Good To Know
Planning a trip to the Elephant Valley Lodge and the surrounding area can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it’s important to know what to expect before you go. From the best time to visit to what to pack, there are many things to consider to ensure you have a memorable and stress-free trip. This “Good to Know” page offers a collection of tips and information about the Chobe region. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned safari-goer, this page aims to provide you with valuable insights to help you make the most of your time in Chobe area.
What To Pack
When planning a safari to Elephant Valley Lodge it’s important to pack wisely so you can fully enjoy your experience in this breathtaking wilderness. Here are some essential items to bring along:
- Clothing: The climate in Chobe can be quite hot during the day, but it can also get chilly at night. Pack lightweight, breathable clothes that will protect you from the sun, such as long-sleeved shirts and pants made from cotton or other natural materials. Bring a jacket or sweater for the cooler evenings and early mornings, and don’t forget a hat and sunglasses to shield yourself from the sun.
- Footwear: Comfortable and sturdy shoes or boots are a must for safari tours. Choose closed-toe shoes or boots that provide good traction, as you may be walking on uneven terrain. We recommend bringing a pair of sandals for when you leisure around the lodge.
- Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from the bright African sun by packing a good pair of sunglasses with UV protection.
- Insect repellent: Chobe is home to a variety of insects, including mosquitoes, so be sure to pack insect repellent to keep them at bay.
- Sunscreen: The sun can be intense in Chobe, so it’s important to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Pack a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and apply it regularly throughout the day.
- Binoculars: Chobe is known for its abundant wildlife, including elephants, lions, and zebras. A good pair of binoculars will allow you to get a closer look at these magnificent animals without disturbing them.
- Camera: Don’t forget to pack a camera to capture your safari experience! Bring extra batteries and memory cards, and consider a zoom lens to get closer shots of the wildlife.
- Personal medication: Make sure to bring any personal medication you may need, including prescription drugs, allergy medicine, and pain relievers.
- Backpack: A backpack is a convenient way to carry all of your essentials while on safari. Choose a lightweight and comfortable backpack with enough space for your camera, binoculars, jacket, and other items you wish to carry around.
By packing these essential items, you’ll be well-prepared for your safari adventure here at Elephant Valley Lodge. If you do forget anything behind be sure to visit our curio shop as it is well stocked.
Which season to visit?
The Chobe region experiences a distinct dry and wet season, each offering unique experiences for safari enthusiasts.
Dry Season (April to October):
The dry season in Chobe usually runs from April to October, offering the best time to spot wildlife. During this time, animals congregate around water sources, including the Chobe River, making it easier to spot them. The vegetation is also sparse, making it easier to see animals in the savannah. This is also the best time for birdwatching, as migratory birds come to the area during the dry season.
Wet Season (November to March):
The wet season in Chobe usually runs from November to March, and although it is considered the low season, it offers its own unique safari experiences. During this time, the park is transformed into a lush green landscape, and many animals give birth to their young. Birdlife is also abundant during this time, with many resident bird species breeding and nesting. This season is also the best time for photography, with the dramatic skies and soft light adding a unique dimension to your pictures.
No matter which season you choose to visit, you can expect to see a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, hyenas, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, and many more. Our experienced guides will take you on game drives and boat cruises, offering you an opportunity to see these animals up close and learn about their behaviour and habitats.
So, whether you’re planning to visit during the dry season or the wet season, you can be assured of an unforgettable safari experience at Elephant Valley Lodge.
About the Chobe Area
Chobe is a region located in the northern part of Botswana, near the borders of Namibia, Zimbabwe, and Zambia. It covers an area of over 11,000 square kilometres and is home to one of the largest concentrations of wildlife in Africa.
The region is situated along the Chobe River, which flows into the Zambezi River and eventually into the Indian Ocean. The river serves as a vital water source for the wildlife in the region and attracts large herds of elephants, buffalos, and other animals to its banks.
Chobe is easily accessible by road or air, with Kasane Airport being the main gateway to the area. The region offers a unique mix of African wildlife and landscapes, from savannahs and woodlands to floodplains and marshes. The location of Chobe, at the meeting point of four countries, makes it a great destination for those looking to explore the diversity of Southern Africa.
Chobe National Park
Chobe National Park is one of the most popular safari destinations in Africa, located in the northern part of Botswana. It covers an area of over 10,000 square kilometers and is home to the largest concentration of elephants in the world, estimated to be over 100,000.
The park also boasts a wide variety of other wildlife, including lions, leopards, hyenas, buffalos, giraffes, zebras, and many more. The park is split into four distinct areas, each offering unique landscapes and wildlife experiences. These include the Chobe Riverfront, Savuti, Linyanti, and Nogatsaa. The Chobe Riverfront is the most popular area, offering stunning views of the Chobe River and abundant wildlife sightings, while Savuti is known for its large prides of lions.
The park is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 450 species of birds recorded in the region. In addition to game drives and boat cruises, the park offers many other activities, including walking safaris, fishing, and cultural tours to nearby villages.
Chobe National Park is committed to conservation, and efforts are being made to protect the wildlife and habitats in the region for future generations to enjoy.