Prepare for a safari that will stampede its way into your heart and leave echoes of trumpeting giants lingering in your soul. Welcome to Chobe National Park, where elephants reign supreme, and the powerful pulse of the great Chobe River breathes life into the land. Today, we unveil the ultimate safari guide to this remarkable destination.
A visit to Chobe National Park promises elephant encounters like no other!
Best Time for a Safari in Chobe National Park
Would you like to know when to plan your trip to Chobe National Park? Well, we highly recommend that you catch all the wildlife action during the dry season, from May to October.
During this time, you'll enjoy warmer days and cooler nights, with seasonal waterholes drying up and only permanent water sources remaining to quench the thirst of animals.
A bird’s-eye view of Chobe National Park
But hold on, bird lovers and crowd escapists, there's something for you too! If you want to see a different side of Chobe in Botswana, you'll love the green season between December and April. During this period, the summer rains transform the savannah into a luscious green paradise, making it the perfect time for birding and peaceful escapes.
Hippopotamus on the banks of the Chobe River
Wildlife in Chobe National Park
Get ready for some serious pachyderm action, folks, because Chobe National Park is THE place to be for elephants – we're talking about the largest concentration of African elephants on the entire continent! But that's not all, oh no, Chobe is also the ultimate wildlife hotspot, with massive herds of roaming plains game and predators lurking around every corner.
Chobe National Park is famed for its thriving population of elephants, Image Credit: Chobe Game Lodge
Exploring this flourishing ecosystem, you're likely to encounter lions, spotted hyenas, or even an ever-elusive leopard or two. And, if that's not enough to get your heart racing, you'll be pleased to know that rare and endangered species like the African wild dog and puku (Kobus vardonii) are thriving in the lush grasslands along the Chobe riverfront.
Chobe National Park's dynamic landscape is home to a variety of animals including many predators, Image Credit: Camp Savuti
Safari Activities in Chobe National Park
Whether you're a safari newbie or a seasoned explorer, you won't want to miss out on the incredible range of activities on offer in Chobe National Park. While the classic game drives hold their allure, we encourage you to embrace a myriad of experiences that provide a dazzling display of alternative perspectives.
River cruises ensure uninterrupted views of the wildlife
Nature beckons with enticing walks, bountiful fishing expeditions and riverside dining. Although, we must confess that nothing compares to the exhilaration of Chobe's legendary river cruises and photo safaris. Here, you will intimately encounter elephants gracefully crossing the water, witness hippos luxuriating in their aquatic sanctuary, and observe throngs of animal and birdlife congregating at the water's edge.
Get the ultimate close-ups on a specialised photo safari, Image Credit: Pangolin Photo Safaris
Birding in Chobe National Park
Feast your eyes on some of Africa's most charming and sought-after feathered friends in Chobe National Park. With over 400 species of birds recorded, it's a bird lover's paradise. Moreover, the Chobe River acts as a glistening oasis in the middle of the scorching sun, attracting a stunning variety of birds.
African Fish Eagle in Chobe National Park, Image Credit: Derek Keats
Be sure to keep your peepers peeled for a captivating array of avian marvels, from giant kingfishers and African fish eagles to the sleek African skimmer and melodious collared palm. And let's not forget the granddaddy of them all, the southern ground hornbill. Catch a glimpse of these winged wonders and let your heart take flight!
As the largest kingfisher in Africa, the giant kingfisher is a sight to behold, Image Credit: Chobe Game Lodge
Places to Stay in Chobe National Park
Whether you yearn to be enveloped and embraced by the lush wilderness or desire to reside right amidst the magnificent Chobe River on a houseboat, a host of Chobe National Park accommodation choices await, tailored to satisfy every discerning taste. Without further ado, let us unveil a curated selection of our personal favourites...
From tented camps to luxury lodges and upmarket houseboats, there are many accommodation options to choose from, Image Credit: Chobe Princess
Walk in the Footsteps of Giants
Now, armed with the knowledge of the perfect time to venture into this untamed domain, rally your adventurous companions, gear up for an expedition of a lifetime, and brace yourself for the electrifying encounters that await you in Chobe National Park.
Are you ready to walk in the footsteps of giants? Let's start planning!
Featured Image: Sanctuary Chobe Chilwero
