Savute (also spelt Savuti) and the Linyanti are parts of north-western Botswana where the Okavango Delta starts giving away to the grasslands and floodplains of the Chobe River. The Linyanti Wildlife Reserve is private while Savute is part of Chobe National Park, which is public. This vast area is an absorbing puzzle of marshes, woodlands, rivers and some savannah, dotted with impressive baobab trees and a sprinkling of hills – a rarity in flat Botswana – that are home to ancient San Bushmen art. Because of this geographical and botanical diversity, as well as more stable, drier land compared to the wetlands of the Okavango and floodplains of the Chobe, it is home to a wide array of plains game not easily found elsewhere including sable, roan, eland, bushbuck and even the occasional shaggy puku. It is also a great place to spot lesser predators like African wild cat, serval and civet, and is considered the top place to find wild dog in Botswana.
Because the Chobe River is the only reliable source of water during the mid-year dry season, both the Linyanti and Savuti are packed with game making their way through to quench their thirst. The Savute Marsh is the hunting ground for the infamous Marsh Pride which is particularly well built because they often chase prey through water. The Savute Channel is ephemeral: it is known to be dormant for years before flowing again, possibly because of slight tectonic movements. When it is flowing, it acts as a lifeline for animals in the area. Savute is popular with self-drivers and has several well-known waterholes and stretch points, including the Marabou Pan stretch point that is a favourite with big herds of elephant. The Linyanti offers a more exclusive experience but both are must-sees for serious safari goers.
