Traveling from Victoria Falls to Chobe National Park offers a fantastic opportunity to see some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife without needing to commit to a multi-day safari. This full-day excursion balances the thrill of a game drive with the tranquility of a river cruise, giving you a well-rounded taste of Chobe’s incredible biodiversity.
What makes this tour stand out? We love the expert guides’ knowledge, the stunning views of herds of elephants, and the chance to observe wildlife from both land and water. However, a potential consideration is the additional park fees, which aren’t included in the price, so budget accordingly.
This experience is perfect for travelers with limited time but eager to experience African wildlife authentically. It also suits those who enjoy varied perspectives—seeing animals from the land, boat, and even catching a glimpse of the river’s birdlife. If you’re after a convenient, well-organized day with plenty of wildlife sightings, this trip checks the box.
Key Points
- Accessible location: Less than an hour from Victoria Falls, making it easy to include in a day’s itinerary.
- Diverse activities: Combines a relaxing river cruise with an exhilarating game drive.
- Wildlife focus: Renowned for elephants, lions, buffalo, hippos, crocodiles, and bird species.
- Expert guides: Knowledgeable, professional guides enhance the experience with insightful commentary.
- Value for money: At $198, including lunch and transfers, it offers a comprehensive safari experience.
- Additional costs: Park entry fee of US$20 is paid separately.
What to Expect from the Tour
This Chobe Day Trip begins with a comfortable transfer from Victoria Falls, typically within an hour’s drive to the Chobe River area. The tour is well-structured but flexible—meaning your guide might shift the schedule based on recent animal sightings or weather conditions. The journey is in a small group setting, usually with other travelers, but some reviews mention solo participants being well cared for, showcasing the tour’s flexibility.
Looking for more options in Victoria Falls Town? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Morning: Transfer & River Safari
The day kicks off with a scenic drive from Victoria Falls to the Chobe River, where you’ll board a boat for a cruise that lasts approximately 2 hours. The boat ride is a peaceful, often stunning way to observe wildlife along the riverbanks. You’ll be able to see crocodiles basking in the sun, hippos submerged in the water, and a variety of bird species, including kingfishers and hornbills.
Many reviews mention how close-up the animals appear from the water, thanks to the boat’s proximity to the river’s edge. One reviewer noted, “You have the opportunity to see animals at very close distance,” which captures how immersive this part of the tour can be.
Midday: Lunch at Chobe Safari Lodge
After the cruise, you’ll head to Chobe Safari Lodge for a included lunch served in a beautiful setting. The lodge provides a relaxed spot to recharge, with views of the river and possibly more wildlife nearby. The meal offers a good break before the afternoon game drive, and reviewers have appreciated the quality of the food, describing it as well-organized and tasty.
Afternoon: Game Drive in Chobe National Park
Post-lunch, the adventure continues with a game drive into Chobe National Park. This part of the tour is where you’ll see the iconic herds of elephants—sometimes numbering in the hundreds—along with lions, buffalo, giraffes, and antelopes. Guides are equipped with binoculars and know where to find the wildlife, often stopping for photographs at the most opportune moments.
A reviewer highlighted how the guides are “extremely available and ready to stop for photos,” making it clear that this trip caters to photography enthusiasts and those eager to get good wildlife shots. The safari inside Chobe is often described as “sensational,” with close animal encounters that feel authentic without feeling invasive.
More Great Tours NearbyEvening: Return and Reflection
The tour concludes with a comfortable transfer back to Victoria Falls, often with plenty of opportunities to ask questions or share favorite moments. Refreshments are provided throughout, ensuring you stay comfortable during the day.
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Why This Tour Offers Good Value
At $198 per person, inclusive of transfers and lunch, this trip packs a lot into a single day. Considering the park fee of US$20, which is payable separately, the overall price remains competitive for a full-day safari experience. The combination of river and land safaris means you’re getting multiple perspectives, enhancing the chances of wildlife sightings and memorable photos.
The guides’ professionalism and flexibility—reviewers mention guides like Shearwater Victoria Falls—add value, making the experience smooth and enjoyable. The ability to book with a “pay later” option and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund adds to the flexibility.
What We Love
The expert guides truly make a difference—they know where to find wildlife and explain behaviors, making the experience educational as well as exciting. The views along the river are stunning, especially when elephants and hippos are grazing or bathing nearby. Finally, the overall organization of the trip, from pickup to return, is seamless, allowing you to relax and enjoy the day.
Possible Drawbacks
The main consideration is the additional park fee ($20), which is paid separately, so don’t forget to budget for this. Some guests experienced variable scheduling, depending on recent animal sightings, which could influence the day’s flow. Also, the group size can vary, and if you’re traveling solo, you might be sharing the experience with other travelers—though reviews suggest the guides are attentive to individual needs.
Who This Tour is Best For
This trip suits travelers who want a comprehensive yet manageable safari experience without leaving Victoria Falls for multiple days. It’s perfect for those who appreciate wildlife photography, as guides are accommodating and knowledgeable. If you’re curious about African animals in their natural habitat, and crave diverse perspectives—water and land—this tour delivers.
It’s also ideal for visitors with limited time but a strong desire to see Africa’s iconic species. Families, couples, or solo travelers will find the trip flexible and engaging, especially since the guides go out of their way to ensure everyone’s needs are met.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is park entry fee included in the price?
No, the US$20 park fee is paid separately on the day of the tour, so budget accordingly.
How long is the boat cruise?
The cruise on the Chobe River lasts approximately 2 hours, providing ample time to see crocodiles, hippos, and birdlife.
What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, neutral-colored clothing, sunscreen, a sunhat, binoculars, and a camera for wildlife photography.
Can I book this tour last minute?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
What kind of wildlife might I see?
Expect elephants, lions, buffalo, hippos, crocodiles, giraffes, antelopes, and various bird species. Some reviews mention close-up views of animals from the boat and vehicle.
Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The tour is flexible, and solo travelers have been well cared for, often accompanied through border procedures and park safaris.
Final Thoughts
This Victoria Falls to Chobe full-day trip offers an authentic, value-packed way to experience Botswana’s famous wildlife and landscapes. With a balanced mix of water and land safaris, guided by knowledgeable professionals, it’s a fantastic introduction to Africa’s wildlife riches.
Travelers who love close-up animal sightings, scenic river views, and well-organized tours will find this trip meets and even exceeds expectations. Plus, the chance to witness elephants, lions, and hippos in their natural environment makes it a truly memorable outing.
For those seeking a compact, immersive safari experience that captures the essence of Chobe without the need for multi-day commitments, this tour is an excellent choice. It beautifully blends comfort, adventure, and authentic wildlife encounters—making your trip to Victoria Falls even more unforgettable.
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