Chobe National Park
A wildlife enthusiast’s dream; Chobe National Park is one of the top wilderness reserves in the world
Discover the iconic Chobe National Park
Botswana’s famous Chobe National Park is a must-see wildlife destination that includes the Savute Channel and natural beauty of the Linyanti River. Covering almost 11,000 km² (6,836 square miles), Chobe was Botswana’s first national park and remains one of its best, boasting the biggest concentration of wildlife in Africa.
An oasis in a dry, at times desolate region, Chobe National Park’s Chobe River offers an irreplaceable lifeline to the reserve’s wildlife. The largest concentration of elephant in Africa occupies this park and, in the mid- to late-afternoon, herd after herd comes down to the Chobe banks, some small in number and others counting in the hundreds. Each takes its turn to drink the precious water, swim in the cool river or just jostle for position. Inland from the river is a semi-arid habitat, while around the oasis vegetation is abundant.
Herds of sable antelope, mostly seen in the dry regions, can be spotted coming down to drink, only to disappear back into the drier areas. Special game sightings include the indigenous and endangered puku antelope that can only be seen along the Chobe River banks and in pockets in the Linyanti swamps, along with roan antelope, giraffe, kudu, bushbuck, waterbuck, zebra, wildebeest, warthog, lion, leopard and the occasional African wild dog. Large herds of buffalo are found along the Chobe riverfront and grazing on the islands, crossing from one to the other or back to the mainland.
Why we love it
A desert oasis
From dry, desert plains to rich, unique wetlands, Chobe National Park is a haven for wildlife in any season, world-renowned for its large concentration of elephant and buffalo, which congregate along the Chobe River.
Iconic sightings
The puku is an indigenous and endangered antelope that can only be seen along the Chobe River banks and in pockets in the Linyanti swamps. Roan antelope are also seen, along with giraffe, kudu, lion, leopard and the occasional African wild dog.
Incredible birding
An African fish eagle is perched on what seems like every tree while wire tailed swallows hunt and swoop above the river waters, darters dry themselves on dead logs at the water’s edge, and endangered African skimmers skim the waterline.
Adventures for all
Chobe National Park offers explorers a plethora of adventures; from land and water safri game drives and private river cruises to excellent catch-and-release fishing experiences and exceptional photographic opportunities.
Where to stay
Accommodation in Chobe National Park, Botswana
From charming under-canvas extravagance to elegant safari tents to magnificent nature-inspired lodges, Botswana offers travellers, from all corners of the globe, a wide variety of accommodation options well-suited to the unique safari experience they are after.
Chobe National Park camping
Entrenched in solitude and comfort, with the lightest of footprints, stay at one of our remote under-canvas mobile safari camps, with only the walls of your tent separating you from the unrefined marvels of Botswana.
Chobe National Park lodges
The epitome of safari luxury, enjoy an immersive African bush adventure while staying at one of these exclusive lodges designed to provide you with an unmatched opportunity to experience Botswana at its best.
Explore Chobe National Park sightings
Our guides and guests’ best safari moments
Frequently asked questions
Question: Where is Chobe National Park?
Answer
Chobe National Park is located in the northern part of Botswana, near the borders with Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
Question: Where is the Chobe River?
Answer
The Chobe River runs along the northern boundary of Chobe National Park, serving as a crucial water source for the park’s wildlife and forming the border between Botswana and Namibia.
Question: How far is Chobe from Victoria Falls?
Answer
Chobe National Park is approximately 70 kilometers (43 miles) from Victoria Falls. The drive typically takes about an hour and a half, depending on border crossing times.
Question: How big is Chobe National Park?
Answer
Chobe National Park covers almost 11,000 km² (6,836 square miles), making it one of the largest national parks in Botswana.
Question: How to get to Chobe National Park?
Answer
To get to Chobe National Park, you can fly into Kasane Airport, which is just a few kilometers from the park’s entrance. Alternatively, you can drive from Victoria Falls or other parts of Botswana. Many visitors also enter the park via organized tours that include transportation. For more detailed information on getting to and around Chobe National Park, view How Do I Get to and Around the Chobe National Park?
Question: What animals are in Chobe National Park?
Answer
Chobe National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, sable antelope, puku antelope, roan antelope, giraffe, kudu, bushbuck, waterbuck, zebra, wildebeest, warthog, lion, leopard, African wild dog, and large herds of buffalo.
Question: How many elephants are in Chobe National Park?
Answer
Chobe National Park boasts the largest concentration of elephants in Africa, with estimates ranging from 50,000 to 120,000 elephants.
Question: When to visit Chobe National Park?
Answer
Chobe National Park can be visited year-round, but the experience varies with the seasons. The dry season (May to October) offers excellent game viewing as animals congregate around water sources. The wet season (November to April) provides lush landscapes and opportunities to see newborn animals and migratory birds. For more detailed information on the best times to visit Botswana, see When Should I Visit Botswana?
Question: How many elephants are in Chobe National Park?
Answer
Chobe National Park boasts the largest concentration of elephants in Africa, with estimates ranging from 50,000 to 120,000 elephants.
Question: Is Chobe National Park worth visiting?
Answer
Absolutely! Chobe National Park is a must-see destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. With its stunning landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and incredible concentrations of wildlife, including the largest population of elephants in Africa, Chobe offers an unforgettable safari experience. For more information on why Chobe National Park is a top destination, visit Why Visit Chobe National Park.
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