Savute (Savuti)

Explosive game viewing in the southern reaches of Chobe National Park

Savute (or Savuti) is a remote corner of Chobe National Park renowned for its explosive big game viewing and strangely unpredictable water channel. The exciting game viewing found in this harsh environment combines extremely well with an Okavango Delta Safari.

Lying within the protected Chobe region, Savute is distinguished thanks to the Savute Channel, which periodically flows from the Linyanti, fanning out to the Savute Marshland.  The enigmatic nature of the flowing Channel and flooded marshland remain a mystery.  These ancient water systems flow and dry independently of the impact of water levels and rainfall in the region.  Underground tectonic plate movements may be the answer, but experts have yet to determine this is the case.  No matter the scenario, the Savute region will thrill lovers of wildlife, birds and the African safari experience.

 

The Savute pride of lion has earned a fearsome reputation for their unparalleled skill in hunting elephant.  Predator sightings in general are frequent: resident Leopard, enigmatic and energetic African Wild Dog, endearing and comical Bat-eared Fox, Spotted Hyena, Jackal and even Cheetah may be seen.

During the summer months of November-April as the rains fill the myriad of pans and pools in the channel and as the Savute marshland regenerates, vast herds of Zebra, Wildebeest and other Plains Game will flock to the area.  This is considered a migratory pattern, possibly linked with the Makgadikgadi and Nxai Pan migration.  The abundance of water and fresh grazing transform the open plains into a playground for wildlife as many antelope will also be birthing at this time.  Migratory birds add to the already numerous species to be found here.  Carmine bee-eaters, Yellow-billed Kites, Vultures, Ostrich and even Crested Crane may be found here.

During drier times of May-September, particularly when the Savute Channel and Savute marshland waters have receded, much of the area becomes desolate.  Wildlife that has not moved to Linyanti/Selinda or the Okavango by this time now rely purely on the remaining and minimal water sources.  Exciting interaction between jostling animals is a highlight.

The incredible wildlife sightings and numbers are usually the biggest attraction for visitors to Savute, but the area also has some interesting and unusual features.  Rocky outcrops – one aptly named “Leopard Rock” dot the northern part of the area, some with primitive rock art, thought to be by the San people.  The Baobab Gallery – a collection of these curious trees may also be found to the north.  The range of geology and ecosystem is unique.

Savute is visited by both fly-in visitors, staying at one of the luxurious lodges in the area or those who are camping as part of a self-drive or mobile safari expedition.  The lodges offer the highest level of comfort and luxury for the discerning traveller looking for a superior level of service and experience.  The lodges will offer game activities focused on finding the best animal sightings.  These will include the many pans scattered around the area, as well as the hills to look at the rock paintings.  Due to sensitive park regulations, no game drives at night or off track are permitted. The campsites for self-drivers are well maintained and provide good ablution facilities.  Each has a firepit and braai (barbecue) area.  Mobile drive guests may be accommodated in one of the area’s private campsites and all facilities will be provided by the mobile safari operator.

Accommodation in this Area

From $2,680 per person

Bush Ways Safaris Fully Serviced Camp

Bush Ways Safaris run two set departure groups tours with their fully serviced mobile safari camp - the northbound safari and the southbound safari exploring the Okavango, Savute and Chobe riverfront. The fully serviced camp is distinct to the semi-participation tours in that it requires no guest participation and tents are larger, feature camp beds and a simple en-suite bathroom. The maximum guests per vehicle is 9 ensuring a window seat for all.

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From $1500 per person

Bush Ways Safaris

The long established Bush Ways Safaris provide a variety of mobile safari adventures across northern Botswana and the Okavango Delta. Bushways offer three mobile safari types, semi participation, fully serviced and accommodated safaris, covering a variety of itineraries and provide a cost effective way of visiting northern Botswana. Bush Ways Safaris also offer private and tailored safaris.

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From $792 per person

Savute Elephant Lodge

Set deep into the southern reaches of the famous Chobe National Park lies the sumptuous Savute Elephant Lodge, one of the most luxurious safari lodges in Botswana. With an superb location overlooking a game lively waterhole this smart lodge offers a supremely comfortable base to explore this exciting corner of Botswana, well known for its dramatic animal sightings. Activities focus on morning and afternoon drives.

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From $614 per person

Savute Safari Lodge

Savute Safari Lodge has a superb location on the banks of the Savute Channel, in the southern reaches of the Chobe National Park. This is a traditional lodge offering a fantastic safari experience. Smart but unpretentious and extremely comfortable, the lodge has a friendly atmosphere and ideal location for exploring the Savute Marshes. A steady flow of animals visiting the waterhole below the lodge allows you to enjoy an exciting sofa safari from the lodge.

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