Chobe Forest Reserve

Chobe Forest Reserve is a protected area in Botswana.

Chobe Forest Reserve at a Glance

Location
Chobe & Linyanti Wetlands, Botswana, Southern Africa
Coordinates
-18.152292, 24.449514
IUCN Category
II
Crowds
Quiet
Malaria Risk
Low
Best Time to Visit
May to October (dry season) for the Okavango Delta floods and wildlife. November to March for birding and green season rates.

Getting to Chobe Forest Reserve

Nearest airport: Saile Airstrip (FBSI), 40 km away.

Nearest international airport: Phillip Gaonwe Matante International Airport (FRW), 460 km away.

Big Five in Chobe Forest Reserve

4 of the Big Five can be found here: Lion, African Buffalo, Leopard, Leopard Tortoise.

Weather & Climate in Chobe Forest Reserve

The warmest temperatures in Chobe Forest Reserve occur in October, averaging 28.8°C (up to 36.2°C). The coolest conditions are in July at 18.5°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in September with average rainfall of 0.0mm. Average humidity: 24.6%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 23.6°C (rainfall: 224.0mm)
  • February: 24.7°C (rainfall: 99.6mm)
  • March: 24.5°C (rainfall: 57.8mm)
  • April: 23.6°C (rainfall: 12.2mm)
  • May: 21.2°C (rainfall: 0.1mm)
  • June: 18.7°C (rainfall: 0.6mm)
  • July: 18.5°C (rainfall: 0.1mm)
  • August: 22.0°C (rainfall: 2.5mm)
  • September: 26.2°C (rainfall: 0.0mm)
  • October: 28.8°C (rainfall: 5.7mm)
  • November: 27.8°C (rainfall: 47.4mm)
  • December: 25.8°C (rainfall: 117.6mm)

Best Time to Visit Chobe Forest Reserve

The best months to visit Chobe Forest Reserve are April, May, June, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Good, temperature 23.61°C, rainfall 224mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 74.8%
  • February: Great, temperature 24.71°C, rainfall 99.6mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 67.1%
  • March: Great, temperature 24.46°C, rainfall 57.8mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 64.2%
  • April: Great, temperature 23.57°C, rainfall 12.2mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 53.2%
  • May: Great, temperature 21.23°C, rainfall 0.1mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 38.7%
  • June: Great, temperature 18.71°C, rainfall 0.6mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 37.5%
  • July: Great, temperature 18.49°C, rainfall 0.1mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 32.9%
  • August: Great, temperature 22.01°C, rainfall 2.5mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 28.1%
  • September: Great, temperature 26.23°C, rainfall 0mm, sunshine 11.4 hrs, humidity 24.6%
  • October: Great, temperature 28.84°C, rainfall 5.7mm, sunshine 11.7 hrs, humidity 26.5%
  • November: Great, temperature 27.78°C, rainfall 47.4mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 46.2%
  • December: Great, temperature 25.84°C, rainfall 117.6mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 61.6%

Wildlife in Chobe Forest Reserve

Home to 122 recorded species including 35 waterbirds, 34 iconic birds, 26 birds of prey, 6 tropical birds, 5 antelope & gazelle, 5 big herbivores.

Recommended Packing List for Chobe Forest Reserve

Based on average temperature of 23.8°C, typical conditions, humidity 46%.

  • Light layers - comfortable for 24°C weather
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Notable Species

Safari Lodges in Chobe Forest Reserve

5 safari lodges available.

Other

Similar Parks in Chobe & Linyanti Wetlands

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Botswana

Travel advisory for Botswana

Chobe Forest Reserve FAQs

How does Chobe Forest Reserve differ from the main Chobe National Park, and what unique experiences does it offer?

Chobe Forest Reserve is a separate conservation area adjacent to Chobe National Park, offering a more exclusive safari experience with fewer vehicles. Unlike the national park, the reserve permits activities such as walking safaris and night drives, providing a distinct perspective on the wildlife and nocturnal creatures. This allows for a deeper immersion into the wilderness away from the busier park routes.

What specific wildlife can I expect to encounter in Chobe Forest Reserve, particularly regarding its famous elephant populations?

While Chobe National Park is renowned for its massive elephant herds along the riverfront, Chobe Forest Reserve also hosts significant elephant populations, often seen moving through its woodlands and mopane forests. Beyond elephants, the reserve is excellent for spotting predators like lions, leopards, and wild dogs, alongside various antelope species and abundant birdlife, especially during the dry season when animals congregate around water sources.

When is the optimal time to visit Chobe Forest Reserve for wildlife viewing and to best appreciate its less crowded environment?

The dry season, from May to October, is generally considered the best time for wildlife viewing as animals gather around permanent water sources, making them easier to spot. Visiting during this period also allows you to fully appreciate the reserve's less crowded nature, offering a more intimate safari experience compared to the peak season in the more popular national park areas. The cooler months of June to August are particularly pleasant.

What type of accommodation and safari activities are typically available within Chobe Forest Reserve, reflecting its exclusive nature?

Chobe Forest Reserve primarily offers intimate, high-end safari camps and lodges that blend seamlessly with the natural environment. These establishments often provide a range of activities beyond standard game drives, including guided walking safaris, night drives, and sometimes even mokoro excursions, allowing for a diverse and immersive exploration of the reserve. The focus is on personalized service and a deep connection with nature.

How accessible is Chobe Forest Reserve, and what are the typical travel arrangements and safety considerations for visitors?

Access to Chobe Forest Reserve is typically via charter flights from Maun or Kasane to private airstrips within or near the reserve, followed by a short road transfer to your camp. While the reserve offers a remote wilderness experience, safety is paramount, with experienced guides and well-maintained vehicles ensuring secure wildlife encounters. Visitors should always follow guide instructions and maintain a respectful distance from animals.

Recommended Books

  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • Lonely Planet Botswana & Namibia by Lonely Planet - Covers the Okavango Delta, Chobe, Etosha, Sossusvlei, and the Skeleton Coast. Essential for self-drive safaris through two of southern Africa's wildest destinations.
  • Lonely Planet Zambia & Mozambique by Lonely Planet - From Victoria Falls and South Luangwa to Mozambique's pristine coastline. Practical advice for two of Africa's most rewarding off-the-beaten-path destinations.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • Bradt Guide: Botswana by Chris McIntyre - Gold standard for Okavango Delta and Chobe planning - self-drive routes, camp reviews, and detailed maps. Essential for anyone planning a Botswana safari.
  • Lonely Planet Southern Africa by Lonely Planet - Covers South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique. Practical planning information with detailed park and city guides.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • Roberts Bird Guide by Hugh Chittenden, Greg Davies & Ingrid Weiersbye - Comprehensive southern African bird guide covering 960+ species with detailed range maps and illustrations. The birder's bible for safaris in South Africa, Botswana, and Namibia.
  • Cry of the Kalahari by Mark & Delia Owens - Riveting account of wildlife research in Botswana's Central Kalahari. An adventurous tale of two young researchers living among the wild animals.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Sasol Birds of Southern Africa by Ian Sinclair, Phil Hockey & Warwick Tarboton - The southern Africa birding bible. Covers over 950 species with detailed illustrations, distribution maps, and habitat notes. The most trusted bird field guide for South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Mozambique.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.