Chobe National Park
The Elephant Capital of Africa — 120,000 Elephants & Legendary River Safaris
Why Visit Chobe National Park?
Chobe National Park is Botswana's first national park and home to the highest concentration of elephants on Earth — an estimated 120,000 strong. The legendary Chobe River frontage offers Africa's most spectacular sunset boat cruises, with herds of elephants swimming, bathing, and playing in the water just metres from your boat. Located just 70km from Victoria Falls, Chobe is the perfect safari addition to any Southern Africa itinerary.
Quick Reference
Chobe National Park at a Glance
Big Five Score
Safari Rating
World-ClassEasy — road accessible
High — prophylaxis essential
Visa on arrival ($30)
Kasane Airport (BBK)
Botswana Pula (BWP)
CAT (UTC+2)
Bottled water recommended
230V, Type G plug
Why Go
Top Reasons to Visit Chobe National Park
Elephant Capital of Africa
Over 120,000 elephants — the largest single population on Earth. Dry season brings massive herds to the Chobe River, creating the planet's most dramatic elephant spectacle.
Legendary River Cruises
Sunset boat safaris on the Chobe River are a bucket-list experience. Elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and hundreds of bird species — all from the water.
Victoria Falls Gateway
Just 70km from Victoria Falls (Kasane to Vic Falls in under 2 hours). The Chobe + Victoria Falls combo is Southern Africa's most popular luxury circuit.
Big Five Game Drives
All Big Five are present — lion prides on the Savuti plains, leopards in the riverine forest, and buffalo herds numbering in the thousands.
Diverse Ecosystems
Four distinct ecosystems — the lush Chobe riverfront, the Savuti Channel with its famous predator action, Linyanti marshlands, and the Nogatsaa woodlands.
Year-Round Access
Unlike many Botswana destinations, Chobe is accessible by road from Kasane. No bush flights needed — making it more accessible and affordable.
Experiences
Chobe National Park Safari Highlights
Sunset River Cruise
Glide past elephant herds swimming in the Chobe River at golden hour — Africa's most iconic boat safari
Elephant Swimming
Watch family herds cross the Chobe River — calves riding on mothers' backs through deep water
Savuti Predators
The famous Savuti lion pride — known for hunting elephants. World-class predator viewing
Victoria Falls Day Trip
Just 70km from Kasane — combine the world's greatest waterfall with Africa's greatest elephant park
Birding Paradise
Over 450 bird species — carmine bee-eaters nesting in riverbanks, fish eagles soaring over the Chobe
Photographic Safari
Water-level photography from boats puts you eye-to-eye with elephants and hippos — stunning close-ups
Best Time to Visit
May–October (dry season) is best — animals concentrate at the Chobe River creating spectacular herds. Green season (Nov–Apr) brings migratory birds and lush landscapes.
May – October
Wildlife You\u2019ll See
Plan Your Trip
Chobe National Park Weather & Safari Calendar
Click any month to see temperature, rainfall, crowds, and what makes that month special
January — Green Season
Temperature
19°C – 32°C
Rainfall
170mm
Crowds
MediumPrice Level
$$ (Mid)
What to Expect
Green landscapes
Top Accommodation in Chobe National Park
Hand-picked luxury lodges and camps recommended by our safari experts
Luxury Safari LodgeChobe Game Lodge
The only lodge inside Chobe National Park — riverfront suites with elephant herds passing through daily.
From
$600–$1,500/night
Luxury Safari LodgeSanctuary Chobe Chilwero
Hilltop sanctuary overlooking the Chobe River — spacious suites with private pools and gourmet dining.
From
$700–$1,800/night
Mid-Range Safari LodgeMuchenje Safari Lodge
Community-owned lodge on the quiet western Chobe escarpment — authentic bush atmosphere with superb river views.
From
$350–$700/night
Can't decide? Let our experts help you choose the perfect lodge.
Get Expert RecommendationsTravel Tips
Essential Tips for Your Chobe National Park Safari
Chobe is accessible by road from Kasane — no bush flights needed (more affordable than most Botswana parks).
Sunset boat cruises are a MUST — book with your lodge or ask us to arrange.
Carry USD cash for tips and park fees. Botswana Pula also accepted.
The Kazungula Bridge connects Botswana to Zambia — easy multi-country trips.
Malaria prophylaxis recommended year-round.
Combine with Victoria Falls for the classic Southern Africa circuit.
Be Prepared
Packing & Travel Essentials for Chobe National Park
Travel Quick Reference
Visa
Visa on arrival for most nationalities — $30
Malaria
High risk — prophylaxis essential
Gateway
Kasane Airport (BBK) — daily flights from Johannesburg
Currency
Botswana Pula (BWP), USD widely accepted
Tipping
$10-20/day guide, $5-10/day camp staff
Watch & Learn
Chobe National Park Travel Videos
Unbelievable Botswana Safari in Chobe National Park (Savuti)
Chobe National Park — Full Safari Series (Elephants, Lions & More)
FAQ
Chobe National Park Safari — Frequently Asked Questions
Traveler Stories
What Our Guests Say About Chobe National Park
“The boat cruise was extraordinary — elephants swimming right next to us! We counted over 200 elephants in a single afternoon. Chobe Game Lodge was superb and the all-female guide team were incredibly knowledgeable.”
Henrik & Astrid Larsson
Stockholm, Sweden
September 2025
“Perfect family safari — the kids were mesmerised by baby elephants playing in the river. The combination with Victoria Falls was seamless. Ingwe arranged everything perfectly and the guides made it educational and fun.”
The Thompson Family
Sydney, Australia
August 2025
“As a wildlife photographer, Chobe is paradise. The waterhole hides gave me eye-level shots of elephants drinking. The sunset cruise light is just magical. I'll be back every year.”
James Mitchell
Cape Town, South Africa
July 2025
Ready to Experience Chobe National Park?
Let our expert safari consultants craft a tailor-made Chobe National Park itinerary just for you. No obligation, no cookie-cutter packages — every trip is as unique as a leopard\u2019s spots.
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