Chobe National Park (incl Savuti)

Botswana

Getting to know Chobe National Park (incl Savuti)

Chobe National Park, located in northern Botswana, is one of Africa’s premier wildlife destinations. Established in 1967, it is the country’s first national park and spans approximately 11,700 square kilometers, making it the third largest park in Botswana. This park offers an unparalleled safari experience with its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re on a game drive, a boat cruise, or a walking safari, you’re sure to encounter some of Africa’s most iconic animals.

Chobe National Park is divided into four distinct areas, each with its own unique ecosystem:

Chobe Riverfront: Known for its lush floodplains and dense woodlands, this area is a major watering spot for wildlife, especially during the dry season.
Savuti Marsh: Famous for its dramatic predator-prey interactions, the Savuti area is a hotspot for big cat sightings.
Linyanti Marshes: This remote area offers excellent opportunities to see elephants, hippos, and a variety of bird species.
Ngwenzumba Pans: A less-visited area with seasonal pans that attract wildlife during the rainy season.

Wildlife Encounters

Chobe National Park is renowned for its incredible wildlife diversity and high game density. The park is famous for its large elephant population, estimated to be around 120,000. These majestic creatures are often seen along the Chobe River.

Lions, leopards, and cheetahs are frequently spotted in various parts of the park.

Large herds of buffalo, one of the preferred prey of lions, are a common sight, particularly in the Savuti and Linyanti areas.

With over 450 bird species recorded, Chobe is a birdwatcher’s paradise. Notable species include the African fish eagle, carmine bee-eater, and various species of kingfishers and storks.

Best Time to Visit

Dry Season (May to October): This is the best time for game viewing as animals congregate around the Chobe River and other water sources.

Wet Season (November to April): The landscape becomes lush and green, and it’s a great time for birdwatching and seeing newborn animals.

Which animals and/or activities can be found at Chobe National Park (incl Savuti)?

Chobe National Park in Botswana is renowned for its incredible wildlife diversity and high game density. Here are some of the remarkable species you can encounter:

Wildlife in the area:

Elephants: Chobe is famous for its large elephant population, estimated to be around 120,000. These majestic creatures are often seen along the Chobe River, especially during the dry season.

Buffalo: Large herds of buffalo are a common sight, particularly in the Savuti and Linyanti areas.

Big Cats: The park is home to lions, leopards, and cheetahs. These predators are frequently spotted in various parts of the park.

Antelope Species: You can find a variety of antelope, including impala, kudu, sable, roan, and the rare puku.

Other Mammals: Zebras, giraffes, wildebeest, and hippos are also abundant. The park supports populations of African wild dogs and hyenas.

Birdlife: Chobe is a birdwatcher’s paradise with over 450 bird species recorded. Notable species include the African fish eagle, carmine bee-eater, and various species of kingfishers and storks.

Reptiles: The park is home to Nile crocodiles, which are commonly seen along the riverbanks. Various species of snakes and lizards also inhabit the area.

Amphibians: The wetlands and river systems support a range of amphibians, particularly during the rainy season.

Chobe National Park offers an unparalleled safari experience with its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re on a game drive, a boat cruise, or a walking safari, you’re sure to encounter some of Africa’s most iconic animals.

Activities to enjoy while at Chobe National Park (incl Savuti)

Chobe National Park in Botswana offers a diverse range of activities that ensure an unforgettable safari experience. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural enrichment, there’s something for everyone.

Game Drives: Explore the park’s diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife from the safety of a 4WD vehicle. Game drives are typically conducted in open-top vehicles, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the surroundings and get up close to the animals. Spot large herds of elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, and various antelope species. Drives are led by experienced guides who provide insights into the local flora and fauna.

Boat Safaris: A boat safari on the Chobe River offers a unique perspective of the park. You can choose from morning, afternoon, or sunset cruises, each providing different wildlife viewing opportunities. Observe hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species along the riverbanks. Sunset cruises are particularly popular for their stunning views and photo opportunities.

Walking Safaris: For a more intimate encounter with nature, join a guided walking safari. These excursions allow you to explore the park on foot, providing a closer look at the smaller details of the ecosystem.

Birdwatching: With over 450 bird species recorded, Chobe is a birdwatcher’s paradise. The Chobe River and surrounding areas are teeming with birdlife. Spot species such as the African fish eagle, carmine bee-eater, and various kingfishers and storks.

Mobile Camping: For a more immersive experience, consider camping within the park. There are several campsites that offer basic facilities and the chance to sleep under the stars. Enjoy the sounds of the African bush at night and wake up to the sights and sounds of wildlife around your campsite.

Weather and Rain Patterns

Chobe National Park in Botswana experiences distinct weather patterns and seasons, each offering unique experiences for visitors. Understanding these weather patterns can help you plan your visit to Chobe National Park to align with your interests, whether it’s game viewing, bird watching, or enjoying the lush landscapes.

