Best Safari Options from Victoria Falls: Chobe, Hwange, Zambezi & More

Victoria Falls isn't just about the spectacular waterfall—it's also your gateway to some of Africa's best safari experiences. Within a few hours' drive, you can explore world-class national parks teeming with elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, and countless other species. Whether you have just a few hours or several days, there's a safari option perfect for your schedule, budget, and wildlife wishlist.

This comprehensive guide compares all the major safari options accessible from Victoria Falls, helping you choose the best experience for your African adventure. From the elephant-rich plains of Chobe to the diverse ecosystems of Hwange, from quick game drives in Zambezi National Park to multi-day expeditions to Mana Pools, we'll cover everything you need to know.

Why Safari from Victoria Falls?

Victoria Falls' location makes it an ideal safari base. You're positioned at the intersection of four countries (Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana, and Namibia), with access to multiple world-renowned national parks. This means you can combine the iconic waterfall with exceptional wildlife viewing, creating a complete African experience.

The variety of safari options means there's something for every traveler—from budget-conscious backpackers to luxury seekers, from families with young children to serious wildlife photographers, from those with just a few hours to spare to those planning multi-day expeditions.

Chobe National Park Day Trip (Botswana)

Overview

The Chobe Safari is the most popular safari option from Victoria Falls, and for good reason. Chobe National Park in Botswana is home to Africa's largest elephant population, with an estimated 120,000 elephants, plus abundant lions, leopards, buffalo, and diverse wildlife.

What Makes It Special

Chobe offers a unique combination of game drive and river cruise, providing two completely different wildlife viewing perspectives in one day. The elephant herds are truly spectacular—seeing hundreds of elephants coming to the Chobe River to drink is an unforgettable experience. The park also has one of Africa's highest concentrations of predators.

Typical Itinerary

6:00 AM: Pickup from your Victoria Falls accommodation
7:00 AM: Border crossing into Botswana at Kazungula
8:30 AM: Arrive at Chobe National Park
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Morning game drive through the park
12:30 PM: Lunch at a lodge overlooking the Chobe River
2:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Afternoon river cruise for wildlife viewing
6:00 PM: Border crossing back to Zimbabwe
7:00 PM: Return to Victoria Falls accommodation

Wildlife You'll See

Almost Guaranteed:

• Elephants (often in herds of 50-200+)
• Hippos
• Crocodiles
• Buffalo
• Impala and other antelope species
• Abundant birdlife (over 450 species)

Very Likely:

• Giraffes
• Zebras
• Warthogs
• Baboons
• Waterbuck
• Kudu

Possible:

• Lions (especially during dry season)
• Leopards (elusive but present)
• Wild dogs (rare but occasionally seen)
• Hyenas
• Cheetahs (rare)

Best Time to Visit

Dry Season (May-October): Best wildlife viewing as animals congregate near the river. Vegetation is sparse, making animals easier to spot. This is peak season, so expect more visitors.

Wet Season (November-April): Fewer tourists, lush green scenery, excellent bird watching (including migratory species), and baby animals. Wildlife is more dispersed, but still abundant.

Peak Months: July-October offer the best combination of wildlife density and weather.

Cost

Standard Tours: $150-$180 per person
Premium Tours: $200-$250 per person (smaller groups, better vehicles, superior lunch)
Private Tours: $300-$400 per person (exclusive vehicle and guide)

Included: Transfers, park fees, game drive, river cruise, lunch, drinks
Not Included: Tips for guide and driver

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Incredible elephant viewing
• Two different wildlife perspectives (land and water)
• Full-day experience with lunch included
• High wildlife density
• Professional guides
• Suitable for all ages and fitness levels

Cons:

• Long day (13+ hours)
• Border crossing adds time and complexity
• Can be crowded during peak season
• Expensive compared to other options
• Tiring for young children

Who It's Best For

Chobe is ideal for first-time safari-goers, families, photographers, and anyone wanting the best possible wildlife viewing in a single day. It's the most comprehensive safari option available as a day trip from Victoria Falls.

Hwange National Park (Zimbabwe)

Overview

Hwange Safari takes you to Zimbabwe's largest national park, covering 14,650 square kilometers. Hwange is home to over 100 mammal species and 400 bird species, with one of the largest elephant populations in Africa.

What Makes It Special

Hwange offers a more authentic, less crowded safari experience than Chobe. The park's diverse habitats—from Kalahari sands to grasslands to mopane woodlands—support incredible biodiversity. It's particularly famous for its large lion prides and excellent leopard sightings.

Safari Options

Day Trip:

• 6:00 AM pickup
• 2-hour drive to Hwange
• Morning game drive
• Lunch at a lodge
• Afternoon game drive
• Return to Victoria Falls by 7:00 PM

Overnight Safari:

• Full day game drives
• Stay at lodge or camp inside or near the park
• Night drives (not available on day trips)
• More relaxed pace
• Better photography opportunities

Multi-Day Safari:

• 2-5 days exploring different areas of the park
• Stay at multiple camps
• Walking safaris available
• Most comprehensive Hwange experience

Wildlife You'll See

Almost Guaranteed:

• Elephants (large herds, especially at waterholes)
• Buffalo
• Impala and other antelope
• Giraffes
• Zebras
• Warthogs

Very Likely:

• Lions (Hwange has some of Africa's largest prides)
• Hyenas
• Wild dogs (Hwange is one of the best places to see them)
• Various antelope species (kudu, sable, roan)

Possible:

• Leopards (excellent sightings, especially on night drives)
• Cheetahs
• Brown hyenas (rare)
• Honey badgers

Best Time to Visit

Dry Season (May-October): Best wildlife viewing as animals congregate at waterholes. September and October are particularly excellent as water sources are limited.

Wet Season (November-April): Lush scenery, baby animals, excellent bird watching, fewer tourists. Wildlife is more dispersed.

Peak Months: August-October for maximum wildlife density.

Cost

Day Trip: $180-$220 per person
Overnight Safari: $350-$600 per person per night (depending on accommodation level)
Multi-Day Safari: $300-$800+ per person per night

Included (Day Trip): Transfers, park fees, game drives, lunch
Included (Overnight): All meals, accommodation, game drives, park fees

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Less crowded than Chobe
• Excellent predator sightings
• Diverse ecosystems
• Night drives available (overnight stays)
• Walking safaris possible
• More authentic bush experience
• Supporting Zimbabwean conservation

Cons:

• Longer drive from Victoria Falls (2 hours each way)
• Day trips feel rushed
• More expensive than Zambezi National Park
• Requires overnight stay for best experience

Who It's Best For

Hwange is perfect for serious wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and those wanting a more immersive safari experience. Overnight or multi-day safaris are recommended for the full Hwange experience.

Zambezi National Park Game Drive (Zimbabwe)

Overview

The Zambezi National Park Game Drive offers the most convenient safari option from Victoria Falls. Located just 6km from town, this 56,000-hectare park borders the Zambezi River upstream from the falls.

What Makes It Special

Zambezi National Park's proximity makes it perfect for short game drives, early morning safaris, or for those with limited time. Despite being smaller and closer to town, it offers excellent wildlife viewing, particularly during the dry season when animals congregate along the river.

Typical Itinerary

Morning Drive:

• 6:00 AM pickup
• 6:30 AM - 10:00 AM game drive
• Return to hotel for breakfast

Afternoon Drive:

• 3:30 PM pickup
• 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM game drive
• Return to hotel

Full Day:

• Morning and afternoon drives with lunch break

Wildlife You'll See

Almost Guaranteed:

• Elephants (especially near the river)
• Hippos (in the river)
• Crocodiles
• Impala and other antelope
• Baboons
• Warthogs

Very Likely:

• Buffalo
• Giraffes
• Zebras
• Waterbuck
• Kudu

Possible:

• Lions (resident prides in the park)
• Leopards (elusive but present)
• Wild dogs (occasionally pass through)
• Hyenas

Best Time to Visit

Dry Season (May-October): Best wildlife viewing as animals concentrate near the Zambezi River. Early morning drives are particularly productive.

Wet Season (November-April): Wildlife more dispersed but still present. Excellent bird watching and lush scenery.

Cost

Morning or Afternoon Drive: $60-$90 per person
Full Day: $120-$150 per person
Private Vehicle: $150-$200 per vehicle (up to 6 people)

Included: Park fees, guide, vehicle
Not Included: Meals, drinks, tips

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Very convenient (close to town)
• Affordable
• Flexible timing
• Good wildlife viewing
• Perfect for short visits
• Can be combined with other activities
• Suitable for all ages

Cons:

• Smaller park with less diversity than Chobe or Hwange
• Can feel crowded near town
• Fewer predator sightings than larger parks
• Limited to game drives (no walking safaris)

Who It's Best For

Zambezi National Park is ideal for budget travelers, those with limited time, families with young children, or anyone wanting to add a safari to their Victoria Falls visit without committing to a full day. It's also perfect for early morning drives before other activities.

Mana Pools National Park (Zimbabwe)

Overview

Mana Pools is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located about 400km from Victoria Falls. It's considered one of Africa's most beautiful and pristine wilderness areas, famous for walking safaris and canoeing expeditions.

What Makes It Special

Mana Pools offers the most adventurous safari experience accessible from Victoria Falls. Unlike other parks, you can walk freely (with a guide) and canoe the Zambezi River. The park is known for its stunning scenery, with the Zambezi River backed by mountains, and for unique wildlife behaviors like elephants standing on hind legs to reach tree pods.

Safari Options

Multi-Day Safari (Minimum 3 Days Recommended):

• Fly or drive from Victoria Falls
• Stay at camps within the park
• Walking safaris
• Canoeing safaris
• Game drives
• Night drives

Wildlife You'll See

Mana Pools has excellent wildlife diversity, including:

• Elephants (famous for standing on hind legs)
• Buffalo (large herds)
• Lions
• Leopards
• Wild dogs
• Hippos and crocodiles
• Various antelope species
• Over 350 bird species

Best Time to Visit

Dry Season (May-October): Only time the park is open. September and October are best for wildlife viewing as animals concentrate near the river.

Note: The park closes during the wet season (November-April) due to flooding.

Cost

3-Day Safari: $800-$1,500 per person (mid-range)
Luxury Safari: $1,500-$3,000+ per person for 3-4 days

Included: Accommodation, all meals, game activities, park fees, transfers
Not Included: Flights (if flying), drinks, tips

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Most adventurous safari experience
• Walking safaris offer intimate wildlife encounters
• Canoeing is unique and spectacular
• Pristine wilderness
• Fewer tourists
• Excellent photography opportunities
• Highly rated by safari enthusiasts

Cons:

• Expensive
• Requires minimum 3 days
• Long transfer (8-10 hours drive or charter flight required)
• Only open May-October
• More physically demanding
• Not suitable for young children

Who It's Best For

Mana Pools is perfect for experienced safari-goers, adventure seekers, photographers, and those wanting the ultimate wilderness experience. It requires more time and budget but offers unparalleled experiences.

Comparison Table

| Park | Distance | Duration | Cost | Wildlife Density | Crowds | Best For | |------|----------|----------|------|------------------|--------|----------| | Chobe | 70km | Full day | $$$ | Very High | Moderate-High | First-timers, families, elephant lovers | | Hwange | 200km | Day or multi-day | $$-$$$$ | High | Low-Moderate | Serious enthusiasts, predator viewing | | Zambezi NP | 6km | Half or full day | $ | Moderate | Moderate | Budget travelers, short visits | | Mana Pools | 400km | 3+ days | $$$$ | High | Low | Adventure seekers, experienced safari-goers |

Choosing the Right Safari for You

If You Have Limited Time (Half Day)

Best Choice: Zambezi National Park Game Drive

A morning or afternoon drive in Zambezi National Park offers good wildlife viewing without taking up your entire day. Perfect for combining with other Victoria Falls activities.

If You Have One Full Day

Best Choice: Chobe Safari

Chobe offers the best wildlife viewing in a single day, with the bonus of both game drive and river cruise perspectives. The elephant viewing alone makes it worthwhile.

Alternative: Hwange Safari day trip if you prefer a less crowded, more authentic experience and are particularly interested in predators.

If You Have 2-3 Days

Best Choice: Overnight Hwange Safari

Spend 1-2 nights in Hwange for a more relaxed, comprehensive safari experience with night drives and better photography opportunities.

Alternative: Combine Zambezi National Park morning drive with Chobe day trip for variety.

If You Have 4+ Days

Best Choice: Multi-day Hwange or Mana Pools Safari

Dedicate several days to one park for the full safari experience, or combine parks for maximum diversity.

For Families with Young Children

Best Choice: Chobe Safari or Zambezi National Park

Both offer excellent wildlife viewing in safe, comfortable vehicles. Chobe provides more variety with the river cruise, while Zambezi is shorter and more flexible.

For Budget Travelers

Best Choice: Zambezi National Park Game Drive

The most affordable option that still offers good wildlife viewing. Consider a morning drive for the best value.

For Luxury Seekers

Best Choice: Multi-day Hwange or Mana Pools Safari

Stay at luxury lodges with private game drives, gourmet meals, and premium service. Mana Pools offers the most exclusive experience.

For Photographers

Best Choice: Overnight Hwange or Mana Pools

Multiple days allow you to be in the right place at the right time for the best light. Night drives offer unique opportunities.

For Elephant Enthusiasts

Best Choice: Chobe Safari

Nowhere else will you see elephant herds like Chobe. Hundreds of elephants at the river is a sight you'll never forget.

For Predator Viewing

Best Choice: Hwange Safari

Hwange has some of Africa's largest lion prides and excellent leopard sightings, plus good chances of seeing wild dogs.

For Adventure Seekers

Best Choice: Mana Pools

Walking safaris and canoeing offer the most adventurous safari experience, with intimate wildlife encounters.

Combining Safari with Other Activities

Safari experiences combine well with Victoria Falls activities:

Classic Combination:

• Day 1: Guided Falls Tour + Sunset Cruise
• Day 2: Chobe Safari (full day)
• Day 3: Helicopter Flight + White Water Rafting

Wildlife Focus:

• Day 1: Morning Zambezi National Park Game Drive + Guided Falls Tour
• Day 2: Chobe Safari
• Day 3: Elephant Interaction + Sunset Cruise

Adventure & Wildlife:

• Day 1: Guided Falls Tour + Bungee Jumping
• Day 2: Hwange Safari (full day)
• Day 3: Devil's Pool + Dinner Cruise

Booking Tips

Book in Advance: Popular safaris, especially Chobe, can sell out during peak season (June-October). Book at least 2-3 weeks ahead.

Compare Operators: Not all safari operators are equal. Read reviews and compare what's included. Victoria Falls HQ works with reputable operators.

Understand What's Included: Verify whether park fees, meals, drinks, and transfers are included in the quoted price.

Private vs. Shared: Private safaris cost more but offer flexibility, personalized attention, and better photography opportunities.

Seasonal Pricing: Prices may be higher during peak season but wildlife viewing is also better.

Border Crossings: For Chobe, ensure your operator handles all border crossing logistics. Bring your passport and visa fees.

What to Bring on Safari

Essential:

• Camera with zoom lens (200-400mm ideal)
• Binoculars
• Sunscreen and hat
• Sunglasses
• Insect repellent
• Water bottle
• Extra camera batteries and memory cards

Clothing:

• Neutral colors (khaki, olive, brown)—avoid bright colors and white
• Long sleeves and pants (sun and insect protection)
• Light jacket or fleece (early mornings can be cold)
• Comfortable closed shoes
• Hat or cap

Optional:

• Field guide book
• Notebook for wildlife sightings
• Portable charger
• Snacks (for long days)

Safari Etiquette and Tips

Respect Wildlife:

• Never feed animals
• Keep quiet near animals
• No sudden movements
• Stay in the vehicle unless guide says it's safe

Photography:

• Shoot in RAW format for best quality
• Use fast shutter speeds for action
• Focus on eyes
• Be patient—the best shots take time
• Don't disturb animals for photos

Listen to Your Guide:

• Guides are experts—follow their instructions
• Ask questions—they love sharing knowledge
• Tip well for excellent service ($10-20 per person per day)

Be Patient:

• Wildlife viewing requires patience
• Animals don't perform on schedule
• Enjoy the journey, not just the sightings

Manage Expectations:

• You won't see everything in one safari
• Some animals are elusive (leopards, wild dogs)
• Every safari is different—embrace the unpredictability

Final Thoughts

Victoria Falls offers access to some of Africa's best safari experiences, from convenient half-day drives to multi-day wilderness adventures. Whether you choose the elephant spectacle of Chobe, the predator-rich plains of Hwange, the convenient Zambezi National Park, or the adventurous Mana Pools, you're guaranteed incredible wildlife encounters.

The key is choosing the safari that matches your time, budget, and interests. For most first-time visitors, Chobe offers the best combination of wildlife density, variety, and convenience. For those seeking deeper immersion, Hwange or Mana Pools provide more authentic wilderness experiences.

Whatever you choose, combining Victoria Falls with a safari creates the complete African experience—spectacular natural wonders, incredible wildlife, and memories that will last a lifetime.

Ready to embark on your African safari adventure? Explore all safari options and book your unforgettable wildlife experience today!