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Chobe Elephant Camp
Chobe Elephant Camp
Chobe Elephant Camp
Chobe Elephant Camp
Chobe Elephant Camp
Chobe Elephant Camp
Chobe Elephant Camp
Chobe Elephant Camp
Chobe Elephant Camp
Chobe Elephant Camp
Chobe Elephant Camp
Chobe Elephant Camp
Chobe Elephant Camp

About Chobe Elephant Camp

Chobe Elephant Camp is situated in the Chobe Forest Reserve on the western perimeter of Chobe National Park.

The camp sits high on a rocky ridge, overlooking the mighty Chobe River and its surrounding floodplains, with views across to Namibia's Zambezi Region (formerly the Caprivi Strip). The camp is simple and fairly contemporary in design, and fits into the surrounding bush setting.

Chobe Elephant Camp has more of a farmhouse feel to it than the traditional tented camp but we love its quiet location. When we first stayed in May 2014 we found the guides knowledgeable and the camp staff friendly and willing to help, if somewhat new and unpolished. On our last stay in 2024, the staff were still friendly and polite, and the guides good. The camp is not luxurious and comes without the bells and whistles (there are other options nearby if luxury is a requirement), but their rates reflect this and are very reasonable.

Our view

Chobe Elephant Camp has more of a farmhouse feel to it than the traditional tented camp but we love its quiet location. When we first stayed in May 2014 we found the guides knowledgeable and the camp staff friendly and willing to help, if somewhat new and unpolished. On our last stay in 2024, the staff were still friendly and polite, and the guides good. The camp is not luxurious and comes without the bells and whistles (there are other options nearby if luxury is a requirement), but their rates reflect this and are very reasonable.

Amanda Bond

Amanda Bond

Botswana expert

Accommodation

18 chalets

Children

Best for aged 10+

Open

All year

Activities

4WD Safari

4WD Safari

Birdwatching

Birdwatching

Boat trip

Boat trip

Helicopter

Helicopter

Private activities

Private activities

Traveller reviews of Chobe Elephant Camp

24 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.


96%
24 reviews since August 2007
Excellent
19
Good
5
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
0
Mrs CfromSouthampton

Arrived 8 Nov 2024, 2 nights

"Chobe Elephant Camp review"

"Accommodation was in a proper solid chalet …" Read Mrs C’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr WfromLincolnshire

Arrived 21 Aug 2024, 2 nights

"Chobe Elephant Camp review"

"probably just about our favourite place …" Read Mr W’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mrs C.fromDubai

Arrived 17 Jul 2024, 2 nights

"Chobe Elephant Camp review"

"Nothing is too much trouble here. We will definitely return. …" Read Mrs C.’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs SfromKansas

Arrived 19 Jun 2024, 3 nights

"Chobe Elephant Camp review"

"We loved our stay at Chobe Elephant Camp. Game drives were wonderful. …" Read Mr & Mrs S’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs LfromLondon

Arrived 29 May 2024, 2 nights

"Chobe Elephant Camp - beautiful scenery "

"Our guide Gabriel was really fantastic and made it a great experience. …" Read Mr & Mrs L’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

D&LfromNew Zealand

Arrived 17 May 2024, 2 nights

"So Many Animals, So Little Time"

"It was full on from the moment we arrived (late due to delays at the border …" Read D&L’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Good

Mr & Mrs KfromMelbourne

Arrived 19 Sep 2023, 3 nights

"Chobe Elephant Camp review"

"It really couldn't be better...great safaris... great lodge …" Read Mr & Mrs K’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Tom EfromBucks

Arrived 6 Jul 2023, 3 nights

"Chobe Elephant Camp review"

"Exceptionally friendly... Food was superb... guiding and animal spotting magical …" Read Tom E’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

AniversfromNew Hampshire

Arrived 3 Oct 2022, 2 nights

"Chobe Elephant Camp review"

"the food was as good as the hospitality …" Read Anivers’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

CharliefromLondon

Arrived 14 Aug 2022, 2 nights

"Chobe Elephant Camp review"

"terrace and fire pit have beautiful views ... We saw an abundance of wildlife …" Read Charlie’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

See all Chobe Elephant Camp reviews

Chobe Elephant Camp: Our full report

Chobe Elephant Camp is situated in the Chobe Forest Reserve on the western perimeter of Chobe National Park.

The camp sits high on a rocky ridge, overlooking the mighty Chobe River and its surrounding floodplains, with views across to Namibia's Zambezi Region (formerly the Caprivi Strip). The camp is simple and fairly contemporary in design, and fits into the surrounding bush setting.

The main communal area at Chobe Elephant Camp is effectively a large corrugated-iron-roofed shed – albeit a very nice one! With large exposed wooden beams, polished concrete floors and rendered cream walls, the décor has a modern farmhouse feel. A big island bench separates a tiny bar and the humble sitting area, which is scattered with a few wooden chairs and tables, a wooden bench and a sofa, from the just as simple dining area, whose pine tables and chairs give a slight boarding school feel. Although the building is open to the front, it is set back on the ridge so the views take in only the immediate vicinity.

Steps lead down to a sandy boma area, where on a previous visit we enjoyed post-dinner drinks around the fire, which is lit most evenings. A gravel path takes you to a decent sized swimming pool situated on a deck and surrounded by sunloungers, where guests will find the best views across the river.

Chobe Elephant Camp now has 18 chalets (six new chalets opened up in June 23); two of these are two-bedroom family units, that wind around the escarpment from the main area along gravel pathways. The chalets, like all the camp buildings, are constructed from sandbags, which have then been rendered, creating an insulating barrier against the outside elements. Each chalet has a small veranda with a couple of canvas camping chairs, a quiet place to sit and watch for wildlife passing through below.

The chalets are similarly decorated to the main area, with cream rendered walls, polished concrete floors and wooden panelling – stylish, but with only the bare basics. The ceilings have been painted white to add a spacious and airy feel, and there is a ceiling fan and also an air conditioning unit above each bed for those scorching summer days. The twin beds, which can be made into a double on request, have white crisp linen, wooden headboards and brown scatter cushions. Along one wall, a wooden desk, resembling a small trestle table, has a plug point for charging camera batteries, a lamp and a can of insect repellent. A recess on the opposite wall houses a hanging rail, three small shelves and an electronic safe. A mosquito net suspended by a thin wire frame is folded behind the bed and can be pulled around when needed.

An open doorway, screened by a curtain on a steel curtain rod, leads to the en-suite bathroom, where the rustic theme continues. A rectangular ceramic sink with copper taps sits atop a polished concrete counter. Towels are provided in large wicker baskets beneath the sink, and washing powder and soap are supplied. The shower has its own cubicle, open to one side, and an external door leads outside to a larger, private shower.

The family chalet comprises two separate double/twin rooms, each en-suite, either side of a sitting room, with interleading doors leading from each bedroom. Thus it would work equally well for two couples travelling together.

Activities at Chobe Elephant Camp focus on 4WD game drives in the national park (with up to 9 people in a vehicle) and boat cruises on the Chobe River. It is also possible to do an escorted tour of a nearby village.

While Chobe National Park is without doubt one of the busiest safari areas within Botswana, particularly during the peak dry season from June to October, Chobe Elephant Camp's location on the less-frequented western side of the park means that you are unlikely to come across as many safari vehicles as near Kasane. Access is via the Ngoma Gate, just ten minutes' drive away, where there is no need to brave the sometimes very long queues at the eastern Sedudu Gate.

Often the best game viewing in Chobe is from the river. Boat cruises – which start close to Kasane, approximately 50 minute’s drive away, are taken as part of a full-day trip. Guests leave camp in the morning, taking a slow game drive through the park, usually along the riverfront, before boarding the boat in late morning or early afternoon, when the river is reasonably quiet. The return trip will include either a short afternoon game drive on the way back to camp, or a more speedy drive along the park’s tarred road; all depends on time, as park rules require everyone to be out of the park by sunset. If time is running out, and you’re on the tarred road, the drive could feel rushed, and windy in the back of the open game vehicle, but there is often game to see along the road. We have spotted small herds of sable antelope, lions, elephants and wild dogs here before!

The game densities in Chobe, especially in the dry season (June to October), can be phenomenal, but those who have stayed in the more exclusive private concessions in Botswana may be frustrated at having to share sightings with a fair number of vehicles and boats. Conversely, we have had some very enjoyable game drives in Chobe National Park. While the game densities on our last visit in May 2023, weren't as good as those later in the year, there was still plenty of wildlife to be seen (we saw lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, hippo, giraffe, to name a few), and for Chobe, this time of year is relatively free of hoards of people.

Geographics

Location
Chobe National Park, Botswana
Ideal length of stay
A stay of two to three nights would be ideal at Chobe Elephant Camp.
Directions
It's roughly a 50-minute drive from Kasane Airport to Chobe Elephant Camp, largely along a tar road; transfers are made in an air-conditioned minibus.
Accessible by
Fly-and-Transfer

Food & drink

Usual board basis
Full Board & Activities
Food quality
On our most recent visit in May 2024, the meals featured simple home cooking and were generally very good. Vegetarians and many other special requirements can be catered for with sufficient notice.

Breakfast of yoghurt, cereal, fruit, muffins, tea and coffee is served before the morning activity or full-day excursion.

Those taking just a morning game drive will be offered brunch. During our last stay we had very tasty dhal and vegetable curry (though a chicken pasta dish was also on offer), along with a mix of salads, fresh homemade bread and a cheese platter and fruit plate to finish.

If you take the full-day excursion then the guide takes a packed lunch, which includes a mix of picnic treats.

For afternoon tea there was a variety of sweet and savoury options on offer, we enjoyed some tasty crispy spring rolls and salad, though the cakes looked very appetising! Fruit juices, homemade lemonade and iced tea and coffee were on offer as well.

Dinner is a three-course meal served after everyone has returned from the afternoon activities. We enjoyed a tasty corn and ham chowder-style soup with homemade bread, followed by roast chicken with roast potatoes, baked squashes filled with cheese and corn, and mixed green vegetables. For pudding we had a refreshing fruit salad.
Dining style
Group Meals
Dining locations
Indoor and Outdoor Dining
Further dining info, including room service
None
Drinks included
A wide selection of drinks is available from the bar cabinet and these are included in the price. Premium brands, such as malt whiskies or French champagne, can be requested for an additional charge.

Fresh bottled mineral water and glasses are kept on a stand by the bed.

Children

Attitude towards children
Chobe Elephant Camp welcomes children aged 6 and above, though families with children under the age of 12 must book a private vehicle.
Equipment
Chobe Elephant Camp has two family chalets, each with two bedrooms.
Generally recommended for children
We would recommend Chobe Elephant for older children with a genuine interest in wildlife. The full-day trips including a boat cruise, especially, can make for a very long day for children.
Notes
Chobe Elephant Camp is unfenced with potentially dangerous wildlife in the area. The swimming pool is unfenced. Children must be under the supervision of a parent or guardian at all times.

Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Chobe Elephant Camp

Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Chobe Elephant Camp have kindly recorded their wildlife sightings and shared them with us. The results are below. Click an animal to see more, and here to see more on our methodology.

Buffalo

100% success

Elephant

100% success

Giraffe

100% success

Hippo

100% success

Zebra

100% success

Lion

93% success

Sable antelope

75% success

Leopard

67% success

Roan antelope

58% success

Spotted Hyena

50% success

Eland

25% success

Wildebeest

25% success

Wild dog

23% success

Brown Hyena

9% success

Cheetah

8% success

Aardvark

0% success

Pangolin

0% success

Sitatunga

0% success

Communications

Power supply notes
Chobe Elephant Camp uses solar power as their main source of power but has a back-up generator. Guests can charge camera batteries and other electrical equipment in their rooms.
Communications
Cellphone coverage can usually be found at Chobe Elephant Camp. Limited Wifi is available in the main area.
TV & radio
None
Water supply
Mains
Water supply notes
The chalets at Chobe Elephant Camp have fully plumbed showers. Toilets are flushing and there is running cold water in the en-suite bathrooms.

Health & safety

Malarial protection recommended
Yes
Medical care
The managers are first-aid trained. The nearest doctor is in Kasane, which is approximately 50 minutes' drive from the camp.
Dangerous animals
High Risk
Security measures
Guests are escorted to and from their rooms in the evening. There are locks on the chalet doors. 'Fog horns' are provided in the chalets to summon help in case of emergency.
Fire safety
Fire extinguishers are situated around the lodge.

Activities

  • 4WD Safari

    4WD Safari

  • Birdwatching

    Birdwatching

  • Boat trip

    Boat trip

  • Helicopter

    Helicopter

  • Private activities

    Private activities

Extras

Disabled access
Not Possible
Laundry facilities
A laundry service is included, although this does not include underwear. Washing powder is provided in the rooms for this purpose.
Money
There are safes in all the rooms.
Accepted payment on location
MasterCard and Visa credit cards are accepted; Diners and Amex are not. Cash payments may be made in South African rand, GB sterling, US dollars, euros and Botswana pula.

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Chobe Elephant Camp's location

Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Chobe Elephant Camp.


Excursions from Chobe Elephant Camp

Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Chobe Elephant Camp. Talk to us: these are usually best arranged before you go.


Helicopter Flight - Botswana

Helicopter Flight - Botswana

Various: from 30 minutes to half a day.

Low-flying, agile and offering superb views, helicopters are an ideal way to move around the Okavango Delta.You can use them instead of fixed-wing inter-lodge transfers or as an addition to other wildlife watching activities, and of course, helicopters can hover to allow that perfect pic, whereas fixed-wings can’t.

More about Helicopter Flight
100% (2 reviews)

Other lodges in Chobe National Park

Alternative places to stay in this same area.


Muchenje Safari Lodge

Muchenje Safari Lodge

One of our favourites in the area, Muchenje is a small, welcoming lodge at the quieter, western end of the Chobe Riverfront.


96% (175 reviews)
Chobe River Lodge

Chobe River Lodge

Overlooking the Chobe River, the intimate Chobe River Lodge is a haven of tranquillity away from the bustle of Kasane.


96% (59 reviews)
Savute Safari Lodge

Savute Safari Lodge

Savute Safari Lodge sits on the banks of the Savuti Channel within Chobe National Park, and offers access to excellent game viewing, especially during the dry season.


94% (36 reviews)
Savute Under Canvas

Savute Under Canvas

A mobile camp with the comforts of a semi-permanent tented camp, Savute Under Canvas offers guided game drives within the Savuti region of Chobe National Park.


95% (25 reviews)
Chobe Under Canvas

Chobe Under Canvas

This is a typical location for Chobe under Canvas, a small, semi-permanent camp in the Chobe Riverfront area that offers good value for money and high standards of care.


100% (22 reviews)
Chobe Safari Lodge

Chobe Safari Lodge

Chobe Safari Lodge is a good value, hotel-style lodge in the heart of Kasane offering game drives, boat cruises and fishing trips.


85% (19 reviews)
Chobe Game Lodge

Chobe Game Lodge

Chobe Game Lodge occupies an enviable riverfront location within Chobe National Park and boasts well-earned 'eco' credentials, as well as an excellent all-female guiding team.


85% (15 reviews)
Ngoma Safari Lodge

Ngoma Safari Lodge

With sweeping views across the floodplains of the Chobe River, Ngoma offers superb food and flexible safari activities.
Closed for refurbishment 5 Jan - 28 March 2026


100% (14 reviews)
Chobe Chilwero

Chobe Chilwero

On the periphery of Chobe National Park, Chobe Chilwero offers luxurious surroundings and excellent food, which complement superb game viewing on game drives and boat trips.


100% (3 reviews)
Camp Kuzuma

Camp Kuzuma

Camp Kuzuma sits in the Kazuma Forest Reserve and is an excellent place to see elephant in particular. Away from the busier riverfront area of Chobe National Park this camp offers a luxurious base form which to explore this less visited region of northern Botswana.


100% (2 reviews)
Savute Elephant Lodge

Savute Elephant Lodge

Savute Elephant Lodge is a luxurious camp on the banks of the now flowing Savuti Channel. This is a classic big-game area, although its location within Chobe National Park does limit the activities which are possible here.


100% (2 reviews)
Elephant Valley Lodge

Elephant Valley Lodge

Elephant Valley Lodge is a lovely camp in a beautiful setting – sit in its hide and watch the wildlife come to drink at the waterhole. Activities focus on boating and drives in Chobe which - although very busy, and a long drive from the lodge – is very rich in wildlife.


80% (1 review)

When to go to Chobe National Park

Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Chobe Elephant Camp in Chobe National Park


Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Chobe National Park in January

January marks the peak of the rainy season in Chobe National Park. Evening rains are typically brief but heavy, often accompanied by thunderstorms. While temperatures remain high, they are slightly cooler compared to earlier months. Wildlife tends to be more dispersed, making it harder to spot animals. Big game densities near the Chobe Riverfront are relatively low, but some resident species, like giraffes, are accustomed to vehicles and can appear so relaxed that they seem almost tame.

The Savuti Marsh becomes lush and green, attracting herbivores. Migratory birds abound throughout the park, with the Linyanti Marsh being particularly rich in birdlife during this period. January is an excellent time for visitors interested in lush landscapes and diverse birdlife. Lower rates at many lodges make this a good time to visit on a more moderate budget.

  • Warm temperatures with occasional thunderstorms
  • Birdlife at its most spectacular in Chobe
  • Big game dispersed across the park
  • Seek most wildlife away from the river
  • Good availability and rates in Chobe’s lodges and camps

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in January

Chobe National Park in February

February in Chobe National Park is similar to January, with heavy rains most days, often towards evening. The landscape is green and alive, with insects and smaller animals more easily seen. Many birds and animals are raising their young, especially in the Linyanti and Savuti areas, making for lovely family group sightings. The Chobe River swells, creating a spectacular landscape and attracting diverse wildlife. However, the rains create pools and waterholes in the bush, which combined with thicker vegetation makes it harder to spot larger animals.

The Chobe Riverfront area still offers a good wildlife experience as although much big game has moved away, the animals that remain are often more relaxed. Boat cruises on the Chobe River provide excellent opportunities to observe wildlife from a different perspective. Visitor numbers remain low, with good rates and more availability in camps and lodges.

  • Warm with occasional thunderstorms in Chobe
  • Vegetation running riot; smaller wildlife thriving
  • Many animals with young in the park
  • Big game dispersed throughout Chobe
  • Low visitor numbers, good camp availability

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in February

Chobe National Park in March

March typically marks the end of the main rainy season in Chobe National Park, with showers gradually tapering off. Many days are characterised by clear skies, intense sunshine, and rising temperatures. Short afternoon thunderstorms may still occur, while the park's landscape remains lush and vibrant. During this time, many birds and animals complete the process of raising their young. The Savuti Marsh area becomes particularly fascinating as predators exploit the vulnerability of the young and weaker prey.

The Chobe River levels start to stabilise, offering excellent boat safari opportunities. March can also be a good time to explore the Linyanti area, where many animals congregate as other water sources begin to dry up. With fewer visitors in most areas, rates are still be relatively low at lodges and safari camps.

  • Variable weather, rains tailing off in Chobe
  • Occasional small thunderstorms in the park
  • Many animals finish raising young in Chobe
  • Birdlife still spectacular along Chobe River
  • Few tourists, often lower rates in lodges

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in March

Chobe National Park in April

During April, rains in Chobe National Park have usually stopped, though there may still be the odd afternoon downpour. This results in clear skies and a lovely green, lush landscape. Night-time temperatures start to drop, and are especially noticeable in the Savuti area. The Chobe Riverfront begins to flourish at this time, with the numbers of elephants and other wildlife gradually increasing along the river.

