Overview–botswana

Chobe National Park

Chobe National Park includes two incredible wildlife areas: Chobe Riverfront and Savuti. The Chobe is one of Africa’s magical rivers, and a great way to explore the riverfront is by boat, especially late afternoon when big herds of elephants and buffalo come to drink. There are plenty of hippos and crocs in the river, and the birdlife is phenomenal. Savuti is brilliant for predators.

Geography and Ecosystems Chobe National Park consists of four distinct ecosystems:

Serondela Area (Chobe Riverfront): This northeastern section features lush floodplains and dense woodlands along the Chobe River, which serves as a vital water source for many animals during the dry season.
Savuti Marsh: Located in the western part of the park, this area was once a large inland lake and is now characterized by rolling grasslands and savannahs. It experiences variable water flow due to tectonic activity.
Linyanti Marsh: Situated at the northwest corner of the park, this region includes riverine woodlands and lagoons that support diverse wildlife populations.
Nogatsaa Grass Woodland: This less-known area serves as a habitat for species like common eland.

Wildlife Chobe National Park boasts one of Africa’s highest concentrations of wildlife. Visitors can expect to see not only elephants but also other species such as African buffalo, giraffes, lions, leopards, wild dogs, hippos, crocodiles, and a rich variety of bird species—over 460 different types have been recorded here.

Safari Activities Visitors to Chobe can engage in various safari activities:

Game Drives: These are typically conducted using 4x4 vehicles that allow exploration across different terrains within the park.
River Safaris: Boat trips along the Chobe River provide unique vantage points for observing wildlife coming to drink at the riverbanks.
Walking Safaris: Guided walking safaris offer an immersive experience in nature while ensuring safety from predators.

Best Time to Visit The best time to visit Chobe National Park is during the dry season from April to October when wildlife viewing is at its peak. During this period, animals congregate around water sources like rivers and waterholes.

Accommodations There are various lodges available within and around Chobe National Park that cater to different budgets and preferences—from luxury lodges offering all-inclusive packages to more affordable options suitable for budget travelers.

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Rates

From: $198 to $990 pp/day

Best Time to Go

From: March to May (Dry parks), June to September (Okavango, Chobe)

High Season

From: July to October

Size

From: 581,730km² / 224,610mi²

Wildlife & Animals

In addition to big cats, the Okavango Delta and Moremi Game Reserve contain one of the largest populations of the highly endangered African wild dog. Wild dog packs roam over large territories and spotting them is 'hit-or-miss' except when they are denning. Sitatunga, red lechwe, and puku can be found in the Okavango Delta, Moremi, and Chobe's riverfront areas. These rare antelopes have adapted to a semi-aquatic habitat and spend much time in shallow water.

Best Time for Wildlife Viewing

Wildlife viewing is generally best during the Dry season (May to October). Vegetation is thinner, and animals concentrate around water making them easier to spot. The Okavango Delta floods from June to October, providing the opportunity to watch wildlife in this unique ecosystem.

The drier parks in the Kalahari area offer better wildlife viewing during the Wet season (November to April) when fresh grasses attract wildlife from the north.

General Wheather

Chobe National Park has a warm to hot climate, and there is a Dry and Wet season. The Dry season months May to August are the coolest and most rain falls between December and March. It is advisable to bring warm clothing for boat trips and morning drives.

Dry Season –April to October

The last showers marking the end of the Wet season normally fall in April. From May, the park becomes drier and drier. June and July are the coolest months; however, temperatures begin increasing in August and peak in October.

April & May – These months mark the beginning of the Dry season. The vegetation is still green, and it is mostly dry and sunny. It is hot in the middle of the day, with temperatures climbing up to 30°C/86°F.
June, July & August – There is very little rain during these months. It is a bit cooler now with afternoon temperatures climbing up to about 27°C/81°F. Early mornings are cold at around 8°C/46°F.
September & October – As the Dry season draws to a close, it continues to get hotter before the rains break. October is very hot with average afternoon temperatures of 34°C/93°F. However, conditions at night and in the mornings are agreeable.

Wet Season –November to March

The first rains bring relief. It doesn’t usually rain all day, but thunderstorms in the afternoon are common. It’s hot throughout the season with afternoon temperatures of around 32°C/90°F. Mornings are pleasant.

November & December – Conditions are hot and sunny. Temperatures tend to build before it rains, and then drop afterward. Early mornings are pleasant – temperatures average about 18°C/64°F.
January & February – The first two months of the year are the wettest. There is usually rain in the afternoon, but only for a few hours. Heavy storms are a regular occurrence.
March – The rains are lessening. There is still rainfall every couple of days though, and it mostly comes as a thunderstorm. Mornings are cooler at 17°C/63°F.

Prons

Low-density tourism and eco-friendly lodges
Excellent wildlife viewing in northern parks
Beautiful and diverse scenery of dry desert, salt pans, savannah grasslands and delta waterways
Low population and vast, undeveloped areas
Political stability and safety

Cons

Expensive upmarket safaris with fewer budget options

How To Get There

Chobe National Park has several areas that can be visited. The most popular and accessible area is the riverfront, which is just outside Kasane. Chobe Gate is located 6 km/3 mi west of Kasane and 80km/49 mi west of Victoria Falls. The drive from Kasane takes 10 minutes and from Victoria Falls it’s just over an hour*.

Visitors to this area usually fly into Kasane Airport (BBK), and self-drive visitors can pick up their 4x4 there.

The Savuti and Linyanti areas can be reached by 4x4 in the Dry season, but most people fly in by chartered plane to their lodge.

Another popular point of entry to the country is Maun Airport (MUB). From here you can fly on to Kasane. Driving is also possible – it’s about 600km/370 mi and it takes about 7 hours*.

*Driving times are only a rough indication. You should always consider the possibility of significant delays.

Airlines & Ticket Prices

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