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About

Chobe National Park is located in northern Botswana near the borders of Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Covering approximately 4,500 square miles (11,700 sq km), it is Botswana’s first national park and one of the most biologically rich protected areas in southern Africa.

The park forms part of the larger Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area (KAZA), linking with neighboring reserves and migration corridors across multiple countries. Its proximity to major natural landmarks such as Victoria Falls further enhances its importance as a centerpiece of regional conservation and tourism.

Chobe National Park is best known for its enormous elephant population, often considered one of the largest concentrations of elephants anywhere in the world. During the dry season, thousands of elephants gather along the banks of the Chobe River, creating unforgettable wildlife spectacles as they drink, bathe, and interact in family groups.

The park is also famous for its river safaris, which offer a unique perspective on wildlife viewing as boats drift quietly past hippos, crocodiles, buffalo, and countless bird species. In addition to the riverfront, areas such as Savuti are renowned for dramatic predator-prey interactions and have become legendary among safari enthusiasts and wildlife filmmakers.

The geography of Chobe National Park is highly diverse, contributing to its extraordinary abundance of wildlife. The Chobe River forms the park’s northern boundary and serves as a critical water source that sustains life throughout the year. Floodplains along the river support lush grasses and dense vegetation, while inland areas transition into woodlands, savannas, and marshes.

The Savuti region, known for its unpredictable water channels and open plains, offers a more arid and rugged landscape. Seasonal changes dramatically influence the environment, with rains transforming dry areas into vibrant habitats that attract migratory species and support breeding cycles across the ecosystem.

Wildlife in Chobe is among the most diverse and abundant in Africa. In addition to elephants, the park supports large populations of buffalo, zebras, giraffes, antelope, and hippos. Predators such as lions, leopards, cheetahs, and hyenas roam the park, particularly in the Savuti region, where intense competition and dramatic hunts are common.

The Chobe River and surrounding wetlands also sustain rich birdlife, with hundreds of species recorded, including fish eagles, kingfishers, herons, and migratory birds that flock to the area during wetter months. The combination of water, varied habitats, and expansive wilderness creates ideal conditions for wildlife to thrive.

Chobe National Park plays a vital role in protecting one of Africa’s most important wildlife ecosystems. Its extensive habitats and cross-border connections help maintain migration routes and genetic diversity for countless species, particularly elephants and large predators. The park also contributes significantly to Botswana’s conservation-based tourism model, demonstrating how wildlife protection can support sustainable economic development while preserving natural heritage.

On a global scale, Chobe stands as a symbol of Africa’s remaining great wilderness areas, where ecological processes still function on a large scale and wildlife continues to roam freely across vast landscapes. Its rich biodiversity, iconic riverfront, and powerful conservation story make it one of the continent’s most treasured national parks.

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Chobe National Park
Chobe National Park
Chobe National Park
Chobe National Park
Chobe National Park
Chobe National Park
Chobe National Park
Chobe National Park
Chobe National Park
Chobe National Park
Chobe National Park
Chobe National Park
Chobe National Park
Chobe National Park
Chobe National Park
Chobe National Park
Chobe National Park
Chobe National Park
Chobe National Park
Chobe National Park
Chobe National Park
Chobe National Park
Chobe National Park
Chobe National Park
Chobe National Park
Chobe National Park
Chobe National Park
Chobe National Park
Chobe National Park

Things to See

Chobe National Park is the elephant capital of the world featuring over 50,000 elephants found throughout the park.  The Kalahari elephants are the largest species of elephants however the tusks tend to be on the shorter side.  Visitors will have a chance to have safari viewing from the water as well as on land.

Travelers arriving at Chobe will quickly get excited when they spot their first herd of elephants.  By the end of the day, a typical response sounds something like, “Oh, more elephants.”  The enthusiasm for elephant sightings subsides as the day goes on.  Elephant sightings in Chobe National Park are the closest thing Africa offers as a wildlife sighting guarantee.

Chobe National Park has one of the greatest concentrations of wildlife found across the entire continent.  It is also a bird-lovers paradise with over 460 different species of birds to spot from safari venues offered on land and in the water.

