Things to Do in Chobe National Park & Weather by Month

Things to Do in Chobe National Park, Chobe National Park in northern Botswana is one of Africa’s most rewarding safari destinations. Covering around 11,700 km², it is Botswana’s first national park and is world famous for having one of the largest concentrations of elephants on the continent. On a single afternoon along the Chobe River, it is possible to see hundreds of elephants drinking, bathing and swimming across the water.

Beyond elephants, Chobe is home to lions, leopards, wild dogs, buffalo, hippos, crocodiles, sable, roan and rare antelope such as the puku and Chobe bushbuck. More than 450 bird species have been recorded in the wider region, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.

Choosing the right time to visit makes a big difference to your experience. The weather in Chobe changes dramatically between the hot, wet green season and the cool, dry winter months, and each season offers different wildlife highlights and activities. This guide covers the best things to do in Chobe National Park and explains Chobe weather by month, so you can plan the perfect safari.

Chobe National Park at a Glance

Feature	Details
Location	Northern Botswana, near the borders of Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe
Size	Approximately 11,700 km²
Gateway town	Kasane (Kasane International Airport, BBK)
Main regions	Chobe Riverfront (Serondela), Savuti, Linyanti, Nogatsaa/Ngwezumba
Famous for	Huge elephant herds, Chobe River boat safaris, Savuti predators
Climate	Semi-arid subtropical: hot wet summers, mild dry winters
Best time for game viewing	May to October (peak: July to October)
Best time for birding and green scenery	November to April
Main entry gates	Sedudu Gate (near Kasane) and Ngoma Gate (west of the Riverfront)

The Four Main Regions of Chobe

Chobe Riverfront (Serondela): The most visited part of the park, stretching along the Chobe River west of Kasane. It is the best area for boat cruises, elephant viewing and easy access from town.

Savuti: A remote region in the southwest, known for its marsh, the unpredictable Savuti Channel, strong lion populations, hyenas and the seasonal zebra migration. The Gubatsa Hills here also contain ancient San rock art.

Linyanti: A wild, swampy area in the northwest bordering private concessions. It offers exclusive sightings of elephants, wild dogs and lions with far fewer vehicles.

Nogatsaa and Ngwezumba: The park’s quiet interior, with clay pans and mopane woodland. It is popular with elephants and buffalo in the wet season and with self-drive travellers seeking solitude.

Chobe National Park Weather Overview

Chobe has two main seasons. The dry season runs from May to October, and the wet or green season runs from November to April. Rainfall is concentrated in December, January and February, while June to September is almost completely dry. Annual rainfall in the Kasane area averages roughly 600–650 mm.

Dry Season (May to October)

The dry season is the most popular time to visit Chobe. With little or no rain, waterholes inland dry up and wildlife concentrates along the Chobe River and Linyanti swamps. Vegetation thins, visibility improves and game viewing becomes exceptional. Days are sunny, mornings in June and July can be cold, and temperatures climb sharply in September and October.

Wet or Green Season (November to April)

The green season brings afternoon thunderstorms, lush landscapes, newborn animals and outstanding birding. Wildlife disperses into the interior, but Savuti hosts the zebra migration, and predators stay busy hunting young antelope. Lodges offer lower rates, and the park is far less crowded.

Average Climate in Chobe by Month

Month	Avg High	Avg Low	Avg Rainfall	Season	Game Viewing
January	31°C	19°C	150–170 mm	Wet	Good
February	31°C	19°C	130–140 mm	Wet	Good
March	31°C	18°C	~90 mm	Wet	Good
April	30°C	15°C	~25 mm	Transition	Very good
May	28°C	10°C	~0–5 mm	Dry	Very good
June	25°C	7°C	0 mm	Dry	Excellent
July	25°C	6°C	0 mm	Dry	Excellent
August	29°C	9°C	0 mm	Dry	Excellent
September	33°C	14°C	~0–5 mm	Dry	Excellent
October	35°C	18°C	~15–20 mm	Dry (hot)	Excellent
November	34°C	19°C	50–60 mm	Wet begins	Very good
December	32°C	19°C	~150 mm	Wet	Good

Figures are approximate long-term averages for the Kasane/Chobe Riverfront area. Actual conditions vary from year to year, and Savuti tends to be slightly hotter and drier.

