Full Day Chobe Trip with Lunch

If you’re looking for a day filled with wildlife, scenic boat rides, and the chance to see Africa’s iconic animals, then the Full Day Chobe Trip with lunch might just be what you need. This tour, based in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, combines captivating game drives with an exhilarating boat cruise—giving you a comprehensive glimpse into Chobe National Park’s incredible wilderness. While some reviews mention moments of feeling rushed or speedy drives, the overall experience balances stunning wildlife sightings with expert guiding, all at an accessible price point.

What we love about this trip: the varied activities, the professionalism of guides like Kumo, and the chance to see the Big Five and beyond. One thing to consider is that this tour involves quite a bit of travel and group coordination, so travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace or private experience should plan accordingly. Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, families, and those keen to maximize their time in Botswana and Victoria Falls, this tour offers a lot for the value.

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Key Points

Diverse Experiences: Combines game drives and a boat cruise, offering different perspectives of wildlife and scenery
Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Kumo enhance the experience with insights and local tips
Wildlife Viewing: Possibility to see Big Five animals alongside cheetah, wild dog, and other species
All-Inclusive Price: Lunch, park fees, boat cruise, and transportation included for straightforward budgeting
Group Size: Limited to 13 travelers, maintaining a more intimate atmosphere
Considerations: Some reviews highlight fast drives or feeling rushed, so be prepared for a full, energetic day

An In-Depth Look at the Full Day Chobe Trip

Looking for more options in Victoria Falls? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Starting Point and Timing

The adventure begins early, with pickup from Victoria Falls hotels or lodges around 7:00 AM. The group—up to 13 travelers—sets off in an air-conditioned vehicle, heading toward the Kazungula border. The journey takes roughly 45 minutes to an hour, giving you a chance to stretch your legs and soak in the scenery. The early start ensures you’re on the park’s doorstep when wildlife is most active.

The Destination: Chobe National Park

Once inside Chobe, the day kicks off with a jeep game drive. Here, the emphasis is on spotting animals in their natural habitat. Reviewers mention seeing elephants on both land and from the boat, along with a variety of antelopes like kudu and waterbuck, plus predators such as lions, hyenas, and even cheetahs. The guides are licensed and experienced, with one reviewer praising guide Kumo for his knowledge, making the wildlife come alive with stories and insights.

The Game Drive Experience

The game drives typically last around 4 hours, although the speed of the vehicle drew some comments. One reviewer noted that the driver was going so fast that it felt rushed, which might make it tricky to take photos or fully enjoy the sightings. This points to a common challenge in busy safari parks—balancing speed for the best animal encounters with the patience needed for photography and reflection.

Despite this, many guests appreciated the opportunity to see elephants—often close enough to observe details like their textures and behaviors—as well as the Big Five (elephants, lions, buffalo, leopards, and rhinos). The guides’ expertise helps ensure that even if the drive feels brisk, the locations visited are some of the most wildlife-rich areas.

The Boat Cruise

After the land safari, the tour moves onto a luxurious boat cruise along the Chobe River. This part tends to be a highlight, with calmer, more leisurely wildlife sightings—hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of birds—adding layers to the day’s adventure. Reviewers rave about the views and the chance to photograph animals from the water, often noting that the boat approach offers a different, more relaxed perspective.

The cruise is included in the package, allowing you to enjoy the scenery and wildlife without additional costs. It’s a good time to unwind, reflect on the morning’s sightings, and perhaps spot animals that are more visible from the riverbanks.

There's plenty more to explore in Victoria Falls

Lunch and Rest

Midday features a buffet lunch, typically served overlooking the river. Guests often comment on the quality and variety of the meal, which adds great value for a full-day trip. The restaurant or picnic setup usually provides a pleasant break from the morning’s activity and a chance to chat with fellow travelers.

Wrapping Up: Return to Victoria Falls

After a full day of adventure, the group returns to Victoria Falls around 5 or 6 PM. The drive back offers a chance to relax and review your favorite sightings. The transportation is air-conditioned, comfortable, and organized, making the long day manageable.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Insights

Wildlife Encounters

What sets this trip apart is the chance to see the Big Five, along with cheetah, wild dog, and a stack of antelope species. Several reviewers mention seeing elephants close enough to study their behaviors, along with lions and buffalo that evoke real safari excitement. Since the tour offers both land and water views, your chances of seeing wildlife are significantly increased.

Guides and Service Quality

Reviews highlight guides like Kumo, who bring a wealth of knowledge and a friendly attitude. Guests appreciate the professionalism, punctuality, and helpfulness of guides and drivers, making the experience smooth and enjoyable. One reviewer specifically appreciated how the guides made the day memorable with their insights and patience.

Value for Money

At $165 per person, including lunch, park fees, and boat cruise, this trip offers strong value. Reviewers consistently mention that the price is worth the experience, especially considering the variety of activities and the professional service. The combined experience of game drives and boat safaris provides a comprehensive look at Chobe’s wildlife and landscape.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 13 travelers, the tour maintains an intimate feeling, allowing for better wildlife viewing and interaction with guides. This small-group setting tends to foster camaraderie and personalized attention.

Potential Drawbacks

Some reviews point out that the game drive can be fast-paced, making it harder to take photos or enjoy each sighting fully. Travelers who prefer a slow, unhurried pace might find this aspect challenging. Also, since the tour operates from early morning till late afternoon, it’s a full-day commitment, suitable for those prepared for a busy schedule.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for wildlife lovers, those looking to experience both land and water safaris, and travelers who want an all-in-one day trip with guided expertise. It’s suitable for families, small groups, or solo adventurers eager to maximize their wildlife sightings without breaking the bank. If you enjoy a lively, energetic safari with lots of animals and scenic views, this one’s for you.

The Sum Up

The Full Day Chobe Trip with Lunch offers a well-rounded, value-packed safari experience. With knowledgeable guides, diverse wildlife sightings, and the scenic beauty of the Chobe River, it captures the essence of African wildlife adventures in just one day. The inclusion of both land and water safaris ensures you get multiple perspectives, making it perfect for those keen to see as much as possible.

While it’s not a private or ultra-slow experience, the tour’s professionalism, the variety of wildlife, and the significant value for money make it a compelling choice. It’s especially suited for travelers who want an active, engaging day in the wild, with the convenience of organized logistics and expert guiding.

If you’re after a budget-friendly, fun-filled day that offers plenty of wildlife and scenic moments, this tour will meet your expectations—and likely exceed them. Just remember to keep your camera ready and patience in check for the best possible photos and memories.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from Victoria Falls hotels or lodges, making it convenient to start your day without extra planning.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing, sun protection, and binoculars are recommended. Since the tour involves a full day outdoors, hats and sunglasses are also helpful.

How long is the total tour duration?
The entire experience lasts approximately 10 hours, including travel time, game drives, boat cruise, and lunch.

Is the boat cruise included in the price?
Yes, the boat cruise is included, along with park fees, lunch, and transportation.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
You might see giraffes, elephants, zebras, kudu, buffalo, waterbuck, eland, lions, hyenas, jackals, cheetahs, wild dogs, and more.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is suited for travelers with moderate physical fitness, suitable for families with children; specific age limits aren’t mentioned but should be confirmed with the provider.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

This full-day adventure in Chobe promises a blend of scenic beauty, exciting wildlife encounters, and professional guidance—making it a wonderful way to experience the very best of Africa’s wilderness.