River
Chobe
Chobe River cruises offer a rare and unforgettable way to experience Africa’s wildlife up close—from the comfort of a small ship. Flowing between Botswana and Namibia, the Chobe River is one of the best places in the world to view elephants in the wild, along with hippos, crocodiles, buffalo, and hundreds of bird species. These cruises combine water-based game viewing with excursions into Chobe National Park, village visits on Impalila Island, and easy access to Victoria Falls. With a relaxed pace, breathtaking sunsets, and intimate encounters with nature, Chobe River cruises are a perfect blend of adventure, comfort, and cultural immersion in one of Africa’s most spectacular settings.
Kasane, Botswana
Kasane is the primary gateway for Chobe River cruises and the launching point for most itineraries in northern Botswana. Located at the junction of four countries—Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe—it’s a small town with outsized importance for river safari travel. The town sits on the edge of Chobe National Park, making it one of the best spots in Africa to begin a water-based wildlife journey. Guests often enjoy game drives, river safaris, and visits to local markets before boarding their cruise vessel. Kasane also offers easy connections to nearby highlights like Victoria Falls and the Caprivi Strip.
Chobe National Park, Botswana
Renowned for its high density of elephants—often numbering in the tens of thousands—Chobe National Park is one of Africa’s premier wildlife destinations. Chobe River cruises travel along the park’s northern boundary, where riverbanks teem with life. Expect to see elephants wading across the water, crocodiles sunning on the banks, hippos in the shallows, and a rich array of birdlife. Game viewing is exceptional here, especially in the dry season when animals congregate near the river. Some cruises include guided game drives into the park in addition to water-based excursions.
Sedudu Island, Botswana
Located in the Chobe River across from Kasane, Sedudu Island (also known as Kasikili Island) is a lush, seasonally flooded island that is rich in wildlife and ecological importance. It’s a haven for birdwatchers and often visited during small boat excursions from cruise ships. The island also has historical significance due to a territorial dispute between Botswana and Namibia, peacefully resolved by international arbitration in Botswana’s favor in 1999.
Impalila Island, Namibia
Just across the river from Kasane, Impalila Island lies within Namibia’s Zambezi Region (formerly known as the Caprivi Strip). It is the typical embarkation or disembarkation point for Chobe River cruises that travel within Namibian waters. Impalila Island offers a glimpse into traditional village life, where guests can meet local communities, tour schools, and enjoy panoramic views from a historic baobab tree lookout. The island marks the confluence of the Chobe and Zambezi Rivers, one of the few places in the world where four countries meet.
Zambezi River Confluence
At the eastern edge of the Chobe River, cruise itineraries often pass the scenic and strategic confluence of the Chobe and Zambezi Rivers, where Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe come together. This stretch of water is not only geographically unique but also rich in wildlife and bird species. It’s a spectacular setting for sunset cruising and a popular spot for photographers.
Victoria Falls (Optional Excursion – Zimbabwe or Zambia)
While not on the Chobe River itself, Victoria Falls is often included as a pre- or post-cruise extension due to its proximity. Just a short drive from Kasane, the falls—known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya, or “The Smoke That Thunders”—are one of the world’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. Cruise guests frequently spend a night or two here, enjoying guided tours of the falls, helicopter flights, or adventure activities like white-water rafting and bungee jumping.