Chobe National Park serves as a primary natural draw of Botswana. Renowned for the Chobe River coastline adjacent to Namibia, housing one of the largest groups of African elephants in the continent, along with a significant presence of predators, Chobe lures travelers seeking an unparalleled safari adventure.
Though camping is an option within the park, several Chobe safari lodges ought to be included in every travel plan.
Why choose a safari lodge in Chobe?
While staying in the nearby town of Kasane is feasible, nothing compares to the experience of waking up to the sounds of the bush and being among the first to enter the park for a game drive.
6 Top safari lodges in Chobe
We’ve only camped in the park, but we’ve compiled a list of 6 safari lodges in Chobe for future reference on our next visit.
Chobe Game Lodge
Chobe Game Lodge stands as a fully Ecotourism-certified safari lodge, with its stylish Moorish design appealing to those in search of something unique.
Situated along the Chobe River, guests can partake in game safari drives and boat excursions on the river. Chobe Game Lodge is conveniently close to the park entrance, eliminating the need for long drives to reach your lodge.
The lodge’s commitment to social and environmental principles has garnered significant attention. With a biogas facility, an all-female team of safari guides, and annual share dividends for all staff, your visit supports both the local ecosystem and the community.
Activities at Chobe Game Lodge
– Morning and afternoon game drives
– Cultural exploration excursions
– Mid-morning and late-afternoon river cruises
– Back-of-house eco-tours led by the ecotourism manager
– Spa treatments
Highlights:
– All suites offer breathtaking views of the Chobe River
– Opportunity for both river safaris and game drives
– Family suites (children over 6 only) featuring a private pool
– A professionally qualified all-female guide team
Chobe Princess
An opulent safari lodge, located on the water. Welcome to the Chobe Princess. Two of the Chobe Princess vessels have four suites (each equipped with private bathrooms and air conditioning), while the third vessel has five suites, all available for exclusive booking, creating your own private water villa. Drift along the Chobe River as elephants bathe, crocs glide by, and the sun fades beyond the horizon.
One of the major attractions is the visit to the ‘Tree of Life,’ one of Africa’s oldest baobab trees, over 2,000 years old. The hike to see this tree is approximately 4 miles, so remember to wear comfortable safari footwear.
Tip: Reserve the superior cabin for access to a private deck.
Activities at Chobe Princess:
– Walking safari
– Water-based game observation
– Fishing cruise on a tender boat
– Birdwatching
– Photo safaris
– Cultural tours
– Visit one of the most ancient baobab trees, referred to as the ‘Tree of Life’
Highlights:
– Water-based wildlife viewing opportunities
– 10-seater jacuzzi
– Fishing and sunset cruises aboard tender boats
Safari Lodges in the Savute region
The Savute area is situated in the southwestern corner of Chobe National Park. Known for its erratic and unpredictable flooding, the Savute Channel dried up in 1880 and didn’t flood again until 1957. After another dry spell, the channel flooded yet again in 2009, with waters reaching the Savute marsh in 2010.
This channel draws large populations of elephants, herds of zebras, prides of lions, and clans of hyenas.
Birdwatching in Savute is outstanding. Kori bustards, vultures, and the beautiful secretary birds are common sights, while fish eagles and Abdim’s storks can be spotted in summer. Large flocks of quelea finches are present in April.
Savute Safari Lodge
Savute Safari Lodge is located along the Savuti Channel and is considered one of the finest Chobe lodges. This Channel is infamous for its unpredictable flood patterns. It dried out in 1880 and only saw floods again in 1957. Following another arid period, the channel witnessed floods once more in 2009, with waters reaching the Savute marsh in 2010.
The high density of elephants, lions, and hyenas makes Savute Safari Lodge an excellent site to explore wildlife dynamics.
The lodge is exclusive, featuring only 11 thatched chalets that accommodate a maximum of 24 guests.
Activities at Savute Safari Lodge:
– Tour Savute Marsh
– Game drives
– Explore Gubatsa Hills
Highlights:
– Observe the zebra migration (November-December and February-April)
– Spectacular setting by the Savute Channel
– Waterhole located in front of suites and main deck
Belmond Savute Elephant Lodge