Chobe (Botswana) and Madikwe (South Africa) are often weighed against each other. This comparison uses seasons, activities and access to help you choose.
| Chobe | Madikwe | |
|---|---|---|
| Country | Botswana | South Africa |
| Type | National park | Reserve |
| Approx. area | 11,700 km² | 750 km² |
| Best time | July to October | July to September |
| Suggested stay | 2–3 days | 2–4 days |
| Main gateway airport | Kasane Airport (BBK) | O. R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) |
| Big Five | Not all five | Present |
| Malaria | Malaria area: see a travel doctor | None |
| Families | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Honeymooners | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Photographers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| First-time visitors | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Budget travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Luxury travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
Month by month
| Month | Chobe | Madikwe |
|---|---|---|
| January | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| February | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| March | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ some rain |
| April | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ some rain |
| May | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| June | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| July | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| August | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| September | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| October | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ some rain |
| November | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ some rain |
| December | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ some rain |
How to choose
Choose Chobe if
- you are travelling in October to November
- you want boat safaris, fishing and camping
- you hope to see crocodiles, lechwe and sable antelope
Choose Madikwe if
- you are travelling in March and December
- you want walking safaris and night drives
- you hope to see white rhino, black rhino and eland
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Chobe or Madikwe?
It depends on when you travel and what you want to see. Chobe is stronger in October to November. Madikwe is stronger in March and December.
When is the best time for each?
Chobe: July to October. Madikwe: July to September.
Sources: Botswana Tourism - Chobe National Park · Botswana Tourism - Savuti and Linyanti · Climates to Travel (1991-2020 normals) - Kasane · North West Parks Board · South African Tourism - Madikwe · Climates to Travel (1991-2020 normals) - South Africa (Mahikeng)
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.