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Chobe National Park is among the foremost natural attractions in Botswana. Renowned for the Chobe River waterfront adjacent to Namibia, housing one of the largest populations of African elephants on the continent and a significant presence of predators, Chobe draws visitors seeking a unique safari adventure.

While camping in the park is an option, there are several Chobe safari lodges that are essential for any travel itinerary.

Chobe is famed for its elephant populations.

Why choose a safari lodge in Chobe?

You might opt to stay in the nearby Kasane town, but nothing compares to 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

We’ve only camped within the park, yet we’ve compiled a list of 6 safari lodges in Chobe for your convenience on your next visit.

Chobe Game Lodge

Chobe Game Lodge holds full Ecotourism certification, and its chic Moorish design attracts those in search of a unique experience.

Situated along the banks of the Chobe River, guests can participate in game safari drives and safari boat excursions on the river. Additionally, Chobe Game Lodge is conveniently close to the park entrance, so you won’t need to drive for hours to reach your lodging.

The lodge’s commitment to social and environmental principles has garnered attention. With initiatives like their biogas facility, an all-female team of safari guides, and the fact that each staff member receives an annual share of dividends, you can be assured that your stay contributes positively to both the ecosystem and the local community.

Activities at Chobe Game Lodge

– Morning and afternoon game drives
– Cultural exploration expeditions in Chobe
– Mid-morning and late-afternoon river cruises
– Eco-tours led by the ecotourism manager
– Spa services

Highlights:

– All suites feature magnificent views of the Chobe River
– Opportunity for both river safaris and game drives
– Family suites (children must be over 6) with private pool
– A professionally qualified all-female guiding team

Chobe Princess

An upscale safari lodge, but floating on the water. Welcome to Chobe Princess. Two of the Chobe Princess vessels have four suites (each featuring private bathrooms and air conditioning), while the third offers five suites. All Princess vessels can be booked exclusively, giving you a private water villa. Glide down the Chobe River while elephants bath, crocodiles swim beside you, and the sunset paints the horizon.

One of the highlights includes the visit to the ‘Tree of Life,’ one of the continent’s most ancient baobab trees, over 2,000 years old. The trek to see this magnificent tree is about 4 miles, so wear comfortable safari footwear.

Tip: Reserve the superior cabin for a private deck.

Activities at Chobe Princess:

– Walking safaris
– Water-based game observation
– Fishing cruises on a tender boat
– Birdwatching
– Photo safaris
– Cultural excursions
– Visit one of the oldest baobab trees, known as the ‘Tree of Life’

Highlights:

– Wildlife viewing from a water perspective
– 10-seater jacuzzi
– Fishing and sunset cruises on tender vessels

Safari Lodges in the Savute region

The Savute region is located in the southwestern sector of Chobe National Park. The Savute Channel is noted for its unpredictable and irregular flooding patterns. It underwent a drying phase in 1880, only to flood again in 1957. Following another dry spell, the channel flooded once more in 2009, with waters reaching the Savute marsh in 2010.

The channel draws large elephant herds, zebra groups, lion prides, and hyena clans.

Birdwatching in Savute is also exceptional. You can spot Kori bustards, vultures, and stunning secretary birds regularly. Fish eagles and Abdim’s storks are present in summer. Massive quelea finch flocks are common during April.

Savute Safari Lodge

Savute Safari Lodge is positioned along the Savuti Channel and is considered one of the finest lodges in Chobe. The Channel is known for its irregular flooding, having previously dried in 1880 and flooded again in 1957. After another dry spell, it flooded once more in 2009, with waters reaching Savute marsh in 2010.

The high density of elephants, lions, and hyenas makes Savute Safari Lodge an ideal location to explore wildlife dynamics.

This lodge is exclusive, featuring only 11 thatched chalets accommodating a maximum of 24 guests.

Activities at Savute Safari Lodge:

– Visit Savute Marsh
– Game drives
– Tour Gubatsa Hills

Highlights:

– Experience the zebra migration (November-December and February-April)
– Exquisite location on the Savute Channel
– Waterhole in front of suites and

Whale observing in South Africa ranks among the finest globally. From June to November, large gatherings of Southern Right Whales (Eubalaena australis) arrive along the southern coast of South Africa to mate and bear young. The coastal town of Hermanus in the Western Cape serves as the epicenter for this whale activity. Whale watching in Hermanus is an unforgettable experience.

Southern right whale migration in South Africa

During the Austral summer (December to May), southern right whales inhabit the frigid polar regions of the Southern Hemisphere, where they consume krill.

In winter (early June through November), they traverse the shallow coastal waters of Southern Africa, South America, and Australia. This period is ideal for visiting Hermanus, coinciding with peak whale-watching season.

In Hermanus, whale bulls arrive in June, soon followed by the females. They mate within these months in the coastal waters of the South African Cape. The last arrivals are the pregnant females, who will also be the final ones to depart, this time accompanied by their calves. Only when the newborns have gained sufficient strength will they navigate back to Antarctic waters, where they’ll feed on krill: small, free-floating crustaceans.

