About Chobe Savanna Lodge
Situated in the eastern Caprivi, on the northern bank of the Chobe River, Chobe Savanna Lodge overlooks the ...
... floodplains of Chobe National Park's Puku Flats. Its riverside location is ideal for boat trips, fishing trips, cultural visits, birding and watching large herds of elephant and buffalo in the dry season (Jun-Oct).
Although we have not stayed at Chobe Savanna Lodge, we liked what we saw on our visit in June 2018. Overlooking the Chobe National Park, activities are firmly focused on the water. While this offers a change of pace from the usual safari activities, in the wet season the parks herds of elephant and buffalo disperse making game viewing more challenging. If wildlife watching is your priority, consider combining Chobe Savanna Lodge with a camp on the Botswana side.
Our view
Although we have not stayed at Chobe Savanna Lodge, we liked what we saw on our visit in June 2018. Overlooking the Chobe National Park, activities are firmly focused on the water. While this offers a change of pace from the usual safari activities, in the wet season the parks herds of elephant and buffalo disperse making game viewing more challenging. If wildlife watching is your priority, consider combining Chobe Savanna Lodge with a camp on the Botswana side.
Accommodation
13 chalets
Children
Fine for all ages
Open
All year
Activities
Birdwatching
Boat trip
Cultural excursion
Fishing
Guided walking safari
Private activities
Traveller reviews of Chobe Savanna Lodge
1 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
Arrived 28 Jun 2019, 3 nights
"Chobe Savanna Lodge review"
Overall rating: Excellent







Expert Africa's gallery
When we travel we take lots of photos ourselves to give you a real and un-edited view of the safaris. See our 62 pictures and 1 videos of Chobe Savanna Lodge to get the candid view.
View galleryChobe Savanna Lodge: Our full report
Situated in the eastern Caprivi, on the northern bank of the Chobe River, Chobe Savanna Lodge overlooks the ...
... floodplains of Chobe National Park's Puku Flats. Its riverside location is ideal for boat trips, fishing trips, cultural visits, birding and watching large herds of elephant and buffalo in the dry season (Jun-Oct).
Run by a company whose other properties include Chobe Game Lodge (just a short distance down river, on the Botswana side), Savute Safari Lodge and Leroo La Tau in the Makgadikgadi Pans, amongst others.
Spaced out along the banks of the Chobe river, it’s 13 thirteen thatched chalets, are linked by brick pathways to the main area. All are spread out within attractive gardens and extensive lawns and have a private deck with a river view across to Chobe National Park, making for very relaxing game viewing even when not on game drives.
The classic timber-and-thatch roofed, brick walled chalets, have a tastefully furnished open-plan lounge and bedroom area with polished wood floor and animal skin rugs, and an en-suite bathroom. The décor follows a contemporary African theme, coupled with crisp, white bed linen.
Taking centre stage and facing out towards large, glass sliding double doors and picture windows to the river, are the twin or double beds with mosquito net, and bedside tables with reading lamps. Sharing the beautiful view are a couple of chairs and a small table positioned in front of the bed, and off to the side is a reading desk with a tea and coffee station. As well as ceiling fans, the chalets also have air conditioning, whilst other room amenities include multi plug adaptors, a hairdryer, torch, a safe and a respectably stocked, complementary mini-bar. Outside, through the sliding doors is a small, shaded veranda with a couple of directors’ chairs to relax in.
Off the side of the bedroom the fully tiled, en suite bathroom has twin basins, flush toilet and a shower with toiletries, as well as a bathrobe.
One of the chalets is designed for families and has the addition of an extra twin bedroom for children, with both rooms sharing one bathroom.
Possible activities at Chobe Savanna Lodge include game viewing from a motorised boat, seasonal fishing trips for bream or tiger fish on a catch-and-release basis, cultural visits to a local community, specialist birding trips and seasonal guided nature walks along the floodplain.
Geographics
- Location
- Caprivi Strip, Namibia
- Accessible by
- Self-drive or Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Full Board & Activities
- Food quality
- A light continental breakfast is served between 05:30 and 06:00 before guests head out on their first activity for the day.
Brunch is served back at the lodge between 11:00 and 11:30.
Afternoon tea is served between 15:00 and 15:30 before the afternoon activity commences.
Dinner is served between 19:30 and 20:00 - Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Drinks included
- Soft drinks, house wines, local beers and spirits
Special interests
- Family holidays
- Located on the Chobe River, this lodge features wildlife views, game drives, and boat cruises. With three family chalets and a pool, Chobe Savanna Lodge makes a great stop on a family safari in Namibia.
- See ideas for Family holidays in Namibia
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Children of all ages are welcome at Chobe Savanna Lodge.
- Property’s age restrictions
- Families with children younger than six years of age must book private activities. (subject to availability)
- Special activities & services
- None
- Equipment
- None
- Generally recommended for children
- Chobe Savanna Lodge is a good option for families with children.
- Notes
- Children must be under their parents or guardians supervision at all times.
Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Chobe Savanna Lodge
Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Chobe Savanna 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

