Most Chobe day trips from Victoria Falls follow the same pattern of a river cruise and a game drive, and this version adds something extra: a visit to Impalila Island. After the early transfer and border formalities into Botswana, you reach the Chobe River, where a boat takes you along the floodplains in search of elephants, buffalo, hippo, crocodile and birds. Chobe has one of the largest elephant populations in Africa, and the river is where they come to drink, bathe and cross between islands, which makes the boat the best viewpoint. The route then continues to Impalila Island on the Namibian side of the confluence of the Chobe and Zambezi rivers, a green, quiet spot where Namibia, Botswana, Zambia and Zimbabwe lie within a short distance of each other. A guide explains the geography, the history and the life of the islanders, and lunch is usually served in a lodge or by the water. A game drive in the national park may be part of the day as well, depending on the operator.
What makes it different
A standard Chobe day is mostly wildlife. This tour adds a cultural and geographic dimension, because you stand at one of the unusual meeting points of southern Africa and hear about the people who live there. If you have already done a classic Chobe trip or want a less repetitive itinerary, it is a good choice. It is a long day, so be ready for early starts and a lot of time on the road and the water.
Border crossings and paperwork
You will cross from Zimbabwe into Botswana and, for the island, touch Namibian territory by boat. Operators handle most of the process, but you must bring a valid passport with blank pages and check visa and entry requirements for your nationality, since rules change and fees may apply. Ask what is included in the price, such as park fees, lunch, drinks and border costs, and which side of the river the game drive takes place on.
Season and wildlife
The dry months, roughly from mid-year until the rains, are the peak for elephants, because water elsewhere dries up and herds come to the river in large numbers. In the green season, wildlife is more dispersed but the landscape is lush and birdlife is superb.
Bring sunscreen, a hat, a light layer for the boat, binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens, and pack snacks for the road. If you want a shorter outing, a half-day river safari is easier. If you want a longer wildlife stay, consider an overnight in Kasane.
Last points
Sit on the side of the boat that gives you the best light, and ask the crew about the best moments for photographs. Bring cash in small notes for tips and drinks, a refillable water bottle and a charged phone, though signal can be patchy.
If you get seasick, take your usual remedy before you board. A long day like this is easier if you arrive rested, so avoid late nights beforehand. Operators sometimes change the order of stops depending on river and weather, so stay flexible and enjoy the day as it unfolds.
What to expect
The experience
A full-day trip with a Chobe river safari, a visit to Impalila Island and lunch, with border formalities handled by the operator.
Best time
Dry months for elephants at the river; the green season for birds and scenery.
How long
A full day, with early pickup and late return.
Tips
Bring your passport, check visa rules, carry sunscreen, a hat, binoculars and a light layer for the boat.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers who want Chobe's elephants plus a cultural and geographic twist.
- Families
- Good for older children who can handle a long day.
- Couples
- A rich shared day with wildlife, water and a leisurely lunch.
- Pair with
- A quiet evening and a relaxed next morning.
- Time needed
- A full day.
Good questions
Do I need a visa?+
Entry rules depend on your nationality and change over time, so check before you travel; the operator will brief you on the process.
Will I see elephants?+
Chobe is famous for them, especially in the dry months, but sightings are never guaranteed.
What is Impalila Island?+
A Namibian island at the junction of the Chobe and Zambezi rivers, close to where four countries nearly meet.
What is included?+
This varies by operator, so check park fees, lunch, drinks and border costs when you book.
Is it too long for children?+
It is a long day, so it suits older children better than toddlers.
