Chobe National Park

Chobe National Park is Botswana’s first national park and one of Africa’s premier wildlife destinations. Located in the far north of Botswana, it protects a vast and diverse landscape along the Chobe River, bordering Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. It is world-famous for having the largest elephant population on the continent.

Quick Facts

Size: 11,700 km²
Established: 1968
Location: North-western Botswana, bordering Zimbabwe and Namibia
Gateway Town: Kasane (10 km from Sedudu Gate)
Key Regions: Chobe Riverfront, Savuti, Linyanti, and Nogatsaa

Wildlife

Chobe is a “Big Five” destination home to lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and buffalo. It is best known for:

Elephant – The largest elephant population in Africa; herds of 100+ gather along the river
Buffalo, giraffe, hippo, zebra, and impala
Lion, leopard, and hyena – especially in the Savuti region
African wild dog – frequently spotted in the Linyanti area
Over 450 bird species – including African fish eagle and migratory species

The Four Regions of Chobe

Region	Best For
Chobe Riverfront	Elephants, boat cruises, first-time safari-goers
Savuti	Predators (lions, hyenas), classic savanna, dramatic hunts
Linyanti	Wild dog, leopard, solitude, remote wetlands
Nogatsaa	Quieter woodlands, birdwatching

Best Time to Visit

Season	Best For
May – October (Dry)	Peak wildlife viewing; animals concentrate along the river. July–September is the absolute peak
November – March (Wet)	Lush green landscapes, migratory birds, dramatic skies, and lower rates
April – June	Best weather (mild days, cold nights) and low malaria risk

💡 Book 6–12 months in advance for dry-season stays.

Activities

Game drives – 4×4 safaris across diverse terrain
Boat cruises on the Chobe River – the park’s signature experience
Photographic safaris – tailored drives with hides and expert guides
Day trips from Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Accommodation

Options range from luxury lodges to public campsites:

Chobe Game Lodge – 47 air-conditioned riverfront rooms
Chobe Safari Lodge – family-friendly, located in Kasane
Muchenje Safari Lodge – 11 thatched bungalows with Chobe views
Savute Elephant Lodge – 12 tented suites on raised decks
Public campsites – basic, bring-your-own-tent options in Savuti and Linyanti

Getting There

Fly: Kasane Airport (BBK) has daily flights from Johannesburg, Maun, Gaborone, and Cape Town. Alternatively, fly into Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe) and transfer 70 km by road (90 minutes).
Self-Drive: From Maun via Mababe Gate (5 hours) or from Kasane via Linyanti sand track (4+ hours). A 4×4 vehicle is essential, especially in Savuti.

Key Tips

✔ 4×4 vehicle is compulsory for self-drivers in Savuti and Linyanti
✔ Malaria is a high-risk zone – prophylaxis recommended, especially December–March
✔ Combine with Victoria Falls (2 hours’ drive) or the Okavango Delta for an extended itinerary
✔ Pack layers – nights can drop near freezing from May to August
✔ Riverfront is best for first-timers; Savuti and Linyanti suit experienced safari-goers

Chobe delivers Africa’s most iconic elephant encounters, dramatic predator action, and the unforgettable experience of watching wildlife from the water—all in one spectacular park.