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100% success

0% success

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Communications
- Power supply notes
- Chobe Savanna Lodge has a backup generator which automatically kicks in when there is a power outage.
- Communications
- The lodge has no telephone communications, however there is a satellite phone as well as radio communications for emergencies only.
There is no WiFi but there is a communal laptop with basic internet connectivity for guest use. - TV & radio
- None
- Water supply
- Other
- Water supply notes
- Reverse osmosis water treatment plant supplies all drinking water. Bottled water is available on request at an additional charge.
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- Yes
- Medical care
- The closest doctor is in Kasane, which requires a one-hour boat trip then a short drive. In the event of a serious incident, guests would be flown to Windhoek, from Kasane.
- Dangerous animals
- High Risk
- Fire safety
Activities
Birdwatching
Boat trip
Cultural excursion
Fishing
Guided walking safari
Private activities
Extras
- Disabled access
- On Request
- Money
- There is a small pass-code protected safe in each chalet.
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Chobe Savanna Lodge's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Chobe Savanna Lodge.
Other lodges in Caprivi Strip
Alternative places to stay in this same area.

Ndhovu Safari Lodge
Ndhovu is a simple riverside lodge, with tents that are reminiscent of safaris a decade or two ago.

Hakusembe Lodge
Hakusembe River Lodge is a substantial lodge with a superb location on the Kavango River.

Chobe Princesses
The Chobe Princess houseboats offer a memorable way to explore the Chobe and Zambezi Rivers in Namibia's Caprivi. Perfect for a couple or for a group of family or friends.

Lianshulu Lodge
Beside the Kwando River, within Mudumu National Park, Lianshulu is a small safari lodge offering 4WD safaris and river trips – with particularly good birdlife.

Nkasa Lupala
Peaceful Nkasa Lupala is a comfortable lodge in a remote and little-explored area close to Nkasa Rupara National Park.

Nunda River Lodge
NNunda River Lodge overlooks a pretty part of the Kavango River near Popa Falls and the productive Mahango National Park.

Camp Kwando
Near to Mudumu National Park, Camp Kwando is a comfortable and unfussy option with opportunities for game drives, boat safaris and fishing.

Ichingo Chobe Lodge
Safari holiday in Namibia's Caprivi Strip, staying at Ichingo Chobe River Lodge on Impalila Island.

Nambwa Tented Lodge
A beautiful safari lodge In the remote Bwabwata National Park, Nambwa Tented Lodge brings serious comfort to a relaxing safari.

River Dance
Build on stilts on the banks of the Kavango River, River Dance Lodge has great views, a relaxed ambience and excellent birdlife.

Zambezi Queen
The Zambezi Queen offers luxurious two- and three-night cruises along the game-rich Chobe River, including game viewing by small boat and 4WD as well as catch-and-release fishing.

Taranga Lodge
Situated on the banks of the Kavango, Taranga Safari Lodge works as a convenient stopover before going onto explore the Caprivi.

