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Botswana

Chobe

BOTSWANA’S BIG GAME STRONGHOLD

Welcome to Chobe National Park and the remote Linyanti Wildlife Reserve - two of Botswana’s most iconic and game-rich safari destinations. Located in the northern part of the country, these regions are famed for their dramatic landscapes, exceptional predator sightings, and some of the largest concentrations of elephants on Earth.

From the boat-lined banks of the Chobe River to the remote floodplains of Linyanti, this area offers an unmatched blend of river-based and land-based safari experiences. Wildlife is abundant year-round, and sightings of lion, leopard, buffalo, wild dog, and elephant are almost a daily occurrence.

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STAY IN THE HEART OF BIG GAME COUNTRY

Chobe and Linyanti offer a wide variety of accommodation options, from accessible lodges near towns to exclusive camps in remote private concessions:

  • Riverside Lodges: Along the Chobe River near Kasane, these lodges offer comfort and convenience, ideal for river cruises and day trips into the park.

  • Luxury Tented Camps: Found deeper in the wilderness, these camps offer an intimate and immersive experience with elegant furnishings, gourmet dining, and expert guiding.

  • Private Concession Lodges: In Linyanti and the Selinda Spillway, these remote lodges offer off-road game drives, night drives, and walking safaris in exclusive areas.

  • Mobile and Semi-Permanent Camps: For seasoned safari-goers, these provide close-to-the-ground, authentic experiences in less frequented corners.

All camps are positioned to take advantage of wildlife-rich areas, ensuring an unforgettable safari from sunrise to starlight.

Safari Camps & Lodges
See our Safari Lodges & Camps in 
Chobe

DISCOVER TWO DISTINCT ECOSYSTEMS

Though often paired together, Chobe and Linyanti each offer a unique safari environment:

  • Chobe Riverfront: The most accessible part of Chobe National Park, where elephants and buffalo gather in great numbers along the river, especially in the dry season (May–October). Expect thrilling boat safaris and epic photographic opportunities.

  • Savuti Marsh (Southwest Chobe): Famous for its predator activity, particularly lions and hyenas. The Savuti Channel, which mysteriously dries up and flows again, adds intrigue to this wild landscape.

  • Linyanti: A private reserve bordering the western edge of Chobe. Known for its remoteness, exclusivity, and high-quality wildlife viewing — including rare species like wild dogs and sable antelope.

  • Selinda Spillway: Connecting the Okavango Delta to the Linyanti, this region features floodplains, palm islands, and excellent game viewing in a peaceful, unspoiled setting.

Wildlife Highlights

A HAVEN FOR WILDLIFE LOVERS

Chobe and Linyanti are among the best regions in Africa for big game safaris. Highlights include:

  • Elephants: Chobe is home to an estimated 120,000 elephants - the largest population on the continent. See vast herds crossing rivers, feeding in woodlands, or swimming from island to island.

  • Predators: Lions are abundant, especially in Savuti and Linyanti, where they often take down large prey. Leopards, cheetahs, and African wild dogs also thrive here.

  • Buffalo and Antelope: Massive herds roam the floodplains, attracting predators. Look out for sable, roan, and red lechwe.

  • Birdlife: With over 450 species recorded, including African fish eagles, kingfishers, and carmine bee-eaters, the region is a birdwatcher’s paradise.

  • Aquatic Encounters: Hippos, crocodiles, and water monitors are commonly seen during boat safaris along the Chobe River.

How to Get Here

how to get here:

Despite their wildness, Chobe and Linyanti are accessible from a number of regional and international travel hubs:

  • From Maun, Botswana: Charter flights can connect you directly to airstrips in Linyanti or Savuti. For Chobe Riverfront lodges, fly to Kasane and take a road transfer.

  • From Johannesburg or Cape Town, South Africa: Regular international flights to Kasane or Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe) with short road transfers into Chobe.

  • From Dubai: Fly to Johannesburg or Addis Ababa, then connect to Kasane or Maun.

  • From London: Connect via Johannesburg or Cape Town to Kasane or Maun.

  • From New York: Fly via global hubs (e.g., Doha, Dubai, Johannesburg) to reach Botswana.

Many travellers combine Chobe and Linyanti with the Okavango Delta or Victoria Falls as part of a broader northern Botswana circuit.

Location

FAQ's

FAQs
Best Time to Visit

1.

When is the best time to visit Chobe?

The Chobe National Park is best visited depending on whether you want to see wildlife concentrated around water or enjoy greener landscapes. Dry Season May to October This is generally considered the best time for wildlife viewing. Water levels in the Chobe River drop, concentrating animals near the riverbanks. Large herds of elephants and buffalo are easier to spot, along with lions and other predators. Temperatures are cooler and more comfortable for game drives. Wet Season November to April The park becomes lush and green, attracting many birds including migratory species. Animals are more dispersed because water is plentiful across the landscape. Roads can become muddy or flooded, making some areas harder to access. Predators can be harder to see, but the park is quieter with fewer tourists. Shoulder Periods May and October are transitional months offering good wildlife viewing with fewer crowds. Summary For classic Big Game and elephant viewing, May to October is ideal. For birdwatching and greener scenery, November to April is better. The peak wildlife concentration occurs in the heart of the dry season, June to September. Chobe is famous for its massive elephant herds along the river, so timing your visit during the dry months gives the most iconic safari experience.
Is the Big 5 here?

