Chobe National Park is situated in the north of Botswana and is the country’s third largest park. It is well-known for its’ large herds of elephants and the Chobe River is often frequented by these majestic giants who come to its’ glistening waters to drink and cool off from the heat, especially in the dry season. As the park has no fences, wildlife roam freely in and around Chobe, and this is one of the many reasons that make this region a very special place to visit for a safari.
Animals in Chobe National Park
The park is home to all of Africa’s Big Five animals, and you can expect an action-packed safari with over 120’000 elephants, huge herds of buffalo and healthy prides of leopard and lions moving through the park. Unfortunately, the rhino population has depleted as a result of poaching in the park, but fortunately, efforts are being made to bring back the species into Chobe. Other predators you may find are cheetah, wild dog and hyena – as well as a large variety of antelope and over 560 bird species!
Best time to visit Chobe National Park
As with most safari destinations there is rarely a ‘best time to visit’ as each season promises its own series of highlights. The dry season (May to November) is peak season in the park with plenty of visitors being drawn to the excellent game viewing along the Chobe River. The temperatures are generally mild over this period and cooler in the evenings. The wet season (December to April) brings fewer tourists, incredible birdlife and wonderful wildlife sightings especially in the Savuti region. January and February are considered the rainy months, but there is good a mix of clear and cloudy days and safari activities continue come rain or shine!
Best lodges in Chobe National Park
Chobe Game Lodge
Chobe Game Lodge is a five-star luxury lodge situated inside the park on the banks of the Chobe River. Equipped with air-conditioning, ensuite bathrooms and fully stocked mini bars, each of the 40 suites have their own private terrace, with 4 additional luxurious suites offering their own infinity private plunge pool. The lodge offers gorgeous public lounge areas to relax at during the day, as well as two bar areas, a swimming pool, a gym, spa, and a 250-meter boardwalk to enjoy the stunning views along the Chobe River.
Ngoma Safari Lodge
This private, intimate lodge can be found tucked away in the Chobe Forest Reserve, with magnificent views over the Chobe River and floodplains. Although it is positioned 3km’s outside of the Chobe National Park, animals roam freely and are not restricted by fences, which means wildlife sightings at the lodge’s waterhole can be expected. The lodge has only 8 luxury suites, each beautifully designed with tasteful décor. Guests can expect five-star service and a truly exclusive safari experience when staying at Ngoma Safari Lodge.
Chobe Bakwena Lodge
Bakwena Lodge is an idyllic eco-lodge on the banks of the Chobe River, not too far from Kasane Airport. This is a fantastic place for families and travelers wanting a slightly more affordable option without losing the luxury and intimacy that comes with staying at a private lodge. The lodge offers 13 standard chalets, 1 family room & a honeymoon suite all uniquely decorated and equipped with air-conditioning, mosquite nets, private verandas and indoor and outdoor showers.
Chobe Under Canvas
Chobe Under Canvas is for the adventurous at heart – a mobile safari camp situated near the water’s edge where well-used animal trails mean close encounters with the wild! Spend your nights in spacious, canvas tents with double beds, ensuite bathrooms that includes a separate toilet and alfresco bucket shower. This is glamping at its finest with delicious meals served onsite and private butlers to attend to your every need.
Savute Safari Lodge
Accommodating only 24 guests, Savute Safari Lodge is a private luxury lodge in a remote section of the Chobe National Park. Daily open 4x4 game drives will enable you to explore this unique region and the meandering waterways of the Savute Channel. The beautiful, thatched chalets of the lodge offer a spacious interior with a joint bedroom and lounge, large private decks and ensuite facilities. The main area of the lodge consists of an outdoor dining area, swimming pool and a shaded viewing deck to view wildlife at the nearby waterhole.
If you would like to start planning your Botswana Safari visit our tour packages for inspiration:
References:
Chobe National Park; www.chobe.com; Accessed on the 9 January 2025
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