The Savuti region is a particular favourite during this time, with good predator-prey interactions on display. April marks the beginning of the shoulder season for many camps, so rates are on the rise but still relatively moderate. This is an excellent time for photographic safaris, as the air is clear and the landscape still green.

  • Cooler evenings, occasional showers in Chobe
  • Northern Chobe lush and green
  • Good predator-prey interaction observable
  • Savuti area best for wildlife viewing
  • Popular shoulder season, relatively low rates

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in April

Chobe National Park in May

May is a very popular month to visit Chobe National Park, often the last month of the shoulder season before camp rates hit their peak. While there is very little chance of rain, the annual floods from Angola start to make their way through the northern part of the park. With cooler temperatures in the morning and evening, predator activity tends to be higher, especially in the Savuti and Linyanti areas.

The Chobe Riverfront becomes busier with wildlife as water dries up elsewhere, making it an excellent time for boat cruises on the Chobe River, where close encounters with elephants and other wildlife are a real treat. Away from the water, game drives in the park's interior become more rewarding as vegetation thins out and sightings improve. May is a favourite time for many visitors, and camp bookings throughout Chobe are start to be snapped up quickly.

  • Cool mornings and evenings, little rain in Chobe
  • Game viewing beginning to improve
  • Predator activity increasing in Savuti
  • Last month of shoulder season for most camps
  • Availability decreases throughout Chobe

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in May

Chobe National Park in June

June marks the real start of the dry season in Chobe National Park. Temperatures are cool in the mornings and evenings, occasionally reaching freezing at night, and rising to 25-30°C/77-86°F during the day. This brings a certain clarity to the air and clear blue skies, making it a favourite month for serious photographers. Surface water and smaller natural waterholes are now drying up, leading wildlife to congregate around the remaining large water sources, including the Chobe River.

Visibility improves as the grass dies back, making game viewing very good throughout the park. The Savuti Channel and Linyanti areas see increased predator activity. June is an excellent time for both land and water-based safaris in Chobe, so not surprisingly, camp availability becomes scarce and rates climb.

  • Warm days, cold nights in Chobe National Park
  • Excellent conditions for wildlife photography
  • Animals congregating at Chobe River
  • Grasses dying back, improving visibility
  • Peak season begins, rates increase

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in June

Chobe National Park in July

July in Chobe National Park offers cold evenings and mornings, combined with great daytime game viewing; this makes it one of the most popular times to visit. Vegetation is really thinning out, making game ever-easier to spot, with the few remaining waterholes attracting large congregations of wildlife species. The Chobe Riverfront is increasingly rewarding, with large herds of elephants and buffalo congregating along the river.

However, this area is now becoming busy with visitors. Game viewing is good in the Savuti area too, with frequent predator sightings. The Linyanti Marsh attracts diverse wildlife, including rare species like wild dogs. Camps are now very much into the peak season and tend to be full. Advance booking is essential for popular lodges and camps.

  • Comfortable days, cold nights in Chobe
  • Excellent game viewing as vegetation dies back
  • Chobe Riverfront becomes busy with wildlife
  • Private concessions offer exclusive experiences
  • Peak season, higher rates in lodges

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in July

Chobe National Park in August

August is a favourite time for visiting Chobe National Park, as it aligns with the European and North American summer holidays. Camps tend to fill up quickly, so booking well in advance is essential. Daytime temperatures are pleasantly warm, perfect for outdoor activities; nights can be chilly, but the clear, cloudless skies also provide stunning opportunities for stargazing.

Wildlife is now congregating around the remaining water sources, especially along the Chobe River, making it a fantastic time for game viewing. If the Savuti Channel is flowing, it becomes a magnet for a variety of wildlife. This is one of the prime months to witness the park’s iconic large elephant herds. A boat cruise on the Chobe River offers up-close views of wildlife, including hippos and crocodiles.

With crystal-clear skies and animals congregating near water, August is an excellent time for photography safaris.

