• Overview
  • Trip Outline
  • Trip Includes
  • Trip Excludes
  • FAQ

The Chobe Houseboat experience offers a unique and luxurious way to explore the stunning Chobe River and its surrounding wildlife. Situated in Botswana, near the border with Namibia and Zimbabwe, the Chobe River is renowned for its extraordinary wildlife, particularly its large elephant populations. A houseboat journey along the river provides an unforgettable safari experience while staying in comfort.

Key Features of a Chobe Houseboat Experience:

  • Accommodation:

    • The houseboats typically feature comfortable cabins with en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, and large windows for scenic views.
    • There are usually spacious outdoor decks for dining, relaxation, and wildlife watching.
  • Wildlife Viewing:

    • Chobe National Park, renowned for its elephants, is adjacent to the river, making it one of the best places to witness African wildlife.
    • Expect to see herds of elephants, buffalo, hippos, crocodiles, and an abundance of bird species, all visible from the comfort of the houseboat.
    • The Chobe River is a prime location for boat safaris, offering closer wildlife encounters than traditional land-based safaris.
  • Activities:

    • Morning and Evening Boat Safaris: Cruise along the river at dawn and dusk, the best times to see wildlife and experience the beauty of the surroundings.
    • Fishing: The river offers great fishing opportunities, with guests able to try their hand at catching local fish species.
    • Game Viewing: You can observe wildlife along the riverbanks, with opportunities to spot animals such as elephants, lions, and a variety of bird species.
    • Chobe National Park: Depending on the itinerary, you may also visit the park for a land-based game drive to see more of the wildlife, including large predators.
  • Meals and Dining:

    • Guests are typically provided with delicious meals prepared onboard, often featuring a mix of local and international cuisine. Meals can be enjoyed on the outdoor deck, giving you the perfect chance to watch wildlife as you dine.
    • Sundowners and cocktails are a favorite part of the experience as you watch the sun set over the river.
  • Comfort and Service:

    • The houseboats come equipped with luxury amenities, providing guests with a comfortable stay.
    • The crew on board usually includes a guide, chef, and other support staff, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience throughout your stay.

Best Time to Visit:

  • The best time for a Chobe Houseboat safari is during the dry season, from May to October, when wildlife is concentrated around water sources, making it easier to spot animals.
  • The wet season (November to April) offers lush landscapes and fewer tourists, but wildlife may be more dispersed.

Getting There:

  • The most common access point for Chobe Houseboat trips is Kasane, Botswana, which is easily accessible from Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe or Livingstone in Zambia.
  • International flights can be routed to Kasane, and transfers are usually arranged from the airport to the houseboat embarkation point.

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Itineraries

Day 1

Arrival and Embarkation

  • Afternoon:
    • Arrive at the Chobe River (typically via Kasane, Botswana, or nearby Livingstone, Zambia).
    • Check-in and embark on the houseboat, your floating accommodation for the next three nights.
    • Enjoy a welcome drink and brief orientation by the crew about the houseboat and safety.
    • Settle into your cabin and explore the boat's amenities.
  • Evening:
    • Enjoy a leisurely dinner on board while taking in the serene river views.
    • Experience a relaxing sunset cruise along the Chobe River, famous for its wildlife and stunning landscapes.
    • Optional: Nighttime game viewing (spotlights may be used to view animals along the riverbanks).

Day 2

Wildlife Safari on the Chobe River

  • Morning:
    • Early morning breakfast on board.
    • Head out on a guided boat safari along the Chobe River, a prime spot for birdwatching and wildlife viewing, especially elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of birds.
  • Afternoon:
    • Return to the houseboat for lunch.
    • Relax and enjoy some downtime on the deck, watching the wildlife along the river or engaging in fishing.
    • Optionally, take a small excursion to Chobe National Park (via land) for a game drive.
  • Evening:
    • Return to the houseboat for another sunset cruise, followed by a delicious dinner.
    • Evening relaxation on the deck, stargazing, or socializing with fellow guests.
    • Morning:
      • Early morning breakfast on board.
      • Head out on a guided boat safari along the Chobe River, a prime spot for birdwatching and wildlife viewing, especially elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of birds.
    • Afternoon:
      • Return to the houseboat for lunch.
      • Relax and enjoy some downtime on the deck, watching the wildlife along the river or engaging in fishing.
      • Optionally, take a small excursion to Chobe National Park (via land) for a game drive.
    • Evening:
      • Return to the houseboat for another sunset cruise, followed by a delicious dinner.
      • Evening relaxation on the deck, stargazing, or socializing with fellow guests.

Day 3

Scenic Exploration & Leisure Day

  • Morning:

    • Start the day with a light breakfast before embarking on a boat safari or fishing expedition. The Chobe River is home to a wide range of wildlife, including large herds of elephants, buffalo, and diverse bird species.
  • Afternoon:

    • Enjoy lunch on board while the boat cruises through scenic parts of the river.
    • Consider a stop at a local fishing village or cultural experience along the riverbanks (depending on availability).
    • Free time for swimming or relaxing on the boat.
  • Evening:

    • Another evening game cruise for animal sightings as the sun sets.
    • Farewell dinner under the stars on the houseboat, reflecting on the incredible wildlife experiences of the past few days.

Day 4

Departure

Morning:

  • Enjoy a final breakfast on board as the boat makes its way back to the docking station.
  • Disembark from the houseboat and transfer to your next destination or departure point.

Included

  • Accommodation
  • All meals, soft drinks, mineral water, coffee, tea, local beer and wine
  • Guided water-based game viewing and birding
  • Guided water-based fishing (all fishing is strictly catch and release)*
  • Guided (non-professional) water-based photographic safari**
  • Guided cultural tour of a local village
  • Guided walks on Impalila Island, for Ichingo Chobe River Lodge guests only
  • Road transfers to and from Kasane International Airport and Kasane Immigration Office located on the Botswana side of the Chobe River***
  • Boat transfers between Kasane Immigration Office and Namibia Immigration Office located on the Namibian side of the Chobe River***
Chobe houseboat tours may exclude the following:
  • TransportationAirfare, road and boat transfers to and from Kasane lodges, and transfers to and from Zambia, Zimbabwe, or Namibia 
     
  • DrinksPremium alcoholic beverages like spirits, sparkling wine, and dessert wines 
     
  • ActivitiesHalf-day 4x4 game viewing in Chobe National Park 
     
  • FeesCommunity Development Levy, fuel levy, and visa fees 
     
  • OtherLaundry, curio shop purchases, and gratuities 

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