My Great African Adventure: From Victoria Falls to Chobe

There are some trips that stay with you forever, and this was undoubtedly one of them.

Over the course of nearly two weeks, I travelled thousands of miles across Southern Africa, collecting passport stamps, unforgettable wildlife encounters and memories that will last a lifetime. From the mighty Victoria Falls to the elephant-filled waterways of Chobe National Park, every day brought a new adventure.

As someone who has been fortunate enough to travel extensively throughout my career, Africa still manages to surprise, inspire and humble me in equal measure.

First Impressions – Victoria Falls

Our journey began in Victoria Falls, one of the world’s great natural wonders.

Staying at the beautiful Palm River Hotel on the banks of the Zambezi River was the perfect introduction to the region. Elegant colonial styling, stunning river views and a relaxed atmosphere immediately set the tone for what was to come.

Of course, no visit to Victoria Falls is complete without seeing the falls themselves.

Nothing prepares you for the sheer power of nature. Standing at the viewpoints, surrounded by clouds of spray, I quickly discovered that “waterproof” clothing is merely a suggestion. Within minutes I was soaked, but completely mesmerised by the thunderous roar and endless curtains of water plunging into the gorge below.

Later, watching the sun sink over the Zambezi during a sunset cruise, drink in hand, I remember thinking that this was already shaping up to be a very special trip.

A Tropical Oasis and a Different Perspective

Our next stop was Waterfalls Lodge, a charming property tucked away amongst lush tropical gardens.

Its central location made it easy to explore the town, but one of my favourite discoveries was breakfast at the nearby Lookout Café. Perched dramatically above the Batoka Gorge, it offers incredible views of Victoria Falls Bridge. Between mouthfuls of an excellent breakfast, we watched brave souls hurl themselves from the bridge on bungee jumps while others zipped across the gorge.

I’ll happily admit I was much more comfortable watching than participating.

Living the Safari Dream at The Elephant Camp

If I had to choose a favourite property around Victoria Falls, The Elephant Camp would probably take the crown.

Luxury tented accommodation, private plunge pools, roll-top baths and sweeping views across the African bush create a magical setting. It strikes that perfect balance between wilderness and comfort.

This was where Africa really started to work its magic.

Game drives through the private concession brought us face-to-face with elephants and giraffes, while evenings were spent listening to the sounds of the bush from the comfort of our tented suite. There is something incredibly special about falling asleep to the distant sounds of wildlife rather than traffic.

Into the Wild – Sable Valley and Hwange

Leaving Victoria Falls behind, we headed towards the Hwange region and Sable Valley.

The journey itself was a four-hour adventure past villages, and the occasional wildlife sightings it counter. It certainly added some authenticity to the experience.

For three nights we stayed in traditional rondavels surrounded by beautiful wilderness. The camp has a fascinating history, including hosting Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip during their visit in 1965.

The food was excellent, the staff were outstanding and the wildlife viewing was simply phenomenal.

One evening we visited its underground hide overlooking the waterhole. As we sat quietly beneath ground level, a herd of elephants approached. Before long, sixteen elephants were feeding and drinking just metres above our heads.

We could hear every footstep, every rumble and every splash.

It was one of the most extraordinary wildlife experiences I have ever had.

The private concession also delivered some fantastic lion sightings, proving that smaller reserves can often provide more intimate wildlife encounters than larger national parks.

Walking with Rhinos

Our next stop brought us to the David Livingstone Safari Lodge & Spa on the banks of the Zambezi.

The hotel offered beautiful river views and comfortable accommodation, but the highlight here wasn’t the lodge itself—it was the rhinos.

Within a protected reserve, home to just five white rhinos, we joined a guided walking safari accompanied by armed conservation guards. Learning about the ongoing battle against poaching while standing just metres from these magnificent animals was both inspiring and sobering.

It was a powerful reminder that conservation is not just a concept in Africa; it is an everyday reality.

Seeing these incredible creatures in the wild felt like a genuine privilege.

Chobe – The Land of Giants

If Victoria Falls impressed me and Hwange amazed me, Chobe completely stole my heart.

Crossing into Botswana, we arrived at Chobe Elephant Valley Lodge, a beautiful tented property overlooking a valley and waterhole.

Almost immediately, it became clear why Chobe is regarded as one of Africa’s greatest wildlife destinations.

The sunset boat cruise along the Chobe River was spectacular. As the golden light softened across the water, hundreds of elephants emerged from the surrounding bush to drink, bathe and swim across the river.

Watching enormous bulls gracefully swim between islands while families played in the shallows was a sight I’ll never forget.

It felt like every direction I looked contained elephants. The following game drives were equally impressive. On one drive alone, we encountered multiple lion prides along with countless elephants, antelope and birdlife. Every turn seemed to reveal another incredible sighting.

For wildlife enthusiasts, Chobe is quite simply a dream destination.

The People Who Made the Difference

While Africa’s landscapes and wildlife are extraordinary, what often leaves the biggest impression are the people.

Throughout the trip, the hospitality was exceptional. From guides and drivers to lodge managers and restaurant staff, everyone seemed genuinely passionate about sharing their corner of Africa.

While Africa’s landscapes and wildlife are extraordinary, what often leaves the biggest impression are the people.

Throughout the trip, the hospitality was exceptional. From guides and drivers to lodge managers and restaurant staff, everyone seemed genuinely passionate about sharing their corner of Africa.

Final Reflections

As our adventure drew to a close, I found myself reflecting on everything we had experienced.

The mighty Victoria Falls. Sunset cruises on the Zambezi. Luxury tented camps. Walking with rhinos. Lions in the bush. Elephants swimming at sunset. Nights under African skies and mornings filled with anticipation about what wildlife might appear next.

Africa has a way of getting under your skin.

It is wild, beautiful, unpredictable and utterly captivating.

This journey reminded me why I love travel so much—not simply for the places we visit, but for the moments that take our breath away, challenge our perspectives and create stories that stay with us long after we’ve returned home.

Africa, you were everything I hoped for and so much more.

I can’t wait to return.

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