One of the prime locations to observe southern right whales along the South African coast is the quaint town of Hermanus, overlooking the deep waters of Walker Bay. You can sit on the cliffs at the town center and witness this remarkable display (some of the finest land-based whale viewing!) or join a whale watching boat tour to learn more about whale behavior.

Observe whales as they court, frolic, and relax in Walker Bay. Noteworthy behaviors include spy-hopping (raising their heads straight up out of the water to survey their surroundings), lobtailing (slapping the water with their tails), and possibly even a full breach (launching their entire bodies clear out of the water!). If you’re exceptionally fortunate, you might even see a whale giving birth.

Hermanus may indeed be the premier shore-based whale-watching destination on the planet.

If you’re planning a trip to South Africa during whale season, Hermanus is essential.

This small coastal town is merely a one-and-a-half-hour drive from Cape Town, and the journey to Hermanus can easily be accomplished in a one or two-day trip from there. The coastal drive is so stunning that we recommend spreading the trip over two days, allowing for stops to explore beaches, visit the penguins at Betty’s Bay, and enjoy the charming food trucks along the road next to False Bay with breathtaking ocean views.

For those pressed for time, a day tour from Cape Town is an excellent choice (see below).

Other wildlife you might encounter during your whale-watching excursion

Southern right whales aren’t the only species you can observe in Hermanus. Humpback & Bryde’s whales also frequent the area, along with local marine life such as common dolphins, bottlenose dolphins, Cape Fur seals, and a wide variety of seabirds, including the African black oystercatcher and African penguins. You might even spot orcas, which have become more prevalent along the South African coast in recent years. Be sure to look along the rocky shore for Clawless Cape otters as they forage in the kelp.

How to distinguish between Southern right whales and humpback whales

It’s quite simple to differentiate between these two whale species.

Southern right whales feature callosities on their backs (the rough, bulging, white patches), a V-shaped blow, and a white belly. Additionally, southern right whales lack a dorsal fin.

Humpback whales, on the other hand, possess a small dorsal fin and notably long pectoral fins.

Are there any white whales?

YES! 5% of Southern Right whales are born white! We were fortunate enough to witness one of them! These white calves aren’t considered albino whales (unlike the famous Migaloo in Australia) and they darken as they mature. This white coloration is known as grey morphism, not albinism.

Types of whale watching tours from Hermanus

Most whale watching excursions globally are boat-based, as you typically need to venture offshore to locate whales. However, in certain locations, whales come so close to shore that you can even feel the mist from their blowholes from land! Hermanus is one of these lucky places, which is why whale watching here is so exceptional.

For this reason, in Hermanus, you can participate in either land-based or boat-based whale-watching tours.

Watching whales in Hermanus (land-based whale watching)

Great news for those prone to seasickness! You can view whales from land in Hermanus.

Land-based whale observing in South Africa is not uncommon. You can spot them from False Bay, from

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Victoria Falls: An Informative Guide to Safari Lodges and Experiences

Victoria Falls, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as one of Africa’s most recognized landmarks, lying on the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia. Renowned for its stunning allure, the falls are an essential stop for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. This article delves into the finest safari lodges on either side of the border and the thrilling activities available for guests.

Overview of Victoria Falls

The Zambezi River, which spans over 1.2 miles in width, tumbles down a series of gorges at Victoria Falls, generating a mist that can be seen from 12 miles away. During a full moon, visitors have the chance to experience a lunar rainbow, also known as a moonbow. Notable features include the Main Falls, Devil’s Cataract, and Devil’s Pool.

Safari Lodges in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Victoria Falls River Lodge: Positioned along the banks of the Zambezi, this lodge features luxurious treehouse suites equipped with private decks and plunge pools. Visitors can partake in game drives in Zambezi National Park and various activities, including river cruises and helicopter excursions.

Tsowa Safari Island: This upscale tented camp on a Zambezi island provides an intimate atmosphere with canvas tents, offering experiences such as birdwatching, river safaris, and day trips to Chobe.

Victoria Falls Safari Club: As part of the Victoria Falls Safari Lodge estate, this exclusive club boasts fine dining, a swimming pool, and vistas of a private waterhole. Guests can indulge in game sighting, birdwatching, and the distinct vulture culture experience.

Chundu Island: A family-friendly venue with suites overlooking the river, Chundu Island provides activities such as canoeing, game drives, and island strolls. The lodge features a Kidz Zone and childcare services.

Masuwe Lodge: Nestled within 2,000 acres of wildlife-rich land, Masuwe Lodge comprises wilderness tents and a romantic hideaway chalet. Guests can relish cocktails by the waterhole and venture into the surrounding nature.

Safari Lodges in Victoria Falls, Zambia

Toka Leya: Located in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, Toka Leya features air-conditioned tents with river views. Activities include wellness treatments, game safaris, and river cruises.

