Chobe River
Birding in Botswana

If you are interested in birding in Botswana, then the Chobe River area should be your next birding retreat.

In breathtaking Botswana, you can never lose. Every season is a win-win; especially if you’re a bird person. If African fish eagles, raptors, and jacanas get your heart racing, then you have no choice but to make the Chobe River your next birding retreat.
And we have all the ins and outs for you.

Birding season

Kicking off in late October through to April, birding in Botswana season on the Chobe is a great time for feathered creature enthusiasts and photographers. Particularly, January through to March, the season is at its peak. 

Where to watch all the action

There are many water-based birding in Botswana safaris that will give visitors the best possible chance of getting up close and personal. Birdwatching from a boat allows for close, unobstructed views of birds. Boats provide a stable platform for photography and binocular use. From the water, you can witness an African fish eagle swooping down or African jacanas with their hatchlings, and African pygmy geese gliding across the river.  The Chobe River region is home to over 450 bird species, making it one of the most diverse birding locations in Africa.

How To Make The Most of It

If the Chobe River were the birds’ playground, why would you want to be anywhere else? In our opinion a houseboat is the best way to make the most of this year’s birding season. If you worry about your untrusted water legs, then there are countless riverside lodges where the action is just as good.

Notable Bird Species

African Fish Eagle: Known for its striking appearance and distinctive call, this bird is frequently seen along the river.

Carmine Bee-Eater: These colorful birds often nest in the riverbanks, providing excellent opportunities for observation and photography.

African Skimmer: This bird, with its unique feeding method, skimming the water surface, is a fascinating sight.

Kingfishers: Species such as the malachite kingfisher, pied kingfisher, and giant kingfisher are abundant along the river.

Waders and Waterfowl: The river attracts a variety of herons, egrets, storks, and ducks.

What To Look Forward To

If you keep your eyes fixated, you could spot sunbathing white-fronted bee-eaters; common sandpipers chasing butterflies; black herons doing their traditional feeding routines; and cape turtle doves being ensnared by crocodiles. The list is endless. Local guides are experienced in birdwatching and can help identify species and share insights about bird behavior.

Birding in Botswana at the Chobe River is an exceptional bird watching destination, offering a rich diversity of species, excellent viewing conditions, and the chance to see other wildlife. Whether you are an avid birder or a casual nature enthusiast, the Chobe River provides an unforgettable bird watching experience