Chobe Savanna Lodge

Northern Namibia

Rating: Mid-range

highlights

Boat safaris long the Chobe River
Air-conditioned accommodation
Sundowners in the bush
Watch elephant and giraffe by the river from the bar
Visit the local village

Chobe Savanna Lodge overview

Chobe Savanna Lodge is on the banks of the Chobe River in Namibia, overlooking Chobe’s Puku Flats and opposite Chobe Game Lodge its sister camp in Botswana. It specialises in boat safaris along the river, viewing herds of elephant, buffalo, giraffe, puku and sable antelope on the floodplains, and hippo in the water.

You might spot the occasional lion and leopard, too. Game drives, night drives, walking safaris, bird watching and guided canoeing trips add variety. A visit to the local village offers an insight into the tribal culture and lifestyle. Afternoon wildlife activities often include a stop in one of the guide’s favourite spots for sundowner drinks. The main lodge building is a large thatched structure with rooms arranged over 2 floors, flanked by tall trees.

It looks out over the river and to Chobe National Park beyond. The ground floor lounge is perfect in the middle of the day, with a cooling breeze blowing off the river as you sit back on a sofa to leaf through a book or chat to other guests. There is additional seating on the covered deck. On the upper level there’s a bar and dining area with a long table for communal meals. A little way from the main lodge there’s a swimming pool and a number of loungers and sunshades. Guest rooms are arranged in a crescent on either side of the central area.

They make great use of local materials, built of brick, thatch and wood. The sliding glass door opens onto the shaded veranda, which looks out over the river. The bedroom is filled with light coming through the doors and picture windows, and air condition and a ceiling fan help keep the air temperature cool. You’ll find a welcome stocked minibar and supply of cookies which you can enjoy indoors or on the deck. The en-suite bathroom features top quality fixtures and fittings, and you’ll be given your own bathrobe for the duration of your stay.

details

Open: Open all year.

Location: It is the only permanent lodge within the national park of Chobe. It's about 10 kms from Kasane, and very accessible to Victoria Falls. It is on the banks of the Chobe River.

Rooms: The lodge has 13 chalets, 3 are family units. The rooms can be configured as double or twin rooms. All rooms have en-suite bathrooms, private verandas, air conditioning, ceiling fan, safe, tea and coffee making facilities and a minibar.

Activities: Activities are water-based and this is an excellent opportunity to see wildlife from the water in a motor boat. Fishing excursions (catch-and-release) are popular with all ages. Cultural visits to a nearby community and school are also offered. Guided walks in the surrounding are possible depending on water levels.

Facilities: There is a small swimming pool, lounge area with stunning vistas, anlevated bar and wildlife viewing point, tucked under the eaves of the thatch and timber main building with amazing sunset views, an evening campfire area.

Dining: The meals are both buffet and a la carte, served in the main dining area with 270 degree views of the surroundings.

Children: Children of all ages are welcome, but if they are under 6 years old game drives must be taken in a private vehicle (at extra cost).

Health: This is a malarial area.

Communication: Mobile signal is weak here but you may get some.