Chobe River Front 2022

Back at Chobe River front

In March 2022 I revisited two of my favorite parts, Savute and Chobe River, from the mobile safari trip late October 2011. The first days in Savute where glorious and I was treated to no less that 5 different leopard sightings. From Savute I flew north ending up in Kasane, the safari hub for everything that is Chobe River Front.

I had booked a full week with a company that is taking lots of hobby photographers, as well as pros and companies like BBC, out onto Chobe River. This time it was a much posher experience than during the 2 nights in 2011 when we camped inside the park. I enjoy camping, but if the goal is to be out on the water, then I recommend staying in Kasane. It will give you easier access to the different companies that arrange boat safaris. If you stay inside the park, then the only feasible option will be a boat safari at Midday. It is still a great experience, but you will certainly not have the best light.

Vehicle safari into the national park

During my week there we also ventured into the park by vehicle twice. My visit was during the green season which means there are plenty of water on land. The animals are not forced to go to the river to have a drink. So certainly not the best time for safari if you ask any expert.

Still, we managed to find a lioness with three cubs and that was surely the highlight of the two drives. I still recommend you doing a vehicle safari into the park if you stay for a full week. It is always great to mix up your safari activities as it brings different experiences as well as different photo opportunities.

boat safari on chobe river

Out on Chobe River we used a boat adapted for photography. I do understand why this setup attracts people from all over the world. It was a great setup for most people, but not for me. The simple reason is that having everything fixed on a gimbal all the time is not for me. I will not get the low angle shots that I like to work with. That meant I most of the time didn’t use the setup at all.

I did not have any special picture in mind for this trip. This was my first time back in Africa after the pandemic released its grip on the world. It was mostly a trip about enjoying being out in the African wilderness once again and not chasing pictures.

More days means more opportunities

During a long stay as this one you get a feeling for what to expect. It will give you time to work with different camera techniques. It is no point in going home with pictures that all look the same. At times I used high key, low key, panning or slow shutter speed to get an interesting mix of photos.

So, this trip was more of a vacation for me. More about enjoying being in Africa and not just looking through a lens. Sadly, people often forget to enjoy the moment when they are so focused on capturing everything in front of them.

The best moments where like so often the time spent with elephants. To see the swagger when they approach water is always fun, but not as enjoyable as them playing in the water.

photo album: chobe river front 2022