Chobe National Park

Chobe is one of Botswana’s most iconic safari destinations and home to Africa’s largest concentration of elephants. Situated in the country’s north-east, the park is easily accessed from Victoria Falls, making it a popular starting point for luxury safaris. The riverfront is the park’s focal point, drawing huge herds of elephant, buffalo and antelope during the dry season, with predators like lion and leopard never far behind. Boat cruises along the Chobe River offer a different perspective on wildlife, especially at sunset when animals gather to drink and bathe. This area is particularly rewarding for photographers and birders, with hundreds of bird species recorded. Unlike many of Botswana’s private concessions, Chobe offers more accessible game viewing, with well-maintained roads and lodge-based safaris. It’s a superb option for first-time visitors or families wanting a classic safari experience with exceptional wildlife and river-based activities.

Chobe also plays a vital role in regional conservation. As part of the Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area, it supports wildlife corridors between Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, and Zambia, helping to preserve migratory routes and reduce human-wildlife conflict. The park is closely managed by Botswana’s Department of Wildlife and National Parks, with a strong focus on balancing tourism with long-term habitat protection. Chobe offers an excellent introduction to Botswana’s safari offering - accessible, abundant in wildlife, and a key part of the country’s conservation success story.