What weather can I expect in Chobe?

Days in Botswana are hot, with morning sun and the chance of stormy, rainy, spectacular afternoons.

In the summer (November-April), expect anything up to the high 30s° C (up to 100° F) with humidity later in the day, and temperatures in the mid- to low 20s C at night (high 60s-high 70s F).

Winter temperatures are dry, somewhat cooler and, at night, sometimes chilly: expect temperatures around 20° C (68° F) in the daytime, and as low as 5° C (57° F) at night.

Which months are best to visit?

The best time to visit depends on your priorities.  Peak season in Botswana runs from July to October and this is when game veiwing best. Animals cluster around waterholes to drink, while birding enthusiasts are advised to catch the great migrations of African and Palearctic birds (November through March). January and February can be very wet and mosquitoes are plentiful. There are less mosquitoes from July to October (peak season).

Can we see the Big Five here?

You can see four of the Five in abundance everywhere in Chobe. The Rhino, however, has only recently been re-introduced to Botswana after years of precarity and poaching. There aren’t many, and you’re not likely to see one, but their numbers are recovering slowly.

Safari gear should be neutral and muted: does this include Camo(uflage) clothing?

It is best to skip “camo” clothing altogether while in Chobe: rather blend into your environment, and avoid the military associations of camo, with beige, brown or similar neutral/natural-coloured clothing.

Is Chobe child-friendly?

Most definitely. Chobe welcomes children, with many lodges offering a range of activities suitable for the little ones. Remember that this is the bush, however: very young children should always be supervised, and under-6s are not usually allowed on game drives.

How do I get to Chobe?

You could take the road option from Victoria Falls (about 2 hours) or fly to Kasane Airport – this could include charter flights from the Okavango and Savuti. The airport is about half an hour from most of Chobe’s lodges.

What is there to do at Chobe?

The majority of lodges offer game drives in the well-stocked Chobe National Park as well as the cruises on the Chobe River; however, some establishments offer the cruises only.

On games drives and bush walks, will my guide be armed?

No. Like British bobbies, guides rely on their instinct, extensive training and bush knowledge to ensure your safety. Guns are not necessary and are not carried.

Does Chobe offer night game drives? Can we go off-road on game drives?

No. Chobe lodges do not offer night drives in the National Park. Leaving the road is also strictly prohibited.

How much will I pay for accommodation in Chobe?

The cost of accommodation depends on the time of year, and what you pay will change dramatically outside of peak season. Rates start at roughly 100 USD per person per night sharing, while luxury options run into the region of 700 USD per person per night sharing.

How much should I tip, and when?

Tipping is entirely at your discretion but we recommend the following guide:
• Transfers – Around USD 2 per person
• Restaurants - 10% for adequate to good service, with 15 % for outstanding service
• Game Lodge Staff:USD 25 per stay

• Rangers/ trackers:USD 10 per person per day

What can I expect to find included in the accommodation rate?

The range of answers to this one is broad, as lodges vary greatly in their approach. Some establishments offer all-inclusive prices which include all meals, activities and drinks (barring premium brands and imports) while others offer only breakfast.

What currency should we carry?

Althought the national currency, the Pula, is stable, US Dollars are always useful (small amounts at least are recommended) and are sometimes preferred at lodges and hotels. Diners or American Express cards are not universally accepted, but other credit cards are welcome at most places, except petrol stations.

What is the electricity situation? Will I need converters to charge my camera?

Botswana plugs have a voltage of 231V and a frequency of 50 Hertz. The plugs have 3 round-prongs, and all Chobe establishments are electrified, with many being equipped with solar power and/or generators.

Can we drink the water?

Yes. Tap water in Chobe is purified and potable, but Botswana is water-poor and visitors are asked to help conserve this precious resource.

Should I take malaria precautions?

Yes. Consult with your physician about prophylactics (anti-malaria medication) before leaving home.

How safe is Botswana really?

Very. By far the greatest danger here is posed by wildlife. When in the wild you should never leave your vehicle unless you’ve been assured that it’s completely safe to do so.

Crime is almost unheard-of in Botswana.