About Chobe River Lodge
A riot of lush foliage frames the entrance to the Chobe River Lodge, hinting at the far-from-corporate guesthouse within.
Indeed, this attractive thatched building has more in common with a safari lodge than with Kasane’s large hotels. Quietly secluded within beautiful gardens, it’s an uncomplicated set up matched by personal service and a friendly touch that is often missing from the larger establishments.
For starters, guests dine together at one big communal table, overlooking lawns that lead down to the Chobe River. And these, in turn, are beloved of the local hippos, who sometimes turn up to graze at nightfall.
Then at the heart of the lodge, a proper pool takes up one side of the the lofty lounge area, open to the sky, and lined by welcoming sunloungers. And the verandah, invites guests to settle down with a pair of binoculars and watch the river.
And so to the rooms: comfortable beds, unfussy décor, tiled floors, en-suite bathrooms, individual verandas. The feel is homely yet uncluttered.
It all adds up to a welcoming place to while away the time between activities: game drives into Chobe National Park are operated by the lodge itself, as are boat cruises from its own jetty.
Our view
Unlike many other Kasane lodges and hotels, the small Garden Lodge offers tranquillity and personalised service with a guesthouse feel. Their activities have some flexibility, and it is a great stop for travellers on a self-drive safari wishing to visit Chobe before heading to Victoria Falls.
Botswana expert
Accommodation
8 rooms
Children
Suitable for all ages
Open
All year
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Boat trip
Fishing
Helicopter
Private activities
Traveller reviews of Chobe River Lodge
59 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
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Chobe River Lodge: Our full report
Formerly known as Garden Lodge, Chobe River Lodge is a small guesthouse in the town of Kasane, Botswana, ...
... which borders the Chobe National Park. Beautiful flowers such as hibiscus, frangipani and bougainvillea combine with tropical plants, including banana and paw paw trees, and a riverside location to make this a lovely tranquil spot to spend a few days. In early 2021 Chobe River Lodge changed name, following extensive renovations - the following information refers to the property as it was and will be updated shortly since our more recent visits.
This area of Chobe National Park can be very busy. There are numerous large hotels in Kasane which utilise the park and the river and at the height of the season the area can seem a bit like a circus. Chobe River Lodge is a small haven of tranquility among the chaos, and a delightful spot for a few days in Kasane.
The Garden Lodge has just eight rooms – five doubles and three family rooms. The rooms have a cosy feel – like staying in someone’s home – and all are broadly similar, although one is smaller than the rest. The décor is mostly white, giving them a cool feel, plus there’s air conditioning, a fan, a safe, a hairdryer and tea- and coffee-making facilities.
Each room has an en-suite bathroom with a shower rather than a bath, and a private veranda looking out towards the Chobe River.
The communal areas at The Garden Lodge include a bar, which is known as the map room due to the variety of maps on the walls, a swimming pool and a lounge and dining room with a communal table where guests can swap travel tales. As the name suggests, the guesthouse is surrounded by a beautiful garden, which slopes down to the riverside.
Although it is possible for guests to explore Chobe National Park and the surrounding areas in their own vehicle, The Garden Lodge offers a range of activities that are worth considering. Favourite options are safari drives in Chobe National Park in open 4WD vehicles and boat cruises on the Chobe River. These are usually morning and afternoon activities, but timings can be flexible depending on guests’ needs.
The Chobe River is a tributary of the Zambezi River and both waterways are known for their sizeable tiger fish. Garden Lodge offers fishing excursions and supplies all the tackle required to catch these game fish. Any fishing from the guesthouse is operated on a catch-and-release basis. It is also possible to visit one of the villages across the river in Namibia. The guide would take you from Botswana to Namibia by mokoro, a dug-out canoe, then show you through the villages on foot.
Geographics
- Location
- Chobe National Park, Botswana
- Directions
- Chobe River Lodge is situated in the centre of Kasane town and is easily reached by self-drive or by transfer after visiting the Victoria Falls in Zambia, or other safari camps in Botswana.
- Accessible by
- Self-drive or Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Half Board
- Food quality
- Meals at the Chobe River Lodge are on the lines of those at a safari lodge – hearty and plentiful.
Each day a substantial choice of continental or English breakfast is offered.
Lunch is usually a buffet including a choice of hot dishes, salads, cold meats and cheeses. On our last visit to the Chobe River Lodge we stopped by for a delicious buffet spread of pasta bake, salads, fruit, rice salad and bread. It was all very fresh, and very tasty.
Dinner is a set menu, although the guesthouse is always happy to cater for individual dietary requirements provided they know about them in advance. - Dining style
- Group Meals
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Drinks included
- Drinks are not included.
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Children are welcome here.
- Property’s age restrictions
- There are no age restrictions at the Chobe River Lodge.
- Special activities & services
- There are no particular activities for children.
- Equipment
- Small beds can be added to the family rooms.
- Generally recommended for children
- Yes – the lodge has three family rooms and children will enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, and of course the pool.
- Notes
- Hippos sometimes come up on to the lawn by the river, and the pool is unfenced, so children should be supervised at all times, especially in this area.
Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Chobe River Lodge
Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Chobe River Lodge 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.
100% success
100% success
91% success
90% success
80% success
70% success
40% success
38% success
33% success
25% success
17% success
11% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
Communications
- Power supply notes
- Always on
- Communications
- WiFi is available in the main area, and there’s a computer with free internet access for guest use. There is also a good cellphone signal here.
- TV & radio
- None
- Water supply
- Mains
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- Yes
- Medical care
- The lodge has a first-aid kit and links to a local doctor in Kasane.
- Dangerous animals
- Moderate Risk
- Security measures
- The lodge is gated and guarded.
Balcony safety warning: The balconies of the upstairs rooms at Chobe River Lodge are not suitably enclosed for children under the age of 6 years. We strongly recommend families with young children book ground-floor rooms here. - Fire safety
- Fire extinguishers are dotted around the lodge.
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Boat trip
Fishing
Helicopter
Private activities
Extras
- Disabled access
- Not Possible
- Laundry facilities
- Laundry is included.
- Money
- There is no currency exchange, but there are several banks with ATMs in Kasane.
- Accepted payment on location
- Visa and Mastercard are accepted. All currencies are accepted, including Namibian dollars (unusual for a lodge outside Namibia).
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Chobe River Lodge's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Chobe River Lodge.
Excursions from Chobe River Lodge
Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Chobe River Lodge. Talk to us: these are usually best arranged before you go.
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 FlightOther lodges in Chobe National Park
Alternative places to stay in this same area.
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.
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.
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.
Chobe Elephant Camp
Located in one of our favorite areas of Chobe National Park, Chobe Elephant Camp is a simple but well-appointed camp with a strong bush feel.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
When to go to Chobe National Park
Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Chobe River Lodge 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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