Chobe National Park ranks as one of the premier natural draws of Botswana. Notable for the Chobe River edge that borders Namibia, it hosts one of the continent’s largest populations of African elephants, along with a significant number of predators, making Chobe a magnet for visitors seeking an unparalleled safari adventure.
While camping is an option within the park, several Chobe safari lodges are essential additions to any travel itinerary.
Chobe is celebrated for its herds of elephants.
Why opt for a safari lodge in Chobe?
Certainly, you might choose to stay in the proximate town of Kasane, but there’s nothing quite like waking up to the sounds of the wild and being among the first to venture into the park for a game drive.
6 Top safari lodges in Chobe
Having only camped in the park ourselves, we’ve compiled a list of six safari lodges in Chobe to keep in mind for our next visit.
Chobe Game Lodge
Chobe Game Lodge is an entirely Ecotourism-certified safari lodge, featuring an elegant Moorish design that attracts guests in search of something unique.
Situated along the banks of the Chobe River, visitors can partake in game safari drives and river safari boat trips. Moreover, Chobe Game Lodge is conveniently close to the park entrance, eliminating the lengthy drives to your lodging.
The lodge’s commitment to social and environmental values has gained it wide recognition. With offerings like a biogas plant, an all-female team of safari guides, and the fact that every staff member receives an annual share dividend, your stay contributes not only to the local ecosystem but also the inhabitants of the area.
Activities at Chobe Game Lodge
– Morning and afternoon game drives
– Cultural exploration trips in Chobe
– Mid-morning and late-afternoon river excursions
– Back-of-house eco-tours led by the ecotourism manager
– Spa treatments
Highlights:
– All suites boast breathtaking views of the Chobe River
– Opportunity for a river safari and a game drive
– Family suites (suitable for children aged 6 and above) featuring a private pool
– An all-female team of professionally trained guides
Chobe Princess
A lavish safari lodge that floats on water. Welcome to the Chobe Princess. Two of the Chobe Princess vessels accommodate four suites each (complete with private bathrooms and air conditioning), while a third vessel features five suites. All Princesses can be reserved exclusively, providing you with your own private water villa. Drift along the Chobe River while watching elephants bathe, crocodiles swim past, and the sun dip below the horizon.
A highlight of the experience is the chance to visit the ‘Tree of Life’, one of Africa’s oldest baobab trees, estimated to be over 2,000 years old. The trek to this tree spans about four miles, so don’t forget to wear comfy safari shoes.
Tip: Reserve the superior cabin for access to a private deck.
Activities at Chobe Princess:
– Walking safaris
– Water-based game viewing
– Fishing excursions on a tender boat
– Birdwatching
– Photo safaris
– Cultural tours
– Explore one of the most ancient baobab trees, known as the ‘Tree of Life’
Highlights:
– Wildlife viewing from the water
– 10-seater jacuzzi
– Fishing and sunset excursions on tender boats
Safari Lodges in the Savute area
The Savute area is situated in the southwestern section of Chobe National Park. The Savute Channel is known for its erratic and unpredictable flooding patterns. It last dried out in 1880 before flooding again in 1957. After another dry span, the channel saw water again in 2009, with levels reaching the Savute marsh by 2010.
This channel attracts vast herds of elephants, clusters of zebras, lion prides, and hyena families.
Birdwatching in Savute is also exceptional. Kori bustards, vultures, and the striking secretary birds are frequent sights. Fish eagles and Abdim’s storks can be spotted during summer, while large flocks of quelea finches appear in April.
Savute Safari Lodge
Savute Safari Lodge is located on the Savuti Channel and is among the premier lodges in Chobe. The Channel is famous for its sporadic flooding. Following its last dryness in 1880, it regained water in 1957, then experienced another dry period until 2009, with waters reaching the Savute marsh in 2010.
The high populations of elephants, lions, and hyenas make Savute Safari Lodge an ideal location to gain insights into wildlife dynamics.
The lodge offers privacy, consisting of just 11 thatched chalets accommodating a maximum of 24 guests.
Activities at Savute Safari Lodge:
– Visit Savute Marsh
– Game drives
– Explore Gubatsa Hills
Highlights:
– Opportunity to witness the zebra migration (November-December and February-April)
– Stunning setting along the Savute Channel
– Waterhole situated in front of suites and