How many days do you actually need at Victoria Falls?

If you're doing the Falls and nothing else, two full days covers it properly — one for the main falls walk (better early, before the crowds and while the spray still catches the morning light), and one for a single activity like a sunset cruise or a walking tour.

Add a safari and the maths changes. Hwange alone is worth three to four days minimum if you want more than a token game drive — anything shorter and you're spending more time in transit than actually out looking for animals.

The itineraries that feel rushed are almost always the ones trying to fit the Falls, a full safari and a Chobe day trip into four or five days total. Pick two of the three properly rather than all three badly, and add rental days around whichever you choose.