Savuti Canal: A Wildlife Oasis in Chobe National Park

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Experience the mystery of Botswana's Savuti Canal: a haven for diverse wildlife and dramatic landscapes in Chobe National Park.

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Savuti canal

The Savuti Canal, located in Botswana's Chobe National Park, is a fascinating and enigmatic waterway known for its unpredictable flow. This natural wonder supports a diverse ecosystem and attracts a high concentration of wildlife, making it a prime destination for safari enthusiasts.

A brief summary to Savuti canal

Local tips

Visit during the dry season (May to October) for exceptional game viewing as animals congregate around remaining water sources.
Explore the Gubatsa Hills to view ancient San rock paintings, offering a glimpse into the region's cultural history.
Be prepared for varying weather conditions, as Savuti experiences both searing dry seasons and lush rainy periods.
A 4x4 vehicle is essential for navigating the sandy and challenging roads in the Savuti area.
Book accommodations and campsites well in advance, as they are limited and highly sought after.

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Getting There

Self-Drive

The Savuti Canal area is typically accessed by self-drive visitors as part of a larger trip within Chobe National Park. From the town of Kasane, the most common entry point to Chobe, follow the main road south towards the park's entrance gate. Note that a 4x4 vehicle is essential due to the sandy conditions. Once inside Chobe National Park, follow the designated tracks towards Savuti. The journey from the gate to the Savuti area can take several hours, so plan accordingly. Roads can be rough and deeply rutted, requiring careful navigation. Park entry fees are approximately $14 USD per person per day, plus $6 USD per day for foreign-registered vehicles. These fees are payable at designated pay points; no payments are accepted at the entrance gate. It's advisable to carry some Botswana Pula (BWP) for smaller purchases. Be aware that fuel is not available within Savuti or Chobe National Park, so ensure you have sufficient fuel for the entire trip. Limited supplies can be found in Kasane or Maun. Camping fees within Savuti are approximately $8.50 USD per adult and $4.20 USD for children aged 8-17 per day. Note: Pre-booking for campsites is essential and can be done through the SKL Group of Camps. Bookings should be made well in advance due to high demand.
Light Aircraft

The quickest and most convenient way to reach Savuti is by light aircraft. Several safari operators offer flights from Maun (MAU) or Kasane (BBK) airports directly to Savuti. The flight time from either location is approximately 40 minutes. Upon arrival at the Savuti airstrip, your pre-arranged lodge or tour operator will provide transportation to your accommodation or the Savuti Canal area. This transfer is typically included in the cost of your safari package. While there are no specific airport fees for the Savuti airstrip, be aware that flights and accommodation packages are generally priced at a premium due to the remote location and logistical challenges. Expect to pay upwards of $780 USD per person per night for a fully inclusive safari experience. Note: Pre-booking your flights and accommodation is essential, particularly during peak season.

Discover more about Savuti canal

The Savuti Canal, also known as the Savute Channel, is a captivating feature of Botswana's Chobe National Park. Stretching approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles) from the Chobe River to the Mababe Depression, this channel has a mystifying history of alternating between flowing and drying up, seemingly independent of local rainfall patterns. This unique characteristic has earned it the reputation as 'the river that flows in both directions'.For nearly 30 years, the Savuti Canal remained dry, leading wildlife to rely on artificial waterholes. However, in recent years, the channel has experienced a resurgence, transforming the landscape into a lush, marshy haven. This has drawn a remarkable array of wildlife, including large herds of elephants, zebras, and buffalo, as well as predators such as lions, hyenas, and wild dogs.The Savuti area is renowned for its diverse terrain, encompassing vast mopane woodlands, camelthorn sandveld, scrub savanna, and open grasslands. The Gubatsa Hills, ancient dolomite rock outcrops, add to the area's unique beauty and also contain San rock art. These paintings provide insights into the lives of the San people who once inhabited the region.The Savuti's unpredictable nature has shaped its ecosystem and wildlife behavior. The Savuti lions, in particular, gained notoriety for their exceptional skill in hunting elephants during the driest periods. Today, with the return of water, the area continues to be a premier predator viewing destination. Visitors can witness thrilling interactions between various species as they compete for resources in this ever-changing environment.Whether you're a wildlife photographer, a researcher, or an adventurous traveler, the Savuti Canal offers an unforgettable safari experience. Its remote location and untamed wilderness provide a sense of isolation and immersion in nature.