If you’re dreaming of an African safari that combines riverfront game viewing, elephant herds as far as the eye can see, and breathtaking sunsets, Chobe National Park in Botswana should be at the top of your list. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know before visiting the park. This includes where Chobe National Park is located, a helpful map of the park, and where to stay for the best possible experience.
Where Is it located?
Chobe National Park lies in the far north of Botswana, bordering the mighty Chobe River and sharing boundaries with Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Its location makes it one of Africa’s most accessible safari destinations — particularly for travellers combining Chobe with Victoria Falls or the Okavango Delta. The park covers over 10,000 km² of diverse wilderness, from lush riverfront forests to the sweeping Savuti Marsh and the dry hinterlands of Linyanti. If you’re wondering “where is Chobe?” — imagine Botswana’s safari heartland, where wildlife gathers in astonishing density along the river’s edge.
The park is split into four distinct areas:
- Chobe Riverfront – Famous for boat cruises and large elephant herds
- Savuti Marsh – Known for dramatic predator sightings and seasonal zebra migrations
- Linyanti Marsh – A remote and wild area with fewer crowds and exclusive lodges
- Hinterland/Nogatsaa – A lesser-known, more arid region teeming with birdlife
What is Chobe National Park Famous For?
Chobe is best known for its huge elephant population — the largest in Africa — and for the spectacular wildlife viewing along the Chobe Riverfront, where hundreds of elephants, buffalo, and antelope come to drink at sunset. The park is also famous for its boat safaris. Drifting down the river as elephants wade through the shallows and hippos wallow nearby is one of Africa’s most iconic safari moments.
The Chobe Riverfront is also renowned for birding, especially during the green season when migratory species arrive in dazzling numbers.
Map of Chobe National Park:
Here’s a general map to help you visualise the layout of Chobe National Park, its key regions, and how it connects to surrounding destinations:
Chobe River : The Lifeblood of the Park
The
Wildlife flocks to the riverbanks, especially during the dry season. This creates incredible opportunities for wildlife viewing, as animals come to drink and cool off. Hippopotamuses and crocodiles are common sights in the river itself.
For visitors, a
Our stay in Chobe was absolutely unforgettable. Watching elephants cross the Chobe River at sunset from our lodge deck was something we’ll never forget. The game drives were incredible — lions, buffalo, hippos, and so many birds — and everything ran seamlessly thanks to Pulse Africa’s planning. It was the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.
Chobe National Park Accommodation: Where to stay
Choosing the right place to stay is crucial for an unforgettable trip to Chobe National Park. The park offers a range of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. From luxurious lodges to rustic campsites, there’s something for everyone. Luxury seekers will delight in staying at one of the renowned lodges in Chobe National Park, Botswana. Chobe Game Lodge and Chobe Safari Lodge are top picks, offering plush amenities and stunning views. These lodges blend comfort with breathtaking scenery, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure.
Chobe Bakwena Lodge:
Tucked along the banks of the Chobe River, Chobe Bakwena is an eco-luxury lodge that blends seamlessly into its natural surroundings. With stylish river-view chalets, elevated bush chalets, and a warm, community-driven ethos, this lodge is ideal for travellers who want comfort with a light footprint. Activities include boat cruises, game drives, and cultural village visits.
Why Pulse Africa Recommends It: Chobe Bakwena is perfect for travellers looking for an intimate, sustainable safari close to the action of Kasane and the Chobe Riverfront, without compromising on personalised service and charm.
Chobe Game lodge:
The only permanent lodge located inside Chobe National Park itself, Chobe Game Lodge offers a front-row seat to some of Botswana’s best elephant viewing. This elegant, fully eco-certified lodge features river-facing rooms and suites, a swimming pool, and a team of all-female guides — a pioneering initiative in the safari world.
Why Pulse Africa Recommends It: For travellers who want maximum time in the park with minimal transit, this lodge provides seamless access to game viewing, plus a strong sustainability focus and refined hospitality.
Chobe Under Canvas:
Just across the border in Namibia’s Eastern Zambezi Region (formerly Caprivi Strip), Chobe River Camp offers a quieter, more off-the-beaten-track alternative to Botswana’s busier lodges. With tented accommodation overlooking the river floodplains, it’s a tranquil base for birders and nature lovers. Guided boat trips along the Chobe River allow for cross-border wildlife encounters.
