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.