Boat trip
Close to elephants.
Bernard Gagnon — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Diego Delso — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Diego Delso — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Bernard Gagnon — CC BY-SA 4.0
A broad, calm river forming the border between Botswana and Namibia's Caprivi Strip, with Chobe National Park's riverfront on the Botswana side and green floodplains and islands on the other. It is one of Africa's best places to watch wildlife from the water. The classic experience is a sunset boat trip, as boats glide quietly up to herds of elephants coming down to drink and swim, sometimes crossing to the islands with trunks raised above the water, while hippos yawn, crocodiles bask on the banks and kingfishers and fish eagles are everywhere. Then the sun sets huge and red over the plains, its colours mirrored in the river and trees and animals turning to black silhouettes, one of Africa's loveliest sunsets. Houseboats on the river offer nights on the water. Boat trip prices vary by operator, with park fees added when entering park waters. Parks are unfenced and wild animals roam near camps, so stay in the vehicle on drives, never walk at night and follow your guide. October and November are very hot, rains fall from November to March, and wildlife viewing is best in the dry season.
Close to elephants.
And crocodiles.
Over the plains.
Botswana-Namibia border, at Kasane
Late afternoon to sunset, when elephants come down to the river, especially in the May-October dry season.