Chobe National Park: Botswana's Wildlife Jewel

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Discover Botswana's wildlife paradise: Chobe National Park, home to massive elephant herds and diverse ecosystems, a must-visit safari destination.

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Chobe National Park

Chobe National Park, Botswana's first national park, is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Located in the north of the country, it boasts diverse ecosystems, from lush riverfronts to expansive savannas, and is renowned for its massive elephant herds, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes.

A brief summary to Chobe National Park

54CV+9Q4, Kasane, BW
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Local tips

Visit during the dry season (April to October) for optimal wildlife viewing as animals congregate around water sources.
Book accommodations and tours in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.
Pack appropriate clothing, including layers for varying temperatures, comfortable walking shoes, and sun protection.
Bring binoculars and a camera with a good zoom lens to enhance wildlife viewing and photography.
Respect wildlife and park regulations by maintaining a safe distance from animals and staying on designated roads.

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Getting There

Air

The most convenient way to reach Chobe National Park is by flying into Kasane Airport (BBK), located just outside the park. Several airlines operate flights from major cities in Botswana and neighboring countries. From the airport, most lodges and hotels offer shuttle services to the park and surrounding areas. Alternatively, you can rent a car or hire a taxi for the short drive to your accommodation.
Road

Chobe National Park is accessible by road from various locations. If you are driving from Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, it's approximately an 80 km (1-hour) drive via the Kazungula Border Post. From Livingstone, Zambia, it's about 70 km (1-hour) via the Kazungula Bridge. From Maun, Botswana, it's a longer journey of approximately 600 km (8-10 hours) via Nata. Keep in mind that a 4x4 vehicle is recommended for navigating the roads within the park. **Costs:** * Park entry fees: For international non-residents, adult daily fees cost approximately $11 USD. Children's fees are around $5.50 USD. * Vehicle fee: If entering with a private vehicle, there's a vehicle fee of approximately $7 USD. * Taxi from Kasane Airport to the park: Approximately $10 - $20 USD.
Bus

Regular inter-city and cross-border bus services operate between Botswana and neighboring countries. However, public buses do not enter Chobe National Park, so additional transport is needed from Kasane. A daily bus runs from Victoria Falls to Kasane, which takes around 1.5 hours. **Costs:** * Bus fare from Victoria Falls to Kasane: Approximately $10 - $15 USD.

Discover more about Chobe National Park

Chobe National Park, established in 1967, stands as Botswana's premier national park and a sanctuary of biodiversity. Spanning approximately 11,700 square kilometers in the country's north, it ranks as Botswana's third-largest park. The park's history traces back to the San bushmen, the area's original inhabitants, whose rock paintings can still be found within the park. The park's diverse ecosystems, nourished by the Chobe River, support a remarkable concentration of wildlife. It is famed for its large elephant population, estimated between 50,000 and 120,000, which are part of the Kalahari elephant species. These elephants migrate seasonally between the river and the pans. Besides elephants, the park is home to lions, leopards, buffaloes, zebras, giraffes, and a variety of antelope species. The Chobe River also attracts hippos, crocodiles, and diverse birdlife, with over 440 species recorded. The park is divided into four distinct regions: the Chobe Riverfront (Serondela), the Linyanti Marsh, Savuti, and the Nogatsaa area. Each region offers unique landscapes and wildlife viewing opportunities. The Chobe Riverfront, with its lush plains and forests, is known for its large elephant and buffalo herds. Linyanti, a swampy area, offers a more remote and exclusive experience. Savuti is famous for its predators, especially lions. Visitors can explore the park through game drives, boat cruises, and guided walks. Several lodges and campsites are located in and around the park, providing a range of accommodation options. Kasane, the nearest town, offers convenient access to the park and the nearby Victoria Falls.