Chobe National Park
Chobe
Chobe National Park, established as Botswana's first national park, is the country's third largest and most biologically diverse protected area. Located in northern Botswana, it is famed for its large populations of elephants, lions, and a wide variety of other wildlife species. The park encompasses four distinct ecosystems: the lush Chobe Riverfront with its floodplains and dense woodlands; the dynamic Savuti Marsh known for its seasonal water flow and abundant predators; the Linyanti Marsh with its riverine woodlands and diverse mammals; and the floodplains and woodlands that support species such as puku antelope and carmine bee-eaters. Historically, the area was inhabited by the San bushmen, whose rock paintings can still be found within the park. The park's creation began in the early 20th century to protect wildlife and promote tourism, officially becoming a national park in 1968. Visitors can experience spectacular wildlife viewing, especially elephants congregating along the river during the dry season, as well as rich birdlife and predator-prey dynamics unique to the region. The proximity to Victoria Falls and the town of Kasane makes Chobe a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts and travelers exploring Southern Africa.
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Tip: The best time to visit Chobe National Park is during the dry season from May to October when wildlife congregates around water sources, offering excellent game viewing. Booking safaris and river cruises in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist months. Visitors can benefit from combined tickets or packages that include nearby attractions like Victoria Falls. Early morning and late afternoon game drives provide the best chances to see predators and active wildlife. Be prepared for varying weather conditions and bring binoculars and cameras for optimal viewing.
Interesting facts
- •Chobe National Park hosts a unique lion population known to prey on elephants, mainly calves and juveniles.
- •The Savuti Marsh area experiences irregular water flow due to tectonic activity, causing the marsh to dry up and flood cyclically.
- •The park is the only place in Botswana where the rare puku antelope can be observed.
- •Chobe Riverfront is a major watering hole attracting large herds of elephants during the dry season.
- •The park includes remnants of the timber industry at Serondela, visible as historical traces within the protected area.
History
The area of Chobe National Park was originally inhabited by the San bushmen, nomadic hunter-gatherers whose rock paintings remain in the park.
In the early 20th century, the region was designated crown land, and the idea of a national park was proposed in 1931.
By 1933, a large non-hunting area was declared, expanding over subsequent years despite setbacks such as tsetse fly infestations.
The Chobe Game Reserve was officially created in 1960 and later declared a national park in 1968.
Industrial settlements, notably timber operations at Serondela, were gradually removed by 1975 to ensure full protection of the area.
Minor expansions occurred in the 1980s, solidifying Chobe's status as a premier conservation area in Botswana.
Place Guide
Chobe Riverfront (Serondela)
This northeastern section features lush floodplains and dense hardwood woodlands along the Chobe River. It is the most visited area due to its abundant wildlife, including large elephant herds, Angolan giraffes, sable antelope, and African buffalo. Birdwatchers can spot southern carmine bee-eaters and various waterfowl during seasonal floods. The nearby town of Kasane serves as the main gateway to the park.
Savuti Marsh
Located in the western part of the park, Savuti Marsh is known for its dynamic ecosystem influenced by the erratic flow of the Savuti Channel. The area supports diverse wildlife including black and white rhinoceros, lions, hyenas, zebras, cheetahs, and a spectacular annual migration of zebras and predators. The marsh's water levels fluctuate due to tectonic movements, creating a unique landscape with numerous dead trees along the channel banks.
Linyanti Marsh
Situated in the northwest corner adjacent to the Linyanti River, this area features riverine woodlands, floodplains, and lagoons. It hosts large concentrations of lions, African leopards, wild dogs, hippos, elephants, and rare antelope species such as red lechwe and sitatunga. The marsh borders Namibia's Nkasa Rupara National Park and the Selinda Reserve, creating a transboundary conservation landscape.
