Chobe National Park holds the distinction of having the highest concentration of elephants on the African continent. During the dry season, an estimated 50,000 elephants converge on the Chobe River, creating wildlife spectacles that are difficult to find anywhere else. Established in 1967 as Botswana's first national park, Chobe covers 11,700 square kilometers of varied terrain across four distinct ecosystems: the lush Chobe riverfront in the northeast, the remote Savuti marsh in the west, the wild Linyanti region along the northern border, and the dense Nogatsaa woodlands in the southeast. The park sits in northern Botswana near the borders of Zimbabwe, Namibia, and Zambia, making it easily combinable with Victoria Falls (just 80 km away). Unlike the Okavango Delta's fly-in exclusivity, Chobe is one of Botswana's most accessible parks. The gateway town of Kasane is right at the park entrance, with good road connections, an airport, and a range of accommodation from camping to luxury riverside lodges. The Chobe River boat safaris at sunset, with elephants wading across the river against a golden sky, rank among Africa's most memorable wildlife experiences.
Last updated: February 2026
Wildlife in Chobe National Park
Big Five Status
lion
High
leopard
Moderate
elephant
Very High
buffalo
Very High
rhino
Low
Wildlife Highlights
African Elephant
50,000+ in the dry season. Herds of hundreds at the river are common.
African Wild Dog
Excellent sightings, especially around Linyanti and Savuti
Sable Antelope
One of the best places in Africa to see this striking antelope
Roan Antelope
Uncommon elsewhere but seen in Chobe's woodland areas
Hippo
Abundant in the Chobe River, best seen on boat safaris
450+ bird species including African skimmer, Rock pratincole, Carmine bee-eater (seasonal), African fish eagle, Pel's fishing owl.
Best Time to Visit Chobe National Park
Chobe delivers year-round wildlife, but the dry season from May to October is when the park truly shines as elephants and other wildlife mass along the river.
peak_dry Season
July, August, September, OctoberDry and increasingly hot (30-38C by October)
High
Peak
Outstanding, especially elephant and buffalo concentrations
early_dry Season
May, JuneCool and dry, cold mornings (5-10C)
Moderate
Shoulder to peak
Very good and building
green_season Season
November, December, January, February, March, AprilHot and humid with afternoon storms
Low
Low (green season rates)
Good birding, dispersed game. Some areas less accessible.
Getting to Chobe National Park
By Air
RecommendedBy Road
Entry Gates
Sedudu Gate
Main entrance from Kasane for the riverfront area
Ngoma Gate
Western entrance from Namibia (Caprivi Strip)
Savuti Gate
Access to the Savuti area from the south
Linyanti Gate
Northern access to the Linyanti area
Chobe National Park Entry Fees (2026)
| Category | Fee (USD) |
|---|---|
| Adult (Non-resident) | $13/day |
| Child (Non-resident) | $7/day |
| Vehicle | $7 |
- • Fees are BWP 120 (~$13) per adult non-resident per day
- • Children 8-17 get discounted rate
- • Under 8 free
- • Vehicle fee is per day in addition to person fees
- • Fees are per 24 hours
Activities in Chobe National Park
Included Activities
Game Drives
Explore the riverfront, Savuti, or Linyanti by 4x4
Boat Safari
Cruise the Chobe River among elephants, hippos, and crocodiles. The sunset boat safari is Chobe's signature experience.
Bird Watching
Over 450 species including seasonal carmine bee-eaters on the riverbanks
Optional Extras
Half-Day Chobe Day Trip
$80-$200Game drive and boat safari package from Kasane or Victoria Falls
Night Drives
$50-$100Available in Chobe Enclave and surrounding concessions, not in the national park itself
Fishing Trip
$100-$200Fish for tigerfish on the Chobe River with a guide
Where to Stay
Chobe offers a wider range of accommodation than the Okavango Delta, from budget campsites inside the park to luxury lodges along the river just outside the boundary.
luxury
$600-$2000/nightIncludes: All meals, drinks, activities, and park fees
Examples: Chobe Game Lodge, Sanctuary Chobe Chilwero, Belmond Savute Elephant Lodge
mid range
$200-$500/nightIncludes: Full board, scheduled game drives and boat safaris
Examples: Chobe Safari Lodge, Chobe Marina Lodge, Kubu Lodge
budget
$20-$80/nightIncludes: Campsite only or basic room. Bring own food for campsites.
Examples: Ihaha Campsite (inside park), Savuti Campsite (inside park), Thebe River Safaris Lodge (Kasane)
Practical Tips
- 1The Chobe riverfront is the most accessible area and perfect for day trips from Kasane
- 2Savuti offers a completely different experience: remote, wild, and famous for lion-buffalo battles
- 3Combine Chobe with Victoria Falls (80 km away) for a perfect short trip
- 4Boat safaris are best in the late afternoon when elephants come to the river
- 5Self-drive is possible but a 4x4 is needed inside the park, especially in Savuti
- 6Allow at least 2-3 nights; add more if visiting Savuti or Linyanti
Frequently Asked Questions
How many elephants are in Chobe National Park?
Chobe has the highest elephant concentration in Africa. During the dry season (May to October), an estimated 50,000 elephants gather along the Chobe River. The broader Chobe-Linyanti ecosystem supports even more. Herds of hundreds at a time along the riverbank are a common sight.
Can I do a day trip to Chobe from Victoria Falls?
Yes, this is very popular. Victoria Falls town in Zimbabwe is about 80 km from Kasane. Day trip operators offer game drives and boat safaris, typically departing early morning and returning by late afternoon. You will need to cross the border at Kazungula, so bring your passport.
What is the best time to visit Chobe?
July to October is the best time for the famous elephant gatherings along the river. May and June are also excellent with fewer crowds. The green season (November to April) is quieter and cheaper but wildlife disperses away from the river.
How much does it cost to enter Chobe National Park?
Park fees for non-resident adults are approximately $13 (BWP 120) per day. Children aged 8 to 17 pay a reduced rate of approximately $7. Under 8 is free. Vehicle fees are approximately $7 per day. Most lodge packages include park fees.
Is Chobe good for a self-drive safari?
The Chobe riverfront area is manageable for experienced self-drivers with a 4x4. Roads are sandy but well-used. Savuti and Linyanti require serious off-road experience and full recovery equipment. Many visitors choose guided safaris from Kasane lodges or combine a self-drive riverfront visit with guided excursions to remote areas.
What is the difference between Chobe riverfront and Savuti?
The Chobe riverfront is lush, green, and famous for massive elephant herds at the river. It is accessible and close to Kasane. Savuti is remote, dry, and famous for its lion prides that hunt elephants and buffalo. Savuti has a different, wilder atmosphere and requires more time and effort to reach.
Official Resources
Sources
- 50,000+ elephants during dry season: Elephants Without Borders aerial survey
- 11,700 sq km park size, established 1967: Botswana Department of Wildlife and National Parks
- 450 bird species recorded: BirdLife Botswana