Chobe's afternoon boat cruises pass hippo pods wallowing in the shallows alongside drinking elephants and basking crocodiles, one of the easiest hippo sightings in Africa. The river runs just outside Kasane, so trips leave from town with no deep-bush logistics and superb low-angle light for photography. The dry season from May to October draws game to the water and peaks in September.
Chobe's afternoon boat cruises pass hippo pods wallowing in the shallows alongside drinking elephants and basking crocodiles, one of the easiest hippo sightings in Africa. The river runs just outside Kasane, so trips leave from town with no deep-bush logistics and superb low-angle light for photography. The dry season from May to October draws game to the water and peaks in September.
Up to 88% sighting chance in Chobe River, Chobe National Park, Botswana. Best months: September, August, October.
Yes, hippo pods are resident along the river and are seen on virtually every boat cruise, often close to the boats.
Boat cruises depart from Kasane jetties and stay inside Chobe National Park along the river.
Shared boat cruises run roughly 40 to 70 USD per person (2026 prices), with private photographic boats costing more.
