relaxing river cruise with an exciting game drive—each offering different perspectives on Botswana’s wildlife. The guides’ expertise turns what could be a simple safari into an educational and memorable adventure.
The scenic lunch overlooking the river is more than just a meal—it’s a chance to rest and absorb the stunning landscape. When combined with the convenience of hotel transfers and the ability to reserve now and pay later, it’s a flexible option for those wanting a comprehensive day out without the hassle of organizing multiple activities independently.
While the cost may seem high, the inclusion of guiding, meals, and water, plus the chance to see Africa’s iconic animals in a single day, makes it a worthwhile investment. Travelers should budget extra for park fees and transport from Victoria Falls, but overall, this experience offers a strong balance of comfort, adventure, and value.
Who Will Love This Experience?
This tour is best suited for wildlife enthusiasts eager to see elephants, lions, and other Big Five animals in their natural habitat. Photographers will appreciate the long, unspoiled views and expert guides who help spot elusive creatures. It’s also ideal for travelers who want a full day of activities without the need to organize multiple parts separately, especially if staying in Kasane or nearby.
Families with older children can enjoy the adventure, but those with very young kids should look for more age-appropriate options. The balanced mix of boat and land safaris makes this a comprehensive way to experience Botswana’s wildlife without leaving the comfort of a well-organized tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickups and drop-offs are available in Kasane, Kazungula, and Lesoma. If you’re coming from Victoria Falls, there’s an additional $45 per person for transportation.
What should I bring for the day?
Bring your passport or ID, sunglasses, and sun protection. It’s also wise to carry some extra cash for park entry fees and optional purchases.
How much are the park entry fees?
The park entry fee costs $15 per person and is not included in the tour price.
Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 4 years old, so consider this if you’re traveling with young kids.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is alcoholic drinks included?
No, alcoholic drinks are not included. Refreshments and mineral water are provided throughout the day.
How long does each activity last?
The boat cruise lasts several hours, the lunch is around an hour, and the game drive is generally a couple of hours, making for a full, engaging day.
Are guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviewers praise the guides for their expertise and their ability to spot wildlife and share interesting facts, making the experience more meaningful.
Final Thoughts
A day at Chobe National Park with this combined cruise, lunch, and game drive offers a well-rounded glimpse into Botswana’s wildlife paradise. The opportunity to see elephants crossing the river, lions resting in the shade, and zebras grazing in the open plains will likely leave lasting impressions. The knowledgeable guides make all the difference, turning what could be a standard safari into an educational adventure.
While it’s an investment—factoring in additional costs like park fees and optional transport—the experience’s diversity, comfort, and the chance to see Africa’s iconic animals make it a compelling choice. Whether you’re a first-time safari-goer or a seasoned photographer, this tour provides a rich, authentic taste of Botswana’s wildlife.
If you’re looking for a full-day exploration that balances adventure with relaxation and stunning scenery, this trip is worth considering. It’s ideal for those who want to maximize their wildlife sightings without sacrificing comfort or convenience.
Note: Always check for real-time updates regarding availability, weather conditions, and any travel restrictions to ensure a smooth adventure.
You can check availability for your dates here: