BOTSWANA
Savuti
Raw, remote, and unforgettable – Savuti is where Botswana’s wild spirit runs deep. Set within Chobe National Park, this legendary landscape of sweeping plains and rocky outcrops is known for its powerful predator encounters and dramatic seasonal shifts.
Lions clash with hyenas, elephants cross ancient paths, and leopards prowl the edges of dry riverbeds. When the Savuti Channel flows, it transforms the land; when it dries, the drama intensifies. This is a place of raw beauty and real wilderness – where every sighting feels earned, and every moment pulses with untamed energy.
SAVUTI
Key Facts
Size
5.000 km²
Bird Species
+/- 450
Mammal Species
+/- 100
Best Time to Visit
All year round
EXPERIENCES
SAVUTI
Safari in Savuti is a raw and powerful experience – where the wild feels untamed and the drama unfolds in real time. Venture out on game drives across open plains, ancient marshlands, and past rocky outcrops where lions rule, hyenas challenge, and leopards watch from the shadows.
This is big-sky country, where elephants roam freely and every track in the dust tells a story. As the light shifts from cool morning hues to blazing sunsets, your guide helps you read the land – from subtle signs to heart-pounding moments. Though night drives aren’t allowed inside Chobe National Park, the days in Savuti are rich with intensity, silence, and unforgettable scenes that echo long after you return to camp.
SAVUTI
GAME DRIVES
Game drives in Savuti are where the raw pulse of Africa comes to life. Every outing feels like stepping into a wilderness theatre, where predator and prey move across ancient landscapes etched with stories. Guided by experts who know every curve of the land, you’ll track lions through golden grass, spot elephants crossing the open plains, and follow the dust trails of hunting wild dogs.
Mornings bring clarity – fresh tracks, crisp air, and the quiet anticipation of what lies ahead. As the day deepens, the heat builds and so does the action. Whether it’s a silent stare from a leopard on a rocky ledge or the rumble of buffalo on the move, every drive is filled with tension, beauty, and the thrill of the unknown. In Savuti, you don’t just watch the wild – you feel its presence all around you.
SAVUTI
Information
WEATHER
Savuti’s weather is shaped by dramatic seasonal contrasts – from scorching dry months to lush, rain-fed grasslands. Each season offers a different perspective on this untamed landscape, and the wildlife adapts beautifully with the changes.
Rainy Season (November to March):
The rains return, bringing relief to the parched plains and transforming Savuti into a green, life-filled haven. Afternoon thunderstorms are common, with temperatures reaching 30–35°C (86–95°F) during the day and 18–25°C (64–77°F) at night. Migratory birds arrive, herbivores drop their young, and predator action increases.
Shoulder Season (April to May):
The rains ease, but the land remains lush. Wildlife begins to cluster around water sources, and the soft light and cooler air make for excellent photography. This is a beautiful transitional period – green but accessible.
Dry Season (June to October):
Long, dry months define classic Savuti – hot days, cool nights, and animals drawn to the last waterholes. Expect daytime temperatures around 25–30°C (77–86°F), with early mornings dipping to 5–10°C (41–50°F), especially from June to August. Visibility is excellent, and predator sightings are at their peak.
What to Pack:
Light, neutral clothing for warm days
A warm fleece or jacket for chilly mornings and nights
Comfortable closed shoes
Hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen
Insect repellent – especially in the rainy season
HOW TO GET TO SAVUTI
Savuti lies in the remote western region of Chobe National Park, between the Okavango Delta and Chobe Riverfront – wild, untamed, and well worth the journey. Despite its remote setting, there are two main ways to reach Savuti, each offering its own adventure.
By Air:
The quickest and most comfortable option is a charter flight from Maun, Kasane, or other safari locations. Flights land at Savuti Airstrip, with a short game-drive transfer to camp. The aerial views over Botswana’s shifting landscapes are spectacular – from Delta waters to Savuti’s open plains.
By Road:
For the adventurous, Savuti can be reached by 4×4 vehicle from Maun, Kasane, or Moremi/Khwai. This is a true overland safari, often taking 4–6 hours, depending on your route and road conditions. The drive can be sandy and rough, especially in the dry season, and is best done with an experienced guide or support.
Connections:
Savuti is ideally placed for multi-stop safaris, linking well with Chobe Riverfront, Moremi, Khwai, and the Linyanti region – creating a seamless flow between Botswana’s most iconic ecosystems.