Dry Season (April to October)

Daytime temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), while nights can be cooler, dropping to around 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F) in the coldest months of June and July. Rainfall is minimal, making it the driest part of the year.

The vegetation becomes sparse, and water sources dry up, causing wildlife to congregate around the remaining waterholes and the Chobe River. This makes it an excellent time for game viewing as animals are easier to spot.

Wet Season (November to March)

Daytime temperatures can rise to 35°C (95°F) or higher, with nighttime temperatures remaining warm, typically around 20°C (68°F) 1. The region receives the majority of its annual rainfall during this time, with January being the wettest month.

The rains transform the landscape into a lush, green paradise. This is the calving season for many herbivores, attracting predators and offering exciting wildlife interactions. Birdlife is particularly abundant, with many migratory species arriving.

Malaria and Other Important Health Advice

The greater Chobe National Park region is a high-risk malaria area, with peak risk times during the warmer months (October to April). While we may not give direct recommendations on malaria prophylaxis, we urge you to speak to your doctor or medical professional for authorized medical advice on the matter.

Proper precautions and measures can however go a very long way, including:

A proper mosquito repellant – the easiest is in a spray form (e.g. Peaceful Sleep or Tabard)
A room mosquito spray (e.g. Peaceful Sleep or Doom) to keep the room mosquito free
Wearing light trousers and long sleeve shirts in the early morning or evening
Keeping your room / tent door closed to keep bugs outside.
We also recommend an “after bite” lotion or spray if you get bitten by a mosquito (not a malaria cure, but it takes away the itch!)

What should you pack for your trip?

Be ready for the bush: Natural and Comfortable

Your packing list will be heavily influenced by the time of your / season you are visiting the Chobe National Park area. For the summer months (late-Oct to Feb) please note that temperatures can be soaring 35°C or even the low 40°C, meaning that light and breathable clothing is essential. Then for the winter months, while the days are mild and pleasant, the mornings can be quite chilly with temperatures of 5°C or lower. We advise to pack clothing that is versatile and can possible be re-used or easily washed (quick dry) especially if you are going on a mobile camping safari.

Since you will be out in nature, the aim will be to “blend in” as far as possible, so we discourage clothing with bright colours if possible. This also applies with smell – while we all enjoy wearing perfumes, please refrain from strong smells. Remember, in the wild, animals rely heavily on smell and their sense of smell is very sensitive.

Suggested clothing would be breathable materials such as cotton, which is comfortable to wear and keep you feeling cool. The last thing one wants to experience on safari is to be in uncomfortable clothing or feeling hot in it. The focus should be to enjoy your experience.

All bedding and towels are provided at our lodges, so no need to bring this along (other than maybe a swimming towel for summer visits).

A suggested packing list:

Light, breathable and comfortable clothing, including long sleeved shirts and trousers (please avoid bright colours).
A hat and sunglasses. IF you can bring a wide-brimmed have also protecting your neck area, that would be recommended.
Sunblock (recommended 50 SPF that is swaet-resistent)
Don’t forget your personal items – most times the lodges are not close to towns, so shops are not always within reach!
A good mosquito repellant – the spray kind is more convenient to apply
A warm jacket and “beanie” will be very welcome for winter mornings – morning drives are cold!
Swimming costumes for the summer months. Most lodges have pools. Note that on mobile safaris, swimming will not be possible unless a pool is present at a dedicated camping area.
Binoculars to spot animals (optional)
A good camera! Most smart phones take excellent photos as well but cannot zoom in that much.
If your tour package includes a bush walk, please ensure you have proper closed shoes / sneakers to walk in.
Remember: Luggage limitations for your transfer would be one larger suitcase up to 20kg, and one piece of hand luggage / small backpack.

Suggested Tours

9-Day Botswana & Victoria Falls Immersive Experience

Explore predator-rich regions from the Okavango Delta and Moremi to Chobe, concluding your adventure at the spectacular Victoria Falls, Africa’s breathtaking natural wonder.

From USD 3385.00 pp sharing

5-Day Victoria Falls & Chobe Safari Experience

Embark on a 5-day adventure featuring Victoria Falls’ majestic thunder and Chobe’s vibrant wildlife. Enjoy guided walks, sunset river cruises, and expert-led safaris across two iconic destinations.

From USD 2080.00 pp sharing

7-Day Okavango Delta, Moremi Game Reserve & Savuti Experience

Experience a premier week-long Botswana safari featuring land drives in Moremi and Savuti, serene Okavango Delta water excursions, and a breathtaking scenic helicopter flight.

From USD 3190.00 pp sharing

12-Day Safari & Cultural Experience (Incl. Soweto, Kruger National Park, Okavango Delta, Chobe, & Victoria Falls)

Join us for an unforgettable multi-country package visiting some of the most impressive highlights of Southern Africa! With Kruger NAtional Park, Victoria Falls, Chobe and Okavango Delta included – this package can tick quite a few boxes on your travel bucket list!