Chobe National Park Safaris
Why Visit Chobe National Park ?
Chobe National Park is one of Botswana’s most iconic safari destinations — and for good reason. It’s home to the largest elephant population in Africa, plus some of the best wildlife viewing in the region.
Set in northern Botswana, Chobe is all about big game and big moments. The Chobe River is the main attraction, drawing wildlife to its banks throughout the day. This creates an incredible mix of safari experiences, where you can enjoy classic 4×4 game drives and relaxing river cruises — often on the same trip.
If you’re planning a Botswana safari, Chobe is one place that consistently delivers. Expect close-up sightings, unique river cruises, and a high chance of spotting wildlife from morning to sunset.
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Key Highlights of Chobe National Park Tours
- Elephants, elephants… and more elephants. Chobe is famous for a reason. During the dry season (May to October), massive herds gather along the riverfront to drink and cool off — and it’s not unusual to see dozens (sometimes hundreds) in one area. Late afternoons are especially good, with beautiful light and constant wildlife movement.
- Chobe River safari cruises (Dont miss this!). This is one of Chobe’s signature experiences. Cruising the river gives you a totally different view of the wildlife — elephants on the banks, buffalo herds crossing the water, hippos popping up all around, and crocodiles lounging near the edge. It’s also a favourite for photographers.
- Non-stop game viewing. While Chobe is best known for elephants, there’s a lot more going on. Expect lion, leopard, giraffe, zebra, and plenty of antelope — including puku, which is a special sighting in this part of Botswana. The riverfront delivers excellent game viewing throughout the year.
- A birding hotspot (even for non-birders). With floodplains, forests, and water all in one place, Chobe is a brilliant birding destination. Over 450 species have been recorded here — and even if you’re not a “bird person”, you’ll still love watching fish eagles, kingfishers, storks and herons from the boat.
What Makes Our Chobe Tours So Special?
Our Chobe tours are built around the park’s two standout features: its famous riverfront ecosystem and those enormous elephant herds. It’s also one of the easiest places in Botswana to enjoy a safari with variety — land and water-based activities work beautifully together here.
Top Chobe National Park Tours
Explore top-rated small group tours – expert guides and unforgettable wildlife encounters.
7 Day Botswana Highlights Tour – Northbound
Chobe National Park Travel Deals
Check out our exclusive tour specials and affordable holiday packages.
10 Day Okavango Delta & Chobe Adventure Tour
From ZAR 22,184
10 Day Okavango Delta & Chobe Adventure Tour
From ZAR 22,184
10 Day Namibia and Botswana Camping Tour
From ZAR 40,905
10 Day Namibia and Botswana Camping Tour
From ZAR 40,905
10 Day Victoria Falls to Namibia Tour
From ZAR 40,905
10 Day Victoria Falls to Namibia Tour
From ZAR 40,905
10 Day Victoria Falls to Namibia Tour
From ZAR 51,255
10 Day Victoria Falls to Namibia Tour
From ZAR 51,255
7 Day Botswana Highlights Tour – Northbound
From ZAR 42,255
7 Day Botswana Highlights Tour – Northbound
From ZAR 42,255
14 Day Best of Southern Africa Tour
From ZAR 80,640
14 Day Best of Southern Africa Tour
From ZAR 80,640
18 Day Southern Africa Adventure Tour
From ZAR 49,116
18 Day Southern Africa Adventure Tour
From ZAR 49,116
7 Day Best of Botswana Exclusive Tour
From ZAR 43,110
7 Day Best of Botswana Exclusive Tour
From ZAR 43,110
12 Day Delta, Chobe & Victoria Falls Loop
From ZAR 71,730
12 Day Delta, Chobe & Victoria Falls Loop
From ZAR 71,730
12 Day Etosha & Okavango Delta Adventure Tour
From ZAR 32,000
12 Day Etosha & Okavango Delta Adventure Tour
From ZAR 32,000
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When to Visit
The best time to visit Chobe National Park is between May and October. This is dry season — meaning animals stick close to water, and the Chobe River becomes the main stage. It’s the best time for big herds of elephants and buffalo, plus excellent sightings in the Savuti region.
June & July bring chilly nights and crisp mornings, while August to October is hotter — but the game viewing is unbeatable.
