Savute Elephant Camp — Chobe National Park Established Campground

Savute Public Campsite sits on the edge of the legendary Savute Marsh inside Chobe National Park, managed by Botswana’s Department of Wildlife and National Parks. This is a raw, bare-bones government site — a few numbered stands, basic long-drop toilets, and a fire pit per site. What it lacks in comfort it makes up for in wildlife: elephant, lion, and spotted hyena wander through camp after dark with zero ceremony. It’s small, fills fast, and carries an unmistakable Kalahari frontier feel. Book ahead through the Botswana DWNP online portal during dry season (May–October) or you will not get a site.

Access is via the Savute Channel Road from either Mababe Gate or Savute Gate — sandy, corrugated track that demands 4WD and a deflated tyre. Water is not reliably available on-site; carry all you need from Kasane or Maun. Self-sufficiency is non-negotiable out here.

Marsh-edge camp where elephant own the night.