Chobe is synonymous with elephant, its reality the unforgettable sightings of gentle giants frolicking in the waters, or moving slowly through desert-like stretches of sand, ears flapping to the slow rhythm of nature. Here in their natural environment, the splendour of majestic creatures can truly be appreciated. Chobe National Park boasts four distinctly different eco systems: the spectacular Chobe floodplain and river to the northeast, the Savute Marsh in the west, the Linyanti Swamps in the northwest and, in-between, the hot dry hinterland of Nogatsaa and Tchinga. With an elephant population well in excess of 40,000 (reputedly the largest in the world), Chobe’s river and floodplain area ranks among Africa’s premier safari destinations.

In addition to the massive herds of elephant, the park is home to the more unusual, shy antelope species such as roan, sable, tsessebe, eland and red lechwe. Rare Chobe bushbuck and puku make an appearance, and high densities of lion, leopard, spotted hyena and cheetah complete the safari experience. During the dry season months of May to October the floodplains of the river support large herds of Cape buffalo. Woven into a melodious tapestry, the sounds of over 450 bird species merge with the harsher call of the big game, and the chatter and alarm calls of the inhabitants. Between September and March, the migrant breeding season, Chobe becomes a bird-lovers heaven, under a blanket of colour and harmony.

A relic of an inland lake, the game rich Savute region of Chobe National Park is best known for the mysterious Savuti Channel and vast Savuti Marsh. Desolate, desert-like landscape is dominated by the marsh and rocky outcrops. The ideal time to head out on safari is early in the morning, as the sun starts to rise, and animals are most active. Look for herds of migratory zebra and wildebeest. A quick coffee stop while out on drive is the perfect time to take in the incredible sounds of the bush and birdsong. During the heat of the midday sun, it’s often best to return to camp for a siesta before setting off again in the late afternoon when the bush comes alive, and the waterholes are a magnet for thirsty wildlife. Should the option be available, a visit to see the baobabs and Bushman rock art is a special addition.

As old as time, the seasonal flood from the Angola Highlands is the heartbeat of Botswana. Seeping along the panhandle and into the largest inland delta system in the world, the water creates a uniquely beautiful National Heritage Site, the incoming tide of life bringing with it birth, transformation and replenishment. These ancient, cyclical changes provide an exceptional safari experience and the area supports vast herds of elephant, buffalo and hippo, as well as numerous antelope, giraffe, zebra and the ever present predators.

From March the waters spread outwards, reaching the inner delta by June and peaking in July and August. The inbound flow creates a buzz of energy as it spans out towards Maun, the country as a whole conscious of the gift the waters bring, and caught up in the primordial movement.

Safari experiences depend on the season and presence of water, and may include game drives, mokoro, boat excursions or guided walks. Set off on an early morning activity as the sun starts to rise and animals are at their most active. A refreshing coffee stop warms you up and provides the chance to listen to the sounds of the wild. Spend some time resting back at camp during midday, then set off again in the afternoon. Late afternoons extend into evening activities, and spotlights come out to help find the fascinating nocturnal species hiding in the darkness.

Once an ancient lake, the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans form part of the Kalahari Basin in central Botswana. The largest salt flats in the world, the area consists of stunning scenery and fascinating, desert-adapted animal species. Written into its history are the archaeological signs of stone-aged habitation. Arid and desolate, much of the landscape looks like another planet, the endless moonscape stretches of white sand continuing on to meet blue horizons. Baobabs claw at heated skies and rock formations dot the landscape, breaking the earth’s profile. Mineral-rich grasslands are completely transformed during summer rains.

Springbok, gemsbok, eland, hyena and meerkats can be found in the merciless desert-scape, but the December to April rains usher in a complete renewal of the land. Sweet grasses and even water-filled pans draw migratory birds and game. Massive flamingo flocks bring colour to the expanses of water, while large herds of zebra and wildebeest add a chorus of noise to the previously soundless environs. Awe-inspiring cloud formations decorate the skies, and at night, a panoramic view of star-studded skies opens up the heavens. From April to October, massive herds migrate to the western boundary of the Makgadikgadi, the Boteti River, for sustenance – their presence producing a frantic cacophony of sound, kicked up dust and activity.