One of the great advantages of staying in Victoria Falls is its proximity to Chobe National Park in Botswana , home to the largest elephant population in Africa. A day trip to Chobe is one of the most popular excursions from Victoria Falls, and for good reason: you get a full safari experience with a game drive and river cruise in a single day.
How the Day Works
A typical Chobe day trip runs approximately 10–11 hours. Here's the standard itinerary:
- 07:00–07:30 , Hotel pickup in Victoria Falls
- 08:00–09:00 , Drive to Kazungula border post, complete immigration formalities
- 09:30–12:30 , Morning game drive in open-top safari vehicles through Chobe
- 12:30–13:30 , Buffet lunch at a riverside lodge
- 14:00–16:30 , Afternoon river cruise on the Chobe River
- 17:00–18:00 , Return transfer to Victoria Falls
Border Crossing & Documentation
You will cross from Zimbabwe into Botswana at the Kazungula border. This is a straightforward process, but preparation is key:
- Passport: Must be valid for at least six months beyond your travel date
- KAZA UniVisa: If you already have a KAZA UniVisa ($50 USD), this covers your entry into Botswana for a day trip. This is the most efficient option for travellers visiting both Zimbabwe and Zambia.
- Visa fees: If you don't have a KAZA UniVisa, some nationalities may need a Botswana visa , check requirements for your passport before booking.
- Park fees: Most tour packages exclude the Botswana national park entry fee (approximately $20 USD per person), payable on arrival.
What You'll See
Chobe's riverfront is home to an extraordinary concentration of wildlife. During the dry season (June–October), thousands of elephants converge on the river , herds of 50–100 are common. You're also likely to encounter:
- Cape buffalo in large herds
- Hippos and crocodiles on the river cruise
- Giraffes, zebras, and various antelope species
- Predators including lions and occasionally leopards
- Over 450 bird species including fish eagles and carmine bee-eaters
The river cruise is particularly special , floating silently alongside drinking elephants and basking crocodiles offers a perspective that land-based safaris simply cannot match.
What to Pack
- Passport (essential , you cannot cross without it)
- Camera with a zoom lens and spare batteries
- Binoculars
- Sunscreen, sunhat, and sunglasses
- Insect repellent (30% DEET minimum)
- Light layers , mornings can be cool, afternoons hot
- Cash for park fees and tips (USD accepted)
Cost & Booking
Day trips typically cost between $150–$250 USD per person depending on the operator and inclusions. Most include transfers, game drive, river cruise, and lunch. Park fees and tips are usually extra.
Book at least 48 hours in advance, especially during peak season (June–October). Reputable operators include Shearwater, Wild Horizons, and African Wanderer.
Is It Worth It?
Absolutely. A Chobe day trip is one of the best value safari experiences in Southern Africa. The combination of a game drive and river cruise in a single day provides exceptional wildlife viewing. For many visitors to Victoria Falls who don't have time for a multi-day safari in Hwange, Chobe offers the perfect alternative , and a bonus stamp in your passport.
