Chobe National Park stands out as one of Botswana’s premier natural destinations. Renowned for the Chobe River shoreline adjacent to Namibia, it boasts one of the largest African elephant populations on the continent, alongside a significant presence of predators, making Chobe a favorite for those seeking a unique safari adventure.
Although camping within the park is an option, several Chobe safari lodges should be essential components of any travel plan.
Why opt for a safari lodge in Chobe?
While staying in the nearby town of Kasane is feasible, nothing compares to the experience of awakening to the sounds of the wilderness and being among the first to venture into the park for a game drive.
6 Top safari lodges in Chobe
We’ve exclusively camped in the park, but we compiled a list of 6 safari lodges in Chobe for your future travels.
Chobe Game Lodge
Chobe Game Lodge is a fully Ecotourism-certified facility, its sophisticated Moorish architecture drawing visitors in search of a unique experience.
Situated on the banks of the Chobe River, guests can partake in game drives and river boat safaris. The lodge’s proximity to the park entrance ensures you won’t spend hours in transit to reach your accommodation.
The lodge’s commitment to social and environmental sustainability has drawn attention from all corners. With initiatives like a biogas plant, an all-female team of safari guides, and an annual share dividend for every staff member, your stay at the lodge contributes positively to both the wildlife and the local community.
Activities at Chobe Game Lodge
– Morning and afternoon game drives
– Cultural exploration trips
– Mid-morning and late-afternoon river cruises
– Back-of-house eco-tours led by the ecotourism manager
– Spa services
Highlights:
– All suites offer breathtaking views of the Chobe River
– Options for river safaris and game drives
– Family suites (children aged 6 and above) featuring a private pool
– An all-female team of professionally trained guides
Chobe Princess
Experience luxury on water at Chobe Princess. Two of the vessels feature four suites (each with private bathroom and air conditioning), while the third has five suites, and all can be reserved for exclusive use, giving you your very own private water villa. Drift along the Chobe River as elephants frolic, crocodiles glide by, and the sun dips below the horizon.
One of the standout features is the chance to visit the ‘Tree of Life,’ one of Africa’s oldest baobab trees, over 2,000 years old. The trek to this remarkable tree is about 4 miles, so be sure to wear comfortable safari footwear.
Tip: Reserve the superior cabin for a private deck experience.
Activities at Chobe Princess:
– Walking safaris
– Water-based wildlife viewing
– Fishing expeditions on a tender boat
– Birdwatching
– Photo safaris
– Cultural excursions
– Visit the ancient baobab tree known as the ‘Tree of Life’
Highlights:
– Wildlife observation from the water
– 10-seater jacuzzi
– Fishing and sunset cruises on tender boats
Safari Lodges in the Savute area
The Savute area is situated in the southwestern section of Chobe National Park. It is known for the Savute Channel, which experiences erratic and unpredictable flooding. The last significant drying occurred in 1880, followed by a flood in 1957. After another period of dryness, the channel flooded again in 2009, with waters reaching the Savute marsh in 2010.
The channel draws large groups of elephants, herds of zebras, prides of lions, and clans of hyenas.
Birdwatching in Savute is exceptional, featuring Kori bustards, vultures, and the stunning secretary birds regularly. During summer, one can also spot fish eagles and Abdim’s storks, while enormous flocks of quelea finches appear in April.
Savute Safari Lodge
Savute Safari Lodge is situated along the Savuti Channel and ranks among the top lodges in Chobe. Known for its irregular flooding patterns, the Savute Channel dried up in 1880 before reflooding in 1957. After another dry spell, the channel once more flooded in 2009, with water reaching the Savute marsh in 2010.
The high populations of elephants, lions, and hyenas make Savute Safari Lodge an ideal venue to discover the dynamics of wildlife.
Accommodations are intimate, with only 11 thatched chalets catering to a maximum of 24 guests.
Activities at Savute Safari Lodge:
– Explore Savute Marsh
– Game drives
– Visit Gubatsa Hills
Highlights:
– Witness the zebra migration (November-December and February-April)
– Amazing location on the Savute Channel
– Waterhole located in front of suites and the main deck
Belmond Savute Elephant Lodge