Divava Lodge & Spa
The substantial Divava Okavango Lodge & Spa offers plenty of pampering opportunities in an unspoilt riverside setting

Cascade Island Lodge
Cascade Island Lodge, near Kasane in the Caprivi Strip is a very luxurious, high end option for those seeking peace and privacy on the Zambezi River.

Shametu Lodge
Shametu River Lodge has the best views of the Popa Rapids of any private lodge in the Divundu area.

Jackalberry Camp
Jackalberry Camp is uniquely situated in the Nkasa Rupara National Park affording unrivalled access to this little-visited corner of Namibia.

Namushasha Lodge
One of the larger lodges in the Bwabwata National Park, Namushasha is an economic option with an attractive river-side location.

Kazile Island Lodge
On an island in the Kwando River within Bwabwata National Park, the remote Kazile lsland Lodge offers games drives, bush walks and boat cruises.

Serondela
Accessible only by river, Serondela combines the remoteness of Namibia’s Caprivi Strip with access to Botswana’s flagship Chobe National Park.

Chobe Water Villas
Chobe Water Villas is a beautiful and thoughtfully designed lodge, in a great location on the Namibian banks of the Chobe River.
When to go to Caprivi Strip
Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Chobe Savanna Lodge in Caprivi Strip
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Caprivi Strip in January
January marks the heart of the rainy season in the Caprivi Strip. The Zambezi and Kwando rivers swell, nourishing the lush landscapes of Bwabwata and Mudumu National Parks. Rainfall can be heavy but localised, with temperatures around 30°C/86°F.
The verdant environment makes a refreshing change, especially in typically drier areas. Birdlife is abundant, with many species in full breeding plumage and migratory birds present in force. In Nkasa Rupara National Park, the abundant water allows wildlife to disperse, making it more challenging to spot. However, boat cruises along the major rivers offer excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and birdwatching.
- Variable weather: hot and dry or humid with rain
- Occasional localised thunderstorms in the region
- Abundant birdlife, especially migratory species
- Wildlife dispersed, harder to spot in Bwabwata
- Few tourists, low rates at lodges and camps
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in January
Caprivi Strip in February
February is the wettest month in the Caprivi Strip, with the Zambezi Region experiencing some of the heaviest rainfall. The Kavango and Zambezi rivers reach their peak levels, creating a lush, green paradise.
Days alternate between clear, hot and humid, and cooler with building clouds culminating in spectacular thunderstorms. These storms can cause flash floods, bringing ephemeral rivers to life and making travel more challenging, especially in remote areas like Khaudum National Park. The landscape feels vibrant and alive; insects and smaller animals are more easily seen in Bwabwata and Mudumu National Parks. Many birds and animals are raising their young. However, the abundance of water and thicker vegetation can make it harder to spot larger wildlife. Boat safaris along the Chobe River offer excellent game viewing opportunities.
- Weather alternates between hot/dry and humid/rainy
- Thunderstorms meander over the lush landscape
- Vibrant birdlife in wetlands and floodplains
- Wildlife scattered across Bwabwata National Park
- Low tourist numbers, great deals on accommodation
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in February
Caprivi Strip in March
March usually sees the main rains in the Caprivi Strip tailing off, though precipitation varies across the region. Many days are clear with strong sun, while others may end with short, spectacular thunderstorms. As the month progresses, these rains reduce in frequency and volume. The landscape remains vivid and green, particularly in Bwabwata and Mudumu National Parks.
Wildlife viewing can be challenging as animals disperse, but patient observers may spot young animals and a variety of bird species in breeding plumage. The Kwando and Zambezi rivers remain high, offering excellent opportunities for boat safaris and fishing. Impalila Island becomes more accessible as water levels start to recede.
- Weather varies: clear and hot or cloudy and humid
- Thunderstorms decrease as the month progresses
- Animals well-fed after months of plentiful food
- Wildlife viewing challenging in Bwabwata Park
- Few visitors, low rates at lodges and camps
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in March
Caprivi Strip in April
April in the Caprivi Strip is characterised by increasingly dry weather, with temperatures starting to fall. Days remain pleasantly warm, and humidity is still high, but nights start to have a slight chill. The recent rains leave the region lush and green, particularly in Bwabwata and Nkasa Rupara National Parks.
