Into the Wild: Our First Safari in Chobe, Botswana

Chobe National Park: The Perfect Finale to Our Southern Africa Journey

After traveling through South Africa, Zimbabwe, and even standing at the border of Zambia, there was one last experience we simply could not miss—a safari in Chobe National Park, Botswana. It was here, both inside and outside the park, that we would see more wildlife than anywhere else. Wayne, Denise, and I left Victoria Falls bright and early, excited and slightly in disbelief that this would be our first safari ever. And now—look at us—completely in love with it.

Once we crossed the immigration border from Zimbabwe into Botswana (an adventure all its own), we were greeted by our river safari guide and led to a covered boat waiting on the Chobe River. At first, the waters seemed quiet, but just minutes into the ride, we spotted our first hippopotamus grazing in the water. Cameras came out immediately, and we laughed at how focused we were on capturing the perfect shot while forgetting just how powerful that animal truly is. Soon after, we began spotting impalas—so many that we lost count. Then came the awe-inspiring sight of a Nile crocodile, massive and perfectly still as we drifted close enough for stunning photos. Before our river safari ended, we also saw elephants, water buffalo, beautiful birds, and even a giraffe, all before stopping for lunch along the water.

Lunch was a relaxed buffet with grilled meats, salads, vegetables, desserts, and drinks, enjoyed in the open air with fellow travelers. Some guests were even staying in Botswana for several nights with just their backpacks—something we hadn’t planned for, but that definitely made us think about returning one day. After lunch, we climbed into a safari jeep for our land tour, where the wildlife sightings continued. We saw more impalas, elephants, giraffes, and hippos, along with a new favorite—the helmeted guineafowl, known as the “alarm system of the bush” because of its loud calls when predators are near. At one point, someone thought they saw a lion, and all the safari vehicles gathered, waiting and watching. Whether the lion was there or simply chose to stay hidden, it was thrilling to be part of the moment.

We were also lucky enough to spot a greater kudu, one of Africa’s most graceful antelopes, with its tall frame, elegant face, and striking white stripes. And then there were the warthogs—not just inside the park, but freely roaming the streets of Botswana as well. Seeing wild animals coexist so naturally alongside people was both surprising and beautiful. Our driver even stopped patiently while a warthog crossed the road, and along the highway, we could see elephants and giraffes grazing as if it were the most normal thing in the world.

Chobe National Park offers one of Africa’s most rewarding safari experiences, with day trips and full safari packages typically ranging from $150 to $450 per person, often including both a river cruise and a land-based game drive. For those who choose to stay longer, lodge packages provide meals, transfers, and multiple daily safaris, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the wildlife-rich environment. Whether you’re watching elephants along the riverbanks or searching the bush for predators, Chobe offers awe-inspiring moments around every corner.

As we wrapped up this extraordinary day, we knew that visiting Chobe National Park had been the perfect way to end our Southern Africa journey. Denise, Wayne, and I all agreed—this would not be our last time on African soil. One day, we will return.

Have you ever been on a safari? Where did you go, and what animals did you see?

Our African chapter may have come to a close, but our journey continues. Next, we invite you to join us on our Central America cruise, sailing from Fort Lauderdale through Mexico, Belize, Honduras, Costa Rica, and Panama. Subscribe and come along as we share what amazed us, what surprised us, and what we’ll never forget. 🌍✨