2.

Can I see the The Big Five in Chobe?

Yes, the Chobe National Park is one of the best places in Botswana to see the Big Five, though sightings vary depending on location and season and sightings of rhino are very rare. Big Five Status Elephant – Chobe is famous for its enormous elephant populations, especially along the Chobe River. Sightings are virtually guaranteed in many areas. Lion – Lions are common in Chobe, often near waterholes and riverbanks. Guided game drives significantly increase your chance of sightings. Leopard – Leopards are present but elusive. Sightings are less common than lions, but experienced guides can help track them. Buffalo – African buffalo are abundant, particularly in the northern floodplains and wooded areas. Rhinoceros – Rhinos are not present in Chobe National Park itself. To see rhinos, you would need to visit one of the neighbouring private reserves/concessions. Other Wildlife You May See Hippos and crocodiles along rivers Wild dogs in surrounding conservancies (rare but possible) Various antelope species such as impala, kudu, and sable Large flocks of birds, including migratory species Summary Chobe is excellent for four of the Big Five (elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo). Rhino are rare. Surrounding private reserves and national parks may offer additional wildlife experiences and will hopefully fill that rhino gap.
Is it Expensive?

3.

Is Chobe expensive?

Visiting Chobe National Park can be expensive, but costs vary depending on your travel style and accommodation choices. Safari Lodge and Package Costs Luxury and mid‑range lodges inside or near the park typically cost several hundred to over a thousand US dollars per person per night for fully inclusive packages, which usually cover accommodation, meals, activities, and sometimes transfers. Multi‑night safari packages that include Chobe and other Botswana highlights can cost several thousand dollars per person for a week or more. Day Trips and Individual Activities Day activities such as river cruises or guided game drives from nearby towns are much more affordable, often starting from around $40 to $80 per person for a few hours. Daily park entry and activity fees are generally reasonable compared with full package prices. Budget Options Campsites and basic self‑catering options inside the park are available at a fraction of the price of lodges. Self‑drive visitors who bring their own camping gear can keep accommodation costs low, though park entry and vehicle fees still apply. Summary Chobe can be expensive if you want a classic lodge safari experience, but there are ways to visit on a more modest budget through day trips, self‑drive options, or camping.
Is it safe?

4.

Is Chobe safe?

Yes, Chobe National Park is generally safe to visit, but, as with any wildlife destination, safety depends on preparation and behavior. General Safety Botswana is politically stable, and Chobe is a well‑managed national park. The main risks come from wildlife: elephants, lions, crocodiles, and hippos are potentially dangerous. Always follow instructions from guides and stay in your vehicle unless in designated walking areas. Petty crime is rare in the park, though standard precautions apply in nearby towns such as Kasane. Health Considerations Malaria is present, especially during the rainy season, so taking prophylaxis and using insect protection is recommended. Bring sun protection, stay hydrated, and follow general travel health advice. Practical Tips Stick to marked roads and tracks, especially if self‑driving. Use reputable guides or lodge staff for activities like game drives and river cruises. Medical facilities are limited within the park, so travel insurance with evacuation coverage is recommended. Summary Chobe National Park is safe for tourists when following standard safari and travel precautions. Respecting wildlife, staying with guides, and preparing for the remote environment ensures a secure and enjoyable visit.
Additional Activities

5.

What are additional activities in The Okavango Delta?

The Chobe National Park offers a wide variety of activities that go beyond traditional game drives, taking advantage of its rivers, floodplains, and abundant wildlife. Wildlife and Safari Experiences Game drives on the park’s road networks to see elephants, lions, buffalo, and other wildlife Boat safaris on the Chobe River, offering close encounters with hippos, crocodiles, and large elephant herds coming to drink Birdwatching – over 450 species including migratory and water birds Night drives to spot nocturnal animals like bush babies, genets, and hyenas Adventure and Outdoor Activities Guided walking safaris in designated areas for tracking animals and learning about plants Photography safaris with specialized guides for wildlife and landscape shots Scenic flights or helicopter rides over the river, floodplains, and savannah for aerial views Cultural and Special Experiences Visits to local communities near the park to learn about traditional life and crafts Fishing trips in some areas along the Chobe River Relaxed and Scenic Activities Sundowners at lodges or on the riverbanks Picnics in designated spots within the park or along the river Stargazing in the open skies with minimal light pollution Chobe is ideal for travellers who want classic safari experiences, river-based wildlife viewing, birdwatching, photography, and cultural encounters, all within easy access from nearby towns like Kasane.

And Finally...

Whether you’re drifting down the Chobe River past elephant herds, tracking lions across Savuti’s dry plains, or exploring the quiet waterways of Linyanti, this region delivers unforgettable encounters and classic safari drama - often without the crowds.

Welcome to Chobe National Park and the remote Linyanti Wildlife Reserve - two of Botswana’s most iconic and game-rich safari destinations. Located in the northern part of the country, these regions are famed for their dramatic landscapes, exceptional predator sightings, and some of the largest concentrations of elephants on Earth. From the boat-lined banks of the Chobe River to the remote floodplains of Linyanti, this area offers an unmatched blend of river-based and land-based safari experiences. Wildlife is abundant year-round, and sightings of lion, leopard, buffalo, wild dog, and elephant are almost a daily occurrence.
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