Chobe National Park stands out as one of Botswana’s premier natural wonders. Renowned for its scenic Chobe River border with Namibia, home to one of Africa’s largest elephant populations and a significant number of predators, Chobe entices adventurers seeking an unmatched safari experience.
Camping within the park is an option, but several Chobe safari lodges deserve a spot on every travel plan.
Why opt for a safari lodge in Chobe?
While staying in the nearby Kasane town is feasible, nothing compares to the experience of waking up to the sounds of the wilderness and being among the first to embark on a game drive in the park.
Top 6 safari lodges in Chobe
Although our experience lies in camping in the park, we’ve compiled a selection of six safari lodges in Chobe for future reference.
Chobe Game Lodge
Chobe Game Lodge is an entirely Ecotourism-certified safari lodge, boasting an exquisite Moorish design that appeals to guests seeking uniqueness.
Situated on the edge of the Chobe River, visitors can partake in game safari drives and boat safaris along the river. The lodge is conveniently located near the park entrance, eliminating the need for extensive driving to reach your lodging.
The lodge’s commitment to social and environmental values has garnered widespread attention. From its biogas facility to its all-female team of safari guides, along with an annual share dividend for all staff members, your stay contributes to the local ecosystem and community.
Activities at Chobe Game Lodge
– Morning and afternoon game drives
– Cultural exploration tours in Chobe
– Mid-morning and late-afternoon river cruises
– Eco-tours led by the ecotourism manager
– Spa services
Highlights:
– All suites offer breathtaking views of the Chobe River
– Opportunities for river safaris and game drives
– Family suites available (for children over 6) with private pools
– Professionally qualified guides, all-female team
Chobe Princess
Experience a luxurious safari lodge on the water at Chobe Princess. Two of the Chobe Princess vessels offer four suites (each with an en-suite bathroom and air conditioning), while the third features five suites. All Princesses can be reserved exclusively, allowing you to enjoy your private water villa. Cruise along the Chobe River as you watch elephants bathing, crocodiles swimming, and the sun setting.
A highlight includes visiting the ‘Tree of Life’, one of Africa’s ancient baobabs, over 2,000 years old. The trek to view this tree spans about 4 miles, so wear comfortable safari shoes.
Tip: Choose the superior cabin for access to a private deck.
Activities at Chobe Princess:
– Walking safaris
– Water-based wildlife viewing
– Fishing trips on tender boats
– Birdwatching excursions
– Photography safaris
– Cultural explorations
– Visit the ancient baobab tree, known as the ‘Tree of Life’
Highlights:
– Wildlife viewing from the water
– 10-seater jacuzzi
– Fishing and sunset cruises on tender vessels
Lodges in the Savute area
The Savute area is located in the southwestern section of Chobe National Park and is known for the Savute Channel’s unpredictable and irregular flooding patterns. The channel was dry in 1880 before flooding again in 1957. After a subsequent dry phase, it flooded again in 2009, with waters reaching the Savute marsh in 2010.
This channel draws large groups of elephants, herds of zebras, lion prides, and hyena clans.
Birdwatching in Savute is exceptional. Kori bustards, vultures, and the stunning secretary birds are common sightings, while fish eagles and Abdim’s storks can be spotted in summer. Massive flocks of quelea finches appear in April.
Savute Safari Lodge
Set along the Savuti Channel, Savute Safari Lodge ranks among the premier Chobe lodges. Noted for its unpredictable flooding, the channel saw dry conditions in 1880, returning to flooding in 1957, and again filling in 2009, with waters reaching Savute marsh in 2010.
With high populations of elephants, lions, and hyenas, Savute Safari Lodge offers an ideal setting for studying wildlife dynamics.
The lodge features a private atmosphere, with only 11 thatched chalets accommodating a maximum of 24 guests.
Activities at Savute Safari Lodge:
– Excursions to Savute Marsh
– Game drives
– Visits to Gubatsa Hills
Highlights:
– Observe the zebra migration (November-December and February-April)
– Stunning location along the Savute Channel
– Waterhole situated in front of suites and main deck
Belmond Savute Elephant Lodge