HIGHLIGHTS
WHY VISIT
Boating on the Chobe River
Huge buffalo herds massed on the riverbank
Elephant, hippo and crocodile stronghold
FAMOUS FOR
Being Botswana’s elephant kingdom – at least 120 000 elephants are thought to roam the area and breeding herds are often seen crossing the Chobe River, the little ones protected by the rest of the group.
Semi-aquatic animals like hippos and crocodiles abound here. Both provide fascinating sightings: male hippos defend their territory with enormous teeth while seemingly inert crocs can move suddenly at lightning speed.
Wonderful boating excursions. Whether setting out after breakfast to watch herons, terns, skimmers and fish eagles or embarking on a glorious sunset cruise, the Chobe River delivers plenty of adventure.
WHEN TO VISIT
Dry season: July to October
Chobe’s winter months are characterised by very crisp mornings and evenings, and balmy days. As the dry weather wears on, the thinned-out bush makes it easier to see rarer species like roan, sable and honey badgers.
By October, waterholes are running low, the daytime temperatures sky-rocket and buffalo mass on the river’s edge in enormous herds that can reach the hundreds and are best appreciated from the air in a scenic flight. Breeding herds of elephants are also on the march for water and make their way from the outer edges of the park down to the Chobe.
Because it is a lifeline, the Chobe River attracts thirsty game and a game drive along the water’s edge can be extremely productive.
Green season: November to March
The summer rains in the Angolan Highlands trickle down into the Zambezi River, which feeds the Chobe River. Depending on rainfall levels, the very wide floodplain can be flooded any time from January to March.
Chobe National Park also covers the Savuti Marsh, a large area renowned for its strong prides of lion. Years of hunting in water strengthened them to the point where not even a powerful ‘dagga boy’ (adult male) buffalo was a challenge. The marsh and Savuti Channel are ephemeral and may not appear for seasons at a time. When it’s flooded, the marsh is known to attract thousands of pelicans.
Green season means not only fewer visitors but also much lusher grazing. Impala drop their young from about late November to January to take advantage of the plentiful water and grass, giving the big cats a bounty all of their own.
Shoulder season: April to June
Shoulder season is a transitional time between green and dry season. The grass may still be long but is starting to die down. Migrant birds are beginning to leave and visitor numbers may inch up from green season as game starts becoming easier to find and see.
SAFARIS TO INSPIRE YOU
Discover the wonders of Chobe National Park, an ideal getaway for both romantic retreats and family excursions. Renowned for its large elephant herds and diverse landscapes, from the lush floodplains to dense forests, Chobe offers an unparalleled safari experience, merging breathtaking encounters with nature’s majesty in Botswana’s vibrant ecosystem.
Back To Basics Botswana
Makgadikgadi | Santawani | Chobe
DURATION: 7 NIGHTS
Chobe & Delta Highlights
Chobe | Savuti | Moremi | Okavango
DURATION: 8 NIGHTS
Northern Highlights
Chobe | Khwai | Okavango Delta
DURATION: 6 NIGHTS
ACCOMMODATION TO INSPIRE YOU
Here are our favourite Chobe Lodges & Camps to inspire you. Contact us to discuss your specific requirements.
COMFORTABLE ACCOMMODATION
Very congenial surroundings with everything you need for an enjoyable safari grounded in tried-and-tested camps and lodges.
Tlouwana Camp
COMFORTABLE
A cozy and intimate safari retreat in the Chobe region, offering personaliSed wildlife experiences and a welcoming atmosphere
Chobe Elephant Camp
COMFORTABLE
Perched above the Chobe River, this eco-friendly lodge offers spectacular views and close encounters with Africa's largest elephant herds
Chobe Game Lodge
COMFORTABLE
Experience the wildlife spectacle on the banks of the Chobe River, in the heart of the national park
EXPLORE CHOBE
OPTIONS TO EXTEND YOUR CHOBE ITINERARY
Here are a few of our favourite destinations to add to your Chobe itinerary. These extensions are here for inspiration. Chat to one of our experienced Travel Consultants to build the ultimate itinerary, tailored just for you.
Enhance your Chobe adventure with a visit to Cape Town, where you can explore diverse landscapes, indulge in gourmet dining, and soak in the rich culture of South Africa’s most iconic city
Extend your Chobe journey with a breathtaking visit to Victoria Falls, where the awe-inspiring cascades of water and thrilling activities promise an unforgettable adventure
Enhance your Chobe safari by adding Kruger. Experience the thrill of Africa’s Big 5 in their natural habitat, explore vast landscapes, and enjoy a uniquely diverse and unforgettable wildlife adventure in South Africa’s wilderness.
WHY BOOK WITH BIGGESTLEAF TRAVEL
