Chobe Game Lodge, Botswana

Location

Chobe Game Lodge enjoys an enviable location inside Chobe National Park, just a short drive from Kasane and the Zimbabwe and Zambia borders, making it ideal as a first or last stop on a larger Southern Africa itinerary. Set on the riverbank of the Chobe and shaded by mahogany and fig trees, the lodge offers panoramic views across the water to Namibia’s Caprivi Strip. Elephants regularly cross in front of the lodge, and hippos and crocodiles are often seen basking on the riverbanks. Game drives explore the park’s famed riverfront, home to one of Africa’s largest elephant populations, while boat cruises offer a tranquil, water-level perspective of this extraordinary ecosystem.

Accommodation

The lodge features 44 air-conditioned rooms, including a collection of expansive suites with private plunge pools and riverside decks. Interiors balance traditional African craftsmanship with modern comforts; think hand-carved wooden furniture, local textiles, and neutral tones that echo the natural surroundings. Large picture windows and private terraces connect you with the sights and sounds of the bush, while en-suite bathrooms, minibars and ceiling fans ensure a comfortable stay. For those seeking extra indulgence, the suites provide private dining options and uninterrupted views across the river.

Dining

Meals at Chobe Game Lodge are served in a range of elegant spaces, from the riverside terrace and shaded courtyards to the intimate indoor dining room. Breakfasts are hearty and often enjoyed with views of passing wildlife; lunch is light and refreshing, while dinner is a three-course affair often served under the stars. The lodge also offers private bush dinners and romantic deck dining, with menus that showcase a mix of international flavours and African cuisine.

Facilities

At the centre of the lodge is a spacious riverside deck and swimming pool area, perfect for cooling off between game activities or simply soaking up the views with a cocktail in hand. There’s also a stylish bar and cigar lounge with deep leather armchairs and a well-stocked wine menu. A small spa offers massage treatments on request, and a fitness room is available for those looking to stay active. Guests can browse a boutique-style gift shop for locally made art and jewellery, and a library offers books on the region’s wildlife and history. What sets Chobe Game Lodge apart, however, is its deep commitment to sustainability. It’s the only permanent lodge inside the national park and one of Botswana’s flagship eco-tourism operations, with solar-powered boats and electric game-drive vehicles leading the way in low-impact safari travel. It’s also home to an all-female guiding team – the first of its kind in Botswana.