Chobe National Park Weather by Month & What to Do

Below is a detailed month-by-month breakdown of Chobe’s weather, wildlife and the best activities for each time of year.

Chobe in January

GREEN SEASON – PEAK RAINS

Weather

January is one of the wettest months in Chobe, with an average of around 150–170 mm of rain. Expect hot, humid days of about 31°C and warm nights near 19°C. Rain usually arrives as dramatic afternoon thunderstorms rather than all-day drizzle, so mornings are often clear and bright.

What to Expect

The park is lush, green and quiet. Elephants and buffalo disperse inland to seasonal pans, so the Riverfront is less crowded with big herds, but the scenery is spectacular. Savuti comes alive with the zebra migration, and newborn impala, tsessebe and wildebeest attract predators. Migrant birds are present in huge numbers.

Best Things to Do in January

• Join a Chobe River boat cruise – river levels are rising and the light after storms is superb for photography
• Visit Savuti for zebra migration, predator action and baby animals (lodge-based or fly-in, as roads can be very muddy)
• Enjoy world-class birding with Palearctic and intra-African migrants at their peak
• Take advantage of low-season lodge rates and private sightings

January Travel Tip Book fly-in packages to Savuti or Linyanti. Sandy tracks turn to deep mud, and some self-drive routes become impassable.

Chobe in February

GREEN SEASON – WET AND LUSH

Weather

February is similar to January, with rainfall of roughly 130–140 mm, daytime highs of about 31°C and night-time lows of 19°C. Humidity is high, and late-afternoon storms are common. Some days remain completely dry.

What to Expect

The bush is at its greenest, wildflowers bloom and the pans are full of water. Game is more spread out, but the Savuti Marsh still hosts zebra and wildebeest herds. This is the quietest time of year in the park.

Best Things to Do in February

• Take a photographic boat safari – dramatic skies and reflections make for unique images
• Combine Chobe with Victoria Falls, which is building towards peak flow
• Look for carmine bee-eaters, broad-billed rollers and woodland kingfishers on birding outings
• Enjoy morning game drives on the Riverfront when temperatures are pleasant

February Travel Tip Pack a lightweight waterproof jacket and protect camera gear with a dry bag on boat cruises.

Chobe in March

LATE GREEN SEASON

Weather

Rains begin to ease in March, averaging around 90 mm. Temperatures stay warm, with highs of about 31°C and lows of around 18°C. Storms become less frequent towards the end of the month.

What to Expect

The landscape remains green, and the Chobe River floodplains begin to fill as water from Angola’s highlands arrives. Grass is tall, which can make spotting game harder, but animals are healthy and in good condition.

Best Things to Do in March

• Cruise the Chobe River floodplains to see hippos, crocodiles and water birds
• Take a Victoria Falls day trip as the falls approach their most powerful flow
• Try tiger fishing where seasonal regulations allow, confirming dates with your operator
• Benefit from shoulder-season value before prices rise

March Travel Tip March is an excellent value month. Many lodges still offer green-season rates while the weather becomes more reliable.

Chobe in April

TRANSITION TO DRY SEASON

Weather

April marks the change of seasons. Rainfall drops to around 25 mm, humidity falls, and days are pleasant at about 30°C, with cooler nights of approximately 15°C.

What to Expect

The bush is still green, but water inland begins to dry up. Elephants and buffalo start drifting back towards the Chobe River, and game viewing improves week by week. Victoria Falls is close to peak flow.

Best Things to Do in April

• Go on Riverfront game drives as animals return to permanent water
• Enjoy sunset cruises with clear skies and golden light
• Visit Victoria Falls at near-peak volume – expect plenty of spray
• Explore the Ngwezumba pans and the park’s quieter interior on a guided 4×4 safari

April Travel Tip April offers a sweet spot: green scenery, comfortable temperatures, improving game and fewer visitors.

Chobe in May

EARLY DRY SEASON

Weather

May is dry, with almost no rain. Days are mild and sunny at about 28°C, while nights cool down to around 10°C. Early mornings on open vehicles can feel chilly.

