Chobe FAQs

What is the weather like in Chobe?

As with the rest of Botswana, the Chobe summer runs from November to April. Days are hot and generally sunny in the morning with possible afternoon thunderstorms. Daytime temperatures can rise to about 38° C/ 100° F and night temperatures drop to around 20° - 25° C/ 68° - 77° F. Afternoons can be very humid.

In winter (from May to October) days are dry, sunny and cool to warm while evening temperatures drop sharply. Daytime temperatures generally reach 20° C/ 68° F and can drop as low as 5° C/ 57° F at night.

When is the best time to travel to Chobe?

Game viewing is best and easiest in the dry season from May to October when animals gather at waterholes and along the Chobe River.

Birding is best between November and March when many migratory birds arrive. December to May enjoys lush, green vegetation while the peak Botswana tourist season (and most expensive time for travel) is from July to October.

Does Chobe have the Big Five?

While there are plenty of elephants, lions, leopards and buffaloes, Botswana's rhinos have been poached out of existence twice in the last 50 or 60 years. The good news is that rhinos have recently been re-introduced and are slowly making a comeback. Your chances of seeing one however remain very slim.

I heard that it is best to wear natural colours such as beige, brown and green while on safari. Can I wear camouflage-patterned clothing in Chobe?

No. While it's a good idea to wear natural colours that blend into the environment while on safari, camouflage patterned clothing is a very bad idea! This mainly applies to any clothing that can be construed as mimicking military-wear. You are urged not to wear, or even carry any military-inspired clothing while travelling in this region.

Can I bring my children to Chobe?

Yes. Chobe is the most child friendly destination in Botswana, and many lodges welcome children of all ages. However please note that children under the age of 6 are seldom permitted on game drives and few lodges offer babysitting facilities. If you are travelling with very young children, keep in mind that an adult will need to supervise them at all times.

What kind of activities does Chobe offer?

Most lodges offer both game drives in the Chobe National Park and river cruises on the famous Chobe River. Some lodges only offer river cruises.

Will my guide carry a gun or rifle with him?

Guides do not carry weapons in Botswana. They are highly skilled, very well trained in extremely knowledgeable about the Chobe wilderness. They do not require guns to ensure your safety.

Can I go on night game drives in Chobe?

No. Night drives are prohibited in all Botswana's National Parks.

Will we drive off the roads in Chobe National Park to follow the animals?

No. Driving off-road in Chobe is strictly forbidden due to the environmental damage it can cause.

What can I expect to pay for accommodation in Chobe?

The cost of accommodation in Chobe, and in Botswana in general, changes dramatically with the seasons. Depending on the standard of luxury and exclusivity you are looking for, however, accommodation in Chobe can cost anything from about US$40 - US$715 per person per night sharing.

What does the price I pay for accommodation generally include?

In Chobe, there is no general rule and the various lodges differ tremendously in terms of what their prices include. Some lodges only include breakfast while other accommodation is fully inclusive of all meals, snacks, soft drinks, tea, coffee, all local alcoholic beverages (excluding premium brands and imported liquor), and all scheduled safari activities.

What is the best way to get to Chobe?

Chobe is easily accessed either by road from Victoria Falls (about a 2 hour road transfer away), or from Kasane Airport which is about 20 - 30 minutes drive from most lodges in Chobe.

Charter flights from the Delta and Savuti regions to Kasane can also be arranged.

What is the local currency and how should we manage carrying our money?

The unit of currency is the Pula (P), which is divided into 100 thebe. It's best to carry small denominations of US Dollars with you as well as Pula. US Dollars are accepted, and in fact the preferred currency of payment, at most lodges and hotels.

All major credit cards are accepted at hotels, shops and restaurants. However, certain lodges and restaurants do not accept payment by Diners or American Express. Credit cards are not accepted at petrol filling stations.

What is the standard tipping procedure?

Tipping is entirely at your discretion but we recommend the following guide:

• Transfers - US$2 per person
• Restaurants - 10% for good service, up to 15% for exceptional service
• Game Lodge Staff - US$25 per stay
• Rangers/ trackers - US$10 per person per day

Will there be electricity for me to charge my camera? What kind of plug will I need?

Yes. All Chobe lodges and hotels will either have electricity, solar power or a generator so charging your camera will be no trouble. Botswana plugs have a voltage of 231V and a frequency of 50 Hertz. The plugs have 3 round-prongs.

Is it safe to drink the water?

Yes. Tap water is purified and safe to drink. Please remember that water is a scarce resource, especially in a drought-stricken area such as Botswana, so please be respectful and help to conserve water.

Is malaria a risk in Chobe?

Yes. You will need to consult your doctor about anti-malaria medication.

What about safety in Botswana?

Botswana is a very safe destination with a low crime rate. The people of Botswana are generally very friendly. Hitchhiking is commonly practiced and it is quite safe to do so.

The greatest dangers are out in the wild and visitors should adhere to the rules when visiting parks. Never get out of your vehicle unless absolutely safe to do so and never confront wild animals.

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