Bird-lovers will appreciate the opportunities that safaris in Chobe afford the bird watching traveler.  An array of bird species can be experienced while traveling down the Chobe River and along the river banks such as the Fish Eagle, the Martial Eagle, Kingfisher, pel’s Fishing Owl, and many others.  Other birdlife species include Egyptian Geese, Sacred Ibis, and all of the rollers.

Chobe National Park is one of the places where lions can be found hunting elephants.  They are usually targeting the younger or weary elephants, but it is more common in Chobe than most any other national park in Africa.

Predators

Predators

Chobe National Park is home to a diverse array of predators, playing a crucial role in maintaining the park’s ecological balance by regulating herbivore populations and ensuring ecosystem health.

Lion: The iconic symbol of Africa’s savannas, lions roam the plains of Chobe in prides, hunting cooperatively to take down large herbivores like buffalo and antelope.

Leopard: Stealthy and solitary, leopards stalk their prey with precision, relying on camouflage and ambush tactics to secure their meals, often hoisting their kills into trees to avoid scavengers.

Spotted Hyena: Highly adaptable and social, spotted hyenas are skilled hunters and scavengers, with powerful jaws and a keen sense of smell that allows them to exploit a variety of food sources.

African Wild Dog: With their intricate pack structure and cooperative hunting behavior, African wild dogs are highly efficient predators, preying on small to medium-sized ungulates with relentless pursuit.

Cheetah: The fastest land mammal, cheetahs rely on incredible speed and agility to chase down prey on the open plains of Chobe, specializing in hunting small to medium-sized antelopes.

Popular

Popular

Chobe National Park boasts a rich diversity of wildlife beyond its predators, offering visitors the chance to encounter iconic African species in their natural habitat.

African Elephant: Towering over the landscape, African elephants are the largest land mammals, forming large herds that frequent the Chobe River to quench their thirst and bathe.

Buffalo: Massive and formidable, African buffalo are often seen in large herds grazing on the savanna plains of Chobe, their imposing presence a testament to their strength.

Giraffe: Graceful and towering, giraffes roam the woodlands and grasslands of Chobe, using their long necks to reach high branches for food and keeping a vigilant eye for predators.

Hippo: Inhabiting the waterways of Chobe, hippos spend most of their days submerged to keep cool, emerging at night to graze on grasses along the riverbanks.

Zebra: With their distinctive black-and-white striped coats, zebras form herds across the plains of Chobe, their collective vigilance helping to spot predators and evade danger.

Impala: Agile and abundant, impalas are a common sight in Chobe, congregating in large herds on open grasslands and using their speed and agility to escape predators.

Kudu: Graceful antelopes with impressive spiral horns, kudus are often seen browsing on leaves and twigs in the woodlands of Chobe, their large ears swiveling to detect danger.

Warthog: Despite their comical appearance, warthogs are wary creatures, often spotted in Chobe’s savannas and woodlands, using their tusks for defense and seeking refuge in burrows.

Baboon: Sociable and intelligent, baboons are frequently encountered in Chobe, moving in troops through woodland areas, foraging for food, and grooming one another.

Hippopotamus: Though primarily aquatic, hippos can occasionally be spotted on land near the water’s edge in Chobe, basking in the sun or grazing on nearby vegetation.

Birds

Birds

Chobe National Park is a haven for birdwatchers, boasting a diverse avian population that includes both resident and migratory species. Here are some of the most sought-after bird species found in the park:

African Fish Eagle: With its distinctive white head and striking call, the African fish eagle is a symbol of Africa’s waterways. Often seen perched near rivers, lakes, and wetlands, it swoops down to catch fish with its powerful talons.

Lilac-breasted Roller: Vibrantly colored and unmistakable, the lilac-breasted roller is a common sight in Chobe, often perching on exposed branches where it hunts for insects or displays its stunning plumage.

Southern Ground Hornbill: Known for its deep booming call and striking appearance, the southern ground hornbill is a large bird often seen foraging on the ground in search of insects, small reptiles, and amphibians.

Yellow-billed Hornbill: With its distinctive curved yellow bill and black-and-white plumage, the yellow-billed hornbill is a familiar sight in Chobe, often seen hopping along the ground in search of food.