What to Expect

Wildlife viewing becomes consistently good. Vegetation thins, making animals easier to spot, and the Riverfront draws growing numbers of elephants, buffalo, giraffe, sable and the localised puku antelope.

Best Things to Do in May

• Enjoy full-day game drives in comfortable temperatures
• Take morning and afternoon boat cruises for elephant river crossings
• Start a self-drive Chobe safari as tracks dry out and become more manageable
• Camp at Ihaha campsite on the Riverfront under clear, starry skies

May Travel Tip Pack layers. A warm fleece and a beanie are useful for early-morning drives, even though afternoons are warm.

Chobe in June

DRY SEASON – COOL AND CLEAR

Weather

June is cool and completely dry. Daytime temperatures reach around 25°C, and nights can drop to 6–8°C. Skies are clear and dust levels are still relatively low.

What to Expect

This is the start of peak season. Waterholes inland dry up, and wildlife concentrates along the Chobe River. Lions, leopards and wild dogs are easier to find, and elephant herds grow larger each week.

Best Things to Do in June

• Watch large elephant herds swimming and drinking along the river
• Track predators on Riverfront and Savuti game drives
• Enjoy stargazing on cold, clear winter nights
• Consider a houseboat safari on the Chobe River for a unique multi-day stay

June Travel Tip June marks the start of high season. Book lodges and houseboats several months in advance.

Chobe in July

PEAK DRY SEASON – COOLEST MONTH

Weather

July is usually the coolest month, with days of about 25°C and nights falling as low as 5–6°C. There is no rain, and days are sunny and bright.

What to Expect

Game viewing is excellent. The Riverfront is one of the best places in Africa to see elephants, with herds gathering daily at the water. Buffalo herds can number in the hundreds, and predator activity is high.

Best Things to Do in July

• Take a sunrise game drive for the best predator sightings
• Book a photographic boat safari for low-angle shots of elephants and buffalo
• Visit Savuti for lions, hyenas and the famous Savuti Channel
• Combine with the Okavango Delta or Victoria Falls for a classic Southern Africa circuit

July Travel Tip July coincides with European and American school holidays. Expect more vehicles and boats on the Riverfront, especially in the afternoons.

Chobe in August

PEAK DRY SEASON – WARMING UP

Weather

August remains dry, with temperatures rising to around 29°C by day and 9°C at night. Winds can pick up, carrying dust and haze late in the month.

What to Expect

Wildlife concentrations along the river become extraordinary. Thousands of elephants visit the Chobe River daily. The vegetation is sparse, making it easy to see animals in the open.

Best Things to Do in August

• Watch elephant river crossings between Botswana and Namibia’s Sedudu Island area
• Go birdwatching for African skimmers, fish eagles and open-billed storks
• Take a full-day combo safari with a morning game drive and an afternoon cruise
• Enjoy sundowners on the river as the sun sets behind the Namibian floodplains

August Travel Tip Afternoon boat cruises are busiest in August. Morning cruises are quieter and often have better light.

Chobe in September

LATE DRY SEASON – HOT

Weather

September brings hot, dry weather, with days averaging around 33°C and nights about 14°C. There is almost no rain, and the air can become hazy.

What to Expect

This is one of the best months for game viewing. Elephant numbers on the Riverfront peak, and predators take advantage of animals weakened by the dry season. Carmine bee-eaters begin arriving to nest in riverbanks.

Best Things to Do in September

• Experience peak elephant season along the Chobe River
• Photograph carmine bee-eater colonies as they start nesting
• Enjoy excellent tiger fishing as water levels drop
• Stay at a private concession such as Linyanti for exclusive sightings

September Travel Tip Bring sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat and plenty of water. Midday heat makes a siesta at camp a smart choice.

Chobe in October

HOTTEST MONTH – DRAMATIC WILDLIFE

Weather

October is the hottest month in Chobe, with average highs of about 35°C, frequently reaching 38–40°C. Nights stay warm at around 18°C. The first light rains may fall late in the month.

