Five-Day Hwange NP, Chobe NP and Victoria Falls Combo

Travelers craving a blend of breathtaking scenery and incredible wildlife will find this five-day combo tour a compelling choice. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed reviews and itinerary information point to an experience that offers a fantastic mix of safari adventures, iconic waterfalls, and river cruises.

What we love most? The chance to see Hwange’s famous elephants, the stunning Victoria Falls, and the Chobe River cruise — all with transportation and accommodations sorted. Plus, the knowledgeable guides like Webster and Enoch are consistently praised for their friendliness and expertise.

A potential consideration is the packed schedule — with long days, especially on safari days, you’ll want to be prepared for early mornings and full afternoons. This tour suits those who want a well-organized, rich experience with easy logistics, ideal for first-timers or wildlife enthusiasts eager to see multiple highlights without the hassle of planning.

Key Points

• Comprehensive 5-day itinerary covers Hwange, Chobe, and Victoria Falls for an immersive experience.
• All accommodations and some meals are included, making logistics simple.
• Expert guides like Webster and Enoch are frequently praised for their knowledge and helpful attitude.
• Wildlife viewing is a major highlight, especially Hwange’s large elephant population and big cats.
• The Victoria Falls visit offers an awe-inspiring natural wonder, combined with a sunset river cruise.
• The tour is priced at around $1,875.75 per person, offering good value considering the inclusions and activities.

A Closer Look at the 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Hwange Safari Lodge

Your adventure starts upon arriving at Victoria Falls Airport, where you’ll be greeted and transported just two hours to Hwange Safari Lodge. This lodge’s proximity to Hwange National Park means you’re right at the edge of the wilderness from the start.

The first game drive takes place in the Hwange Safari Lodge estate, which borders the park and shares no fences, giving you a genuine wild experience. Expect the possibility of spotting big cats and other nocturnal animals—reviews highlight the excitement of encountering lions and the chance to see elephants in their natural habitat, especially during the evening hours.

Day 2: Full-Day Hwange Safari

This is where you really get to know Hwange National Park. The day begins with an early breakfast before heading out for a full-day safari via the Main Camp gate. The guides provide refreshments, mineral water, and a picnic lunch, often at designated viewing platforms.

Hwange’s elephants are a major draw—home to over 65,000 elephants, they dominate waterholes during the dry season. Reviewers rave about the guides’ ability to get close to these gentle giants, as well as spotting lions, leopards, rhinos, and a variety of antelopes like kudu and sable.

One guest noted how the guides, like Webster, are attentive and eager to ensure travelers see what they want—”nothing was too much trouble,” they said. The park’s diverse wildlife and large herds make for engaging, camera-worthy moments.

Day 3: Victoria Falls & Sunset Cruise

After breakfast, you’re transferred to Victoria Falls. Once checked in, you’ll explore the falls via a guided 2 km walk, passing through the iconic Big Baobab Tree. Expect jaw-dropping views, the roaring sound of water, and a humbling sense of nature’s grandeur. Reviewers describe feeling awe at the sight and sound, confirming it’s a must-see.

Post-visit, you’ll enjoy some free time at the curio markets—a great chance to pick up souvenirs and support local artisans. The day wraps up with a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River, where you can relax with drinks and snacks while watching elephants, hippos, and possibly crocodiles from the comfort of the boat.

Day 4: Chobe National Park Safari & River Cruise

Early morning, you’ll leave Victoria Falls and drive through the Zambezi National Park into Botswana, starting your day with a game boat cruise on the Chobe River. Guests frequently mention how the boat safari offers intimate wildlife viewing—hippos, elephants, and crocodiles are often seen from just a few meters away.

After a buffet lunch at the Chobe Safari Lodge, you’ll continue with an afternoon game drive in the Chobe National Park. The guides target the upper Chobe River area, where large herds of elephants gather along the water, and predators hunt nearby. Reviewers highlight how knowledgeable guides like Webster help spot animals others might miss, making this a memorable part of the trip.

Day 5: Departure & Optional Activities

The final day provides flexibility based on flight times. You might opt for a quick additional tour or simply relax before transferring back to Victoria Falls Airport. It’s a practical, low-stress way to wrap up your adventure.

The Experience and Its Value

Transportation & Logistics

The tour’s pickups and transfers are smooth, with air-conditioned vans making the long drives comfortable. The two-hour transfer from Victoria Falls Airport to Hwange is straightforward, with no complex logistics involved. The inclusion of all accommodations and some meals simplifies planning, especially for those unfamiliar with local arrangements.

Wildlife & Sightseeing

What makes this tour stand out is the variety of wildlife encounters. Hwange’s large elephant herds and chance sightings of big cats, combined with the river cruise and the iconic Victoria Falls, offer a well-rounded experience. The guides’ ability to keep guests engaged and close to wildlife adds a lot of value, and reviews mention how passionate they are about sharing their knowledge.

Unique Highlights

The Victoria Falls visit is a definite highlight—nothing beats standing at the edge of one of the world’s natural wonders, feeling the mist and hearing the thunderous roar. The sunset cruise enhances this with a relaxing view of the river and its wildlife, often cited as a peaceful and beautiful moment.

Cost & Value

At around $1,875.75 per person, this tour balances cost and inclusions well. You’re paying for expert guiding, all hotel stays, some meals, transportation, and unforgettable experiences in multiple countries. For travelers wanting a hassle-free, comprehensive safari and sightseeing package, this price offers good value.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure is perfect for first-time visitors wanting a curated experience of Zimbabwe and Botswana’s highlights. Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the focus on Hwange’s elephants and the Chobe River, while those eager to see Victoria Falls will find the schedule flexible and rewarding. It suits travelers who prefer organized tours with expert guides rather than self-planned trips, and those looking for a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation.

Final Thoughts

This 5-day tour offers a superb introduction to Southern Africa’s wildlife and natural wonders. With expert guides, comfortable accommodations, and a thoughtfully designed itinerary, it’s a fantastic way to tick off major attractions without the stress of logistics. The combination of game drives, river cruises, and the stunning Victoria Falls ensures that you leave with a broad, authentic experience of this vibrant region.

While it’s a busy schedule, most travelers find the pace invigorating rather than overwhelming. The opportunity to see Hwange’s famed elephants, enjoy a romantic sunset cruise, and stand beside the mighty falls makes this trip a memorable one. It’s ideal for those seeking value, convenience, and a taste of Africa’s best sights all rolled into one.

FAQ

What is included in the price of this tour?
The tour price covers accommodations, some meals (breakfasts, lunches, dinners), round-trip transfers, guided safaris, and the Victoria Falls visit. Be aware that airport taxes and parking fees are not included.

How long are the game drives?
The safari days typically include around 8 hours of game drives, giving plenty of time for wildlife viewing and photography.

Are transfers comfortable?
Yes, all transfers are in air-conditioned vans, making the long drives more pleasant. The journey from Victoria Falls Airport to Hwange takes about two hours.

Can I participate if I am traveling alone?
Absolutely. The tour is private, meaning only your group participates, providing a personalized experience.

What kind of wildlife might I see?
Hwange is famous for its large elephant herds, as well as lions, leopards, rhinos, and various antelopes. Chobe offers more river-based viewing of elephants and hippos, with opportunities to spot crocodiles and birds too.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best suited for those comfortable with long days and outdoor activities. Kids with an interest in wildlife and nature will enjoy the safari experiences.

If you’re after a well-organized, scenic, and wildlife-rich adventure, this 5-day combo might just be the trip you’ve been dreaming of. It offers a good mix of nature’s grandeur and creature encounters, all with the ease of pre-arranged logistics and expert guidance.