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Chobe National Park: Botswana's Wildlife Jewel

Discover Botswana's Chobe National Park: Home to massive elephant herds, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking African landscapes.

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Chobe National Park, Botswana's first national park, is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Renowned for its massive elephant herds and diverse ecosystems, it offers unparalleled safari experiences across its riverfront, marshes, and woodlands.

A brief summary to Chobe National Park

Local tips

  • Visit during the dry season (May to October) for optimal wildlife sightings as animals congregate around water sources.
  • Consider a boat safari on the Chobe River for unique perspectives on wildlife and excellent birdwatching opportunities.
  • Pack layers, as temperatures can fluctuate significantly, especially during the winter months (June to August).
  • A 4x4 vehicle is recommended for navigating the park's diverse terrains, especially if traveling independently.
  • Book accommodations and tours in advance, particularly during peak season, to ensure availability.
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Getting There

  • Flying

    The most convenient way to reach Chobe National Park is by flying into Kasane International Airport (BBK), located just outside the park. Several airlines operate flights to Kasane from major cities like Johannesburg. From the airport, most lodges and hotels offer shuttle services. Taxis and car rentals are also available. A taxi from the airport to a lodge near Kasane typically costs between BWP 150-250 (USD 14-23).

  • Driving

    If driving from Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, the journey to Chobe is approximately 80 kilometers (1 hour) via the Kazungula Border Post. From Livingstone, Zambia, it's about 70 kilometers (1 hour) via the Kazungula Bridge. Ensure you have the necessary vehicle registration, insurance, and customs documents. A Tourism Development Levy of $30 USD may be required upon entry into Botswana. Car rentals are available in Victoria Falls and Livingstone, with prices varying depending on the vehicle type and rental duration. Expect to pay around $50-$100 USD per day for a 4x4 rental.

  • Park Entrance Fees

    Upon entering Chobe National Park, non-resident adults can expect to pay an entrance fee of approximately BWP 120 (USD 11) per person per day. Fees can be paid in cash (Botswana Pula) or by card at major entry gates. Keep your entry receipts with you at all times while inside the park. Note that re-entry is not permitted on the same day with the same ticket.

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Discover more about Chobe National Park

Chobe National Park, located in northern Botswana, is a premier safari destination celebrated for its abundant wildlife and diverse landscapes. Established in 1968, it's Botswana's first national park and third-largest, encompassing approximately 11,700 square kilometers. The park is named after the Chobe River, which forms its northern boundary and attracts a high concentration of animals, especially during the dry season. The park boasts four distinct ecosystems: the Chobe Riverfront (Serondela), the Linyanti Marsh, Savuti Marsh, and the Nogatsaa area. The Chobe Riverfront, with its lush floodplains and dense forests, is famous for its large elephant population. The Linyanti Marsh offers a remote, exclusive experience akin to a 'little Okavango Delta'. Savuti is known for its open grasslands and savanna forests, while Nogatsaa features a hot, dry hinterland. Chobe is home to an estimated 50,000 to 120,000 elephants, part of the Kalahari elephant population. Besides elephants, visitors can spot lions, leopards, African wild dogs, hippos, crocodiles, and over 450 bird species. The park also hosts various antelopes, zebras, giraffes, and other herbivores. Originally inhabited by San bushmen, the area's conservation journey began in 1931 with proposals for a protected area. After overcoming challenges like tsetse fly infestations, Chobe was officially proclaimed a game reserve in 1960 and a national park in 1967. Today, Chobe National Park stands as a testament to Botswana's commitment to wildlife preservation and sustainable tourism.

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