  • Dry, warm days and cool nights in Chobe
  • Spectacular stargazing opportunities
  • Fantastic wildlife watching along Chobe River
  • Large elephant herds visible at waterholes
  • Peak season, high rates and limited availability

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in August

Chobe National Park in September

September is another very popular month to visit Chobe National Park. Days are warming up, while nights remain refreshingly cool. With drier conditions, most of the greenery has faded from the landscape, and photographers may find the haze from dust or smoke challenging, but it sets the stage for breathtaking sunsets.

Game viewing in September is exceptional, with large herds of elephants and buffalo gathering in the Chobe region. The Savuti and Linyanti areas also offer excellent predator sightings, and migratory birds begin to return, adding vibrant flashes of colour and adding to the park’s biodiversity.

Water-based activities on the Chobe River, such as boat cruises, are particularly rewarding, offering close-up views of animals coming to drink. Accommodation in camps and lodges is in high demand, with rates remaining at a premium, so early bookings are essential.

  • Warmer days, cool nights in Chobe National Park
  • One of the best months for wildlife viewing
  • Large elephant and buffalo herds by Chobe River
  • Hazy conditions create brilliant sunsets
  • High season rates, many lodges and camps fully booked

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in September

Chobe National Park in October

October is typically the hottest and driest month in Chobe National Park. Towards the end of the month, the likelihood of rain increases, bringing a rise in humidity. The air is often dry and hazy, which can make photography more challenging, but the scarcity of water and vegetation leads to excellent opportunities for spotting big game. The Chobe Riverfront becomes a prime gathering spot for wildlife, particularly impressive herds of elephants.

In the Savuti area, predator-prey interactions are frequently observed around the remaining waterholes. Water levels are significantly lower by this time, meaning water-based activities like boating and fishing are limited to major tributaries. October is an ideal month for walking safaris, especially during the cooler morning hours. Despite the intense heat, it remains a prime time for wildlife enthusiasts eager to witness concentrated animal activity.

  • Hot temperatures in Chobe, chance of late rain
  • Excellent big game viewing opportunities
  • Water activities limited as levels can be low
  • Hazy conditions less ideal for photographers
  • Final month of peak season in Chobe camps

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in October

Chobe National Park in November

November typically signals the end of the dry season in Chobe National Park. Rising temperatures bring increased humidity, leading to the arrival of the first rains. These showers are often brief but heavy, occurring in the late afternoon or at night, and can be quite dramatic. The rains provide a welcome relief, slightly cooling the temperatures and transforming the parched landscapes into vibrant shades of green.

As waterholes begin to replenish, wildlife starts to disperse across the park. Birdwatching is particularly rewarding this month, with the arrival of many migratory species, especially in the Linyanti Marsh area. The first half of November is a favourite among travellers, offering exceptional game viewing at more reasonable rates as Chobe enters its shoulder season.

  • Hot days, increasing humidity in Chobe
  • Heavy showers more likely as month progresses
  • Wildlife watching good but less predictable
  • Migrant birds arrive in Chobe National Park
  • Shoulder season brings mid-range lodge rates

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in November

Chobe National Park in December

By December, the rains in Chobe National Park are underway, providing relief from the intense heat. While game viewing becomes more challenging as animals spread out, excellent sightings can still be enjoyed along the Chobe Riverfront and in the Savuti Marsh. The rains bring a vibrant transformation to the landscape, with fresh greenery creating beautiful scenery. This is also a fantastic time for bird enthusiasts, as numerous migratory species make their presence known.

The Linyanti area becomes especially lush, drawing a variety of wildlife. December is ideal for those eager to see newborn animals, as many species give birth during this time. Boat cruises on the Chobe River offer a refreshing way to observe wildlife and enjoy the scenery. With low-season rates at many camps, December is an appealing option for budget-conscious travellers looking to experience the park’s beauty.

  • Temperatures falling from October-November highs
  • High chance of rain in Chobe National Park
  • Wildlife more dispersed across the park
  • Game viewing more challenging but rewarding
  • Typically low-season rates in Chobe camps

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in December

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