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Chobe National Park

Africa’s Eden of Elephants

Overview

Welcome to Chobe National Park, one of Africa’s premier wildlife destinations. Located in northern Botswana, the park covers an area of 11,700 square kilometers and is home to an incredible diversity of wildlife and plant species. Established in 1968, the park has a rich history that dates back to the San people who first inhabited the area over 20,000 years ago. Today, visitors can explore the park’s four distinct eco-systems, which include floodplains, marshes, woodlands, and savannas, and encounter a wide range of animals, including elephants, lions, leopards, buffalos, giraffes, hippos, and more. The park is also home to over 450 bird species, making it a paradise for bird watchers. With its stunning landscapes, unique wildlife, and rich cultural history, Chobe National Park is a must-visit destination for any nature lover or adventurer.

Things to Do

Game drives: One of the best ways to experience the park’s wildlife is by taking a guided game drive. Visitors can see elephants, lions, leopards, buffalos, and other animals up close in their natural habitat. 
 
Boat safaris: Another popular way to experience the park’s wildlife is by taking a boat safari on the Chobe River. Visitors can spot hippos, crocodiles, and various species of birds from the comfort of a boat.
 
Cultural experiences: Visitors can learn about the local culture and traditions by visiting nearby villages and interacting with the local communities. This provides a unique and authentic perspective on the region’s rich history and heritage.
 
Sunset views: The park’s stunning landscapes and sunsets are a sight to behold. Visitors can enjoy a sundowner while watching the sun set over the Chobe River, creating a breathtaking view. 
 
Wildlife photography: With its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes, Chobe National Park is a photographer’s paradise. Visitors can capture amazing shots of animals in their natural habitat and the park’s breathtaking landscapes.
 
Bird watching: Chobe National Park is home to over 450 bird species, making it a paradise for bird watchers. Visitors can see eagles, vultures, storks, herons, and more.
 
Fishing: Visitors can also enjoy fishing on the Chobe River, where they can catch species such as tigerfish, bream, and catfish.
 
Camping: Chobe National Park has several campsites where visitors can relax and unwind after a day of exploring. Here, they can enjoy a traditional braai (barbecue), share stories with fellow travelers, and marvel at the starry African sky.
 
Walking safaris: For a more intimate and immersive experience, visitors can take a walking safari with an experienced guide. They can learn about the park’s flora and fauna and experience the thrill of encountering wildlife up close.
 
Hot air balloon rides: Visitors can take a hot air balloon ride over the park’s stunning landscapes and wildlife, providing a unique and unforgettable perspective on the region’s natural beauty.
 
 

What to See

Chobe River: The Chobe River is the park’s most iconic attraction and a must-see destination for any visitor. The river is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and various species of birds.

Savuti Marsh: The Savuti Marsh is a vast grassland area in the park that is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including lions, hyenas, cheetahs, and wild dogs. It’s also a popular spot for bird watching. 

Linyanti Marshes: The Linyanti Marshes are located in the northern part of the park and are home to a wide range of wildlife, including elephants, buffalos, lions, leopards, and various antelope species.

Serondela area: The Serondela area is located in the eastern part of the park and is famous for its large herds of elephants. Visitors can also spot giraffes, zebras, impalas, and other wildlife in this area.

Birds: With over 450 bird species, Chobe National Park is a paradise for bird watchers. Visitors can spot eagles, vultures, storks, herons, and more.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Chobe National Park is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During this time, the park’s wildlife is more concentrated around water sources, making it easier for visitors to spot elephants, buffalos, lions, leopards, and other animals. Additionally, the vegetation is less dense, making it easier to see animals in their natural habitat. The weather during this time is also cooler and less humid, creating more comfortable conditions for outdoor activities. However, it’s worth noting that this is also the peak season for tourists, so visitors should be prepared for larger crowds and higher prices.