Why Travel With Us
Based in Africa, we bring you authentic experiences at the best prices. When you book through Detour Africa, you get local advice, quick support, and access to exclusive deals you won’t find anywhere else.
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Unbeatable Prices
Thanks to our local knowledge and strong supplier relationships, we secure competitive rates on all our tours.
24/7 Support
From the moment you get in touch to the day your trip ends, we’re here to help. Our friendly team is just a message or call away.
Chobe National Park FAQ'S
What is Chobe National Park most famous for?
Chobe is best known for the largest concentration of African elephants in the world. The Chobe Riverfront is the best area to see these huge herds, especially during the dry season.
What should I pack for my Chobe Safari?
Stick to neutral colours like khaki, olive and sand, and avoid bright colours, white (dust shows easily), and camouflage. Layers are essential — early mornings and evenings can be cold even in summer.
We also recommend packing:
- a wide-brim hat
- sunscreen
- binoculars
- camera with zoom lens
- insect repellent
Is Botswana safe for tourists?
Botswana is widely considered one of the safest countries in Africa for travellers. It is politically stable, and safari areas operate with strong safety and security standards. For most guests, it’s a very easy and comfortable destination for travel.
Can I do a Chobe day trip from Victoria Falls?
Yes. A Victoria Falls day trip to Chobe National Park is one of the most popular options for travellers in the area. These day trips usually include an early morning game drive and an afternoon Chobe River safari cruise, making it one of the easiest ways to experience a top wildlife destination in a short time.
Check out our very popular 3 Day Victoria Falls and Chobe Combo Tour.Â
Is Chobe better in the morning or afternoon?
Both are excellent — but Chobe is famous for its late afternoon magic. That’s when animals start moving down to the river, and the light is perfect for photos. Many travellers say their Chobe river cruise ended up being the highlight of the trip.
What animals can I see in Chobe National Park besides elephants?
Chobe delivers serious variety. Along with elephants you can expect:
- buffalo (often in big herds)
- hippos and crocodiles along the river
- lion (especially around Savuti and the riverfront)
- leopard (more elusive, but definitely possible)
- giraffe, zebra, and lots of antelope
It’s one of the most reliable parks in Botswana for high-density wildlife viewing.
Is it true you can see elephants swimming in Chobe?
Yes — and it’s one of those “this can’t be real” moments. Elephants regularly swim between islands and cross the Chobe River, and you’ll sometimes see whole family groups doing it together. It’s one of the reasons a Chobe River safari cruise is so popular.
What’s the difference between Chobe Riverfront and Savuti?
Think of it like this:
- Chobe Riverfront = busy wildlife action, easy access, great for first-timers
- Savuti = more remote, rugged landscapes, and strong predator viewing
If your tour includes both, you get the best of Chobe in one trip.
Is Chobe good for birding?
Chobe has recorded over 450 bird species, and the riverfront makes it easy to spot them. Even if birding isn’t your main focus, it’s hard not to love the fish eagles, kingfishers, herons and storks along the river.
Reviews from our Travellers
Giorgia Buglino
“It’s hard to put into words the incredible experience we had in South Africa, but great credit goes to Detour.”
The organization was flawless from start to finish. They guided us through every step…
Date of experience: 30 June 2025
Laura Huber
“The tours were amazing!”
The booking progress is very easy as well as the payment.
The tours’ descriptions are accurate and the staff helps wherever it can to make it a great experience…
Date of experience:Â 26 Aug 2024Â
Ouma Jamilla C
“Amazing Travel Agency!”
Booking with Detour Africa, have been the best decision ever.
From the beginning to the end, the Detour Africa team had been nothing short but AMAZING…
Date of experience: 1 Feb 2025
Reviews from our Travellers
Giorgia Buglino
“It’s hard to put into words the incredible experience we had in South Africa, but great credit goes to Detour.”
The organization was flawless from start to finish. They guided us through every step…
Date of experience: 30 June 2025
Laura Huber
“The tours were amazing!”
The booking progress is very easy as well as the payment.
The tours’ descriptions are accurate and the staff helps wherever it can to make it a great experience…
Date of experience:Â 26 Aug 2024Â
Ouma Jamilla C
“Amazing Travel Agency!”
Booking with Detour Africa, have been the best decision ever.
From the beginning to the end, the Detour Africa team had been nothing short but AMAZING…
Date of experience: 1 Feb 2025
Essential Chobe National Park Travel Information
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