Savuti Swamps
Savuti Swamps is a reserve within the Chobe National Park that has a great diversity of wildlife present on the African continent. Savuti Swamps is considered one of the best places to spot wildlife.
General Information
The area directly within the Savuti Nature Reserve is a desert landscape, there used to be a large lake which gradually turned into a swamp. Currently, the swamp is fed by the unstable Savuti Channel, which dries up over a long period of time but then flows again. As a result, there are hundreds of dead trees along its banks. But despite this bleak looking landscape, the area boasts one of the highest concentrations of wildlife in Africa.
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During the dry seasons, tourists on safari often view warthogs, kudu, impala, zebra, gnu antelope and elephants. About 450 species of birds are seen during the rainy season, as well as lions, hyenas, and cheetahs.
.Attractions
Of the rock monoliths that rise in the middle of the Savuti sands, the southernmost one is called Leopard Rock, and for good reason. The most elusive of Africa’s big cats is often spotted here. The once dry ruts in the Savuti swamps have now disappeared into standing water. The swamps lie between the Savuti Canal and the main Savuti Maun road. Another rock monolith, Gobabis Hill, hides several groups of 4,000 year old rock paintings made by the San people.
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Where to stay
1. Savuti Campsite Campground
One of the best campsites in northern Botswana, with five of the seven sites located by the river. Sites one through four are a little lacking in shade, but on the other hand, they are pretty. The sanitary block has sit-down flush toilets, braai fire pits and showers (usually with hot water). Be careful of roaming baboons and elephants.
.2. Camp Savuti tented camp
Having been granted a license to operate public campgrounds, cheeky SKL has swung into action – beautifully appointed tarpaulin tents overlooking the Savuti Canal. Prices are a bit lower than long-standing campgrounds, but the quality is very much on par.
.3. Savute Safari Lodge Hotel
A first class hotel, next to the former site of the legendary Lloyd’s Camp, consists of 12 modern thatched chalets in neutral tones.
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The main safari-style cottage features a living room with sofas, an elegant dining room, a small library, a cocktail bar and a viewing deck with breathtaking views.
.4. Savute Elephant Camp Hotel
The best camp at Savute consists of 12 perfectly appointed East African-style sailcloth tents that stand on raised wooden platforms and are furnished with replicas of antique furniture. The main tent houses a dining room, lounge and bar. Nearby is a swimming pool that overlooks a reservoir of fillable water.
.How to get there
Under optimal conditions, you will have to make the four-hour march from Sedudu Gate in Kasane to Savuti; although it should be mentioned that this road is often impassable from January to March. You can also get to Savuti from Maun or Moremi Game Reserve via Mababe Gate. All of these roads can only be traveled by four-wheel drive vehicle. Charter planes use the airstrip a few kilometers north of the hotels in Savuti.
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