Chobe River

Chobe River Overview

With a diversity of ecosystems found within the Chobe River area, the views are quite simply spectacular. Habitats span across riverine forests, floodplains, mopane and teak woodlands, while sand follows the river to wind through these vegetated regions. Aside from large numbers of elephant, other game that can be seen in this region include lion, buffalo, puku antelope, cheetah, leopard, Chobe bushbuck, lechwe, reedbuck and impala to name but a few.

Sunsets over the Chobe River can be enjoyed during afternoon game drives, or on safari house boats that gently float along the river. With a number of safari camps, lodges and other accommodation on offer, a day on the Chobe River ends with dinner around the campfire to swap stories of the day’s game viewing.
 

Highlights & Places in Chobe River

The river’s proximity to Chobe National Park make this region ideal for safaris, with boat safaris being one of the best ways to spot game along the Chobe River. Elephants can be seen in huge numbers, while a range of antelope, crocodiles, hippo and smaller game can also be found along the banks of this huge river. Birding is excellent within the Chobe River area, with some 350 species of birds to be seen. Many rare and endemic species are found along with migratory species, with water birds found in abundance.

Along the banks of the river, game drives can be enjoyed on safari trails that have been created for land-based game viewing. 4x4 vehicles are the only way to navigate these trails however, and some parts of the Chobe River are not accessible by vehicle. Morning game drives offer the chance to see game that is beginning the day on the banks of the river before the harsh African sun begins to shine, while afternoon game drives are excellent for spotting elephants, fish eagles and sunsets over the Chobe River. In some parts of the river banks, guided walking and hiking tours can be enjoyed.
 

Best Time to Visit Chobe River

Chobe River Weather

Chobe River temperatures range from around 27°C in the dry season to 40°C in the rainy season. 

When to Go

Chobe River experiences two distinct seasons – a dry season that runs from April to October, and a wet season that runs from November to March. The dry season is best for game viewing, as this is when wildlife flocks to the river in search of water and food. During the hot rainy season, wildlife migrates away from the river into the densely vegetated forests nearby. 

Getting There & Getting Around

Getting To Chobe River

Chobe River can be accessed by boat or 4x4 vehicle, with flights from Botswana’s international airport in Gaborone available for those entering from outside of the country.  

Getting Around Chobe River

While it is possible to explore some parts of Chobe River by 4x4 vehicles, the best way to get around Chobe is by boat – this offers the chance to spot game in huge numbers along the banks of the vast river. 

Chobe River Tips : Know Before You Go

ATMs/Currency/Money: as a remote, wild part of Botswana, there are no banks or ATMs in Chobe River. It is best to withdraw money at the airport when arriving in Botswana.

Internet Availability: internet access may be available at some lodges, but being offline and unplugged is the best way to experience Chobe River.

Drinking Water: bottled water is available at camps and lodges, and can be purchased in bulk when arriving in Botswana.

Hospitals & Medical: camps and lodges have basic first aid kits, while there are hospitals in Gaborone. Malaria medication is advised when travelling to Chobe River.

Visa Requirements: most travellers will not need a visa to enter Botswana.
 

Chobe River Map