Travel from Victoria Falls to Chobe National Park: The Ultimate Guide

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Hey, fellow travelers! I’m beyond excited to share one of the most magical experiences I’ve had during my travels through southern Africa—going from the majestic Victoria Falls to the wildlife paradise of Chobe National Park. If you’re like me and dream of witnessing the raw beauty of African landscapes and the vibrant wildlife up close, this trip is an absolute must.

Let’s dive into all the details you need to make this journey unforgettable—from border crossings to insider tips on how to make the most of your time in these stunning destinations.

Introduction

If you’re already planning a trip to Victoria Falls, then you’re just a short journey away from one of Africa’s most iconic safari destinations: Chobe National Park. Located in neighboring Botswana, Chobe is renowned for its incredible elephant herds, thrilling game drives, and peaceful river safaris along the Chobe River. Whether you’re a first-time safari-goer or a seasoned traveler, getting from Victoria Falls to Chobe National Park is an adventure in itself.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making the journey from Victoria Falls to Chobe National Park—how to get there, what to expect, and all the must-do experiences in between. So, grab your travel notebook, and let’s start planning your epic adventure!

Victoria Falls to Chobe National Park

1. Distance and Travel Options

Victoria Falls is about 70–80 kilometers (roughly 50 miles) from Chobe National Park, making it an easy and popular day trip or extended safari adventure. There are several ways to make the trip:

By Road: The most straightforward way to get to Chobe from Victoria Falls is by road. It takes about an hour and a half to two hours, including time spent at the Kazungula Border Post between Zimbabwe and Botswana. You can either drive yourself (car rentals are available), hire a private transfer, or book a guided tour that includes transportation.

By Tour: Many tour operators in Victoria Falls offer packaged day trips to Chobe, which makes logistics a breeze. These tours typically include hotel pick-up, border crossing assistance, game drives, and river cruises in Chobe. This option is great if you want a stress-free day filled with adventure.

By Air: While not necessary for such a short distance, flights are available from Victoria Falls to Kasane, Botswana (the gateway town to Chobe). However, the road option is more common due to the proximity.

Victoria Falls to Chobe National Park—how to get there, what to expect, and all the must-do experiences in between.

2. Crossing the Kazungula Border

To get to Chobe National Park, you’ll need to cross the border at Kazungula, where Zimbabwe meets Botswana. Here are a few tips to make this process as smooth as possible:

Visa Requirements: Botswana is part of the KAZA UNIVISA program, which allows travelers from eligible countries to visit both Zimbabwe and Botswana with a single visa. If you don’t have a KAZA UNIVISA, you’ll need to get a separate visa for Botswana. Check visa requirements beforehand to avoid any surprises at the border.

Border Crossing: The border crossing at Kazungula is generally straightforward, though it can be busy during peak travel times. Make sure to carry your passport, proof of COVID-19 vaccinations (if applicable), and any necessary travel documents.

Timing: To avoid delays, I recommend getting to the border early in the day. This will give you more time to enjoy Chobe and reduce the likelihood of long waits.

3. Arrival in Kasane – Gateway to Chobe National Park

Once you’ve crossed the border, you’ll arrive in Kasane, the closest town to Chobe National Park. Kasane is a small, charming town with plenty of accommodations, restaurants, and tour operators that can organize your safari activities. From here, it’s a short drive to Chobe’s entrance.

Whether you plan to stay overnight or head straight into the park, Kasane is a great place to rest, refuel, and prepare for the wildlife adventures that await.

Scenic journey from Victoria Falls to Chobe National Park

Why Visit Chobe National Park?

1. Home to Africa’s Largest Elephant Population

Chobe is famous for its impressive elephant herds, which are the largest concentration in Africa. Seeing these gentle giants roam freely is an experience unlike any other. You’ll likely spot elephants bathing in the Chobe River or walking in large groups across the savannah, creating the quintessential safari scene.

2. Incredible Wildlife Diversity

In addition to elephants, Chobe is home to a staggering variety of wildlife. During my time there, I saw lions lounging in the shade, herds of buffalo grazing by the water, and countless species of birds (birdwatchers, you’ll be in heaven!). The park’s biodiversity is one of its biggest draws, with the chance to spot everything from antelope and giraffes to predators like leopards and hyenas.

3. Chobe River Safari

One of the highlights of visiting Chobe is experiencing a Chobe River safari. Instead of a typical game drive, you’ll hop on a boat and cruise along the river, offering a unique perspective on the park’s wildlife. Elephants and hippos are often seen playing or feeding near the water’s edge, and crocodiles bask in the sun on the riverbanks. The river safari is peaceful yet thrilling, and I highly recommend adding it to your itinerary (I was so glad I did!).

Safari Packing List

While it’s easy to forget that Chobe is just a short journey from Victoria Falls, remember that you’re heading into the African wilderness, so be prepared! Here’s a quick list of essentials to pack:

Sunscreen and Hat: The African sun is no joke, especially when you’re out on a boat safari or game drive.
Binoculars: Wildlife sightings are guaranteed, but bringing a good pair of binoculars can enhance your experience.
Camera: Don’t forget your camera (and extra batteries) to capture the incredible wildlife moments.
Comfortable Clothes: Wear neutral-colored clothing to blend in with the environment, and pack layers because the mornings can be chilly, but it heats up later in the day.
Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes can be active, especially near the river, so be sure to protect yourself from bites.

Chobe National Park Planning Tips

Photography Tip: The lighting in Chobe is stunning, especially during the early morning and late afternoon. This is the perfect time to capture those iconic African landscapes and wildlife shots.

Book in Advance: Whether you’re booking a day trip, a full safari, or accommodations in Kasane, it’s best to book early, especially during peak safari season (June to October).

Consider an Overnight Stay: While you can visit Chobe on a day trip from Victoria Falls, I recommend spending at least one night in Kasane. It allows you to experience both a morning and afternoon game drive, maximizing your chances of seeing different wildlife.

Conclusion

Traveling from Victoria Falls to Chobe National Park is a relatively simple journey that leads to one of the most unforgettable safari experiences in Africa. Whether you’re embarking on a day trip or planning an extended stay, the combination of Victoria Falls’ natural beauty and Chobe’s extraordinary wildlife will leave you with memories that last a lifetime.

So, pack your bags, and get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. If you’ve been to Chobe or have any tips for fellow travelers, send me an email or DM on Instagram—I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Safe travels, and happy safari-ing!

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