CHOBE NATIONAL PARK

Elephant Kingdom

Chobe National Park, located in northern Botswana, is one of Africa’s premier safari destinations, renowned for its immense elephant herds, diverse ecosystems, and spectacular wildlife sightings. Covering nearly 12,000 km², the park is divided into distinct regions, including the Chobe Riverfront, Savuti, Linyanti, and Nogatsaa, each offering unique landscapes and wildlife experiences. Its combination of riverine forests, floodplains, and dry savanna makes it a year-round haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Chobe National Park is a must-visit safari destination, offering incredible wildlife diversity, breathtaking river scenery, and some of the best elephant viewing in Africa. Whether by land or water, this park promises unforgettable encounters with Africa’s iconic animals.

Wildlife

Elephants: Home to one of the largest elephant populations in Africa, with tens of thousands gathering along the Chobe River, particularly during the dry season.
Big Cats: Lion, leopard, and cheetah are frequently spotted, especially in the Savuti and Linyanti regions.
Buffalo & Herbivores: Large herds of buffalo, zebra, giraffe, and various antelope species roam the plains and riverbanks.
Hippos & Crocodiles: The Chobe River is teeming with hippos and Nile crocodiles, creating an exciting safari experience both by boat and on land.
Birdlife: Over 450 bird species, including African fish eagles, carmine bee-eaters, storks, herons, and kingfishers, make this a top birdwatching destination.

Activities

Boat Safaris: One of Chobe’s signature experiences, boat safaris on the Chobe River offer a unique perspective of elephants, hippos, and crocodiles up close.
Game Drives: Guided 4x4 safaris provide excellent wildlife viewing, particularly at dawn and dusk when predators are most active.
Walking Safaris: Available in certain areas, guided walks allow visitors to explore the bush on foot, focusing on smaller wildlife, tracks, and plant life.
Photography Safaris: Specialised safari boats and vehicles cater to photographers looking for the perfect shot of Chobe’s abundant wildlife.
Fishing: The Chobe River offers excellent fishing opportunities, with species such as tigerfish providing an exciting challenge.
Birdwatching: From water birds to raptors, the park is a paradise for keen birders, especially from September to March when migrant species arrive.

Accommodation

Luxury Lodges: Exclusive safari lodges with stunning river views, private decks, and top-tier service.
Tented Camps: Comfortable, semi-permanent camps offering an immersive bush experience with excellent wildlife viewing.
Mobile Safaris: For those seeking adventure, mobile tented safaris provide a rustic yet rewarding way to explore the park.
Houseboats: Unique floating accommodations on the Chobe River allow guests to experience wildlife from a completely different perspective.

Getting there

By Air: The nearest international airport is Kasane Airport, which offers flights from Maun, Johannesburg, and Victoria Falls.
By Road: Chobe is accessible from Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe), Livingstone (Zambia), and Maun (Botswana), making it an ideal stop on a multi-country safari.
By Boat: Visitors from Namibia’s Caprivi Strip can cross into Botswana via boat transfers along the Chobe River.

Weather & when to visit

Dry Season (May–October): The best time for game viewing, as animals congregate around the river and water sources.
Wet Season (November–April): The landscape turns lush and green, attracting migratory birds and newborn animals, though some areas may become inaccessible due to rains.