Marabou Stork: Towering and ungainly, the marabou stork is nevertheless an impressive sight in Chobe, often seen near water sources where it scavenges for fish, carrion, and scraps.

Southern Carmine Bee-eater: A dazzling splash of color against the savanna landscape, the southern carmine bee-eater is a gregarious bird often seen in large flocks, swooping and diving to catch insects on the wing.

African Jacana: With its long legs and striking plumage, the African jacana is often found walking delicately on lily pads and floating vegetation in Chobe’s waterways, foraging for insects and small invertebrates.

Pied Kingfisher: A master of fishing, the pied kingfisher is a common sight along the rivers and waterholes of Chobe, hovering before plunging into the water to catch fish with its dagger-like bill.

White-fronted Bee-eater: A sociable and colorful bird, the white-fronted bee-eater is often seen perched on branches overlooking rivers and streams, where it catches insects in mid-air or excavates nesting burrows in riverbanks.

Grey-headed Kingfisher: With its distinctive gray head and turquoise back, the grey-headed kingfisher is a sought-after species in Chobe, often perching on branches near water where it hunts for fish and aquatic insects.

Things To Do

Visitors have an opportunity to explore the wildlife and wildernesss of Chobe in a few different ways.  Each offers unique perspectives of both the landscape and the wildlife.

River Safari

The river safari is often part of a full day excursion that includes time on the river as well as on land.  The river boats give you a chance to see elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and other wildlife that comes to the river to drink.

Game Drive

Much of the park is explored by 4×4 safari vehicles.  A game drive may be combined with a half day of river time viewing wildlife from a boat.

Game Drives

Embark on thrilling safari drives across Chobe’s diverse landscapes, renowned for its high concentration of wildlife. Traverse the park’s vast savannas and riverine woodlands in search of iconic species such as elephants, lions, buffalo, and leopards.

Guided by experienced rangers, these excursions offer unparalleled opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography.  Visitors will be astounded by the number of elephants they will experience.

Boat Safaris

Experience the beauty of Chobe River on boat cruises, providing unique perspectives of the park’s wildlife-rich waterways.

Glide along the tranquil waters while observing hippos, crocodiles, and an array of birdlife congregating along the riverbanks.  It is an opportunity to see abundant wildlife that comes to drink from the riverbanks or cross the river into the grasslands on the island.

Sunset cruises offer particularly spectacular views as the sun dips below the horizon, casting golden hues over the landscape.  The sunsets are nice, however, it is the wildlife that creates the greatest amazement.

Walking Safaris

Embark on guided walking safaris, offering intimate encounters with Chobe’s wilderness on foot.  This endeavor provides a closer look at the landscape and the aspects of nature often missed from within a safari vehicle.

Led by knowledgeable guides, these excursions provide insights into the park’s ecosystems, tracking wildlife signs, and learning about the smaller, often overlooked inhabitants.

Gain a deeper appreciation for the intricacies of the natural world while experiencing the thrill of walking amidst Africa’s iconic wildlife.

Chobe National Park Trails

Chobe National Park is home to an abundance of predator species.  Hiking throughout the park is not permissible.  There are no trails.  However, there are guided walking safaris which allow you to explore the wilderness and wildlife on foot.

Chobe National Park

No Traditional Trails

Chobe National Park, located in Botswana, primarily offers safari experiences rather than traditional hiking trails. However, there are walking trails available in some areas of the park for guided bush walks.

These walks are typically conducted with armed rangers and provide an opportunity to explore the wilderness on foot, offering insights into the park’s flora and fauna.

While there are no specific marked trails with ratings, distances, and elevation gains as in traditional hiking trails, visitors can still enjoy immersive nature experiences while walking in Chobe National Park.

Park Protection

Chobe National Park is a wilderness and wildlife protected area.  It is home to one of the largest elephant populations in the world.  The park was established to protect the habitat of the elephants and other wildlife speciies living along the Chobe River.

FAQ’s

What is Chobe National Park known for?

Chobe National Park, located in Botswana, is renowned for its spectacular wildlife and diverse ecosystems. It is especially famous for having one of the largest concentrations of elephants in Africa, offering unparalleled opportunities for elephant viewing and photography.