Animals are in excellent condition, often with fast-growing young. As the atmosphere clears, photographers can capture spectacular landscapes and healthy wildlife. Stargazing becomes more rewarding as night skies clear.
In the northern parks like Mudumu and Bwabwata, water and food remain plentiful, so big game can be more dispersed. However, boat safaris along the Zambezi and Chobe rivers continue to offer excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. April is an ideal time for birdwatching, with many migratory species still present.
- Nights become cooler and drier in the region
- Easter sees a slight increase in visitor numbers
- Wildlife still dispersed in Bwabwata National Park
- Migratory birds begin their northward journey
- Lush green landscapes and crisp, clean air
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in April
Caprivi Strip in May
By May, the Caprivi Strip is drying out, but if rains have been good the land remains green. Wildlife in Bwabwata and Mudumu National Parks starts to congregate around permanent water sources. The air quality and clarity can be amazing, making this an ideal month for photography.
Typical days are warm with crisp, clear mornings and blue skies. Evenings are cool, with temperatures possibly dipping below 10°C/50°F overnight. Many lodges still charge low season prices, offering good value. The combination of increasingly good wildlife sightings, beautiful landscapes, and crystal-clear air makes May one of the best months to visit the Caprivi Strip. River activities along the Zambezi, Chobe, and Kwando rivers are particularly enjoyable, with pleasant temperatures and good wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Pleasant weather: warm days and cool nights
- Landscapes remain green as the region dries out
- Excellent visibility for wildlife photography
- Low visitor numbers and moderate lodge rates
- Wildlife starts to congregate near water sources
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in May
Caprivi Strip in June
June sees the Caprivi Strip fully dry, with blue, cloudless skies. Days are warm and dry, while nights can be cold, sometimes near freezing in more exposed areas. Warm clothing is essential for early morning game drives in Bwabwata and Mudumu National Parks.
Wildlife viewing enters its dry-season pattern, focusing around waterholes and rivers. The Kwando and Zambezi rivers offer excellent boat safari opportunities, with animals frequently coming to drink. Photographers benefit from superb air clarity, with minimal dust or smoke. Fishing, particularly for tigerfish, becomes increasingly popular as water levels stabilise.
Historically, June accommodation prices have been low, but the region's increasing popularity means some lodges now charge higher prices.
- Clear days, cold nights
- Great conditions for landscape photography
- Moderate lodge rates in this shoulder season
- Wildlife gathers at waterholes for easier viewing
- Some greenery persists in the lush landscape
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in June
Caprivi Strip in July
July in the Caprivi Strip offers reliably warm daytime temperatures above 20°C/68°F and excellent wildlife sightings. Rain is extremely rare, and clear skies make for great photographs, especially in Bwabwata and Nkasa Rupara National Parks. Nights can be very cold, potentially below freezing in exposed areas. Visitors should dress in layers and be prepared for chilly morning and evening game drives.
As vegetation dries out, game concentrates around water sources., and the Kwando and Zambezi rivers become wildlife hotspots, offering excellent boat safari opportunities. Lodges charge high season rates, and many are fully booked well in advance, especially during European school holidays.
- Dry days, cold nights ideal for stargazing
- European holidays bring more family travellers
- Peak season with higher rates and busy lodges
- Excellent wildlife viewing in Bwabwata Park
- Boat safaris popular on the region's rivers
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in July
Caprivi Strip in August
August is the height of winter in the Caprivi Strip. Expect cloudless skies and warm sun during the day, but nights can drop to freezing in exposed areas. Warm clothes are essential for early morning and evening activities.
The landscape is dry, with much vegetation turned golden brown, creating stark and beautiful scenery in Bwabwata and Mudumu National Parks. Wildlife congregates around available water sources, guaranteeing excellent animal sightings, especially along the Kwando and Zambezi rivers. Boat safaris and fishing expeditions are highly rewarding, with animals frequently seen coming to the water's edge to drink.
August is the most popular time to visit, particularly for families. Advance booking is crucial for the best lodges.
