The Grand Scale of Chobe National Park

Chobe National Park, Botswana’s first designated national park, came into existence just two years after the birth of the Botswana Republic in 1968.

Covering a vast expanse of 11,700 square kilometers, this park stretches southwestward, offering an adventure that could easily consume about 10 hours if you were to drive from north to south (although we don’t necessarily recommend it—those off-road sand tracks can be quite the challenge!).

When you think of Chobe National Park, what likely comes to mind is the iconic image of its expansive safari area along the Chobe River. This region, commonly referred to as the “Chobe Waterfront,” is easily accessible from the nearby town of Kasane.

Chobe National Park is divided into four main areas: the iconic Waterfront, the lush woodlands of Serondela, the western reaches extending towards Namibia known as Linyanti, the southwestern marshlands of Savuti, and the dry inland spaces that lie between them.

Why is the Waterfront such a hotspot for safaris?

Well, for starters, it’s conveniently located near Kasane, a quaint town with less than ten thousand residents. Despite its small size, Kasane serves as a bustling gateway for tourists due to its proximity to the borders of Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Namibia, as well as the presence of Kasane International Airport. Plus, it’s just a hop, skip, and a jump away from the world-famous Victoria Falls, spanning the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia.

At the Waterfront, safari adventures aren’t limited to land-based game drives. You can also embark on thrilling Chobe River boat cruises, offering a unique perspective on wildlife viewing.

Game drives in southern Africa, including those in Botswana, are typically conducted in open safari vehicles, allowing you to feel the wind in your hair and experience the wild up close. But here’s the kicker: on these adventures, you’re not just spectators. You’ll catch the scent of the bush, hear the animals’ breath, and feel the pulse of the wilderness—it’s an adventure seeker’s dream come true!

Boat cruises, on the other hand, offer intimate encounters with aquatic creatures like hippos and crocodiles, which are often elusive from the land. And let’s not forget about the land-based sightings, where you can observe a variety of animals, from buffalo and elephants to various antelope species and a plethora of birds.

Sure, the proximity to wildlife might leave you feeling a tad overwhelmed at times, but fear not! Licensed safari guides are there to ensure your safety while providing fascinating insights into animal behavior.

These safaris typically run for about three hours in the morning and three hours in the afternoon, perfectly timed for prime animal activity. But if you’re looking to take it easy and soak up the safari experience all day long, a full-day safari might be just the ticket.

With its accessibility and diverse range of safari experiences, Chobe National Park offers an adventure unlike any other. So, why wait? Dive into the heart of nature’s wonderland and create memories that will last a lifetime.