It was uncomfortably hot with hardly any respite for the entire duration of our stay. Daytime temperatures reached 45 Celsius (113 Fahrenheit). The property relied on daytime generator power as its sole source of energy, and was not equipped for the intense heatwave that blanketed the region.
We might return to Savute Safari Lodge in a cooler shoulder season in search of quality game viewing and fewer crowds.
We liked the newly renovated modern rooms, the property’s easy river access and views of the river from its elevated walkway, where welcome bubbly drinks, tea and lunch were sometimes served. The main building had a cozy bar and ample space to spread out as well as an inviting outdoor swimming pool, a fitness room and a spa room with several treatment options.
One of our fondest memories of Savute Safari Lodge was bathing with elephants – well almost. A bachelor herd frolicked in the waterhole immediately in front of our room while I showered. Thanks to the glass windows and sliding glass door I could see the waterhole and the elephants from the shower. They went on drinking and spraying themselves with water long into the afternoon allowing Gary to observe them while he took his shower a little while later. We continued watching them delightedly from the living area of our room for several hours.
We were amazed by the quality of the game viewing near the Chobe Safari Lodge. During our first private river boat ride we saw three of the big five, including a teenage leopard on the bank of the river. Our patient, knowledgeable and able private hire driver/guide Flores led us to one impressive viewing after another, including a sitting buffalo less than 20 feet from our boat; an elephant family with young; a large hippo pod of 20 or more adults and pups; two spectacular African eagles; a 70 year old crocodile and more.
