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Chobe National Park Issues Critical Road Condition Advisory Amid Heavy Rainfall Chobe National Park Issues Critical Road Condition Advisory Amid Heavy Rainfall

The Botswana Ministry of Environment and Tourism, through the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (DWNP), has issued an urgent advisory regarding challenging road conditions in and around Chobe National Park following recent heavy rains. Visitors, especially those undertaking self-drive safaris, are strongly advised to exercise caution and adhere strictly to official guidance to ensure safety.

Widespread downpours have caused deep standing water, muddy tracks, and significant deterioration of access routes, particularly in the Mababe, Savuti, Ghoha, and Linyanti areas. Key route updates include:

  • Mababe – Savuti: The Marsh Road is closed and must not be used. The Sand Ridge Road remains open but is heavily affected by deep water puddles. Solo travel and single-vehicle convoys are strongly discouraged due to safety risks.
  • Savuti – Ghoha: The Airstrip Route is waterlogged, while the Direct (Straight) Route is also affected but in better condition. The Pimple Hill Route is recommended, though it is narrower and requires extra caution. This route is available on Google Maps.
  • Access to Linyanti: The Ghoha – Linyanti Park Boundary Road is closed due to hazardous conditions. Visitors should use the Savuti – Linyanti Road as an alternative.
  • Mababe Gate – Mababe Village / Moremi Access: Upon exiting Mababe Gate, drivers should turn right onto the Maun–Khwai Access Road, which is currently in poor condition and demands extreme caution.

All travellers venturing into these remote areas are strongly advised to carry 24-hour emergency communication devices, such as satellite phones, as recovery services may be delayed due to the difficult terrain and weather conditions. Visitors should continuously monitor official updates from DWNP and be prepared to adjust itineraries as conditions evolve rapidly with further rainfall.

Chobe National Park is a flagship safari destination in Botswana, renowned for its vast elephant population and diverse ecosystems spanning the Chobe Riverfront, Savuti, Linyanti, and Nogatsaa regions. While the park attracts visitors year-round, the rainy season often brings rapid deterioration of access routes, making up-to-date information essential for safe travel planning.

This advisory reflects the Ministry’s commitment to visitor safety and sustainable tourism management, ensuring that travellers can enjoy Botswana’s natural heritage while minimizing risks associated with seasonal weather impacts.