Why travel to Chobe National Park

The Chobe National Park in northern Botswana, on the banks of the perennial Chobe River, is the third largest game reserve in a land rich in game parks. Chobe National Park is the most accessible of these as there are direct flights into Kasane, on the border of the park. South Africans can hop on a morning flight and have lunch overlooking the Chobe River!

Chobe has the reputation of not only a great variety but also great numbers of animals and birds, making game drives and river cruises extremely rewarding. Large herds of elephant can be seen daily on the river banks and the antics of the adolescents make for highly amusing photography. The easy access to the Chobe River doubles the pleasure of game activities in a park suitable for all ages and also families.

Accommodation in Chobe National Park offers a variety of options – both within and on the border of the park – such as tented camps, luxury lodges, and wilderness camping. This means that if you’re looking for a luxury Botswana safari, a family bush break or even a honeymoon safari adventure, there’s plenty for everyone.

Combine your trip to Chobe with a few days in the vast Okavango Delta, exploring the reed-lined waterways in a traditional mokoro, or head to Victoria Falls for spills and thrills in Southern Africa’s Adrenalin Capital.

Browse our exciting Chobe National Park safari packages, we’ve got something for everyone. Don’t hesitate in contacting us should you have any holiday package queries

Things to do in Chobe

The Chobe National Park offers a variety of different activities, most of which center around game-viewing and photography; however, there are plenty of other experiences on offer.

Lodges offer a variety of on-site activities including swimming, spa treatments, wellness centres, tennis and golf.
A half–day game drive in the park will tick many animal and bird species off your list!
Take an afternoon river cruise and get up close to animals as they come to quench their thirst. Your cruise might even include sundowners on the river.
A full day trip to the Victoria Falls is a must for those who have not seen this magnificent wonder of the world.
There are also sleep-out opportunities in Chobe National Park; nothing quite like the sounds of the bush while you drift off to sleep.
Contact Thompsons Holidays about year-round special deals to this game-rich destination.

Know before you go...

When is the best time to visit?

Botswana is a year-round destination.
The dry season is from May to October and the rainy season from January to April. The cooler months are June to August and the hot, the dry season is September and October.
Peak Season is June to October.

What time is it?

Botswana is in the same time zone as South Africa.

Money matters

The official currency is Pula
The Rand and US Dollar are widely accepted.
Major credit cards (Visa and Mastercard) are accepted in hotels, shops and large restaurants.
ATMs are found in tourist areas
Tipping is an accepted custom. If acceptable, tip restaurant staff 10% and luggage porters, drivers and guides at your discretion.
Most meals are included at lodges.

Language & phrases

Setswana is the official language.
English is widely spoken.

Culture & religion

Christianity is the predominant religion in this religion tolerant country.
Staff may perform a short song and traditional dance routine in the boma after dinner.

Health information

Tap water is safe to drink in hotels. Bottled water is readily available.
Vaccinations are not currently required. Malaria is a risk - check with your travel clinic before you go.
Smoking is not permitted in public areas such as restaurants, bars and indoor work places as well as on public transport. Airports offer designated smoking rooms.

Travel Tips

What must I pack?

Depending on when you visit, lightweight clothing for summer, warm clothing for winter, rain gear and swimwear if relevant. Choose items that can be layered as days are warm to hot and evenings cooler.
Comfortable walking shoes.
Sunscreen, lip balm, hat and sunglasses.
Mini first aid kit and regular prescription medication.
Hand sanitiser and insect repellent.
Camera.
Travel adaptor.

Getting around

For seamless travel request return hotel transfers when booking your holiday.
Most packages include daily game drives and cruises.

What can I do to be a responsible traveller?

Wherever possible, buy local food and souvenirs and support local artisans.
Avoid single-use plastic; rather take fabric shopping bags with you and use refillable water bottles (when local drinking water is available).
Respect local cultures and customs and avoid imposing your beliefs.
Do not support animal encounters and wildlife activities that are harmful or unethical.

Safety tips

Always have a map (or app) on hand, especially when travelling at night.
Be safety conscious: don’t display cash or valuables. Leave jewellery and expensive watches at home.
Keep your belongings safe – use the hotel safe for passports and valuables and watch out for pickpockets and bag snatchers when out and about.

What do I do in an emergency?

If passports or valuables are stolen, report the theft to the hotel/police immediately.
Contact the Thompsons Holidays 24-hour care line to assist.

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Getting there

There are regular direct flights from Johannesburg to Kasane as well as connecting flights via another city or country to reach your final destination.
The flight duration from South Africa to Kasane is 2.5 hours.