Celebrate World Elephant Day 2024 With A Safari On The Chobe River

Did you know that world elephant day arrives on August 12, 2024? What better way to celebrate than with a trip to see these massive marvels in their natural habitat in Africa? And one of the best places to catch sight of these gentle giants is along Africa’s legendary Chobe River.

As winter tightens its grip across Southern Africa, the Chobe River region of Namibia and Botswana transforms into a stage for one of nature’s most extraordinary spectacles. Here, thousands of African elephants, driven by ancient migratory instincts, embark on a journey towards the life-sustaining waters of the Chobe River. This annual migration turns the area into a real-life wildlife documentary, offering travelers unparalleled opportunities to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

World Elephant Day on August 12th serves as a vital reminder of the struggles faced by these incredible gentle giants. Botswana’s Chobe National Park, a sanctuary for tens of thousands of elephants, is widely considered the best place in the world to see elephants in Africa and it plays a vital role in the conservation of these magnificent animals. Beyond its impressive pachyderm population, the park is a haven for a diverse array of wildlife, including large herds of buffalo and zebra, predators like lions and leopards, and over 450 bird species, some of which are found nowhere else on the planet.

Why care about World Elephant Day?

World Elephant Day on August 12 brings much-needed attention to the challenges of elephants around the globe. WorldElephantDay.org reports that “as of 2011, the world is losing more elephants than the population can reproduce, threatening the future of African elephants across the continent.”

The Chobe National Park provides a critical sanctuary for these elephants, sheltering an estimated 120,000 individuals – one of the largest remaining populations on the continent. Aside from the huge amounts of “ellies,” (as they are lovingly referred to by many Africans), this huge national park is also home to a stunning diversity of wildlife that even non-elephant lovers (as if there was such a thing!) will enjoy.

As the dry season spans from May to October, the Chobe River becomes an irresistible magnet for thirsty elephant herds (and many other animals as well). Thousands of elephants travel up to 125 miles, from the salt pans and rivers in the park’s southeast region, to gather to make the most of the river’s fertile shorelines and floodplains.

A river view like no other

A unique boat-based safari, like the Zambezi Queen, offers a one-of-a-kind perspective into the lives of these gentle giants that simply can’t be had on a traditional land safari. The opulent Zambezi Queen floating boutique hotel features newly refurbished suites equipped with floor-to-ceiling picture windows and private balconies, so guests can observe the elephants without leaving their suite. Additionally, a specially equipped photographic safari boat is available.

“Our river safaris provide front row seats as entire family herds drink, bathe, and socialise just metres away at eye level,” explains Kate Powell, general manager of sales & marketing at the Zambezi Queen Collection. “There is something completely different about seeing an elephant playing in the river from the distance of a safari vehicle versus seeing them playing and swimming right in front of your boat. You’ll also spot other species like buffalo, impala and zebras joining the wildlife parade along the river’s edge.”

Looking for an intimate family safari on the Chobe? For relaxed family adventures try the 8 to 10 guest Chobe Princess houseboat, which can travel double the distance of the larger Zambezi Queen houseboat.

“Due to their size, the Chobe Princesses can moor at Elephant Bay and look onto the Chobe National Park. Elephant Bay is a ‘famous’ site on the river as it faces a popular elephant drinking spot so guests can watch in delight as several herds come down to drink, play and bathe in the river. Each Chobe Princess can also be booked for exclusive use,” says Powell.

Want to enjoy a bit of fishing Africa-style while visiting the region? Check out the Chobe River Lodge‘s Meru-style Safari Tented camp on Namibia’s secluded Impalila Island, each with a dedicated guide and tender boat to explore the river at your own pace.