Chobe National Park stands out as one of Botswana’s premier natural destinations. Renowned for the Chobe River’s banks adjacent to Namibia, housing one of Africa’s most substantial elephant populations and a significant number of predators, Chobe draws visitors seeking a truly unique safari experience.
Although camping in the park is an option, there are several Chobe safari lodges that must be featured in any travel plan.
Why choose a safari lodge in Chobe?
While staying in the nearby town of Kasane is possible, nothing compares to waking up to the calls of the wild and being among the first to head out into the park for a game drive.
6 Top safari lodges in Chobe
Though our experience has been limited to camping within the park, we’ve compiled a list of 6 safari lodges in Chobe to keep in mind for our future visits.
Chobe Game Lodge
Chobe Game Lodge is a fully certified ecotourism safari lodge, celebrated for its sophisticated Moorish architecture that appeals to visitors in search of something special.
Situated along the Chobe River, guests can partake in game drives and riverboat safari trips. Conveniently, Chobe Game Lodge is close to the park entrance, eliminating long drives to reach your accommodation.
The lodge’s commitment to social and environmental sustainability has gained it a spot on the map. With features like their biogas facility, an all-female team of safari guides, and annual share dividends for every staff member, you can be assured that your stay contributes positively to both the ecosystem and local community.
Activities at Chobe Game Lodge
– Morning and afternoon game drives
– Cultural exploration tours in Chobe
– Mid-morning and late-afternoon river cruises
– Back-of-house eco-tours led by the ecotourism manager
– Spa services
Highlights:
– Each suite offers breathtaking views of the Chobe River
– Opportunities for both river safaris and game drives
– Family suites available (children aged 6 and up) with private pools
– An all-female team of expertly trained guides
Chobe Princess
An opulent safari lodge situated on the water, welcome to the Chobe Princess. Two of the Chobe Princess vessels feature four suites (each equipped with a private bathroom and air conditioning), while the third offers five suites. All the Princesses can be booked for exclusive use, creating your own private floating villa. Drift along the Chobe River as elephants bathe, crocodiles glide by, and sunsets paint the sky.
One standout feature is the chance to visit the ‘Tree of Life’, one of Africa’s oldest baobab trees, over 2,000 years old. The trek to see this remarkable tree spans roughly 4 miles, so be sure to wear comfortable safari footwear.
Tip: Opt for the superior cabin to enjoy a private deck
Activities at Chobe Princess:
– Walking safaris
– Water-based wildlife observation
– Fishing trips on a tender boat
– Birdwatching
– Photography safaris
– Cultural excursions
– Visit to one of the oldest baobab trees, referred to as the ‘Tree of Life’
Highlights:
– Wildlife viewing from the water
– 10-seater jacuzzi
– Fishing and sunset outings on tender boats
Safari Lodges in the Savute region
The Savute region is located in the southwestern section of Chobe National Park. The Savute Channel is noted for its erratic and inconsistent flooding, which ceased in 1880, only to resume in 1957. After another dry spell, the channel experienced flooding again in 2009, with waters reaching the Savute marsh by 2010.
This channel draws in large herds of elephants, herds of zebras, lion prides, and packs of hyenas.
Birdwatching in Savute is exceptional, with Kori bustards, vultures, and beautiful secretary birds commonly spotted. Fish eagles and Abdim’s storks are typically seen in summer, while large flocks of quelea finches are present in April.
Savute Safari Lodge
Savute Safari Lodge is nestled along the Savuti Channel and is recognized as one of the top Chobe lodges. The Channel is famous for its erratic flooding patterns, witnessing a dry spell starting in 1880 and again flooding in 1957. After another extended dry phase, the channel flooded once more in 2009, with waters reaching the Savute marsh by 2010.
The lodge offers a chance to observe high populations of elephants, lions, and hyenas, making it an ideal location to explore wildlife dynamics.
This exclusive lodge features only 11 thatched chalets accommodating a maximum of 24 guests.
Activities at Savute Safari Lodge:
– Explore Savute Marsh
– Game drives
– Visit Gubatsa Hills
Highlights:
– Observe zebra migration (November-December and February-April)
– Stunning location along the Savute Channel
– Waterhole situated in front of suites and the main deck
Belmond Savute Elephant Lodge