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Chobe Boat Cruises

OverviewWhat to ExpectFAQ'sCruise options

Chobe boat cruises are a fantastic way to experience the best of Botswana.

You can get up close to large herds of abundant animals in the Chobe National Park. They tend to make their way to the river and onto the islands in the river to feast on the sweet grass. Puku and lechwe antelopes are standard on the Chobe floodplains.

Here, there is the highest concentration of elephants globally, and herds of elephants frequently cross the Chobe River. Hippos and crocodiles like to bask in the sun next to the water. You can also see buffalo and giraffes and other plains game. Lucky visitors might see leopards and lions! Furthermore, there are over 460 bird species in the park.

All Chobe boat cruises depart from Kasane, the town which borders the Chobe National Park. There are regular afternoon and morning departures.

What to expect on a Chobe Boat Cruise

Some of the best photography is possible in the afternoons; the evening light lends itself to excellent photography of the animals and birds and the magnificent sunsets over the Chobe River. The mornings are also extraordinary, with the animals heading to the water for a morning drink.

Birding is also excellent along the river, with frequent African darters, fish eagles, kingfishers, other waders, and water birds. The African skimmer is often seen, a rare species to see elsewhere.

We highly recommend a Chobe boat cruise to make the most of your stay in Botswana.

 

Chobe Boat Cruises Highlights

  • You can experience magnificent sunsets from the Chobe River
  • Excellent bird sightings
  • Silent approach to animals
  • Value for money experience
  • Park fees are included in the price

FAQ’s

What about VISA?

You are responsible for your VISA to enter Botswana, should you require one.

What do I need?

Your passport, walking shoes and a jacket. Wear clothes in neutral colours (meaning no bright colours) and take a warm jacket for chilly mornings and evenings. Binoculars are also helpful. Leave any valuables that you don’t need.

Who can join?

Everyone is welcome. There is no age restriction. You also don’t have to be fit to join.

Chobe Boat Cruises Options

You can choose from various boating options for the Chobe boat cruises. Guests can join a standard cruise on a river cruiser taking about 30-40 people, or take a smaller boat and focus on photography and birding. You can also book a private boat suitable to your time frame.

These boat cruises are perfect for self-driving, allowing you to explore the Chobe further by yourself.

  • You may also choose a private boat cruise for only you and your fellow travellers. We will arrange a private guide.
  • You can select scheduled cruises shared with other travellers, which are more affordable (see rates below).
  • There is a 3-day photographic safari where you will have your photo host to guide you (read more here).

Chobe National Park Includes

INCLUDES


  • Kasane town transfers
  • Water, soft drinks and packed meals as specified per activity
Chobe National Park Excludes

EXCLUDES


  • Excludes park fees of BWP 190 per person (international) and BWP 145 per person (SADC). Children 8 – 17 years pay BWP 95 per child. Children 0 – 8 years pay no park fees.
Chobe National Park Tour Information

tour INFORMATION

DURATION: 3 - 8 Hours
DEPARTS FROM: Kasane
RATES INFO:
  • We need a minimum of 2 adults to confirm, unless otherwise stated
  • Children aged 4 – 11 years pay 50%
Chobe National Park Product Pricing

RATES

Chobe Boat Cruise Rates

Valid for 2024

Cruise type Rate per person

3-hour Deluxe Chobe Boat Cruise

  • Departs 15:00
  • Includes water, limited beers, wine, local spirits, soft drinks and a snack
BWP 750

3-hour Chobe Sunset Cruise

  • Departs 15:00
  • Includes water, soft drinks and snacks
BWP 475

2-hour Impalila Island Village Tour

  • Departs 11:00
  • Includes a boat transfer to Impalila Island, Village Tour, water and soft drinks
We need a minimum of 2 adults to confirm these activities.
BWP 810

3-hour Chobe Lunch Cruise

  • Departs 11:00
  • Includes soft drinks, water and a three meat barbeque style lunch
BWP 865

The Chobe Explore Full Day Cruise

  • Departs 11h00 - returns at 18h00
  • Includes welcome sparkling wine, morning and afternoon tea / coffee, buffet lunch, local beers, wines and spirits
We require a minimum of 4 adults to confirm these activities.
BWP 1865

3-hour Private Chobe Boat Hire

 
  • Departs anytime between 06h30 – 15h00
  • USD 160 per Pontoon or Speed boat (1 – 4 people)
  • Additional people (more than 4) are charged USD 25 per person (seats up to 10 people)
  • USD 260 per Bullfrog double decker boat (1 – 10 people)
  • Additional people (more than 10) are charged USD 25 per person (seats up to 16 people)
  • USD 470 per Big Boat double decker boat (1 – 18 people)
  • Additional people (more than 18) are charged USD 25 per person (seats up to 34 people)
  • Excludes water, drinks and snacks (you are welcome to bring your own refreshments with)
  • It excludes park fees of BWP 190 per person (international) and BWP 145 per person (SADC). Children 8 – 17 years pay BWP 95 per child. Children 0 – 8 years pay no park fees.
  • With our private boat hire, we can arrange transfers from lodges in Kasane to the jetty @ BWP 500 per vehicle ~ return (max 10 people per vehicle)
 
Chobe National Park Tour Schedule

tour SCHEDULE

Departs From Kasane Daily

We will collect you from your choice of accommodation or campsite in Kasane.



DISCLAIMER: We reserve the right to cancel any activity due to weather or unsafe conditions. An alternative activity will be provided wherever possible.

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  • Chobe Bush Lodge

    Chobe Bush Lodge is next to the Chobe National Park. It is a mere 200 meters from the Chobe River. Excellent location.
  • Jackalberry Chobe Lodge

    The Jackalberry Chobe Lodge offers a fully inclusive lodge experience. Stay in a luxury rooms with an excellent view of the Chobe River.
  • Chobe Bakwena Lodge

    Chobe Bakwena Lodge is 1.5 km from the place where 4 countries meet! Check out the stylish interior that compliments the stunning views.
  • Chobe Safari Lodge

    Chobe Safari lodge borders on the Chobe National Park in Kasane town. It overlooks the Chobe River and offers great value for money.
  • Chobe Savanna Lodge

    Chobe Savanna Lodge is on the northern banks of the Chobe River. Offering a unique view of the Chobe National Park from the Namibian side. 
  • Ichingo Chobe River Lodge

    Ichingo Chobe River Lodge on the Namibian side of the river is ideally located for a low key visit. A great location.

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