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A tourist photographing elephants from the comfortable seating of a pontoon boat

Travel tips

What to Wear on a Chobe Safari Day Trip

Pack comfortable, neutral-colored layers and bring a light fleece for cold mornings in the open 4x4 vehicles.

Photo: tour listing on Viator

In short

  • Wear neutral or muted tones to blend in.
  • Bring a fleece or jacket for chilly morning drives.
  • Pack a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
In this article
  1. What colors should I wear on a Chobe safari?
  2. Do I need warm clothes for a day trip?
  3. What sun protection is necessary for the river cruise?
  4. What gear should I pack for wildlife viewing?
  5. What documents do I need to bring?
  6. Is there anything else I should carry?

Deciding what to pack for a 10 to 12-hour safari can be tricky. You need clothing that adapts to cold early mornings on land and hot afternoons on the water.

What colors should I wear on a Chobe safari?

Stick to comfortable casual clothing in neutral or muted colors.

Neutral tones help you blend into the Chobe ecosystem. Avoid bright colors, which stand out and can distract the wildlife. Comfortable, casual clothing is best for long days in safari vehicles.

Do I need warm clothes for a day trip?

Yes, you need a light fleece or jacket for the morning.

Early morning land safaris in open 4x4 vehicles get surprisingly cold. The wind chill increases as the vehicle moves along the Chobe Riverfront. Once the sun rises, temperatures climb quickly. Wearing layers is the smartest approach.

A large double-decker pontoon boat on the river with elephants in the background
Photo: tour listing on Viator
Tour photo
Chobe National Park Small Group Day Safari from Victoria Falls10 h 4.6 (144)from $170

What sun protection is necessary for the river cruise?

Bring a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

The 3-hour boat cruise offers little shade, and the water reflects the sun. Apply sunscreen before you get on the boat. A wide-brimmed hat protects your neck and face better than a standard baseball cap.

What gear should I pack for wildlife viewing?

Pack binoculars and a camera with a good zoom lens.

Animals are often far away, especially across the river on Sedudu Island. Binoculars are essential for spotting birds and distant wildlife. Bring extra batteries for your camera, as you will be out for 10 to 12 hours.

Silhouette of a lone elephant walking beside water at a bright orange sunset
Photo: tour listing on Viator

What documents do I need to bring?

You must bring your valid passport to cross the Kazungula border.

Most day trips start in Victoria Falls, meaning you cross into Botswana for the day. Keep your passport easily accessible. If you plan to return to Zimbabwe or Zambia, bring your KAZA UniVisa receipt or document.

Tour photo
Chobe Day Trip From Victoria Falls Zimbabwe9 h 4.7 (261)from $170

Is there anything else I should carry?

Bring insect repellent to protect against bugs near the water.

Since the itinerary includes a 3-hour river boat cruise, insects are common. Apply repellent on exposed skin.

A giraffe and a herd of elephants gathering near a shallow water hole
Photo: tour listing on Viator

Questions travellers ask

Can I wear bright colors on a Chobe safari?

No, you should wear neutral or muted colors. Bright clothes stand out and can disturb the wildlife.

Do I need to carry my passport all day?

Yes, a valid passport is essential for crossing the Kazungula border between Victoria Falls and Botswana.

Are meals included so I don't have to pack food?

Most standard day trip packages cost between $140 and $180 and usually cover lunch and transfers.

chobe day tripfrom $170 on Viator
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