Safari 2021: Chobe Safari Lodge, Botswana

Friday 28 May to Monday 31 May

Lockdown Day 428 to 431

Crossing the Ngoma Border into Botswana was easy. We had valid negative PCRs but were subjected to an extra rapid flow test at the border. Luckily Kasane is not too far and we were ensconced in campsite 12 before 2pm. There are only 2 sites with river views and 13 is a bit smaller.

Johan and Ronell had head off to Maun for 2 nights on business. We had sunset drinks at the bar on the deck. Camping guests have use of the lodge facilities.

We made Bobotie in enamel cups in the potjie pot on the fire. Saturday we enjoyed a lazy morning. In the afternoon we did a boat cruise on the Chobe River. We chose a private boat with guide Mandela whom we had flagged down and negotiated with from the deck the evening before. He turned out to be really good. Here's his number of you ever need a guide on the Chobe River. +267 75 817 000.

I recommend taking a boat for just your own group over the bigger boats at the lodges especially if you are keen on birdwatching or photography and bringing your own wine.

Chobe NP by boat is still one of my all time favourite things to do. The birdlife is so plentiful and watching the ellies and hippos is just delightful. Not to mention the gorgeous sunsets.

On Sunday morning we did a game drive in Chobe NP. 

The game is plentiful. Ronell and Johan returned and Neil and I accompanied them on an even more beautiful sunset cruise with Mandela. Monday we took another trip into Chobe NP.

I'll let the photos tell the rest of the story; it's too beautiful for words! Credit to Johan and Hanli for a few of the pics.