Tongabezi Lodge: Found upstream from Victoria Falls, Tongabezi offers a range of accommodations, from river cottages to private houses. Guests can relish romantic dinners, dhow cruises, and trips to Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park.

Sindabezi Island Camp: An off-grid lodge on a secluded island, Sindabezi provides private chalets with outdoor bathtubs. Activities include picnics, canoeing, and guided nature walks.

Activities at Victoria Falls

Visitors have the opportunity to engage in a variety of activities, such as helicopter tours, river rafting, and guided explorations of the Victoria Falls Rainforest. The Devil’s Pool delivers an exhilarating experience at the edge of the falls. On the Zambian side, guests can enjoy the Royal Livingstone Express train journey and explore Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, home to Zambia’s sole wild white rhinos.

Conclusion

Victoria Falls presents a distinctive combination of natural beauty and adventure. Staying at a safari lodge allows guests to deeply immerse themselves in the experience, offering a diverse range of accommodations and activities to cater to every traveler. Whether opting for the Zimbabwean or Zambian side, Victoria Falls guarantees an unforgettable adventure.

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Before embarking on a hike, you always determine your destination, timing, and what to bring along, correct? You should also strategize on how to hike (or camp) securely around wildlife, particularly bears. It may appear that bears are only present in locations like Yellowstone, the Smoky Mountains, or Alaska. However, bears inhabit a significantly larger expanse. Are you aware that black bears can be found in 40 out of the 50 US states?

The habitats of black bears and grizzly bears are expanding each year, so prior to venturing into the great outdoors, ensure you verify if it’s bear territory. If it is, continue reading for our safety guidelines on how to hike in bear territory.

Do not presume that just because it’s chilly, bears will be resting in their dens. Just last month (in November), a family of five bears was roaming our yard in the North Carolina mountains. Moreover, grizzly bears may emerge from hibernation as early as March in Yellowstone.

Always carry bear spray and ensure you know how to utilize it before starting your journey. Bear spray is prohibited on airplanes, so if you are flying to your destination, you’ll have to purchase it locally. REI stocks them. Watch the video at the conclusion of this post to understand how to handle bear spray. *Do not activate the bear spray indoors*, learn to deploy it outdoors.

NEVER give food to a bear, approach it, attempt to take a selfie with a bear, or try to pet it. If you are at a national park and witness someone doing this, capture a photo (try to get the license plate number) and report the incident at the office. A bear that is fed is a dead bear.

Hiking in bear territory

– If you see a bear before it notices you: remain still, don’t approach, and savor the moment. If it’s heading in your direction, ensure it knows you are present and announce yourself with a loud and serious “Hey Bear.” The bear will likely turn away. If you don’t make your presence known, you might startle the bear if it gets too close, and it could react aggressively. (I mean, if you surprise me, I might yell, so it’s understandable to have a response.) Once the bear moves away, quietly retreat in the opposite direction. We had a close call with a mother grizzly and her cub in British Columbia, and we followed this approach. You can read the story here.

– If you come across a bear that is aware of your presence: do not run; running may provoke a chase. Gradually back away in the opposite direction and wait for the bear to depart.

– Stay alert to your environment, make noise at intervals, and refrain from using earbuds.

– Avoid hiking solo.

– Keep children within sight.

– Make noise in dense areas.

– Be particularly vigilant when foraging for berries or nuts. Bears are doing the same!

– Always KEEP YOUR PETS ON A LEASH or leave them at home. Dogs can irritate bears and cause them distress, which may lead to a bear attacking your dog.

– Do not litter. Carry out your trash. Making bears accustomed to human food sources increases the likelihood of dangerous encounters with humans.

– Do not position yourself between a mother and her cub. If a mother believes her cub is threatened, she will defend it. If you see a cub, always search for the mother and remain vigilant.

Camping in bear territory

– Set up backcountry camps away from thick vegetation and natural food sources.

– Maintain a clean camp. Do not leave food lying around, and always secure it (in the vehicle, or in a bear-resistant container) if you go out for a hike.

– Do not store anything that emits food or toiletry scents in your tent. No snacks, no toothpaste, no deodorant, no soft drinks, no lip balm, no sunscreen, no insect repellent.

– If you are camping with a pet and need a litter box in the tent, utilize unscented litter and keep it clean. No pet treats either.

– If you are car camping, keep food and toiletries inside a locked vehicle and ensure all windows are closed. Bears have figured out how to open unlocked cars and break open windows.

– If you are backpacking, keep food and toiletries suspended at least 10 feet above the ground and 10 feet from any tree branch. Some parks have a system in place (see the red arrow in the photo below from a backcountry campsite in Yellowstone). This regulation may vary from one national park to another, so always verify the regulations at the park’s entrance.

Cooking in bear territory

– When cooking, do not dispose of food waste in your fire (or outside the fire for that matter). No bean sauce, or meat fats, or anything similar.

– Cook away from your tent to avoid attracting bears to your sleeping area.

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