Getting there

By air 

The nearest international airport is Kasane Airport, which is located just a few kilometers from the park and serves several airlines with daily flights from Johannesburg and other major cities in southern Africa.

By road 

Visitors can drive to the park from nearby towns and cities, such as Livingstone in Zambia or Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, both of which are popular tourist destinations in the region. Several tour operators and travel agencies also offer packages to Chobe National Park, including guided tours, transportation, and accommodation. With its convenient location and accessibility, Chobe National Park is a must-visit destination for any nature lover or adventurer.

Where to Stay

Mid-Range Accommodation:

Chobe Safari Lodge 

Chobe Safari Lodge offers comfortable mid-range accommodation near the Chobe River. The lodge features rooms and riverfront safari tents, a restaurant serving buffet-style meals, and a swimming pool. Guests can enjoy game drives in Chobe National Park, boat cruises on the Chobe River, and cultural experiences.

Chobe Bush Lodge 

Chobe Bush Lodge offers mid-range accommodation in a quiet location near Kasane. The lodge features spacious rooms with modern amenities, a restaurant serving a variety of dishes, and a swimming pool. Guests can enjoy game drives in Chobe National Park, boat cruises on the Chobe River, and visits to the nearby village.

 

Luxury Accommodation:

Ngoma Safari Lodge 

Ngoma Safari Lodge offers luxurious accommodation with panoramic views of the Chobe River and floodplains. The lodge features spacious suites with private decks, a restaurant serving gourmet cuisine, and a swimming pool. Guests can enjoy game drives in Chobe National Park, boat cruises on the Chobe River, and spa treatments.

Chobe Game Lodge 

Chobe Game Lodge offers exclusive luxury accommodation on the banks of the Chobe River. The lodge features elegant rooms and suites, a restaurant serving fine dining cuisine, and a swimming pool. Guests can enjoy game drives in Chobe National Park, boat cruises on the Chobe River, and wildlife viewing from the lodge’s deck.

Other Attractions in Botswana

Okavango Delta

Okavango Delta

Discover Botswana's biggest inland delta and its amazing wildlife
Central Kalahari Game Reserve

Central Kalahari Game Reserve

Go on an adventure in the vast Kalahari desert
Moremi Game Reserve

Moremi Game Reserve

Explore the diverse and pristine wilderness
Makgadikgadi Pans

Makgadikgadi Pans

Visit the unique and surreal salt pans of Botswana
Linyanti Wildlife Reserve

Linyanti Wildlife Reserve

Enjoy luxury and nature in Botswana's wilderness
Nxai Pan National Park

Nxai Pan National Park

See the amazing migration of zebras and predators
Tsodilo Hills

Tsodilo Hills

Learn about ancient rock art and history in Botswana
Tuli Blocks

Tuli Block

Experience the adventure of a diverse wilderness
Khama Rhino Sanctuary

Khama Rhino Sanctuary

Help protect rhinos while enjoying nature's beauty

General Knowledge Base

General information about Chobe National Park, Botswana.

Chobe National Park is a national park in Botswana, located in the northern part of the country.

Chobe National Park covers an area of approximately 11,700 square kilometers.

Chobe National Park is known for its vast elephant population and is home to one of the largest concentrations of elephants in Africa.

Apart from elephants, Chobe National Park is also home to lions, leopards, hyenas, buffalos, giraffes, zebras, and many species of antelopes.

The Chobe Riverfront is a stretch of the Chobe River that runs along the northern boundary of Chobe National Park. It is known for its abundant wildlife and is a popular destination for safari tours.

The Savuti Marsh is a large inland delta and grassland area located in the south-western part of Chobe National Park. It is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including lions, hyenas, cheetahs, and wild dogs.

What is the Chobe River?

The Chobe River is a major river in southern Africa that flows through Botswana and Namibia. It is a major source of water for wildlife in Chobe National Park and is home to a variety of aquatic life, including hippos and crocodiles.

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