However you arrive, entering Savuti feels like crossing into a wilder rhythm – where the roads are rough, but the rewards are unforgettable.
COMMUNITY
Unlike Khwai or other community-run areas, Savuti lies within Chobe National Park, a fully government-managed protected area. There are no permanent settlements inside the park, and community involvement here is more indirect – through employment, guiding, and conservation partnerships with surrounding villages.
Many of the guides and camp staff working in Savuti come from nearby communities such as Kachikau, Mabele, and Parakarungu, bringing with them deep local knowledge, cultural heritage, and a strong connection to the land.
While Savuti itself is not a community-managed concession, the presence of responsible tourism helps support local livelihoods and reinforces the value of protecting these wild, iconic landscapes for generations to come.
FAQ
Where is Savuti, and why is it so famous?
Savuti is in the western section of Chobe National Park, between the Okavango Delta and Chobe Riverfront. It’s one of Botswana’s most legendary safari areas, known for raw wilderness, intense predator action, and a dramatic landscape shaped by the ever-changing Savuti Channel.
What makes the wildlife viewing here special?
Savuti is a stronghold for lions, spotted hyenas, and leopards, often seen in dramatic interaction. You’ll also find elephants, buffalo, wild dogs, and large herds of zebra and wildebeest, especially during seasonal migrations. Birdlife is rich too, with more than 450 species recorded.
When is the best time to visit Savuti?
Dry season (May–October): Peak game viewing as animals gather around waterholes.
Green season (November–March): Lush landscapes, calving season, and excellent birding.
Each season offers something different – from intense drama to quiet beauty.
How do I get to Savuti?
You can reach Savuti by charter flight from Maun or Kasane (landing at Savuti Airstrip), or by 4×4 overland from nearby regions like Khwai or Chobe. The road journey is challenging but adventurous – ideal for a mobile safari.
Is Savuti part of a community concession?
No – Savuti lies within Chobe National Park, a government-managed area. However, many guides and staff come from nearby villages, and tourism here supports local employment and conservation.
Where should I stay in Savuti?
To truly connect with the wild character of Savuti, we recommend a stay at our fully serviced mobile camp – offering comfort, flexibility, and a front-row seat to the action
What is a mobile camp?
Our mobile camp is a classic tented safari experience, set up in exclusive wilderness sites inside Savuti. It’s private, comfortable, and close to nature – with real beds, ensuite bush bathrooms, solar lighting, and thoughtful touches throughout.
Is it safe?
Yes – our camps are run by experienced guides and crew, with safety protocols in place and full respect for the animals. You’ll be well briefed and well looked after.
What activities are included?
You’ll enjoy two game drives daily, exploring the best of Savuti at sunrise and again in the golden afternoon light. All drives are led by a professional guide who knows the land intimately.
Is there Wi-Fi or charging in camp?
There’s no Wi-Fi – part of the magic of switching off – but we do offer solar power to charge phones and cameras. Evenings are lit by lanterns, stars, and the glow of the campfire.
What’s the food like?
Delicious meals are freshly prepared in camp by our bush chef – hearty, satisfying, and made with care. From sunrise coffee to dinner under the stars, every meal is part of the experience.
What should I pack?
Layered clothing (for hot days and cool nights), a warm jacket, closed shoes, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a good camera. And, of course, a sense of adventure.
Seasons
Rainy Season (November – February)
Mid Season (March – May)
Dry Season (June – October)
The rains transform the land, turning golden grasses into green pastures. Afternoon storms roll across the sky, and the Savuti Marsh comes to life. This is calving season for antelope and zebra, which draws predators close. It’s also a paradise for birdwatchers, with many migratory species in full display.
The rains fade, but the land stays fresh and full. Wildlife starts to concentrate again around permanent waterholes, and the light becomes softer – ideal for photography. Temperatures are comfortable, and the bush is alive with colour and movement.
This is peak game-viewing time. As the land dries and the Savuti Channel recedes, animals gather tightly around the last remaining water sources. The open plains make for incredible predator sightings, especially lion, leopard, and hyena. Days are warm, nights can be cold – and the safari drama is unmatched.
VISITING SAVUTI
JANUARY
- Peak of the rainy season – Savuti is green, lush, and alive.
- Calving season draws predators like lion, leopard, and wild dog.
- Great for birding, with many migratory species present.
- Afternoon storms are common but short-lived.
