Elephant Valley Lodge: The Best 4-Star Safari Base in Botswana

Elephant Valley Lodge

Lesoma Valley, Chobe District, Botswana

Experience a secluded forest retreat positioned precisely along a well-worn elephant corridor, where the silence of the bush is broken only by the sounds of a vibrant waterhole.

Guest Resource Guide

Property Overview Forest Tents Dining Atmosphere 3-Day Itinerary Excursion Rates Guest FAQ

Elephant Valley Lodge Overview and Setting

Elephant Valley Lodge is uniquely positioned along a vital transit route between Chobe National Park and the Matetsi Wildlife Reserve. Specifically, the lodge sits on the edge of the Lesoma Valley, overlooking a permanent waterhole that serves as the primary drinking spot for large herds during the dry season. Consequently, this location makes it a premier destination for those seeking a quiet alternative to the high-traffic riverfront hotels in Botswana tourism.

Furthermore, the primary aim of this sanctuary is to provide a stationary, peaceful vantage point for watching wildlife behavior. It is an exceptional choice for bird photographers, as the surrounding forest environment has over 450 recorded species, as documented by BirdLife International.

In addition to the remarkable avian life, the valley is a stronghold for the African Elephant and Cape Buffalo. The lodge’s strategic placement allows guests to observe these massive mammals interacting in their natural habitat without the intrusion of multiple vehicle fleets. Moreover, the proximity to the border provides easy access for cross-border day trips to Victoria Falls.

Note on Location Logistics

“The lodge is situated 20 minutes outside of Kasane town. This ensures total seclusion from town traffic; however, please note that you cannot walk to local shops, and the evening return drives from the park can be quite chilly during the winter months.”

Key Statistics

Property Type: 4-Star Safari Lodge
Guests (Max): 40 Guests
Rooms/Units: 20 Forest Tents
Minimum Stay: 1 Night

Wildlife at a Glance

Experience heavy concentrations of mammals and birds. The permanent waterhole provides frequent sightings of:

African Elephant Cape Buffalo African Lion Puku Antelope

Accommodation & Forest Tents

Forest Safari Tent

Qty: 20 | Raised Platforms

Sturdy canvas tents built on raised wooden platforms provide an authentic African expedition feel. Inside, you will find twin or double configurations with mosquito netting. Each tent opens onto a private veranda facing either the valley or the canopy.

Feature: En-suite bathrooms with slate-tiled showers and electric blankets.

Lodge Architecture

The main lodge features an open-sided thatch pavilion designed for maximum airflow. A rim-flow pool sits directly in front of the waterhole, allowing for wildlife viewing while you swim.

Vibe: Off-grid luxury along the elephant corridor.

Amenities & Facilities

In-Room Features

✦ Air-conditioning & Electric blankets
✦ En-suite slate showers
✦ Digital safe & Hairdryer
✦ Private forest view balcony

Lodge Excellence

✦ Rim-flow swimming pool
✦ Waterhole Viewing Hide
✦ 24/7 Power (Backup Generator)
✦ Curio shop & Boma area

Dining and The Hidden Hide

Dining is a celebration of pan-African flavors, featuring venison potjies and grilled bream. Specifically, guests enjoy breakfast on the raised deck under camel thorn trees or traditional boma dinners around a leadwood fire.

The Hidden Hide Experience

Experience a unique morning ritual at our camouflaged hide. Furthermore, you can enjoy a packed breakfast while elephants drink just five meters away from your seat. Ultimately, this provides a sensory proximity that few other lodges can match.

Suggested 3-Day Itinerary for Elephant Valley Lodge

Day 1: Arrival & Waterhole Watch

Arrive at Kasane Airport and transfer to the lodge. After a hearty lunch, settle by the rim-flow pool. By 3:00 PM, large herds usually arrive at the waterhole. End the day with a traditional fire-side dinner in the sand-floored Boma.

Day 2: Chobe Park & River Cruises

A 5:30 AM wake-up for a game drive in Chobe National Park to track big cats. Return for a brunch buffet and mid-day nap. In the afternoon, head to the river for a boat cruise to observe hippos and crocodiles from the water.

Day 3: Bird Walk & Departure

Join an optional early morning bird walk around the forest perimeter to spot rare endemics. Additionally, enjoy a final long breakfast on the raised deck overlooking the valley before your departure transfer back to Kasane.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to walk around the lodge?

The pool area is separated from the waterhole by a low-voltage wire. However, since we are on an active corridor, large mammals move through frequently. Always adhere to ranger instructions regarding movement after dark.

What is the weather like in winter?

Botswana winters can be very cold at night. Remarkably, we provide electric blankets in the tents; nonetheless, we suggest bringing warm layers for the evening drive back from the park.

Are airport transfers included?

Yes, we provide scheduled transfers to and from Kasane International Airport (BBK) as part of our inclusive service package.

Safari Activities & Group Rates

Activity / Safari	Group Type	Estimated Price (PP)
Chobe River Sunset Cruise	Individuals/Groups	$55
Full Day Chobe Game Drive	Groups (Min 4)	$110
Victoria Falls Day Trip	Individuals/Groups	$180 (Excl. Visa)
Private Photographic Boat	Specialist Groups	$350 (Half Day)
Guided Forest Walk	Individuals	$35

Guest Testimonials

“Watching a herd of thirty elephants cross the path right in front of our tent was better than any drive. The staff knew every bird by its call. Unmatched expertise.”
— Marcus T.

“The boat cruise on the Chobe was the highlight. We got within meters of hippos. The lodge itself is peaceful and far from the Kasane traffic. A true forest gem.”
— Sarah L.

Start Your Journey Today

Experience the unscripted behavior of the African bush from the quiet sanctuary of the Lesoma Valley. Book your stay at Elephant Valley Lodge with Thabo Africa Safaris today.