LINYANTI AND SAVUTE

An evocative landscape of mighty baobabs, big herds and rare antelope

HIGHLIGHTS

WHY VISIT

Best place to spot sable, roan and eland in Botswana

Lion stronghold including the world-famous Marsh Pride

Multiple habitats as a transitional zone between the Delta and Chobe River

FAMOUS FOR

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.

MEET OUR LINYANTI & SAVUTE EXPERTS

Get to know our dedicated Linyanti & Savute team, experts in crafting your perfect Botswana safari. Having personally explored these regions’ diverse landscapes, they possess the insights needed to customize an adventure that aligns with your interests. Whether you’re seeking to discover unique flora and fauna, witness spectacular wildlife, or immerse yourself in the stunning scenery, our team is committed to making your journey unforgettable and full of Botswana’s natural beauty.

WHEN TO VISIT

DRY season: July to October

Dry, high or peak season coincides with Botswana’s winter, which means very cold nights and mornings with hot, sunny days. The lack of rain means small pools and waterholes that were created during the summer rains dry up, leaving animals with no choice but to make their way to the Chobe River, crossing the Linyanti and Savuti during their trek. Extremely large herds of buffalo and elephant can often be seen at this time, and predators will take advantage of prey weakened by the lack of grazing and water. Although it is ‘winter’, October is notorious for being the hottest month of the year in Botswana, with daytimes temperatures frequently topping 40C / 104F.

RAINY season: November to MARCH

November brings welcome relief in the form of short thundershowers, often in the late afternoon. Immense clouds swell on the horizon and cloudbursts fill up dry waterholes and allow frazzled foliage to grow again. This abundance of options means game are no longer anchored to main water sources and they disperse into the bush to feed, breed and give birth. While this makes them harder to find, experienced safari lovers know the thrill of finally spotting animal after intense tracking. Birders and photographers have a field day as the Linyanti and Savute are at their prettiest and thick with migrant and resident bird species, including kori bustards. Even the baobabs have leaves and nocturnal flowers!

SHOULDER SEASON: APRIL TO JUNE

Shoulder season is the slow transition from the end of summer to the start of winter. Rates are generally lower than peak season because the foliage may still be quite dense, the grass fairly long and the game still quite dispersed. It is a time of change: days are shorter, cooler and drier and animals’ movements start orienteering towards permanent water sources as they know a long, dry season is coming.

EXPERIENCE LINYANTI AND SAVUTE

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SAFARIS TO INSPIRE YOU

Sometimes overlooked by first-timers, the Linyanti and Savute areas of Botswana are classic big game and big sky country, and are perfect when combining the Delta and Chobe.

ACCOMMODATION TO INSPIRE YOU

Accommodation in Linyanti and Savute runs the gamut from simple tented camps to sprawling lodges set on the water’s edge.

Savuti Camp

COMFORTABLE

Exceptional wildlife encounters and breathtaking landscapes in this intimate safari retreat

EXPERIENCE LINYANTI AND SAVUTE

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EXPLORE LINYANTI AND SAVUTE

OPTIONS TO EXTEND YOUR LINYANTI & SAVUTE ITINERARY

Here are a few of our favourite destinations to add to your Linyanti & Savute itinerary. These extensions are here for inspiration. Chat to one of our experienced Travel Consultants to build the ultimate itinerary, tailored just for you.

Extend your Linyanti & Savute itinerary with a visit to Cape Town, where you can explore diverse landscapes, enjoy gourmet dining, and immerse yourself in the rich culture of South Africa’s most iconic city

Extend your Linyanti & Savute journey with a breathtaking visit to Victoria Falls, where the magnificent cascades and exhilarating activities ensure an unforgettable adventure

Extend your Linyanti & Savute adventure with a trip to Chobe, where iconic river safaris, abundant wildlife, and breathtaking sunsets along the Chobe River offer an unforgettable African experience

WHY BOOK WITH BIGGESTLEAF TRAVEL

  • We are passionate about what we sell

  • The most competitive and flexible rates

  • We offer personalised and customised experiences

  • We have consultants who are fluent in English, Portuguese, German and Swiss German
  • Our consultants specialise in different safari experiences
  • Founded in 2014 with years of experience in the travel industry
  • Our quick response and turnaround times

  • We are the trusted travel agent for clients of some of Africa’s sought-after photographic guides

EXPERIENCE BOTSWANA

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