Chobe National Park: Botswana's Wildlife Jewel
Discover Botswana's Chobe National Park: Home to massive elephant herds, diverse wildlife, and stunning riverfront scenery. A must-see safari destination.
Chobe National Park, established in 1968, is Botswana's first national park and one of Africa's greatest wildlife destinations. Located in the northern part of the country, Chobe is easily accessible from Kasane, a nearby town with an international airport. The park is named after the Chobe River, which sustains a remarkable concentration of wildlife within its 10,700 sq km. The park is informally divided into four distinct ecological areas: the Chobe Riverfront, the Savuti Marsh, the Linyanti Marsh, and the interior. The Chobe Riverfront, easily accessible and close to Kasane, is known for its large concentrations of wildlife. During the dry season (May to October), massive herds of elephants and buffalo gather along the riverbanks, creating unparalleled game-viewing opportunities. Boat cruises on the Chobe River provide unique perspectives and photographic opportunities. Savuti, to the south, offers a different landscape of open grasslands and savanna, known for its predator activity, especially lions, leopards, cheetahs, wild dogs and hyenas. The Savuti Channel's unpredictable flow has shaped the landscape, attracting migrating zebras and other wildlife. Linyanti, in the northwest, is a remote and exclusive wetland area, offering pristine wilderness and exceptional birdwatching. The interior, less visited, provides a sense of solitude and exploration. Chobe supports a diverse array of wildlife, including large populations of elephants (over 120,000), buffalo, zebra, impala, giraffe, warthog, and various antelope species. Predators such as lions, leopards, cheetahs, and wild dogs are commonly sighted. The park is also a birdwatcher's paradise, with over 450 recorded species. Visitors can experience Chobe through game drives in open-sided 4x4 vehicles, boat cruises, and walking safaris (though these are less common). Accommodation options range from budget-friendly campsites to luxury lodges and houseboats.
Local tips
- Visit during the dry season (May-October) for the best wildlife viewing along the Chobe River.
- Book accommodations and tours in advance, especially during peak season.
- Bring binoculars for enhanced wildlife and bird viewing.
- Consider a boat cruise on the Chobe River for unique wildlife perspectives.
- A 4x4 vehicle is recommended for navigating roads within the park.
A brief summary to Chobe National Park
Getting There
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Air
The most convenient way to reach Chobe National Park is by flying into Kasane International Airport (BBK), located just outside the park. Several airlines offer flights from Johannesburg, Maun, and Gaborone. From the airport, most lodges and hotels provide shuttle services to your accommodation. Private car rentals are also available. A Tourism Development Levy of $30 USD may be charged upon arrival.
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Road
Chobe National Park can be accessed by road from neighboring countries. From Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, it's approximately an 80km (1-hour) drive via the Kazungula Border Post. From Livingstone, Zambia, it's about 70km (1 hour) via the Kazungula Bridge. From Namibia (Caprivi Strip), it's roughly a 2-hour drive via the Ngoma Border Post. A daily bus runs from Victoria Falls to Kasane, taking around 1.5 hours. Taxis are readily available in Kasane. Keep in mind that vehicles drive on the left-hand side of the road in Botswana, and an international driver's license is required for foreign travelers. Expect to pay park entry fees upon arrival, approximately $20 USD per adult per day.
