Chobe Safari Region

A Deeper Understanding Of Wildlife In The Chobe Safari Region

Chobe is a premier wildlife destination, offering a rich tapestry of mammal species across its diverse ecosystems. The park is particularly famous for its large herds of African elephants, which are often seen near the Chobe River, especially during the dry season when water is scarce elsewhere. Predators like lions, leopards, and spotted hyenas are commonly observed, with lions frequently seen in the Savuti area. The park's varied habitats, including floodplains, woodlands, and riverine zones, support a wide range of herbivores such as buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, and wildebeests. Additionally, rarer species like sable antelope, roan antelope, and red lechwe can be spotted in specific areas like the Linyanti Marsh.

Table showing wildlife occurrence in the Chobe Safari Region

Legend: 🔵 Plentiful 🟢 Common 🟡 Uncommon 🔴 Sporadic ⚫ Non-occurring

A Deeper Understanding Of Why You Should Visit Chobe National Park

Chobe National Park is renowned for its rich biodiversity and accessibility. The park's diverse habitats, including the Chobe Riverfront, Savuti Marsh, and Linyanti Swamps, support a wide range of wildlife. The Chobe Riverfront, in particular, is known for its high concentration of elephants and offers unique boat-based game viewing opportunities. The park's proximity to Victoria Falls makes it an attractive option for travellers seeking to explore multiple iconic destinations in one trip.

Wildlife Diversity

Chobe is home to over 90 species of mammals, including the Big Four—elephant, buffalo, lion, and leopard. The park boasts the world's largest concentration of African bush elephants, with estimates ranging from 50,000 to 120,000 individuals. Additionally, more than 450 bird species have been recorded in the park, making it a haven for birdwatchers.

Unique Safari Experiences

Chobe offers both land and water-based safari experiences. Boat safaris along the Chobe River provide a different perspective, allowing visitors to observe wildlife from the water and enjoy serene sunsets over the river. These river cruises are particularly popular for viewing elephants, hippos, and crocodiles.

Accessibility

The park's location near the borders of Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe enhances its accessibility. Kasane International Airport serves as a convenient entry point, with connections to major cities in Southern Africa. This makes Chobe an excellent starting point for multi-country safaris.

Cultural and Scenic Attractions

Beyond wildlife, Chobe offers cultural experiences in nearby villages like Shorobe and Mabele, where visitors can learn about traditional basket weaving and local customs. The park's diverse landscapes, including floodplains, woodlands, and marshes, provide stunning vistas and opportunities for photography.

A Deeper Understanding Of Getting To the Chobe Safari Region

By Air

Kasane International Airport (BBK) is the primary gateway for international travellers heading to the Chobe Safari Region. Airlink operates daily flights from Johannesburg (JNB) to Kasane, with a flight duration of approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes. Additionally, Mack Air offers flights from Victoria Falls (VFA) to Kasane, taking about 20 minutes. These flights provide convenient access to the region, with many lodges offering transfers from the airport to their facilities.

By Road

For those travelling overland, Kasane is accessible via several routes:

• From Maun (Okavango Delta Region): Approximately 600 km via the A3 and A33 roads, with a driving time of about 8–10 hours.
• From Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe: Around 80 km (1 hour) via the Kazungula Border Post.
• From Livingstone, Zambia: Approximately 70 km (1 hour) via the Kazungula Bridge.

The A33 road is a major route connecting Kasane to neighbouring countries, facilitating cross-border travel.

Transfers and Accessibility

Upon arrival at Kasane International Airport, travellers can utilise various transfer options to reach their accommodations:

• Lodge Transfers: Many lodges offer shuttle services from the airport directly to their properties.
• Private Transfers: Taxis and private vehicles are available for hire, providing flexibility in travel.
• Self-Drive: For the more adventurous, renting a 4x4 vehicle allows for self-guided exploration of the region. Note that some areas within Chobe National Park require a 4x4 vehicle due to sandy or uneven terrain.

Additionally, boat transfers are popular for accessing lodges along the Chobe River, offering scenic views and a unique perspective of the landscape.

A Deeper Understanding Of The Best Time To Visit the Chobe Safari Region

The Chobe Safari Region experiences two distinct seasons: the dry season (May to October) and the wet season (November to April). The dry season is considered the best time for wildlife viewing, as animals gather around the Chobe River and waterholes, making sightings more frequent and accessible. Temperatures during this period range from 10°C (50°F) in the early mornings to 30°C (86°F) during the day. The wet season brings cooler temperatures and lush vegetation, attracting migratory birds and providing a different safari experience. However, wildlife can be more dispersed, and some roads may become impassable due to rain.

