Chobe National Park stands out as a premier natural destination in Botswana. Renowned for its Chobe River waterfront adjacent to Namibia, it hosts one of the continent’s largest African elephant populations and a significant number of predators, drawing visitors in search of an unparalleled safari adventure.
Though camping within the park is an option, a handful of Chobe safari lodges should be part of any travel itinerary.
Why opt for a safari lodge in Chobe?
While staying in the nearby town of Kasane is possible, there’s nothing quite like awakening to the sounds of the wilderness and being among the first to embark on a game drive in the park.
6 Top safari lodges in Chobe
Although we’ve only camped in the park, we have compiled a list of 6 safari lodges in Chobe for future reference on our visits.
Chobe Game Lodge
Chobe Game Lodge proudly holds Eco-tourism certification and features an elegant Moorish design, appealing to those seeking a unique experience.
Perched on the banks of the Chobe River, guests can partake in game drives and boat safaris along the river. Proximity to the park entrance means you won’t need to travel for long to reach your lodge.
The lodge’s commitment to social and environmental responsibility has made it a popular choice. With initiatives such as a biogas plant, an all-female team of safari guides, and annual share dividends for staff members, your stay contributes both to the ecosystem and the local community.
Activities available at Chobe Game Lodge:
– Morning and afternoon game drives
– Cultural exploration trips in Chobe
– Mid-morning and late-afternoon river cruises
– Eco-tours led by the ecotourism manager
– Spa treatments
Key features:
– All suites boast breathtaking views of Chobe River
– Opportunities for river safaris and game drives
– Family suites (for children over 6) with private pools
– An all-female team of trained guides
Chobe Princess
Experience a lavish safari lodge on the water at Chobe Princess. Two of the vessels feature four suites (each with private bathrooms and air conditioning), while the third offers five suites, and all can be booked for exclusive use, turning your stay into a private water villa. Drift along the Chobe River as elephants bathe, crocodiles swim by, and enjoy sunset views.
A standout feature is the chance to visit the ‘Tree of Life’, one of Africa’s ancient baobab trees, over 2,000 years old. The trek to see this magnificent tree is about 4 miles, so be sure to wear comfortable safari footwear.
Tip: Reserve the superior cabin for its private deck.
Activities at Chobe Princess:
– Walking safaris
– Water-based wildlife viewing
– Fishing cruises on tender boats
– Birdwatching
– Photo safaris
– Cultural excursions
– Visit the historic baobab tree known as the ‘Tree of Life’
Key features:
– Wildlife viewing from water
– 10-seater jacuzzi
– Fishing and sunset cruises on tender boats
Safari Lodges in the Savute area
The Savute area, located in the southwestern section of Chobe National Park, is noted for its unpredictable and sporadic flooding in the Savute Channel. It experienced a dry spell in 1880, only to flood again in 1957, and after another dry phase, the channel was flooded once more in 2009, with waters reaching the Savute marsh in 2010.
This channel attracts massive herds of elephants, zebra herds, prides of lions, and clan gatherings of hyenas.
Birdwatching in Savute is exceptional, featuring Kori bustards, vultures, and the striking secretary birds among regular sightings. Fish eagles and Abdim’s storks can be spotted in summer, while large flocks of quelea finches are common in April.
Savute Safari Lodge
Savute Safari Lodge is situated along the Savuti Channel and ranks amongst the top Chobe lodges. The channel is known for its inconsistent flooding, having dried in 1880 and flooded again in 1957, followed by another dry period before its waters returned in 2009, reaching the Savute marsh in 2010.
The lodge boasts high populations of elephants, lions, and hyenas, making Savute Safari Lodge an ideal spot for learning about wildlife interactions.
With only 11 exclusive thatched chalets accommodating a maximum of 24 guests, the lodge offers a private experience.
Activities at Savute Safari Lodge:
– Visit to Savute Marsh
– Game drives
– Explore Gubatsa Hills
Key features:
– Experience the zebra migration (November-December and February-April)
– Stunning location on the Savute Channel
– Waterhole located in front of suites and the main deck
Belmond Savute Elephant Lodge