Savuti Canal: A Wildlife Oasis in Botswana's Chobe National Park

Experience the ever-changing landscape of Botswana's Savuti Canal, a haven for wildlife and a place of mystery in Chobe National Park.

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The Savuti Canal, located in Botswana's Chobe National Park, is a fascinating and enigmatic waterway known for its unpredictable flow. Stretching approximately 100 kilometers from the Chobe River to the Mababe Depression, this channel has a history of drying up and flowing at irregular intervals, creating a unique and ever-changing ecosystem.

A brief summary to Savuti canal

Local tips

The best time to visit Savuti for game viewing is during the dry season (May to October) when animals congregate around limited water sources.
Pack appropriate clothing for both hot days and cold nights, as temperatures can fluctuate significantly.
A 4x4 vehicle is essential for navigating the sandy and rugged terrain of Savuti.
Book accommodations and campsites well in advance, as they are limited and in high demand.
Respect wildlife by maintaining a safe distance and following the guidance of your tour guide.

Getting There

Self-Drive

The Savuti Canal area is typically accessed by self-drive visitors as part of a larger trip to Chobe National Park. From Kasane, the drive to Savuti is approximately 4-6 hours. The most common route involves driving southwest through the park, passing through the villages of Kavimba and Kathikau. Be prepared for deep sandy tracks that require a 4x4 vehicle. Park entry fees are approximately $14 per person per day, plus $6 per day for a foreign-registered vehicle. Camping fees are around $8.50 per adult and $4.20 for children per night. Ensure you have sufficient fuel and supplies, as facilities are limited.
Light Aircraft

The quickest way to reach Savuti is by light aircraft from Maun or Kasane. Flights take approximately 40 minutes and land at Camp Savuti. Several lodges and camps in the area offer inclusive packages that include flights. Prices vary depending on the lodge and season, but expect to pay upwards of $750 per person per night for a fully inclusive experience.

Discover more about Savuti canal

The Savuti Canal is a remarkable geographical feature within Chobe National Park, renowned for its mysterious cycles of flowing and drying. This natural phenomenon has shaped the landscape and dictated the ebb and flow of wildlife in the area for centuries. The Savuti area is characterized by diverse terrain, ranging from open savannahs and grasslands to scrublands and woodlands, creating a rich habitat for a variety of species. Historically, the Savuti Canal has experienced long periods of dryness, followed by unexpected flows. It was dry in 1880, then refilled in 1957, and most recently, it was dry for 18 years before flowing again. The причина of these fluctuations is still debated, with some attributing it to tectonic plate movements and others to rainfall patterns in the Angolan highlands. When the canal flows, it brings life to the Savuti Marsh, attracting large herds of elephants, buffalo, zebras, and other grazers. The return of water also transforms the area into a prime location for predator viewing, with lions, hyenas, cheetahs, and wild dogs drawn to the abundance of prey. Visitors to the Savuti Canal can witness a variety of wildlife, including large populations of lions and spotted hyenas. The area is also home to elephants, zebras, impalas, tsessebe, buffaloes, giraffes, and wildebeest. Birdwatchers will find a diverse array of species, including large secretary birds, kori bustards, and carmine bee-eaters. In addition to its wildlife, Savuti offers unique geological features, such as the Gubatsa Hills, which contain ancient San rock paintings.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Savuti canal

0.0 km

Experience the ever-changing landscape of Botswana's Savuti Canal, a haven for wildlife and a place of mystery in Chobe National Park.

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Savute Elephant Lodge, A Belmond Safari, Botswana

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Unmissable attractions to see

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Savuti

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