Why Go?
Safaris to the Chobe National Park
Chobe National Park has one of the highest concentrations of big game in Africa. Flowing along the park’s northern boundary, the Chobe River attracts dry-season herds of up to a hundred elephant. Deeper in the reserve the Savuti Region is the hunting grounds of lion and wild dog. This is true big game country, where days are filled with thrilling activities and up-close wildlife sightings.
An estimated 70,000 elephant live in and around Chobe. During Botswana’s dry winter months great herds crowd the banks of the Chobe River, and the best way to view them is by boat. Imagine cruising past family herds with youngsters drinking at the water’s edge; there’s even a good chance you’ll see elephant swimming across the river – an unforgettable sight! Other wildlife dotting the riverbanks includes buffalo, giraffe, zebra, impala and crocodiles lazing in the bright Botswana sunshine.
Most Chobe Lodges alternate their daily river cruises with guided game drives. On land you’ve got a better chance of tracking down the region’s predators with regular sightings of prides of lion and, if you’re lucky, leopard too. Between these activities it’s wonderfully relaxing just sitting on the deck of your riverside lodge, keeping your camera close at hand as there’s always something to see. You could even stay right on the water in one of the luxurious Chobe River Houseboats!
When planning your safari, remember that the dry season months of May to October are the best time to visit Chobe to see those famously large herds. For the remoter Savuti Region any time of year is great, in fact seasoned safari pros tend to prefer early summer as it’s the start of the zebra migration. When you travel may also depend on which other destinations you wish to visit: add on a few days in next-door Victoria Falls or a traditional tented camp in the Okavango Delta.
For some holiday inspiration take a look at a selection of our most popular Chobe tours and safaris. Or contact one of our Botswana travel experts and they’ll put together a fantastic itinerary with hassle-free logistics and accommodation carefully picked to suit your tastes and budget.