The park is also known for its stunning landscapes, which encompass floodplains, savannas, woodlands, and the iconic Chobe River. Visitors can expect to encounter a wide array of wildlife, including lions, leopards, buffalo, hippos, crocodiles, and an abundance of bird species.

Chobe is celebrated for its thrilling safari experiences, including game drives, boat cruises, walking safaris, and photography safaris, making it a premier destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers alike.

How many elephants are found within Chobe National Park?

Chobe National Park is estimated to be home to approximately 50,000 elephants, making it one of the largest elephant populations in Africa.

These majestic animals roam freely across the park’s diverse habitats, including floodplains, woodlands, and along the Chobe River, offering visitors exceptional opportunities for elephant viewing and photography.

The park’s vast expanse and rich vegetation provide ample resources to support this large elephant population, making Chobe a prime destination for elephant enthusiasts and wildlife enthusiasts alike.

What is the main reason people visit Chobe National Park?

Chobe National Park is primarily visited for its extraordinary elephant population, exceptional wildlife viewing, and world-famous boat safaris along the Chobe River. Located in northern Botswana, Chobe is one of Africa’s premier safari destinations and is home to the largest concentration of elephants on the continent.

Visitors come to see large herds of elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, hippos, crocodiles, and abundant birdlife while enjoying some of the best river-based wildlife viewing in Africa.

What animals can visitors hope to see in Chobe National Park?

Chobe National Park supports approximately 120 mammal species and more than 70 reptile species. The park’s diverse habitats—including floodplains, riverfront, woodlands, marshes, and savannas—support one of the richest wildlife communities in southern Africa.

Some of the most popular mammals found in Chobe National Park include:

  1. African Elephant
  2. African Buffalo
  3. Lion
  4. Leopard
  5. Cheetah
  6. African Wild Dog
  7. Spotted Hyena
  8. Brown Hyena
  9. Black-backed Jackal
  10. Side-striped Jackal
  11. Hippopotamus
  12. Nile Crocodile
  13. Plains Zebra
  14. Giraffe
  15. Blue Wildebeest
  16. Greater Kudu
  17. Lesser Kudu
  18. Sable Antelope
  19. Roan Antelope
  20. Eland
  21. Tsessebe
  22. Red Lechwe
  23. Puku
  24. Waterbuck
  25. Impala
  26. Chobe Bushbuck
  27. Steenbok
  28. Common Duiker
  29. Klipspringer
  30. Reedbuck
  31. Warthog
  32. Bush Pig
  33. African Civet
  34. Serval
  35. Caracal
  36. African Wildcat
  37. Honey Badger
  38. Cape Fox
  39. Bat-eared Fox
  40. Slender Mongoose
  41. Banded Mongoose
  42. Dwarf Mongoose
  43. White-tailed Mongoose
  44. Marsh Mongoose
  45. Large-spotted Genet
  46. Porcupine
  47. Cape Hare
  48. Vervet Monkey
  49. Chacma Baboon
  50. Tree Squirrel Species

What birds can visitors hope to see in Chobe National Park?

Chobe National Park is one of Africa’s premier birding destinations, with more than 450 recorded bird species. The Chobe River floodplain attracts large numbers of resident and migratory birds, making the park exceptional for both casual birdwatchers and dedicated birders.

Some of the most popular birds seen in Chobe National Park include:

