Chobe River, Africa

Where the wild meets the water in spectacular style.

A small safari boat with tourists watching a family of elephants drinking by the shore of the Chobe River under a vibrant, cloudy sunset.

Overview

Chobe River, Africa Cruise Port

The Chobe River, forming the northern boundary of Chobe National Park in Botswana, is one of Africa's most iconic and wildlife-rich waterways. Flowing along the borders of Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, it's particularly famous for its massive elephant herds (one of the largest concentrations in Africa), as well as a prolific array of other wildlife, including buffalo, hippos, crocodiles, and diverse birdlife. The river provides a constant water source, drawing animals from the surrounding dry lands, especially during the dry season, making it a critical lifeline for the park's ecosystem.

The Chobe River is a premier destination for African river safaris, typically undertaken on smaller, purpose-built river safari boats or houseboats. While not a traditional "cruise port" in the ocean-going sense, multi-day river safaris on the Chobe are often included as part of larger African land safaris or pre/post-cruise extensions for ocean cruises embarking/disembarking in Southern Africa (e.g., Cape Town, Durban) or even for those doing land-based extensions from Victoria Falls or Livingstone. The primary activity is game viewing from the water, offering unparalleled perspectives of animals at the riverbanks.

Top Things to Do in Chobe River, Africa

River Safari Game Drives

Embark on exhilarating river safari game drives (usually by smaller, open-sided boats) along the Chobe River. This is the ultimate way to observe wildlife, with prime sightings of elephants drinking and bathing, hippos in pods, crocodiles basking, and large herds of buffalo. The water perspective often allows for closer approaches to animals than land-based safaris.

Tip: Bring a good zoom lens for your camera. The best times for wildlife viewing are generally early morning and late afternoon.

Witness Massive Elephant Herds

Chobe National Park is home to an estimated 120,000 elephants, and during the dry season (May to October), thousands congregate along the Chobe River. Witnessing these massive elephant herds interact, play, and drink is an unforgettable and truly humbling experience.

Tip: Be patient and observe their behavior; watching calves splash in the water is particularly endearing.

Birdwatching Excursions

The Chobe River is a birder's paradise, with over 450 species recorded in the park. Participate in dedicated birdwatching excursions on smaller boats to spot a wide array of species, including African fish eagles, kingfishers, various storks, and migratory birds.

Tip: A good pair of binoculars is essential. Your guide will be adept at identifying species and their calls.

Sunset Cruises

Enjoy a serene sunset cruise on the Chobe River. As the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky with vibrant colors, the river takes on a magical glow, and wildlife often becomes more active or settles down for the evening.

Tip: This is a perfect opportunity for stunning photographs and a relaxing end to a day of safari. Drinks and snacks are often provided.

Visit Impalila Island (Namibia)

Some itineraries may include a visit to Impalila Island, located at the confluence of the Chobe and Zambezi Rivers, where four countries meet (Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe). This offers a glimpse into local village life and cultural exchange, as it's Namibian territory.

Tip: Be aware of border formalities if your cruise crosses into Namibia; your guide will assist. Respect local customs during village visits.

Combine with Victoria Falls

Many Chobe River safari experiences are combined with a visit to the magnificent Victoria Falls, located just an hour's drive away (usually from Kasane, Botswana, across the border to Livingstone, Zambia, or Victoria Falls Town, Zimbabwe).

Tip: Allocate at least a full day for Victoria Falls. This combination offers both incredible wildlife and one of the world's natural wonders.

Overview