Chobe National Park
The land of giants 🐘 where the river meets the wild
Chobe National Park is widely considered one of the most family-friendly safari destinations in Africa, largely due to its accessibility and the sheer density of its wildlife. Located in the far north of Botswana, the park is anchored by the Chobe River, which acts as a magnet for animals during the dry season. Unlike remote parks requiring small aircraft to access, Chobe is easily reached via the town of Kasane, which has an international airport and plentiful family-oriented accommodation options ranging from lodges to self-catering chalets.
The defining feature of a Chobe safari is the boat cruise. For parents traveling with younger children, this is a game-changer. Instead of sitting still in a 4x4 vehicle for hours, families can move around on a secure pontoon boat, enjoying snacks and drinks while drifting past hippos, crocodiles, and water monitors. The highlight is undoubtedly the elephants; herds often cross the river, trunks held high like snorkels, playful calves splashing in the shallows. This spectacle provides excellent photographic opportunities and allows children to observe animal behavior up close in a relaxed setting.
Beyond the riverfront, the Savuti region offers a wilder, more rugged landscape known for its predator populations, though the riverfront remains the primary draw for shorter family visits. The park's location makes it a perfect hub for a 'two-country' holiday; it is only an hour's drive from the majestic Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe/Zambia, allowing families to combine a Big Five safari with one of the world's natural wonders.
Practical Tips for Families:
The dry season (May to October) guarantees the best wildlife viewing as animals congregate at the river, though October can be extremely hot. The 'Green Season' (November to April) sees newborn antelopes and vibrant birdlife, which kids often enjoy spotting. Malaria prophylaxis is highly recommended for this region. When packing, bring plenty of sunscreen, hats, and binoculars for the kids—giving them their own pair keeps them engaged in 'spotting' game.
Culturally, nearby Kasane offers craft markets where families can buy hand-carved wooden animals and woven baskets, supporting local artisans. Whether watching a fish eagle swoop for its dinner or seeing a lion pride resting in the shade, Chobe delivers high-impact wildlife experiences with the logistical ease that traveling families require.
Click a region to explore
Activities & Best Times
Hiking, wildlife, outdoor exploration, ecotourism
A global benchmark for wildlife tourism, Chobe features the world's highest elephant concentration and unique boat-based safari experiences. The dry season (May-Sep) offers peak wildlife viewing as animals congregate at the river; the wet season (Nov-Mar) brings high humidity, heavy rains, and dispersed animals.
Learning experiences, scientific sites, historical education
Offers world-class natural history education, focusing on complex river ecosystems, predator-prey dynamics in the Savuti, and conservation science. Peak dry months provide the best visibility for observing animal behavior, while the rainy off-season limits access to key research sites.
Spa retreats, wellness centers, peaceful getaways
High-end safari lodges offer luxury wellness facilities integrated into the wilderness, providing a serene environment for sophisticated travelers. Optimal conditions occur during the cooler, low-humidity months of May-Aug; the extreme heat of Oct (>33°C) and summer rains make outdoor relaxation less comfortable.
Scenic drives, countryside tours, route-based travel
Provides a challenging, authentic expedition experience for experienced 4x4 enthusiasts through dramatic floodplains and sand tracks. Peak conditions are limited to the mid-winter months when tracks are driest and firmest; the rainy season (Nov-Mar) renders many tracks impassable due to deep mud.