  1. African Fish Eagle
  2. Saddle-billed Stork
  3. Yellow-billed Stork
  4. Marabou Stork
  5. African Openbill
  6. Woolly-necked Stork
  7. Goliath Heron
  8. Purple Heron
  9. Grey Heron
  10. Black-headed Heron
  11. Great Egret
  12. Little Egret
  13. Hamerkop
  14. African Spoonbill
  15. Sacred Ibis
  16. Glossy Ibis
  17. Hadada Ibis
  18. Spur-winged Goose
  19. Egyptian Goose
  20. Knob-billed Duck
  21. African Jacana
  22. Wattled Crane
  23. Slaty Egret
  24. Black Crake
  25. Kori Bustard
  26. Secretarybird
  27. Martial Eagle
  28. Bateleur
  29. Tawny Eagle
  30. African Hawk-Eagle
  31. Wahlberg’s Eagle
  32. White-backed Vulture
  33. Lappet-faced Vulture
  34. Hooded Vulture
  35. Pied Kingfisher
  36. Giant Kingfisher
  37. Malachite Kingfisher
  38. Woodland Kingfisher
  39. Lilac-breasted Roller
  40. Southern Carmine Bee-eater
  41. White-fronted Bee-eater
  42. Ground Hornbill
  43. Southern Yellow-billed Hornbill
  44. Red-billed Hornbill
  45. African Skimmer
  46. Pel’s Fishing Owl
  47. African Pygmy Goose
  48. Coppery-tailed Coucal
  49. Village Weaver
  50. Southern Red Bishop

Is Chobe National Park worth visiting?

100% Yes, Chobe National Park is absolutely worth visiting and is widely considered one of Africa’s finest safari destinations. The park offers exceptional wildlife densities, outstanding elephant viewing, excellent predator sightings, world-class birdwatching, and unique boat safaris.

Many travelers rank Chobe alongside famous destinations such as Kruger National Park, Serengeti National Park, and Etosha National Park.

The only potential drawback is that the Chobe Riverfront area can become busy during peak safari season due to its popularity.

What is the best time to visit Chobe National Park?

The best time to visit Chobe National Park is during the dry season from May through October.

During this period:

  • Wildlife concentrates near the Chobe River.
  • Elephant herds reach their largest numbers.
  • Vegetation is less dense.
  • Game viewing is at its peak.

The wet season (November through April) offers excellent birdwatching, lush scenery, newborn animals, and fewer tourists.

How many days do you need to visit Chobe National Park?

Most visitors should plan for 2 to 4 days.

  • 1 day: Chobe River boat safari and game drive.
  • 2 days: Comprehensive riverfront wildlife experience.
  • 3–4 days: Explore multiple regions including the Chobe Riverfront, Savuti, and Linyanti areas.
  • 5+ days: Ideal for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Many people cross over into Botswana to spend the day in Chobe as part of a one-day excursion out of the Victoria Falls area.

How do you get to Chobe National Park?

Most visitors access Chobe National Park through the town of Kasane.

Typical access options include:

  1. Fly into Kasane Airport.
  2. Drive from Victoria Falls (approximately 90 minutes).
  3. Drive from Livingstone (approximately 90 minutes).

Kasane serves as the primary gateway to the park and provides easy access to the Chobe Riverfront.

Is Chobe National Park safe for tourists?

Yes, Chobe National Park is generally considered one of the safest safari destinations in Africa.

Visitors should:

  • Follow guide instructions around wildlife.
  • Maintain safe distances from elephants, buffalo, hippos, and predators.
  • Remain in vehicles unless instructed otherwise.
  • Use reputable safari operators.

Wildlife poses a greater risk than crime within the park, making adherence to safari safety protocols essential.

Who is involved in protecting and supporting Chobe National Park?

Several organizations help protect Chobe National Park:

  • Department of Wildlife and National Parks (DWNP) – the government agency responsible for managing Botswana’s national parks.
  • Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area (KAZA TFCA) – coordinates regional conservation efforts across five countries.
  • Elephants Without Borders – conducts elephant research and conservation programs.
  • Wild Entrust Africa – supports conservation research and community engagement.
  • Local communities and tourism operators who contribute to wildlife conservation through sustainable tourism.

Can you see the Big Five in Chobe National Park?

Chobe National Park is home to four of Africa’s Big Five animals:

  • Lion
  • Leopard
  • Elephant
  • Buffalo

Rhinoceroses are generally absent from Chobe, so the park is not considered a complete Big Five destination. However, it remains one of Africa’s best locations for elephants and predators.

What makes Chobe's boat safaris unique?

Unlike many safari destinations, Chobe offers exceptional boat-based wildlife viewing on the Chobe River. Visitors can observe elephants swimming, hippos surfacing, crocodiles basking, buffalo drinking, and countless birds from the water, often at much closer range than is possible during traditional game drives.

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