What to Expect

Water is scarce inland, so wildlife viewing along the river is at its most intense. Elephants, buffalo and plains game crowd the riverbanks, and predator sightings are frequent. The landscape is dry and dusty.

Best Things to Do in October

• Take early-morning and late-afternoon game drives to avoid the heat
• Enjoy cooling boat cruises – the river is the best place to be during the heat of the day
• Witness dramatic predator-prey interactions near water
• Photograph elephants bathing and mud-wallowing along the banks

October Travel Tip Choose accommodation with a swimming pool and air-conditioning or fans. Drink water constantly to prevent dehydration.

Chobe in November

START OF GREEN SEASON

Weather

November brings the first proper rains, averaging around 50–60 mm. Temperatures remain high at about 34°C by day and 19°C at night, though storms help cool the air.

What to Expect

The first rains trigger a burst of new life. Impala begin giving birth, migrant birds arrive and herds begin to disperse away from the river. Zebras move towards Savuti. Early November can still offer excellent dry-season game viewing.

Best Things to Do in November

• Watch impala lambing season and the predators it attracts
• Enjoy birding as summer migrants arrive
• Follow the zebra migration into the Savuti region
• Take advantage of shoulder-season rates at many lodges

November Travel Tip Early November often combines the best of both seasons – strong game viewing and the first green flush.

Chobe in December

GREEN SEASON – FESTIVE AND LUSH

Weather

December is wet and warm, with rainfall of around 150 mm, daytime highs of 32°C and lows near 19°C. Afternoon thunderstorms are frequent, but mornings are usually clear.

What to Expect

The park turns green, and newborn animals are everywhere. Game is more dispersed, but the Chobe River still delivers rewarding boat safaris. Bird life is outstanding.

Best Things to Do in December

• Enjoy a festive-season safari with river cruises and game drives
• See baby animals including impala, warthog and wildebeest
• Go birdwatching – December is one of the best months for colourful migrants
• Combine Chobe with Victoria Falls for a holiday adventure

December Travel Tip Despite being green season, the Christmas and New Year period is busy. Reserve accommodation early.

Top Things to Do in Chobe National Park

Whether you visit in the green season or the dry season, Chobe offers an exciting mix of land and water activities. Here are the best experiences to include in your safari.

1. Chobe River Boat Cruise

A boat cruise on the Chobe River is the signature Chobe experience. From the water, you can watch elephants swim across channels, hippos wallow in the shallows and crocodiles bask on sandbanks. Sunset cruises are the most popular, while morning cruises are quieter and offer softer light.

Best time: Year-round; most spectacular from June to October. Duration: About 3 hours.

2. Game Drives on the Chobe Riverfront

Morning and afternoon game drives along the Riverfront offer excellent sightings of elephants, buffalo, giraffe, sable, kudu, lions and leopards. The sandy riverside track winds past floodplains, woodland and viewpoints overlooking the river and Namibia’s Caprivi floodplains.

Best time: May to October. Duration: 3–4 hours or full day.

3. Photographic Boat Safari

Specialist photographic boats with swivel camera mounts let you shoot elephants, birds and hippos from water level. These smaller boats carry fewer guests and are ideal for both beginners and professional photographers.

Best time: July to October for wildlife; January to March for dramatic skies.

4. Explore Savuti

Savuti is famous for its powerful lion prides, spotted hyenas and the seasonal zebra migration that passes through between roughly November and March. The Savuti Channel, which flows and dries up unpredictably over the years, shapes the entire ecosystem.

Best time: November to March for the zebra migration; May to October for predators.

5. See Ancient San Rock Art

The Gubatsa Hills in Savuti contain rock paintings left by San hunter-gatherers. Visiting the site adds a cultural and historical dimension to your safari, along with views over the Savuti Marsh.

Best time: Dry season, when access roads are easier.

6. Linyanti Private Safari

The Linyanti region and its neighbouring private concessions offer exclusive game drives, often with activities such as night drives and guided walks that are not allowed inside the national park itself. It is excellent for wild dogs, lions and large elephant herds.

Best time: June to October.

7. Birdwatching

Chobe is outstanding for birding. Look for African fish eagles, African skimmers, open-billed storks, slaty egrets, kingfishers and the stunning carmine bee-eaters that nest in riverbanks. Migrant species arrive from November.

