Chobe Overnight Camping safaris

Planning a trip that combines the thrill of wildlife viewing with the charm of camping? The Chobe Overnight Camping Safari offers just that—an immersive experience into the heart of Botswana’s stunning wilderness, with the comfort of a home away from home. This tour is designed for travelers eager to see big herds of elephants and buffalos, enjoy guided game drives, and sleep under the stars—safely and comfortably.

Our review focuses on what makes this safari special: the knowledgeable guides who know how to find wildlife, the authentic camping setup that keeps you close to nature, and the overall value for the experience. There’s a possible consideration about the group size, but overall, this is a well-rounded adventure for those seeking genuine African safari moments without the fuss of luxury lodges.

If you’re someone who loves wildlife, enjoys outdoor camping, and prefers a more intimate, guided experience, this tour will suit you perfectly. It’s also ideal for travelers who want a quick but meaningful escape into Botswana’s wilderness from Victoria Falls.

Key Points

• Authentic Camping Experience: Sleep in a safe, clean, and comfortable camp with private toilets and showers.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Bogosi help spot wildlife and ensure safety throughout the trip.
• Wildlife Encounters: Expect close views of elephants, giraffes, buffalos, lions, and hyenas, especially during game drives.
• Flexible & Small Group: Max 9 travelers, making the experience personalized and less crowded.
• Value for Money: At $420 per person, it offers two days packed with wildlife viewing and genuine adventure.
• Convenient Pick-Up & Drop-Off: Starting at Kasane Airport simplifies logistics.

Why This Tour Stands Out

The Chobe Overnight Camping Safari is more than just a quick trip; it’s a comprehensive experience that immerses you in the essence of Botswana’s wilderness. Its standout feature is the professional guidance that ensures you get the most out of your game drives. One reviewer, a seasoned traveler, praised their guide Bogosi for going above and beyond, making sure everyone felt safe and saw plenty of wildlife, including elephants and giraffes in the park.

The camping setup is another highlight. Unlike some safari options where you sleep in basic tents, this tour offers a well-equipped camp with reliable materials for sleeping, showers, and toilets—inside your own private space. One review mentioned, “We saw many animals including lions and hyenas close to our camp,” highlighting how the location is both thrilling and secure.

The itinerary is straightforward but packed with value. Day 1 focuses on the iconic Chobe National Park, famous for its large herds of elephants and buffalos. The short morning stop allows travelers to get their first glimpse of the park’s wildlife. The second day offers a 3-hour game drive, giving ample opportunity to spot predators and other animals in their natural habitat.

The Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Arrival & First Game Drive

Your adventure begins with a pickup at Kasane Airport around 8:30 am, making it easy to connect from nearby flights or transfers. From there, you head straight to Chobe National Park, renowned for its impressive concentrations of wildlife.

The first stop is a 1-hour visit, where admission is included, so you get an initial taste of the park’s vast herds. You’ll be in a comfortable vehicle, with opportunities to spot giraffes, elephants, and buffalos. The guides are experienced in spotting animals and sharing fascinating insights about their behaviors and habitats.

Day 2: Deep Dive into Wildlife

After a relaxed morning, the focus shifts to a 3-hour game drive in an open safari vehicle. This is when the thrill peaks, as you’ll be close enough to observe animals in their natural environment. Reviewers mention that their guides made sure everyone saw the major animals, often adjusting routes for the best sightings.

The highlight is observing elephants and giraffes, but some travelers have also reported sightings of lions and hyenas near the camp, making for dramatic nighttime stories (from a safe distance, of course). The guides’ flexibility and keen eyes greatly enhance this experience.

Return & End of Tour

The safari concludes back at the meeting point, typically late afternoon or early evening, allowing travelers to continue their explorations or head back to Victoria Falls.

Practical Details & Logistics

Transportation & Group Size: The tour is limited to a maximum of 9 travelers, promoting a more intimate safari environment. Pickup is offered at Kasane Airport, simplifying logistics for international travelers.

Duration & Cost: At approximately 2 days, this safari balances adventure with manageable time commitment. The price of $420 per person is competitive, especially considering lodging, guided game drives, park fees, and camping equipment.

Safety & Comfort: The inside toilet setup ensures guests don’t need to venture out at night, crucial for comfort and health. The camp facilities are described as well-maintained, with good quality sleeping materials and shower setup.

Booking & Cancellation: Confirmations are immediate upon booking, and the flexible cancellation policy allows for a full refund if canceled more than 24 hours in advance—a relief for spontaneous travelers.

Authentic Encounters Through Reviews

Multiple reviewers have observed that guides like Bogosi go out of their way to ensure a safe, productive trip. One noted, “Our guide was very professional, and we saw TONS of elephants and giraffes.” This emphasis on expert guiding is why many travelers felt they got excellent value.

Another reviewer shared their experience of close animal encounters, mentioning lions and hyenas near the camp. Although these sightings are rare, they underscore how authentic and untamed the experience can be.

Beyond the wildlife, guests appreciated the personalized attention and the chance to share stories and learn about the environment, often highlighted as a memorable part of the trip.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This safari appeals most to travelers who want a genuine, up-close wildlife experience without the luxury of a high-end lodge. If you’re comfortable camping and enjoy the outdoors, you’ll find this tour authentic and rewarding. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate knowledgeable guides and small group settings.

It’s also a good choice for travelers looking for a cost-effective way to visit Chobe National Park, combining game drives with the novelty of overnight camping. If you’re short on time but craving an immersive experience, this safari delivers a memorable taste of Botswana’s wilderness.

The Sum Up

The Chobe Overnight Camping Safari offers a rare chance to witness Africa’s majestic animals in their natural habitat, all while sleeping in a safe and comfortable camp. Its combination of expert guides, authentic camping, and efficient itinerary make it highly appealing for adventurous travelers.

While the small group size means a more personal experience, it also requires some flexibility. The overall value—considering park fees, guiding, camping gear, and included activities—makes this a compelling choice for wildlife enthusiasts and outdoor lovers alike.

If you’re seeking an adventure that’s less about luxury and more about the raw beauty of nature, this tour is a fantastic way to connect deeply with Botswana’s wilderness. Prepare your camera, binoculars, and sense of adventure!

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this safari? Yes, pickup is available at Kasane Airport, making logistics simple for travelers.

What is included in the package? The tour includes guide services, game drives, park entrance fees, camping equipment, and private toilets with showers.

What’s the group size? The maximum group size is 9 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

How long is each game drive? The first stop is a 1-hour park visit, and the second is a 3-hour game drive in an open vehicle.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel for a full refund if you do so at least 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Is the camping setup safe? Yes, the camps are described as well-equipped with private toilets and showers, and close to wildlife sightings.

Who are the guides? Guides like Bogosi are highly praised for their professionalism and knowledge, making the trip both safe and educational.

What wildlife can I expect to see? Expect large herds of elephants, buffalos, giraffes, and possibly lions and hyenas near the camp.

How much does it cost? The tour is priced at $420 per person, offering a balanced mix of guided activities and camping.

Is this experience suitable for all travelers? It’s best suited for those comfortable with camping and outdoor activities, and who enjoy wildlife photography and nature.

This detailed review aims to help you decide if a Chobe Overnight Camping Safari fits your travel style. It promises an authentic, engaging, and value-packed adventure into one of Africa’s most breathtaking national parks.