Nestled along the borders of Botswana and Namibia, the Chobe River offers a safari experience like no other. This unique ecosystem, teeming with diverse wildlife and incredible fishing and birdwatching, provides close-to-home adventures for those seeking to explore Southern Africa’s hidden gems.
Let’s dive into an expert’s guide to the Chobe, with insider tips from those who know it best.
Fishing all day, every day
For angling enthusiasts, the Chobe is a veritable paradise. Home to the legendary Tiger Fish and a variety of other species, it offers year-round fishing opportunities. “The annual floods replenish our fish stocks, making the Chobe a favourite among fishing folk and families alike,” says Kate Powell, General Manager of Sales & Marketing at the Zambezi Queen Collection.
“Our Ichingo Chobe River Lodge is particularly popular, as each tent comes with its own fishing boat and personal guide, allowing guests to tailor their days exactly as they wish.”
The best seasons for fishing are from April to August and October to November, but you can cast your line (catch and release) any time of the year. “What makes our guides – and all staff – truly exceptional is that they are locals,” says Powell.
“My favourite spot in the river is the Kasai channel, including the deep water by the harbour,” says one Zambezi Queen Collection Guide, Nico, who has been working here for over 20 years. Another Guide, Raphael, has two favourite Chobe fishing spots: “The first spot is the deep water where we troll for Tiger Fish, and the second is in the Kasai Channel where we fish using both spinning and trolling.”
Birds of a feather
The Chobe is a birder’s paradise as well. Home to over 450 diverse species of bird, including many lifers, the region provides incredible birdwatching year-round. Twitchers will definitely want to visit from September to March when the summer migrants are visiting – boosting the bird population by up to 20%.
The Zambezi Queen Collection Guides agree that the Kasai Channel and the harbour’s deep waters are also a favourite spot for birdwatching. But go off the beaten ‘river’ path with your guide and you’ll be rewarded.
With access to channels, flooded islands, half-submerged trees and other microhabitats, you can track down those elusive species and get really close with much less disturbance and noise. So many birds can only be seen on the water, such as the shy, nocturnal white-backed night heron that lives in the Chobe’s reedbeds and vegetation. On a dawn or twilight boat trip, you might just be lucky enough to spot one.
The perfect setting for photos
Water-based safaris on the Chobe provide unique photographic opportunities that land-based excursions simply can’t match. The Zambezi Queen Collection offers a custom-designed photographic safari boat, but be sure to book in advance. Golden hour is pretty magical here, whether you’re on a houseboat or cruising your little tender boat.
“When staying on the houseboats, particularly the Chobe Princesses, you’re essentially right up against the Chobe National Park,” says Powell. “All other day-trip boats have to be off the water from 6pm until 6am – meaning that you are one of the lucky few that get to watch the sunrise from the water and get to experience golden hour without any other boats on the water. It’s truly serene.”
The wildlife comes to you
The advantage of water-based game viewing is clear: animals come to you. From April to October, during the peak game viewing season, the river becomes a veritable magnet for wildlife.
Entire herds of elephants – part of the largest remaining population on the continent – can be seen drinking, bathing, and crossing the river right in front of you. “An elephant’s bottom is a pretty uncommon sight,” adds Powell. “You also get to see their faces and hear the epic sounds of them drinking water right in front of you.”
Other hidden gems of the Chobe
Visit small Namibian villages, far removed from any modern ‘conveniences,’ that guests staying on a Zambezi Queen Collection houseboat can visit.
But what sets the Chobe experience apart is the deep connection to the local community.
“By employing only local staff, we’re not just providing jobs,” Powell explains. “We’re preserving local knowledge and traditions and giving our guests a genuine insight into life along the Chobe. It’s sustainable travel in action.”
Chobe insider tips
To make the most of your Chobe adventure, consider these expert tips:
- 1. Visit during the dry season (May to October) for the best game viewing.
- 2. Pack essentials like binoculars, a good camera, sun protection, and warm layers for chilly mornings and evenings.
- 3. Share your interests with your guide – whether it’s birding, photography, or local culture – to tailor your experience.
- 4. Keep an open mind – sometimes the most memorable experiences are the unexpected ones.
With its unique perspectives, hidden treasures and expert local guides, the Chobe promises an experience that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home.