Hiding out in thickets of the Kasane Forest Reserve sits Chobe Mopani Forest Lodge, a burgeoning luxury safari lodge where the focus in hospitality and the overall experience. The lesser-explored Kasane Forest Reserve is conveniently located a stone’s throw from the town of Kasane, and borders Zimbabwe and remote parts of Chobe.
The reserve is characterised by dense thickets of forests, and the predominant species in the area includes elephant, buffalo, and giraffe. Birdlife is in the area is exceptional, and visitors can expect to see a host of forest dwellers and waders. Botswana is host to over 600 species of bird, both endemic and summer migrants. A few of the more popular species to spot include: yellow-bellied greenbul, Kurrichane thrush, Dickinson’s kestrel and the African woollyneck. Plains game such as waterbuck, warthogs, sable and kudu thrive in this forested habitat.
In this forested reserve teeming with wildlife, sits the charming Chobe Mopani Forest Lodge. The lodge itself overlooks a thriving waterhole, and its concession borders that Zambezi National Park in the northern stretches of Botswana. The closest safari tourist town is Kasane, which has an airport that is open to both domestic and international flights, making Chobe Mopani Forest Lodge one of the most accessible safari lodges in the area.
The lodge’s claim to fame is its prolific elephant herds, many of which can be spotted congregating around the lodge’s waterhole – it’s not uncommon to spend evenings dining with elephants. The lodge is the perfect safari destination for large groups seeking a comfortable lodge that’s well-run.
Accommodation at Chobe Mopani Forest Lodge
Boasting 20 bedrooms over two storeys that all face the waterhole, this secluded hideaway ensures every need is met in terms of accommodation. Each of the rooms boasts tasteful African inspired design elements, along with all the creature comforts from home. In each of the standard rooms, you’ll find fans, mosquito nets, safes, private balconies with seating, and butler’s trays. On-site there are also two luxury Meru style tents on raised platforms that cater for guests requiring something a little bit more luxurious.
Camp Life at Chobe Mopani Forest Lodge
The main area of the lodge is joined to the rooms by a quaint wooden walkway that meanders its way from the rooms to an expansive reception area housing a curio shop, and a further viewing deck overlooking the waterhole. There is also a massage spa being built, which will offer another dimension to the already sublime safari experience.
The two dining areas each have a small bar area, and like the rest of the lodge, overlooks the bustling waterhole. Safari goers can expect to dine in splendour, while being introduced a fusion of flavours during meal times. Dining at Chobe Mopani is a protracted affair, and great care is taken with the dishes served. Hospitality here is top notch.
For those needing a respite from the African heat, you’ll be pleased to know that there is a swimming pool on-site, complete with a deck area with chairs and umbrellas. When you’re not soaking up the tranquility of the bushveld at the pool’s edge, spend time in the boma area where a crackling fire breaks the silence of the bushveld.
Activities at Chobe Mopani Forest Lodge
Included in your safari experience are two activities per day, which can include sundowner drives to the Kazuma Pan; a full day into the Chobe National Park for game drives and a boat cruise; cultural village tours; and day trips to Victoria Falls. These safaris open up a world of opportunity to view the high concentration of African wild dog, leopard, buffalo, elephant, lion, impalas, zebras, antelope, and plains game. Because the lodge is located between two parks—Chobe National Park and the Zambezi National Park—the game viewing is exceptional.
Chobe Mopani Forest Lodge is the perfect addition to any Botswana portfolio, and pairs perfectly with camps in the Okavango Delta area as it provides an opportunity to explore two completely diverse regions.
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