- Dry days and cold nights continue in Caprivi
- Cloudless skies offer spectacular stargazing
- Busier season, especially for family accommodation options
- Peak rates and advance bookings necessary
- Prime time for game drives and river safaris
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in August
Caprivi Strip in September
September in the Caprivi Strip brings blue, cloudless skies and fantastic wildlife viewing. Rain is almost unheard of, and temperatures gradually increase. Daily maximums can reach the low 30s Celsius / 80s Fahrenheit, though low humidity keeps it comfortable. Nights remain cool.
The air becomes dustier, creating atmospheric scenes for photography. In Bwabwata, Mudumu, and Nkasa Rupara National Parks, animals cluster around remaining water sources, making September one of the best months for game viewing. It's a popular time for visitors, with high season rates in effect. Safari enthusiasts often choose this month for its reliable wildlife sightings. Boat safaris along the Zambezi and Chobe rivers offer excellent opportunities to see elephants and other wildlife coming to drink.
- Excellent month for wildlife viewing in Caprivi
- Warming temperatures as the month progresses
- Landscape transitions from green to golden brown
- High season rates at lodges and camps continue
- Advance bookings essential for accommodation
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in September
Caprivi Strip in October
October is typically the hottest and driest month in the Caprivi Strip. Temperatures build throughout the month, with daily highs potentially exceeding 40°C/104°F, though the low humidity makes it bearable. In rare years, isolated showers may occur late in the month.
Wildlife viewing in Bwabwata and Mudumu National Parks is at its peak, with animals congregating around dwindling water sources. The Zambezi and Kwando rivers become crucial lifelines for wildlife. October is popular among wildlife enthusiasts and commands peak-season prices. Dust and occasional smoke can create hazy conditions, challenging for photographers but creating dramatic scenes. Boat safaris offer respite from the heat and excellent game viewing.
- Peak wildlife-viewing in Bwabwata National Park
- Hot and dry conditions throughout the region
- Hazy air due to dust and occasional bush fires
- High season rates at lodges and camps persist
- Early October sees many facilities fully booked
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in October
Caprivi Strip in November
November in the Caprivi Strip can be unpredictable, alternating between hot, dry periods and cooler, cloudier days. Typically, mornings start clear and hot, with clouds building in the afternoon. Humidity increases, often culminating in spectacular late-afternoon thunderstorms. These storms are usually localised, bringing relief to some areas while others remain dry. Places receiving rain quickly flush green, softening the landscape in Bwabwata and Nkasa Rupara National Parks.
Many mammals give birth as the first rains arrive. Once rains begin, wildlife in the parks becomes more dispersed, making game viewing more challenging. However, this is an excellent time for birdwatchers, with migrant species arriving in breeding plumage. Boat safaris along the major rivers continue to offer good wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Variable conditions depending on the rains
- New life emerges with the onset of rains
- Wildlife viewing shifts to wetter areas
- Shoulder season offers value for money
- Increased chance of showers later in the month
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in November
Caprivi Strip in December
December marks the first proper month of the Caprivi Strip's rainy season and is one of the hottest. Mornings are often clear, giving way to building clouds and occasional short, spectacular thunderstorms. These rains are generally welcomed, clearing the air of dust and prompting plant life to erupt across Bwabwata and Mudumu National Parks.
Young animals abound, and many bird species are in breeding plumage. Wildlife disperses widely with the increased water availability, making game viewing more challenging but rewarding for patient observers. The Zambezi and Kwando rivers offer cooler temperatures and continued opportunities for boat safaris and fishing. Christmas and New Year fall within local summer holidays, so accommodation options can be surprisingly busy, especially around Katima Mulilo and other major towns.
- Hot and humid, occasional cooling showers
- Landscape turns green where rain has fallen
- Renewed energy in the lush Caprivi environment
- Clear air enhances photography opportunities
- Excellent for birdwatching, challenging for mammals
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in December

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