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A 4-day Chobe experience provides an exciting mix of game drives, river cruises, and wildlife encounters in one of Africa’s premier national parks. Chobe is particularly renowned for its large elephant herds and diverse ecosystems, ensuring that you will leave with unforgettable memories of Africa’s stunning wildlife. Whether you're an adventure enthusiast or seeking a more relaxed safari experience, Chobe National Park offers something for every traveler.

Additional Options and Activities

  • Fishing: The Chobe River offers excellent catch-and-release fishing opportunities, particularly for tiger fish, which is a thrilling challenge for anglers.
  • Night Safari: Some lodges offer night safaris, where you can see nocturnal animals such as owls, hyenas, and possibly even lions hunting under the cover of darkness.
  • Cultural Experiences: If you're interested in learning about the local cultures in the area, many lodges offer cultural tours that introduce you to the traditions, lifestyles, and crafts of the San people and other local tribes.

4-day Chobe experience is a fantastic way to explore one of Southern Africa's premier wildlife destinations. Chobe National Park, located in Botswana, is renowned for its large elephant herds, diverse wildlife, and stunning river landscapes.

Itineraries

Day 1

Time : 3:00 pm

Arrival and Introduction to Chobe

Arrival at Kasane

  • Morning/Afternoon: Arrive in Kasane, the nearest town to Chobe National Park. Kasane has its own international airport (Kasane Airport), making it easily accessible from major Southern African cities.
  • Transfer to your Lodge or Camp: Check into your accommodation, which could range from luxury lodges like Chobe Game Lodge to more rustic options like Chobe Safari Lodge or tented camps for a more immersive experience in the park.
  • Relax and Enjoy Your Surroundings: Take some time to settle in and enjoy the picturesque views of the Chobe River and surrounding wilderness.

Evening River Safari

  • Late Afternoon: Embark on a river safari along the Chobe River. These boat cruises provide fantastic opportunities to see wildlife, such as elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species, all while enjoying the scenic beauty of the river at sunset.
  • Optional: Some river cruises offer sundowners, so you can enjoy a refreshing drink while watching the sun dip below the horizon.

Dinner and Overnight Stay

  • After your river safari, enjoy a delicious dinner at your lodge or camp. A traditional African meal or gourmet options can be found at most lodges, often served in outdoor dining areas with stunning views of the river or savannah.

Day 2

Full Day Safari in Chobe National Park

Early Morning Game Drive

  • Morning: After an early breakfast, embark on a morning game drive in Chobe National Park. The park is home to a wealth of wildlife, with particularly large herds of elephants. Keep an eye out for lions, leopards, buffalos, giraffes, zebras, and numerous species of antelope.
  • Professional Guide: You’ll be accompanied by an experienced guide who will help spot animals, provide insights into the park’s ecosystem, and make sure you have a safe and enjoyable experience.

Return for Lunch and Rest

  • Midday: After your morning safari, return to your lodge for a relaxing lunch. Many lodges have beautiful outdoor terraces where you can enjoy your meal with a view of the river or park.
  • Afternoon: Take some time to relax at your lodge – perhaps by the pool, on a viewing deck, or in your room to rest after the morning’s adventure.

Afternoon Game Drive or Walking Safari

  • Late Afternoon: Head out for a second game drive or choose a walking safari (available at some lodges) where you can explore the park on foot, guided by an armed ranger. Walking safaris give you a unique perspective on the environment and the smaller details of the landscape.

Evening Sundowner and Dinner

  • After your safari, enjoy another sundowner at a scenic spot within the park or along the river. Enjoy the tranquility of the African bush before heading back to your lodge for a delicious dinner.

Day 3

Chobe River Cruise and Exploration

Morning: Chobe River Cruise

  • Morning: Start your day with another morning boat cruise on the Chobe River. The river offers one of the best ways to view elephants, especially during the dry season when they come down to the water’s edge to drink and bathe.
  • Birdwatching: The Chobe River is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 450 species recorded. You may spot kingfishers, herons, and even the elusive African Fish Eagle.
  • Photography: Bring a camera to capture the stunning wildlife moments and dramatic landscapes of the river.

Lunch and Leisure

  • After the cruise, return to your lodge for a leisurely lunch.
  • Optional: Many lodges offer spa treatments or other relaxing activities such as fishing on the river, perfect for unwinding after a busy morning.

Afternoon Safari or Visit to a Local Village

  • Option 1: Afternoon Game Drive: Head out for another game drive, visiting different parts of the park to track wildlife and explore the diverse habitats, from riverine forests to floodplains and open savannah.
  • Option 2: Visit a Local Village: Learn about the local culture with a visit to a nearby village. You can engage with the community, observe daily life, and purchase traditional crafts.

Evening at the Lodge

  • Enjoy your evening with a dinner under the stars at your lodge or camp. Some lodges offer bush dinners, where you dine in a beautiful outdoor setting, surrounded by the sounds of the African night.

Day 4

Final Game Drive and Departure

Early Morning Game Drive or Birdwatching

  • Early Morning: Your last morning in Chobe can be spent on a final game drive or simply relaxing and enjoying the sunrise over the river. The early morning is a great time for spotting predators like lions or hyenas returning to their dens after the night’s hunt.
  • Optional: For birding enthusiasts, a guided birdwatching tour can give you a chance to spot some of the rare and endemic bird species that live in the area.

