Chobe National Park

Chobe National Park in northern Botswana, east of the Okavango Delta, is the most diverse park in the country. It is a uniquely subtle landscape of sweeping grasslands and forests supported by an expanse of Kalahari sands. Seasonal floodplains dotted with dense groves of mahogany trees radiate out from the deep blue ribbon that is the Chobe River winding through the northeastern part of the park. Each year the desolation of the dry season is broken when the rains attract back the herds of elephants, giraffes, sable, zebras, buffalo, puku antelope, spoonbills, ibis, storks, baboons, lions, leopards, hyena, jackals, hippos, crocodiles, Pel's fishing owls, carmine bee-eaters and many other birds. Most notably, the density of elephants is greater here than anywhere else in the country, with up to an estimated 50,000 individuals roaming through the park during high season. The photography opportunities are endless with the concentration of wildlife and the predictability of their attraction to the watery areas.

A sunset boat cruise on the Chobe River is right up there on the list of great things to do in Africa.

Game drives in 4x4 vehicles give guests a great chance to explore the wilderness, but don't be surprised if the curious creatures wander right into your campsite or lodge's vicinity. Campgrounds are set back from the main game drive areas and have remained free of fences to help bring visitors closer to their natural surroundings. Private lodges have been established on their own private concessions and these are available both inside and outside of the park's boundaries in the gateway town of Kasane. Access to the area is via road or light aircraft transfer to the more remote areas.