Full-Day Chobe Trip Botswana

Full-Day Chobe Trip – Great Organization, Unfortunately Ruined by the Jetty Guide

Overall, the logistics of the Full-Day Chobe Trip from Zambia to Botswana were very well organized. Pick-up and drop-off from our hotel in Zambia went smoothly, and the transfer through the Kazungula border was seamless. Passport stamping and the transfer to the game-drive vehicle were handled efficiently, and the vehicle was clean and comfortable. The game drive itself was very enjoyable. Our lady guide was knowledgeable and pleasant, and although I unfortunately cannot remember her name, she did a wonderful job showing us the wildlife and making the experience enjoyable. Lunch was also good, with a nice variety of food options. Unfortunately, the jetty/boat ride was a completely different experience and ultimately ruined what had otherwise been a wonderful day. The guide on the jetty was extremely rude to me and embarrassed me in front of the other approximately 17 passengers. He sat at the back of the boat and spent most of his time speaking only to the three passengers seated near him. From where we were sitting in the middle of the boat, those of us toward the front could barely hear what he was saying. At one point, when the boat slowed down to show us elephants and buffalo, I asked a simple question about whether we were moving toward the side where another boat was coming closer, as I was trying to position myself to take a proper photograph. Instead of answering, he yelled at me, “Relax, I am not done talking.” I tried to ask again afterward, but he continued to ignore me. I found the whole interaction extremely embarrassing and felt that my daughter and I were being singled out. What should have been a relaxing and exciting boat safari became an uncomfortable experience. Even when drinks were being distributed, my request was ignored. A passenger sitting next to me noticed and kindly asked for the water on my behalf and passed it to me. I said nothing and simply sat quietly for the remainder of the ride. It honestly felt as though I was being punished for asking a simple question. I have taken a photograph of the guide and will privately share it with the tour operator because I do not want to publicly identify or embarrass him. I hope the operator will speak with him and provide appropriate guidance on how to treat future tourists. We pay a significant amount of money and take the time to travel with our families to experience these beautiful places. We should not be yelled at, ignored, or embarrassed in front of a boat full of strangers. Another disappointment was that the itinerary should have included an opportunity to stop at a local shop or somewhere to purchase souvenirs. After spending an entire day in Botswana, we did not even have the opportunity to purchase a small souvenir to remember our Botswana experience. It is unfortunate because the transportation, border arrangements, game drive, vehicle, and lunch were all very good. However, the behavior of one guide had such a negative impact that the entire jetty portion, and ultimately the overall day, was ruined for us. I hope the tour operator takes this feedback seriously because with better customer service on the boat and a little more consideration for all passengers, this could have been a truly memorable Botswana experience.

via Viator

Best Safari Experience!!

Ayoba and his team are an extraordinary team. They are knowledgeable, patient, fun, and incredibly hard working. They made sure we saw all the animals, learned about everything we saw and were respectful of the animals and the environment. Incredible experience. I have done safaris in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia and this was the best safari experience of my life!

via Tripadvisor

Wonderful day trip to Chobe

We had the most wonderful time. All the arrangements were done well - from pick up at the hotel, assistance at the border, game drive and river cruise. Dropped off at the hotel. Well informed guide. He made an effort to get us the best view for photos.

via Tripadvisor

Fantastic tour to Chobe national park

Me and my husband spent 8 days in Livingstone Zambia. We booked three tours with Mavumina tours. One of them was a day trip tour to Chobe national park in Botswana. We were very satisfied with everything. The logistics by pick up at the hotel, transportation, crossing the border and safety was very good. A special thanks to our guide and driver in the park, Philemon, who did an excellent job. We will really recommend this company. The crew was very friendly and knowledgeable and their English was perfect.

Response from the operator: its good to hear that you had a wonderful moment. This compels us to even work harder. Thank you for your support.

via Tripadvisor

Amazing animals, knowledgable guides, questionable safari vehicle. A great day!

We did the full day (game drive and river cruise with lunch included). It was late in the dry season so not much vegetation, allowing for great views of the animals. We swapped drivers 3 times between being picked up at Livingstone and commencing the game driver, which was odd but all were friendly and got us where we needed to be. The game drive vehicle lost its brakes on a sandy down hill, so there was dome concern then but the driver handled it well. The animal sightings were amazing!!! A buffet lunch was included at a very nice lodge followed by the river cruise. A knowledgable guide and spectacular animals. Then we were driven back to our accommodation in Livingstone by the same 3 drivers.

Response from the operator: We apologize for the mishap and we propose that such eventualities will never repeat themselves.

via Tripadvisor