Table representing the best time to visit Chobe Safari Region:

Table Legend:

• Weather: 🌧️ Rainy, 🌤️ Partly Cloudy, ☀️ Dry
• Wildlife Viewing: ✅ Average, ✅✅ Good, ✅✅✅ Excellent
• Birdwatching: 🐦 Average, 🐦🐦 Good, 🐦🐦🐦 Excellent
• Temperature: ❄️ Cold, 🌤️ Mild, 🔥 Hot

A Deeper Understanding Of Weather And Climate In the Chobe Safari Region

The climate in Chobe aligns with northern Botswana’s semi‑arid subtropical pattern, marked by a short wet season (November–March) and a long dry season (April–October).

During the wet season, rains are often heavy but seasonal, with afternoon thunderstorms, high humidity (up to 80 %), and lush vegetation. Wildlife may disperse widely, but riverfront areas remain active. Summer months bring warmer nights and occasional flight disruptions due to storms.

From April onward, conditions become dry and clear. Days are hot, nights cool. June and July offer the coolest mornings, often around 10 °C (50 °F), improving wildlife visibility as animals concentrate around water sources. September and October heat up rapidly, with temperatures peaking near 36 °C (97 °F).

Peak safari conditions typically fall between June and September, when dry conditions, clear skies, and moderate warmth enhance game viewing. Those preferring greenery, birdlife, and fewer tourists may find January–April appealing, but expect higher humidity and occasional rainfall.

Regional microclimates are minor—areas near the Chobe and Linyanti rivers stay cooler and marginally wetter than hinterland zones. Boat safaris are enjoyable in winter, when breezes on the river offer relief from midday heat.

Table representing weather and climate in Chobe Safari Region by month
🟢 Excellent weather | 🟡 Fair weather | 🟠 Hot or rainy conditions | 🔴 Unfavourable travel period

A Deeper Understanding Of Malaria In the Chobe Safari Region

As part of northern Botswana, the Chobe Safari Region is considered high risk for malaria. From November to May/June, the rainy season enables extensive mosquito breeding—particularly Anopheles species transmitting Plasmodium falciparum. During this period, antimalarial prophylaxis is strongly recommended, alongside full-spectrum bite prevention.

In the dry winter months (June to August), mosquito activity declines sharply. The risk is reduced to moderate, but preventive measures remain essential, especially around riverfront and wetland zones near Kasane and Chobe National Park. All travellers, especially families, older guests, and immunocompromised individuals, should consult a travel health provider for personal guidance. Seasonal risk differences also mean those visiting during the rainy season should be more vigilant.

Malaria Risk by Month in Chobe Safari Region

🟢 Malaria Free, 🟡 Low Risk Of Malaria, 🟠 Medium Risk Of Malaria, 🔴 High Risk Of Malaria

A Deeper Understanding Of Safety In the Chobe Safari Region

Botswana ranks among the safest countries in Africa, known for its political stability, low crime rate, and welcoming locals. While organised lodge-based and guided safaris in areas like Chobe National Park pose minimal safety risks, caution should still be exercised in urban centres such as Kasane and during self-drive trips.

In towns, petty crime—such as pickpocketing or opportunistic theft—can occur, particularly in markets, airports, and traffic stops. Most incidents are non-violent, but incidents like vehicle break-ins and grab thefts from traffic lights have happened. Keep valuables secured, avoid flaunting expensive items, and use licensed taxis after dark.

Wildlife safety is central to visiting Chobe. National parks and private reserves are unfenced, and wildlife may roam freely into camp areas. Never exit your vehicle unless permitted, and always obey your guide or lodge safety briefing. Lodges may escort guests at night and prohibit solo movements after dusk due to roaming animals.

Road safety remains a concern in remote regions. While main roads are generally well maintained, passing livestock or wildlife is common, especially at dawn/dusk. Night driving is discouraged due to poor lighting, road conditions, and the risk of wildlife accidents. For self-drive safaris, drive defensively, carry extra fuel and water, and familiarise yourself with emergency contacts.

Emergency medical services are available, though rural access may involve air evacuation via providers like Okavango Air Rescue. Travel insurance that covers evacuation is strongly recommended.