Best time: November to April for migrants; September to November for carmine bee-eaters.

8. Houseboat Safari on the Chobe River

A houseboat safari lets you sleep on the river and enjoy game viewing directly from your floating lodge. Tender boats take you closer to wildlife, and evenings are spent watching sunsets over the water.

Best time: April to November. Duration: Typically 2–4 nights.

9. Tiger Fishing

The Chobe River is known for tiger fish, one of Africa’s most exciting freshwater game fish. Catch-and-release fishing trips are offered from Kasane, with bream also found in the river.

Best time: August to December. Seasonal restrictions may apply during the rains, so confirm with your operator.

10. Self-Drive and Camping Safari

Chobe is one of Southern Africa’s great self-drive destinations for experienced 4×4 drivers. Campsites such as Ihaha on the Riverfront and Savuti campsite must be booked in advance, and a fully equipped 4×4 is essential.

Best time: May to October, when tracks are dry.

11. Day Trip to Victoria Falls

Kasane is about 80 km from Victoria Falls, making it easy to combine Chobe with a visit to one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. You can visit the Zimbabwe or Zambia side on a guided day trip.

Best time: March to May for maximum flow; August to December for clearer views.

12. Explore Kasane Town

Kasane has a few interesting stops, including the hollow “Prison Baobab” tree, craft shops and riverside lodges with excellent sundowner spots. The modern Kazungula Bridge also links Botswana and Zambia nearby.

Best time: Year-round, especially on arrival or departure days.

13. Stargazing

With minimal light pollution, Chobe’s night skies are spectacular, particularly during the clear, dry winter months. Many lodges offer evening stargazing sessions by the campfire.

Best time: May to September.

Chobe Activity Calendar: Best Months for Each Experience

Activity	Best Months	Why
Elephant viewing	July – October	Largest herds gather at the Chobe River
Boat cruises	June – October	Maximum wildlife at the water’s edge
Predator sightings	June – October	Thin vegetation, animals concentrated
Zebra migration (Savuti)	November – March	Herds move to fresh grazing
Baby animals	November – January	Impala lambing and other births
Birdwatching	November – April	Summer migrants and breeding plumage
Carmine bee-eaters	September – November	Nesting colonies on riverbanks
Tiger fishing	August – December	Lower water and active fish
Self-drive safaris	May – October	Dry, more passable tracks
Photography (skies)	December – March	Storms, clouds and green landscapes
Victoria Falls combo	March – May (flow)	Peak volume of water
Budget safaris	November – April	Green-season discounts

Best Time to Visit Chobe for Different Travellers

Traveller Type	Recommended Months	Reason
First-time safari visitors	June – September	Reliable game viewing and comfortable weather
Wildlife photographers	August – October	Huge herds and dramatic interactions
Birdwatchers	November – March	Migrants and breeding birds
Families	June – August	Cool, dry and malaria risk is lower
Honeymooners	April – June or September	Quieter, romantic, great weather
Budget travellers	November – April	Lower lodge and package rates
Self-drive adventurers	May – October	Dry roads and open campsites

Our Expert Recommendation For most travellers, late May to early October offers the best balance of excellent wildlife viewing and pleasant weather. If you want lush scenery, baby animals and lower prices, consider November, March or April.

What to Pack for Chobe by Season

Dry Season (May to October)

• Warm fleece, jacket, beanie and gloves for cold early mornings (especially June–August)
• Light, neutral-coloured clothing in khaki, beige or olive for warm afternoons
• Wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and high-SPF sunscreen
• Lip balm and moisturiser for dry air
• Scarf or buff to protect against dust on game drives
• Binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens

Wet Season (November to April)

• Lightweight waterproof jacket or poncho
• Quick-dry, breathable clothing for hot, humid days
• Insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin
• Dry bags to protect electronics on boat cruises
• Comfortable sandals and closed shoes
• Antimalarial medication as advised by your doctor

