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Chobe National Park: Botswana's Biodiversity Hotspot

Discover Botswana's Chobe National Park: Home to massive elephant herds, diverse wildlife, and stunning African landscapes. An unforgettable safari experience.

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Chobe National Park, in northern Botswana, is renowned for its vast elephant herds and diverse wildlife. Established in 1968, it encompasses varied landscapes, from riverfronts to woodlands, offering exceptional safari experiences and abundant wildlife sightings throughout the year.

A brief summary to Chobe

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Local tips

  • Visit during the dry season (May-October) for optimal wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources.
  • Consider a boat safari on the Chobe River for unique perspectives on elephants, hippos, and diverse birdlife.
  • Pack layers, as temperatures can fluctuate significantly, especially during early morning and evening game drives.
  • Bring binoculars to enhance your wildlife viewing experience and spot animals from a distance.
  • Book accommodations and tours in advance, especially during peak season (June-August), to secure your spot.
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Getting There

  • Air

    The most convenient way to reach Chobe National Park is by flying into Kasane International Airport (BBK), located just outside the park. From the airport, most lodges and hotels provide shuttle services. Taxis and car rentals are also available. Expect to pay around BWP 150-250 for a taxi to your lodge.

  • Road

    If driving from Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, the journey is approximately 80 km (1 hour) via the Kazungula Border Post. From Livingstone, Zambia, it's about 70 km (1 hour) via the Kazungula Bridge. A daily bus runs from Victoria Falls to Kasane, taking around 1.5 hours. Bus fare is approximately BWP 50-100. Ensure you have necessary vehicle registration, insurance, and customs documents.

  • Park Entrance Fees

    Upon entering Chobe National Park, non-resident adults can expect to pay an entrance fee of approximately BWP 120 per person per day. Children aged 8-17 pay BWP 60. Children under 8 enter for free. If entering with a private vehicle, a vehicle fee of BWP 190 per day for a 4x4 vehicle is required.

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Discover more about Chobe

Chobe National Park, established in 1968, is Botswana's first national park and one of its most biologically diverse. Located in the north of the country, it's the third-largest park, covering approximately 11,700 square kilometers. The park is named after the Chobe River, which forms its northern boundary and supports a rich ecosystem. Chobe is famous for its large elephant population, estimated to be around 50,000, with numbers sometimes reaching as high as 120,000. These are Kalahari elephants, known for their large size and brittle ivory. The park also boasts a diverse range of other wildlife, including lions, leopards, African wild dogs, buffalo, hippos, and over 450 bird species. The park is divided into four distinct regions: the Chobe Riverfront (Serondela), Savuti Marsh, Linyanti Marsh, and the Nogatsaa area. Each region offers unique landscapes and wildlife viewing opportunities. The Riverfront is known for its large elephant herds and water-based safaris. Savuti is famous for its predators and dry landscapes. Linyanti offers a mix of riverine and dry woodland environments. Visitors can experience Chobe through various safari options, including game drives, boat safaris, and walking safaris. The best time to visit is during the dry season (May to October) when wildlife congregates around water sources, making for easier sightings. However, the wet season (November to April) offers lush landscapes and excellent birdwatching opportunities. Chobe's rich history also includes its role in Namibia's journey to independence, with the Chobe River marking disputed borders and witnessing political turmoil. Today, the park stands as a symbol of conservation and peaceful coexistence, offering visitors a chance to witness Africa's incredible wildlife and learn about the region's cultural heritage.

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