VISITING SAVUTI
FEBRUARY
- Rains continue, keeping the landscape vibrant and full of life.
- Excellent predator sightings around newborn herds.
- Birdlife is spectacular; roads may be muddy in some areas.
VISITING SAVUTI
MARCH
- Rainfall begins to taper off, but the bush remains green.
- Predator-prey interactions are still frequent.
- A beautiful time for photography, with rich colours and dramatic skies.
VISITING SAVUTI
APRIL
- The start of the dry-down; grass begins to thin, improving visibility.
- Wildlife starts moving toward waterholes and the marsh.
- Cooler mornings and less rain – a great transitional month.
VISITING SAVUTI
MAY
- Clear skies and pleasant temperatures.
- Good wildlife concentrations and improving road conditions.
- The bush is still green but more open – ideal for game drives.
VISITING SAVUTI
JUNE
- Dry season settles in; nights are cold, days are mild.
- Water becomes scarce, and animals begin clustering at permanent sources.
- Prime time for predator activity.
VISITING SAVUTI
JULY
- One of the coldest months at night – bring warm layers.
- Wildlife viewing is excellent; large herds and big cats are frequently seen.
- The land is dry, dusty, and open – perfect for photography.
VISITING SAVUTI
AUGUST
- Dry, sunny, and reliable weather with great visibility.
- Excellent predator sightings and dramatic interactions.
- Vegetation is sparse, and water sources draw animals in close.
VISITING SAVUTI
SEPTEMBER
- Temperatures start rising; still very dry.
- The bush is bare and game viewing is intense.
- One of the best months for big cat sightings.
VISITING SAVUTI
OCTOBER
- Game viewing is dramatic around the last waterholes.
- Dusty, tense, and unforgettable – expect incredible sightings.
VISITING SAVUTI
NOVEMBER
- First rains bring relief and a flush of green across the plains.
- Migratory birds return; wildlife begins to disperse slightly.
- The start of calving season – predators stay close.
VISITING SAVUTI
DECEMBER
- The landscape is fresh and vibrant once again.
- Young antelope fill the plains, and predator activity is high.
- Rains are more frequent but usually short – a dynamic, beautiful time to visit.
Ecosystems
LOCATION
SAVUTI
Savuti lies in the remote western section of Chobe National Park, between the Okavango Delta to the south and the Chobe Riverfront to the north. Known for its sweeping grasslands, ancient baobabs, and the unpredictable Savuti Channel, it’s one of Botswana’s most iconic and untamed safari destinations.
Famous for intense predator action and raw, open landscapes, Savuti offers a wilder, more dramatic feel than the lush waterways of the Delta. It’s accessible by charter flight to Savuti Airstrip or via adventurous 4×4 overland routes from Maun, Kasane, or Khwai. This is a place where the wild feels truly wild – raw, remote, and unforgettable.
WILDLIFE OF SAVUTI
Savuti is a place of raw beauty and bold encounters, where open plains, marshlands, and rocky outcrops draw an incredible range of wildlife. Elephants roam in large herds, and the area is famously home to lion prides known to hunt elephants – a rare and dramatic spectacle that defines Savuti’s untamed reputation.
Predators like leopard, spotted hyena, and African wild dog also move through the landscape, often in tense pursuit of prey. Seasonal zebra and wildebeest migrations pass through, joined by rarer species like roan and sable antelope. Overhead, raptors soar while ground birds like kori bustards stride across the grasslands. In Savuti, the wild is intense and unpredictable – a place where every moment feels like it could turn into something extraordinary.
EXPERIENCE
UNTOUCHED SAVUTI
To experience the wild drama of Savuti up close, a mobile safari camp offers the perfect blend of comfort and raw authenticity. Set in exclusive wilderness sites within Chobe National Park, the camp moves with the seasons – placing you right where the action is.
You’ll sleep in spacious canvas tents with en-suite bush bathrooms, surrounded by open plains and the calls of the night. Wake to the roar of lions echoing across the savanna, watch elephants pass by at first light, and step straight into game drives that begin where your doorstep ends. This is Savuti – untamed, unforgettable, and yours to witness from the heart of it all.
MOBILE CAMP
BOTSWANA
Our mobile camp brings you closer to nature, set up in exclusive wilderness locations across Botswana.
Experience the thrill of the wild with comfortable en-suite tents, private game viewing, and total immersion in nature.
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CONTACT
Contact us for questions or inquiries.
