Introduction
Welcome to Savuti, one of the crown jewels of Botswana’s wilderness—and a destination we proudly feature in many of our curated safari itineraries at Savanna Safaris & Tours. Nestled between the lush Okavango Delta to the west and Chobe National Park to the east, Savuti (also spelled Savute) is a vast, untamed landscape teeming with wildlife, mystery, and dramatic scenery. Renowned for its predator activity and raw natural beauty, this area promises a truly immersive safari experience that brings you face-to-face with Africa’s iconic wildlife.
The Savuti Channel
The defining feature of Savuti is its namesake channel—a natural waterway stretching approximately 100 kilometers from the Chobe River to the Mababe Depression. The channel’s flow is erratic and has been dry and wet at different times over the past century. It was dry for over 70 years before flowing again in 1957, then went dry again, and resumed flowing in the early 2000s. These changes have had a dramatic impact on the area’s ecology.
The Savuti Marsh, located at the end of the channel, fills during periods when the channel flows. When dry, the marsh is a vast open plain frequented by large herds of grazing animals and their predators.
Wildlife in Savuti
Savuti is widely recognized for its predator population, particularly lions and spotted hyenas, which are frequently observed engaging in intense interspecies competition. Other carnivores such as leopards, cheetahs, and African wild dogs are also present in the area.
During the dry season, wildlife congregates around permanent waterholes, while in the wet season, migratory species such as zebra move through the region, particularly as part of the annual zebra migration between the Linyanti and Mababe Depression.
Birdwatcher’s Paradise
For bird lovers, Savuti does not disappoint. The vast open plains and marshes attract numerous raptors, ground birds, and summer migrants. Notable sightings include secretary birds, kori bustards, carmine bee-eaters, Abdim’s storks, and even African fish eagles. During April, flocks of quelea finches fill the skies in dazzling numbers, making for a spectacle few ever forget.
Unique Vegetation & Landscapes
Savuti’s terrain is stark yet beautiful. The dry savanna is dominated by camelthorn trees, silver terminalia, mopane woodlands, and open scrubland. The contrast of burnt-orange sand, bleached skeleton trees, and distant ridges creates a cinematic backdrop for wildlife photography and storytelling.
Geological Wonder
Savuti lies within an ancient geological basin that was once part of a massive inland lake. Over time, tectonic shifts and climate changes sculpted the land into what we see today—marked by features like the Magwikhwe Sand Ridge, the Mababe Depression, and hauntingly beautiful Savuti Marsh. These natural forces gave rise to one of Africa’s most fascinating eco-systems, where water’s absence is as powerful as its presence.
Safari Activities in Savuti
At Savanna Safaris & Tours, we design your Savuti safari experience to suit your interests, whether you’re a photographer, wildlife lover, or nature enthusiast. Our activities in and around Savuti include:
- 🚙 Guided Game Drives – Morning and afternoon drives in open 4×4 vehicles
- 🌙 Night Drives – Available in nearby Khwai and private concessions
- 🐾 Bush Walks – Conducted in safe surrounding areas by our expert guides
- 📷 Photographic Safaris – Specially tailored for professional and hobby photographers
- 🦛 Seasonal Boat Excursions – Offered in the nearby Linyanti region, water levels permitting
Best Time to Visit Savuti
- Dry Season (May–October): Excellent for predator sightings as animals concentrate around permanent waterholes. This period is ideal for photography and intense game viewing, though September and October can be very hot.
- Green Season (November–April): Rains breathe life into the landscape. The zebra migration—a spectacle involving thousands of animals—typically passes through Savuti between November and February. This season offers rich birdlife, beautiful skies, and lush vegetation.
Location & Accessibility
Savuti is located in the southern part of Chobe National Park, within Botswana’s northern wilderness corridor. It can be accessed by 4×4 vehicles, or more comfortably, by light aircraft as part of our fly-in safari packages. Our team ensures seamless travel arrangements and guided transitions from Maun, Kasane, or other safari camps.
