Chobe National Park

Chobe National park lies in northern Botswana, covering an area of roughly 10,700 km². The park was formed as a result of the ivory trade and in 1962, the first warden was appointed for it's protection. The park is said to have the highest concentration of African Elephant in Africa and is renowned for seeing large herds especially during the driest months of October/November. 

The name Chobe derives from the Chobe River, which runs along the northern edge of the park and also forms a natural border to Namibia in the Kasane Region. The Chobe Riverfront is located on the southbank of the Chobe River, with Kasane acting as it's administrative hub and is the most visited area of the park. Kasane is conveniently situated near the main entrance to Chobe National Park and one should be aware that only more experienced drivers can enter with their own vehicle. The park is covered with deep Kalahari sand and the roads can become especially treacherous during the wet season (December - April).  

Not only is the Chobe Riverfront one of the best places to see herds of elephant and buffalo, predators such as lion and hyena can also be spotted, with the occasional sighting of leopard, cheetah and even wild dogs. If that's not enough, Chobe offers some world class birdwatching year round, although best during the wet season (December-April). My list of favourites include a variety of Kingfisher, White Backed Vulture, Fish Eagle, Martial Eagle and plenty more.  

The Savute Marsh is the second most visited attraction within the park and deserves a seperate mention. Further information can be found here

Things to do in Chobe National Park (Kasane Region):
The most popular activities in this area include game drives to the Chobe National Park and a boat cruise on the Chobe River. Some lodges also offer cultural activities and daytrips to the Victoria Falls can also be arranged, including a tour of the falls or perhaps even a Heliflip. If you are travelling via self-drive, you can book game drives and boat cruises with one of the local operators or lodges like Chobe Safari Lodge. If you have sufficient self-drive experience, you can also enter Chobe National Park with your own vehicle (park entrance fees apply). Have a look at our things to do section for more options. 

How to get to Chobe National Park (Kasane Region):
Chobe National Park (the Kasane Region) is accessible via Kasane airport by scheduled flight, with South African Airways Express from Johannesburg, as well as any local charter airline. From here you would have arranged a transfer to your accommodation in or around the park in advance. 

If you choose to self-drive, you will be travelling to Kasane, which is where most of the accommodation near Chobe National park is located. You enter on the A33 coming from Ngoma (Namibia), or from Nata in the south. The accommodation in Kasane, is accessible with any type of vehicle, if you are staying at Chobe Game Lodge however, you will not be able to get here unless you have 4x4 driving experience. In all cases, it is always best to double check before your arrival. The alternative is always to leave your vehicle at Kasane airport during your stay, and arrange a transfer from here to your accommodation. 

Where to stay in Chobe National Park (Kasane Region)
Some of the more affordable and most conveniently located lodges are based in Kasane town itself, with Chobe Bakwena listed as one of my favourites. For a bit more privacy however, it is nicer to stay at one of the lodges based outside of the city centre, such as Chobe Game Lodge (the only lodge based inside the park) or Chobe Elephant Camp

Click here for a full list of accommodation.