When I touched down at the tiny Kasane Airport in Botswana, the adventure ahead of me was more than I could've imagined. Waiting for me in a beige electric safari vehicle was one of the Chobe Angels, a member of Chobe Game Lodge’s all-female guiding team (more on them later). Within minutes, we were in Chobe National Park, and less than 20 minutes after landing in this sun-soaked region of Africa, I had already spotted a fair share of wild elephants and giraffes. And technically, this wasn’t even the game drive–it was just the transfer to the lodge. (As the only permanent hotel inside the park, guests get rare access to the bush from the moment they arrive.)
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However, the real surprise came a few minutes later, when the vehicle pulled into what looked more like a Moroccan riad than a classic safari lodge. Arched walkways, palm-shaded courtyards, and dense greenery gave the place a sense of sophistication, which was a bit unexpected in the middle of a national park. But just as I started to wonder if I’d somehow detoured into Northern Africa, the sound of hippos from the river snapped me right back. This was indeed Botswana, and I was at one of the most iconic lodges in the region.
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That iconic status isn’t just about its looks—Chobe Game Lodge has an impressive history. Opened in 1973, it was the first five-star safari lodge in Botswana, and quickly became a go-to for royalty, conservationists, and even celebrities (Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton famously remarried here in ‘75). Over the years, it has evolved from its old-school glam into a modern, eco-forward property with electric game vehicles, solar-powered boats, and a notable commitment to sustainability.
That same balance carries through to the accommodations. Each room feels welcoming, with natural textures, earthy tones, and local design touches. Some suites include private plunge pools and extra bedrooms, while all feature plush beds, roomy rainfall showers, and deep tubs that practically demand a post-safari soak. Thoughtful extras—such as complimentary mini-bars stocked with juice, water, and wine, plus free daily laundry service—elevate the experience even further. Each room also includes a private seating area with deck chairs—perfect for enjoying the property with a drink in hand.
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Outside the rooms, guests can find shaded courtyards, palm-dotted gardens, and meandering stone walkways. The pool, framed by daybeds and sun loungers, makes it dangerously easy to do absolutely nothing, while the elevated boardwalk, which runs along the edge of the Chobe River, feels like something out of Tarzan. There’s also an air-conditioned gym and Kalahari-inspired spa that leans into local ingredients.
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Speaking of local ingredients, dining here has an emphasis on regional flavors and sustainability. Meals are served al fresco whenever possible—think lantern-lit dinners under the stars and breakfast bites before sunrise. The chefs work with locally sourced ingredients, turning out everything from classic Botswanan dishes to global comfort food. The lodge’s dining areas include a main restaurant and several intimate private dinner spots scattered along the boardwalk, perfect for those who want a very memorable meal with a view. For drinks, pick your scene: the sleek Tswene Rooftop Bar or the vibe-heavy Linyanti Bar, decked out like a traditional Bedouin tent.
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As for the activities, they’re a dream come true. Because Chobe Game Lodge is inside the park, drives can begin right at the crack of dawn (no need to wait in line at the gate). That early access means you're out before the crowds, with the best shot at spotting big cats like lions and leopards. And thanks to one of the highest concentrations of elephants in Africa, sightings are practically guaranteed, along with giraffes, buffalo herds, helmeted guinea fowl, and even the occasional wild dog.
And, it doesn’t stop there. Because the property is on the Chobe River, water-based safaris are also part of the package. Solar-powered boats cruise silently through the water, giving guests chances to see elephants bathe, hippos bob, and crocodiles sun themselves on the banks. The experience is entirely different from land, since it's so peaceful, scenic, and relaxing, especially during sunset.
As for the best for last: Meet the Chobe Angels. The Chobe Angels are Botswana’s first all-female guiding team, and they’ve become well-known in the safari world for good reason. The program launched in 2005 as a way to bring more women into the male-dominated field of safari guiding, and what began as a pioneering idea is now one of the lodge’s biggest achievements. Today, the Angels are some of the most skilled guides in the region.
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All in all, Chobe Game Lodge is the perfect mix of laid-back luxury and bucket-list adventure. Mornings start with game drives at sunrise, evenings wind down with river cruises at golden hour, and there’s always space carved out for a midday dip or a spa treatment in between. Whether you’re here for the wildlife, the scenery, or simply to disconnect in a place that feels far from it all, Chobe Game Lodge does it just right.
Top Takeaways
Location: Chobe National Park, Serondela, Botswana
Rating: Five-star
The vibe: Sophisticated safari meets laid-back, eco-conscious luxury.
Our favorite thing about the hotel: The Chobe Angels guiding team—you won't find an all-female guiding team anywhere else (yet).
Food + Drink: One main restaurant, two bars (all meals and drinks are all-inclusive)
Amenities: All-inclusive safari activities; Outdoor pool; Spa; Gym; Curated boutique; Electric game vehicles; Solar-powered boats; Stocked minibars; Free daily laundry service
What’s nearby? Daily game drives and boat safaris in Chobe National Park; Victoria Falls is a 1.5-hour drive away
Rooms: 44 rooms
Pricing: Starts at $890/night
Closest Airport: Kasane International Airport (BBK)
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