Lodges
Chobe Savanna Lodge
On a remote stretch of the Caprivi's floodplains, only accessible by boat
Chobe Savanna Lodge
One of the more remote locations for a safari, Chobe Savanna Lodge sits in Namibia's Caprivi Strip - a narrow wedge of land to Botswana's north that connects Namibia to Zambia. A privileged position indeed, this camp is only accessible via an hour's boat ride, launched from the town of Kasane in Botswana. (Getting here is half the adventure). Once you arrive you'll enjoy the 270 degree views from the lodge's exquisite main area overlooking a floodplain on the banks of the Chobe River. Here the wildlife and landscape are enjoyed almost exclusively from the boat (except when waters are low enough to take a guided walk on the floodplain - a very brief window of time). This place truly forces one to slow down.
At the lodge
The hotel
A rambling, double story thatched main area boasts wide views of the floodplain and the Chobe River beyond. The open-sided lounge has plenty of plush seating and a particularly inviting corner with a fireplace for cool evenings. Enjoy a drink by the campfire outside under the stars, or upstairs at the loft-come-bar. The grassy grounds with its glittering pool and sun loungers is a great place to beat the afternoon heat.
The rooms
There are thirteen thatched-roof chalets - ten double rooms and three family units. Each has sliding glass doors and views of the river. They are all equipped with an ensuite bathroom, private deck and all the necessary mod-cons like air-conditioning, a mini-bar and plug points. The family units consist of inter-leading chalets with twin basins, showers and baths and an optional cot or fold-out bed. Rooms are spacious, not huge, with simple decor.
On safari
Experiences
Cruising the river is the name of the game here at Chobe Savanna. The boat is a great way to approach (or be approached by) hippo, crocodile, elephant or the rare water-loving puku antelope. Cast a line in for some competitive catch and release Tiger fishing. Enjoy drifting with a beverage in hand at sunset or keep a keen eye out for the birdlife in these parts, including some of the scarcer species like African skimmers and white-crowned lapwings. Walks on the open floodplain are extremely variable.