About Muchenje Safari Lodge
Muchenje Safari Lodge is an intimate, owner-run property located on the western edge of Chobe National Park in Botswana. Perched on an escarpment above the Chobe River, the lodge offers sweeping panoramic views across the river and floodplains into Namibia’s Caprivi Strip. Its location, away from the busier Kasane area, allows guests to enjoy a quieter, more exclusive safari experience while still having access to the same incredible wildlife that makes Chobe world famous. The lodge is well known for its warm hospitality, personalized service, and wide variety of activities both inside and outside the park.
ACCESS & LOCATION of Muchenje Safari Lodge
Muchenje Safari Lodge is situated in the Chobe Forest Reserve, approximately 55 kilometres west of Kasane. By air, guests can fly into Kasane International Airport, which is served by daily flights from Maun, Gaborone, and Johannesburg. The flight from Maun takes about 1 hour 30 minutes, from Gaborone about 1 hour 45 minutes, and from Johannesburg about 2 hours.
By road, the drive from Kasane Airport to the lodge takes roughly 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on wildlife sightings along the way. Transfers from Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe or Livingstone in Zambia take about 2 to 2.5 hours, including border crossings. From Namibia’s Caprivi Strip, access is via the Ngoma border post, which is only a 10 to 15 minute drive from the lodge.
ACCOMMODATION & FACILITIES AT Muchenje Safari Lodge
The lodge features 11 thatched chalets, each individually decorated and positioned to take full advantage of the sweeping river and floodplain views. Chalets are spacious, with en-suite bathrooms, private verandas, and a mix of double or twin bed configurations. Décor combines natural materials and earthy tones for an authentic safari feel. The main lodge building houses a dining area, comfortable lounge, bar, and viewing decks. A swimming pool overlooks the river, and there is also a library, curio shop, and small gym. Meals are freshly prepared using locally sourced ingredients and often served al fresco to maximize the views.
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ACTIVITIES AT Muchenje Safari Lodge
Game Drives in Chobe National Park
Morning and afternoon game drives take guests deep into the western section of Chobe National Park, a less crowded area where elephants, buffalo, lions, and antelope roam freely. Drives last 3 to 4 hours and are conducted in open safari vehicles with knowledgeable guides.
Full Day Chobe River Cruise and Game Drive Combination
One of the lodge’s signature excursions combines a game drive to Kasane with a boat cruise on the Chobe River. Guests enjoy lunch in between, followed by an afternoon river cruise offering sightings of elephants bathing, hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species. The day ends with a return drive through the park back to the lodge.
Bush Walks in the Chobe Forest Reserve
Guided walks outside the park boundaries provide a closer look at the smaller details of the bush, including plants, tracks, and birdlife. Walks are led by experienced guides who share insights into survival skills, animal behaviour, and local ecology.
Village Visits
Guests can visit a nearby village to learn about local customs, traditional crafts, and rural life. This cultural exchange offers a deeper understanding of the communities living alongside Botswana’s wilderness areas.
Night Drives in the Chobe Forest Reserve
Unlike inside the national park where night drives are not allowed, the Chobe Forest Reserve permits after dark excursions. These drives use spotlights to find nocturnal animals such as genets, civets, bush babies, and sometimes predators on the hunt.
Birdwatching
With over 450 species recorded in the region, birdwatching is excellent year-round. The riverfront and forest areas attract species ranging from African fish eagles to colourful bee-eaters and kingfishers.
Gallery of Muchenje Safari Lodge
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