Chobe Camping

Embarking on a camping adventure in Chobe National Park offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse oneself in Botswana's rich wildlife and stunning landscapes. With a variety of campsites available, both public and operated by tour companies, visitors can choose the experience that best suits their preferences.

Types of Campsites in Chobe National Park

Public Campsites

Public campsites within Chobe National Park are accessible to all travellers. Due to their limited number and high demand, especially during the peak season from June to October, it is advisable to book well in advance. These sites provide basic amenities, including:

Showers
Toilets
Running water

However, visitors should come prepared with their own water, firewood, and meals to ensure a comfortable stay.

Tour Operator Campsites

For those seeking a more guided experience, tour operator campsites offer mobile safari options deep within the bush. Local guides possess extensive knowledge of Chobe's wildlife and terrain, providing invaluable insights during the safari. This option is particularly beneficial for travellers lacking 4x4 driving experience, as navigating the park's two-spoor track roads can be challenging.

Recommended Camping Itineraries

To fully experience the diverse ecosystems and wildlife of Chobe National Park, consider the following camping itineraries:

2-Day Chobe Camping
3-Day Chobe Camping
5-Day Chobe Camping
7-Day Chobe & Savuti Camping
12-Day Chobe, Savuti, Moremi & Okavango Delta Camping

Wildlife Safety Considerations

Chobe National Park is home to a wide array of wildlife that roams freely, including elephants, lions, and hippos. To ensure safety while camping:

Never leave food unattended, as it can attract wildlife.
Secure all food and rubbish when leaving the campsite during the day.
Always stay on designated routes and avoid venturing off the two-spoor track roads.

Notable Campsites in Chobe National Park

Ihaha Campsite – GPS: S 17 50.484′; E 24 52.748

Located along the Chobe Riverfront, approximately 35 kilometres west of Kasane, Ihaha Campsite offers ten sites with shared ablution blocks equipped with flushing toilets and hot showers powered by solar energy. The campsite provides picturesque views of the Chobe River, attracting various wildlife species. There is no electricity at the campsite, so visitors should plan accordingly.

Location: Approximately 35 kilometres west of Kasane on the Chobe Riverfront.

Facilities:

Ten campsites overlooking the Chobe River.
Ablution blocks with flush toilets and solar-heated hot showers.
No electricity; visitors should plan accordingly.

Highlights: The campsite offers views of a hippo pool during the dry season and the flowing river during the high water season.

Savuti Campsite– GPS: S 18 34.014, E 24 03.905

Situated in the western expanse of the park, Savuti Campsite features 14 well-spaced sites, each equipped with a braai (BBQ) stand, cold water tap, and dustbin. The campsite is unfenced, allowing wildlife to roam through freely. It is best accessed by 4×4 vehicles and is approximately a four-hour drive from Kasane.

Location: Situated in the western expanse of the park, approximately 50 kilometres north of Mababe Gate.

Facilities:

Fourteen well-spaced campsites.
Each site equipped with a braai (BBQ) stand, cold water tap, and dustbin.
Shared ablution blocks with showers and flush toilets.
No electricity; reliance on solar or generator power is common.

Highlights: The area is renowned for its diverse wildlife, including large herds of elephants and prides of lions.

Linyanti Campsite – GPS: S 18 16.228, E 23 56.163

Overlooking the Linyanti River, this secluded campsite offers five well-spaced sites, each with a braai stand, cold water tap, and dustbin. The area is renowned for its rich wildlife, including lion prides, leopards, and large herds of elephants. Due to its remote location, it provides an authentic wilderness experience.

Location: Located in the northwest corner of the park, adjacent to the Linyanti River.

Facilities:

Five well-spaced campsites overlooking the Linyanti River.
Each site equipped with a braai stand, cold water tap, and dustbin.
Shared restroom facilities with hand basins, showers, and toilets.

Highlights: The remote location offers an authentic wilderness experience with frequent sightings of wildlife such as lions, leopards, and elephants.

Booking and Visitor Information

Given the limited number of campsites at Ihaha, Savuti, and Linyanti, advance booking is essential, particularly during the high season from June to October. Visitors must have a valid campsite reservation to enter the park, and park fees are payable separately at Botswana Wildlife offices.

Visitor Rates (as of 2022)

Botswana Citizen	Resident/SADC National	Non-resident
Private Visitor / Day / Fees	P30	P205	P270
Camping Fees	P20	P45	P60

For vehicles under 3500kg, the daily fee is P30 for Botswana-registered vehicles and P115 for foreign-registered vehicles.

Included in the Rates

Cleaned and raked, litter-free campsites
Maximum of three vehicles per site
Anti-bacterial soap and toilet paper in the ablution blocks
Daily rubbish collection
12% government tax
Ablution blocks with hot and cold showers and flushing toilets

Park Rules and Regulations

Visitors are required to adhere to all park rules and regulations to ensure their safety and the preservation of the park's natural environment. This includes staying on designated routes, respecting wildlife, and following guidelines provided by park authorities.

Chobe Park Fees

Parks Rules and Regulations