Chobe Safari Lodges: The Ultimate Botswana Safari Adventure
Botswana’s Chobe National Park is a sanctuary for wildlife, famous for its vast elephant populations, flourishing predator communities, and breathtaking river landscapes. Situated in the northern region of the country, Chobe is adjacent to the Chobe River and close to the town of Kasane. While camping attracts thrill-seeking travelers, opting for one of the exquisite safari lodges in Chobe provides an unrivaled blend of comfort, exclusivity, and immediate access to nature’s grandest displays.
Why Opt for a Safari Lodge in Chobe?
Selecting a safari lodge in Chobe instead of a hotel in Kasane or a campsite within the park presents numerous benefits:
– Wildlife Proximity: Many lodges are positioned either within or right alongside the park, enabling guests to embark on game drives first and return last.
– Deep Immersion: Rise to the sounds of the wilderness, relish evening drinks while overlooking a waterhole, and drift off to the sounds of roaring lions.
– Activities with Experts: Lodges provide guided game drives, river safaris, and cultural encounters led by experienced local guides.
– Opulence and Comfort: From private pools to fine dining, safari lodges offer a lavish base for your adventure in the wild.
Here is a selected list of the premier safari lodges in Chobe, organized by area.
Premier Safari Lodges in the Chobe Riverfront Region
1. Chobe Game Lodge
The Chobe Game Lodge is the sole permanent accommodation situated within Chobe National Park along the riverfront. With its sophisticated Moorish design and eco-friendly practices, it is a popular choice for travelers seeking both luxury and ecological sustainability.
Highlights:
– All-female team of skilled safari guides
– Land and river game drives
– Eco-certified with solar projects and a biogas facility
– Family suites featuring private pools
Activities:
– Morning and afternoon game drives
– River excursions
– Cultural explorations
– Eco-tours highlighting the lodge’s sustainability efforts
– Spa services
2. Chobe Princess
For those seeking a distinctive take on the classic safari, the Chobe Princess offers a floating lodge experience. These luxurious houseboats navigate the Chobe River, presenting stunning vistas and opportunities for water-based wildlife watching.
Highlights:
– Private floating villa equipped with air-conditioning
– Water-based wildlife viewing and fishing
– 10-seater jacuzzi on board
– Exclusive family or group bookings
Activities:
– Birdwatching and photographic safaris
– Walking safaris to ancient baobab trees
– Visits to cultural villages
– Fishing trips
Top Lodges in the Savute Area
Savute, located in Chobe’s southwestern region, is renowned for its dramatic wildlife encounters and the enigmatic Savute Channel, which unpredictably floods and dries out.
3. Savute Safari Lodge
Overlooking the Savute Channel, this lodge delivers a prime vantage point for witnessing some of Africa’s most thrilling predator-prey interactions. With only 11 chalets, it ensures an intimate and exclusive experience.
Highlights:
– Waterhole in front of the lodge attracts elephants and predators
– Perfect location for zebra migrations (Nov-Dec and Feb-April)
– Tours to ancient San rock art sites
Activities:
– Game drives
– Excursions to Savute Marsh and Gubatsa Hills
4. Belmond Savute Elephant Lodge
This eco-luxurious lodge features 12 tented rooms complete with private decks and outdoor showers. It is perfect for travelers in search of comfort and solitude in the bush.
Highlights:
– Private viewing hide and waterhole
– Dining by the campfire in a traditional Boma
– Four-poster beds and mini-bars stocked with refreshments
Activities:
– Stargazing and birdwatching
– Game drives
– Visits to San rock art and baobab forests
5. Goha Hills Savute Lodge
Set atop a hill with sweeping views of the Savute Plains, Goha Hills provides a peaceful escape with eco-friendly features and luxurious amenities.
Highlights:
– Photography hide and swimming pool
– Family-oriented luxury tents
– Eco-conscious and solar-powered operations
Activities:
– Game drives and scenic helicopter tours
– Day trips to Savute Marsh
– Spa treatments and stargazing
Premier Safari Lodge in the Linyanti Area
Linyanti is a secluded and less-traveled part of Chobe, offering unspoiled wilderness and outstanding game viewing, particularly for elephants and predators.
6. DumaTau Camp
DumaTau is a solar-powered luxury camp situated between two elephant migration routes. With just 10 tented suites, each having a private plunge pool, it is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.
Highlights:
– Elevated tents with lagoon views
– Family-friendly with activities for children
– Boma dining under the stars
Activities:
– Boat safaris and guided nature walks
– Night drives and birdwatching
– Fishing