Page 38 - Discover Botswana 24th Edition 2024

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O KAVA N G O
It is well known that Botswana is a wildlife enthusiast’s dream.
From the breathtaking contrasts in its diverse landscapes to the
adventures that lie along its many dirt roads, Botswana will creep
into your heart, drawing you back year after year.
Chobe National Park spans an impressive 11,700 square kilometers
and stands as Botswana’s first national park; setting the scene as
one of the most biologically diverse areas in Botswana.
The park changes dramatically over the year; during the summer rains this
area transforms into a lush oasis with an abundance of birdlife, boasting
more than 450 species of birds.
As the rains slow and the area around the Chobe River dries up; the river
carves through the land giving life to the Northern corner of Botswana.
Elephants, in particular, thrive here and during the mid to late afternoons,
you can witness an awe-inspiring parade of them descending on the
riverbanks. Quenching their thirst, playing in the river, or crossing to a
nearby island for fresh grass, it is a truly mesmerising experience. Large
buffalo herds are also found grazing among the islands, and of course
predators hoping to benefit from wildlife coming down to the water.
Previous pages: The Chobe is synonymous with elephants - especially during
the winter months of Botswana. As the sun set, the Chobe River became lit with
subtle purple and blue tones. There are few places where you can get these low
angle shots of iconic animals in the water - making this moment even that much
more special.
Top: A Dragonfly rests on a crocodile’s head, a perfect vantage point to survey
the open water. Easily mistaken for a broken branch, the crocodile waits in the
shallows to surprise unsuspecting prey. These two ancient species are both
apex predators.
Above: A Cape buffalo makes his way across the choppy waters of the Chobe
River. The buffalo will often cross the river in search of greener grass on one of
the many islands or to narrowly escape a pride of lion - never mind having to
face the crocodiles lurking in the river.
Facing page: An Elephant enjoys a nutritional meal of Water lily flowers as it
makes its way across the Chobe River, Botswana. As flood water reaches the
Chobe river (all the way from its starting point in Angola) the waterways are
transformed with a wave of flowers.