Why Pulse Africa Recommends It: For those seeking serenity, affordability, and a unique angle on the Chobe ecosystem, Chobe River Camp delivers rustic charm with spectacular water-based game viewing.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Chobe National Park?
The best time to visit Chobe National Park depends on what kind of experience you’re after:
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Dry Season (May – October): Ideal for wildlife photography and game viewing. Animals gather around the river, and boat safaris offer incredible close-up sightings. This is the most popular and luxurious time to travel, with crystal-clear skies and comfortable temperatures.
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Green Season (November – April): Known for lush landscapes, baby animals, and dramatic skies. While there’s more rainfall, it’s a wonderful time for birdwatchers and travellers who prefer fewer crowds and more value.
If you’re planning a combined itinerary with Victoria Falls or the Okavango Delta, Pulse Africa can help you align your visit for the most seamless seasonal experience.
Exploring the Chobe Riverfront
The Chobe Riverfront area, near the town of Kasane, is the park’s most famous and accessible section. This region offers a blend of luxury lodges, sunset cruises, and exceptional year-round game viewing. The Chobe Riverfront is famous for sunset boat safaris, where you can watch elephants crossing the river or herds of buffalo silhouetted against a fiery African sky.
Many visitors ask: “What is the Chobe Riverfront famous for?”
The answer is simple — it’s one of the few places in Africa where you can see vast elephant herds from both land and water, often in the same afternoon.
Combining Chobe With Other Destinations
Chobe’s proximity to Victoria Falls (just 1.5 hours by road) makes it easy to pair the two for an unforgettable safari and sightseeing holiday. You can also combine Chobe National Park with the Okavango Delta or Moremi Game Reserve for a varied Botswana itinerary — from river safaris to mokoro glides and remote bush camps.
Chobe National Park: Meaning and Heritage
The name “Chobe” comes from the Chobe River, a vital lifeline that supports both wildlife and local communities. The area forms part of Botswana’s rich ecological heritage and contributes to the vast Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area, one of the largest protected ecosystems in the world.
Beyond the River: Savuti and Linyanti
While the Chobe Riverfront is the park’s beating heart, Savuti and Linyanti offer wilder, more remote experiences.
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Savuti is known for its lion prides and dramatic predator-prey interactions, particularly during the dry season.
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Linyanti is a mosaic of floodplains and woodlands, perfect for those seeking exclusivity and intimate safari camps.
Both regions offer exceptional opportunities for travellers who want to go beyond the well-trodden routes of Chobe National Park Botswana.
Unforgettable Safari Experiences in Chobe National Park Africa
Embarking on a safari in
The traditional game drive is a classic choice. With a knowledgeable guide, you’ll traverse the park’s diverse landscapes. Witness herds of elephants, graceful antelope, and elusive big cats. The thrill of spotting these majestic animals in their natural habitat is unmatched.
For a different perspective, opt for a boat safari along the
Here are some popular safari options available:
- Guided game drives
- Boat safaris
- Photography tours
- Night safaris
Each safari type offers its own set of wonders. Whichever option you choose,
Conservation and Community in Chobe National Park Botswana
Chobe National Park not only marvels with its wildlife but also sets an example in conservation. The park actively works to protect its diverse ecosystems and species. Sustainable tourism and conservation efforts are vital to this beautiful area.
Community involvement is a key part of Chobe’s success. Local communities participate in conservation and benefit from eco-tourism. This collaboration leads to both improved wildlife protection and community development, creating a sustainable future for the region.
Travel Tips for Visiting Chobe National Park
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How to Get There: Fly into Kasane Airport or cross by road from Victoria Falls or Livingstone.
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Park Fees: Entry fees are payable at the gate; your lodge or guide can arrange this in advance.
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Accommodation: From luxurious riverfront lodges to tented camps in Savuti, there’s something for every safari style. Pulse Africa can curate your stay based on your preferences and the season.
Final Thoughts on Chobe:
Chobe National Park is one of Africa’s top safari destinations for good reason. Whether you’re gliding along the Chobe River on a sunset cruise or tracking lions through Savuti, every corner of the park offers something unique. (Read more about family trips to Botswana here)
Planning a visit? Let our travel experts at Pulse Africa help you craft a tailor-made Chobe safari, combining luxurious lodges, expert guides, and seamless travel logistics.