Practical Tips for Visiting Chobe National Park

• Book early for peak season. Lodges, houseboats and campsites fill quickly from June to October.
• Plan your health precautions. Chobe is in a malaria area. Consult a travel clinic about antimalarials and use repellent, especially in the wet season.
• Respect park rules. Stay in your vehicle except at designated areas, keep a safe distance from animals and observe gate opening and closing times.
• Bring cash and cards. Kasane has ATMs and card facilities, but remote areas such as Savuti do not.
• Check entry requirements. Visa rules vary by nationality. If combining Chobe with Victoria Falls, check whether the KAZA Univisa is available for your trip.
• Confirm park fees in advance. Botswana’s park and conservation fees are reviewed periodically, so confirm current rates with your operator before travel.
• Use an experienced operator for self-drive. Deep sand in Savuti and mud in the wet season require proper 4×4 skills and recovery equipment.

How to Get to Chobe National Park

By air: Kasane International Airport (BBK) is the main gateway, with connections from Johannesburg, Gaborone and Maun. Charter flights also link Kasane with Savuti, Linyanti and the Okavango Delta.

By road from Victoria Falls: Kasane is around 80 km (about 1.5 hours) from Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, via the Kazungula border post. Transfers are easy to arrange.

From Livingstone, Zambia: Travellers can cross via the Kazungula Bridge, which connects Zambia and Botswana.

From Maun: The drive from Maun to Kasane via Savuti is a classic 4×4 safari route, while a tarred road via Nata offers an easier alternative.

How to Book Your Chobe Safari with Marriott Safaris Africa

1. Share your travel dates and interests – tell us when you want to travel and what you most want to see.
2. Receive a tailored itinerary – we design a Chobe safari to match the season, your budget and your preferred style.
3. Choose your accommodation – from riverside lodges and houseboats to tented camps and self-drive camping.
4. Confirm and pay a deposit – we secure lodges, activities, transfers and park permits.
5. Enjoy pre-departure support – receive packing lists, travel advice and 24/7 assistance during your trip.

Ready to Explore Chobe? Contact Marriott Safaris Africa today to plan your Chobe National Park safari. Whether you want elephant-filled river cruises, Savuti predator drives or a green-season birding escape, our team will build the perfect trip for you. Perfection Anytime.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best month to visit Chobe National Park?

September and October are often considered the best months for wildlife viewing because elephant numbers along the river peak. However, June to August offer a great balance of excellent game and cooler weather.

When is the rainy season in Chobe?

The rainy season runs from November to April, with the heaviest rainfall in December, January and February.

What is the hottest month in Chobe?

October is the hottest month, with daytime temperatures averaging about 35°C and often reaching 38–40°C.

How cold does Chobe get in winter?

In June and July, night-time temperatures can drop to around 5–7°C, so warm layers are essential for early-morning game drives.

Can you visit Chobe during the rainy season?

Yes. The green season offers lush scenery, baby animals, superb birding and lower prices. Boat cruises and Riverfront drives run year-round, though some remote roads may become difficult.

How many days do you need in Chobe?

Two to three nights is ideal for the Riverfront. Add two or three more nights if you want to visit Savuti or Linyanti.

Is Chobe better than the Okavango Delta?

They offer different experiences. Chobe is best for elephants and river safaris, while the Okavango Delta is known for mokoro excursions and pristine wetlands. Many travellers combine both.

Can I do a day trip to Chobe from Victoria Falls?

Yes. Day trips from Victoria Falls usually include a morning boat cruise, lunch and an afternoon game drive on the Chobe Riverfront.

Is Chobe safe for families?

Yes, with a reputable operator. Some lodges have minimum age limits for game drives, so check before booking.

Do I need a 4×4 to drive in Chobe?

Yes. A high-clearance 4×4 is required, particularly for Savuti and Linyanti, where sand and mud are common.

Conclusion

Chobe National Park is a year-round safari destination with something special in every season. Visit between May and October for unforgettable elephant herds, superb predator sightings and pleasant weather, or travel between November and April for green landscapes, newborn animals, excellent birding and great value. Whatever the month, a boat cruise on the Chobe River and a game drive along the Riverfront will leave you with memories that last a lifetime.

Start planning your adventure today and discover why Chobe is known as Botswana’s elephant capital.