Muchenje Safari Lodge occupies the western section of Chobe National Park, at the far north of Botswana. Officially inaugurated in 1996 by the country's vice-president, this 3-star lodge stands out for its intentionally intimate scale, the owner's direct daily involvement, and a structured community commitment centred around the neighbouring village of Mabele.

Why choose Muchenje Safari Lodge

The property sits on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Chobe River, offering sweeping views across to the Namibian shoreline. Located on the park's periphery, away from the tourist concentrations around Kasane, it provides access to Chobe's western sector—a quieter zone than the busier eastern riverine areas.

The lodge supports Mabele Primary School by financing part of its operations. Several former pupils now work on site as guides, rangers, or receptionists. Muchenje is also a member of Pack for Purpose, an initiative that allows guests to bring school supplies in their luggage for local redistribution.

Atmosphere and setting

The mood is deliberately intimate: limited capacity, convivial communal dining, evenings lingering around the campfire. The owner makes a point of meeting each guest personally—a stark contrast to the more impersonal tone of larger neighbouring private lodges. The shared veranda, facing the river, serves as an observation post for wildlife moving below—elephants coming to drink, hippos, water birds.

The library holds a collection of books on Botswana's fauna and flora, useful for preparing or extending safari outings.

The chalets

Accommodation consists of roughly a dozen thatched chalets, each with a private bathroom, fan, and mosquito screens. Rooms feature either a double bed or twin beds depending on the unit. A family pavilion offers two additional beds upstairs, designed for groups or families.

Children under 8 are not recommended due to the pace and physical demands of safari activities. Tailored programmes can, however, be arranged on request for younger guests. Pets are not permitted.

Services and activities

The lodge offers a swimming pool, gym, and gift shop. Staff speak multiple languages: English, Dutch, and Afrikaans.

Activities cover the main safari formats practiced in the region:

• Game drives through Chobe National Park to spot elephants, big cats, wild dogs, and antelope.
• Walking safaris with a local guide, focused on tracking and silent stalking.
• Mokoro cruises in the traditional dugout canoe, for close encounters with aquatic wildlife.
• Cultural visit to the Sibuya tribe, settled near the Chobe plains: craftsmanship, fishing, herding.

Location and access

Postal address: Muchenje Safari Lodge, Private Bag K31, Kasane, Botswana. The road from Kasane cuts through the park's western section and takes roughly three-quarters of an hour depending on conditions. Most guests, however, opt for charter flights from Kasane Airport, which significantly reduce transfer time and allow for onward connections to other circuit stops (Okavango Delta, Victoria Falls).

Around the area

To compare accommodation options in the Chobe sector and beyond, several properties deserve consideration:

• Elephant Valley Lodge — another address in the Kasane sector.
• Ghoha Hills Lodge — situated north of the park.
• Nogaatsa Pan Lodge — for exploring central Chobe.
• Saguni Safari Lodge — a complementary alternative.

Book your stay

Muchenje Safari Lodge fits naturally into an itinerary combining Chobe, the Okavango, and Victoria Falls. To build a bespoke journey, explore our Botswana trips.