SAVUTI
The Savuti Marsh area, 10,878 km² large, constitutes the western stretch of the park (50 km north of Mababe Gate). The Savuti Marsh is the relic of a large inland lake whose water supply was cut a long time ago by tectonic movements. Nowadays the marsh is fed by the erratic Savuti Channel, which dries up for long periods then curiously flows again, a consequence of tectonic activity in the area. It is currently flowing again and in January 2010 reached Savuti Marsh for the first time since 1982. As a result of this variable flow, there are hundred of dead trees along the channel's bank. The region is also covered with extensive savannahs and rolling grasslands, which makes wildlife particularly dynamic in this section of the park. At dry seasons, tourists going on safari often view warthogs, kudus, impalas, zebras, wildebeests and above all elephants bullying each other. At rain seasons, the rich birdlife of the park (450 species in the whole park) is well represented. Packs of lions, hyenas, zebras or more rarely cheetahs are visible as well. This region is indeed reputed for its annual migration of zebras and predators.
SAVUTI SAFARI LODGE
The area is renowned for its population of bull elephant and for the unique interaction of the resident predator species. The close proximity of wildlife translates itself into the recently refurbished, modern African décor.
All suites have private decks, combined bedroom and sitting areas and en-suite facilities. The sitting area, library and cocktail bar are situated in an exquisite thatch and timber main building. Savute boasts a viewing deck, an al fresco dining area and swimming pool – which is ideal for watching game at the waterhole. These features set the lodge apart from other typical safari destinations. Open 4x4 game drives are conducted in the Savute area, including the famous Savute Marsh, and the ancient San rock paintings at Gubatsa Hills, add magic to a delightful African safari. Enquire....
SAVUTI UNDER CANVAS
Savute Under Canvas is a semi-permanent tented camp, that relocates around the Savute Channel area every 5 or 6 days to conform with the CHOBE NATIONAL PARK rules. The sites are located near watering holes, providing an ideal short-term base to observe high levels of wildlife activity. This combines all the advantages of mobile camping, in secluded and remote areas, with very little contact with other tourists or vehicles to disturb your stay. The luxury and adventure stay with you throughout. Access to the camp is by fly-in and transfer by light aircraft from Maun or Kasane airfields to Savute airstrip and the lodge can be reached by self-drive 4x4 vehicle. The Savute (or Savuti) Channel, was until recently a dry, open grassland, home to numerous plains game and abundant predators. For decades the river had remained dry, wiping out its valued wildlife in the process. But as a result of northern Botswana's very strong seismic activity in April 2008, not to mention an outstanding flood season, the river is alive and flowing. Game and wildlife enthusiasts alike are flooding back. Enquire....