Breakfast and Departure

  • After your morning activity, return to the lodge for a hearty breakfast, either in the dining area or on the terrace overlooking the river.
  • Depending on your departure time, enjoy a final peaceful moment at the lodge before transferring to Kasane Airport for your onward journey.
Inclusion – Hotel pick-up and drop off – Bottled water – Transport by private vehicle – Private tour guide

Exclusion

– Food and drinks
– Gratuities (optional)
– Entrance/Park fees
– Souvenir photos (available to purchase)

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1. The Chobe River
The Chobe River is a central feature of the park and provides one of the best ways to view wildlife. The river attracts large numbers of animals, especially during the dry season when they gather at its banks to drink.
River Cruises: One of the top experiences in Chobe is a river cruise, where you can see herds of elephants, buffalo, hippos, crocodiles, and a wide range of birds. The river is especially magical at sunset, providing fantastic photo opportunities as wildlife gathers around the water.
Birdwatching: The Chobe River is also a birdwatching haven, with over 450 species of birds, including African Fish Eagles, kingfishers, herons, and waders.
2. Large Elephant Herds
Chobe’s elephants are one of the park’s main draws. The park is home to some of the largest elephant herds in Africa, with numbers exceeding 100,000 individuals in the region. These majestic creatures can be seen congregating along the riverbanks, especially during the dry season, when the river is the only water source for miles.
Elephant Viewing: Travelers often have the opportunity to see elephant family groups drinking, bathing, and interacting in the water. The sight of so many elephants in one place is a remarkable experience.
3. Diverse Wildlife
Beyond elephants, Chobe National Park is teeming with wildlife. Visitors can encounter lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, and wild dogs, as well as a wide range of antelope species such as impalas, kudus, wildebeests, and sable antelope.
The park is also home to a healthy population of hippos and crocodiles along the Chobe River.
Predator Sightings: For those seeking predators, the park is also known for exciting lion and leopard sightings, particularly during early morning and late afternoon game drives.
4. Savuti Marsh
Savuti Marsh is another key area within Chobe National Park and is famous for its predator-prey interactions. It’s known for its dry riverbed that flows intermittently and attracts large numbers of animals, especially during the dry season.
This area is ideal for those looking to see lions, wild dogs, and other predators hunting in the open plains.
5. Kwando River & Linyanti Swamps
The Kwando River and Linyanti Swamps are found on the western side of the park and offer a quieter, less visited experience of Chobe. These regions are known for their stunning wetlands and excellent game viewing.
The area is home to large herds of buffalo, elephants, and the elusive sable antelope.

Game Drives: Chobe is famous for its game drives, which are the best way to explore the park's diverse habitats. Morning and afternoon safaris offer the best chances of spotting wildlife, including the predators that are more active during the cooler hours.

You’ll be guided by experienced rangers who know where to find the animals, ensuring an enriching experience.
Boat Cruises: A river cruise is a highlight of any visit to Chobe, as it offers an entirely different perspective of the wildlife and landscapes. You’ll get close-up views of elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and birdlife along the riverbanks.

Cruises often take place at sunrise or sunset, offering stunning photo opportunities.
Fishing: The Chobe River also offers excellent fishing opportunities, particularly for tiger fish, which are highly sought after by anglers. Some lodges offer fishing expeditions as part of your stay.

Walking Safaris: For the more adventurous traveler, some lodges offer walking safaris, where you can explore the wilderness on foot with a guide and an armed ranger. These safaris provide an intimate look at the flora and fauna of Chobe, as well as an opportunity to learn about tracking and survival techniques.

Cultural Tours: You can also explore the nearby local communities such as the San Bushmen or visit Kasane to experience the culture and traditions of the region.

Dry Season (May to October): The dry season is the most popular time to visit Chobe. During this period, animals congregate around the Chobe River, making wildlife sightings more frequent. The weather is warm and dry, making it ideal for game drives and boat cruises.

Wet Season (November to April): The wet season brings lush greenery and fewer crowds. While game viewing can be a bit more challenging as animals spread out, it’s also a great time for birdwatching and seeing the park’s landscapes in their full, vibrant glory. Many migratory birds flock to Chobe during this season.

Chobe offers a wide range of accommodations, catering to all budgets and preferences:

Luxury Lodges: Properties like Chobe Game Lodge (Botswana's only lodge located inside the park) and Savute Safari Lodge offer upscale amenities and safari experiences.
Mid-Range Lodges and Camps: There are numerous comfortable options such as Chobe Safari Lodge and Elephant Valley Lodge.
Budget and Camping: Budget-friendly options include camping sites and smaller lodges located near the park's entrance.

By Air: The easiest way to reach Chobe is via Kasane Airport. Regular flights from major Southern African cities (like Johannesburg or Victoria Falls) connect to Kasane. Many safari operators offer charter flights from Victoria Falls or Maun.

By Road: Kasane is also accessible by road from neighboring countries like Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Namibia. You can drive to the park from Victoria Falls in about 2 hours.