5 Stunning Migratory Birds to Photograph in Botswana’s Chobe National Park
- Nick Wigmore
- 13 hours ago
- 9 min read
Introduction
Discover nature’s most colorful travelers in one of Africa’s top birding destinations.
There’s a rare kind of stillness in Botswana’s Chobe National Park during the green season, broken only by the flutter of wings and the chatter of migratory birds returning to its floodplains. For wildlife photographers and birding enthusiasts, this is a golden opportunity. Chobe transforms into a haven for some of the world’s most photogenic avian species, offering dramatic skies, rich colors, and wildlife encounters that few places can match.
Whether you’re an experienced photographer with a long lens or a nature lover looking to document your first safari, this guide will introduce you to five of the most stunning migratory birds in Chobe, and how to photograph them at their absolute best.
Pro Tip: New to bird photography? Start with our Beginner’s Guide to Bird Photography for camera settings, techniques, and gear tips.
Why Chobe National Park is a Birding Paradise
Best season: Green season (November to April)
During Botswana’s green season, the dry savanna comes alive with color and sound. Rains bring new life to the Chobe River floodplains, attracting thousands of migratory birds, some from as far away as Europe and Asia. It’s a dream setting for bird photographers: dramatic skies, lush backdrops, and birds in full breeding plumage.
While many travelers favor the dry season for game viewing, true birders know the green season is the secret gem.
You’ll witness courtship dances, nest-building, and vibrant social behavior, all framed by Chobe’s iconic scenery.
Essential Gear for Bird Photography in Botswana
Success in the field begins with what you bring into it.
Photographing birds in Chobe isn’t just about having a good eye, it’s also about being prepared.
The conditions can vary quickly with weather and terrain, so having versatile, durable, and wildlife-ready gear is key.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the essential equipment you’ll want to bring on your Botswana birding adventure:
Camera Body
Recommended: DSLR or mirrorless with fast autofocus and high frame rate.
Top Picks: Canon EOS R1, R5 mark 2, Sony A1, Nikon Z9.
Why: These cameras handle fast-moving birds with precision and deliver excellent resolution for cropping.
Lenses
Ideal Range: Telephoto lens between 300mm–600mm.
Tip: A 100–400mm zoom offers flexibility for both perched and flying birds.
Bonus Tip: If space allows, bring a wide-angle lens to capture environmental shots with birds in landscape.
Tripod or Monopod
A monopod gives support while being mobile, ideal for boat rides or long hikes.
A lightweight tripod helps in low-light conditions or when using heavy prime lenses.
Accessories
Extra memory cards (you’ll shoot a lot!)
Extra batteries (especially during long drives or boat trips)
Lens cloths and rain cover (for dust and sudden downpours)
Beanbag or window mount (perfect for shooting from safari vehicles)
Pro Tip: Choose weather-sealed gear or carry a dry bag - Chobe’s green season can switch from sunshine to rain in minutes.
5 Must-Photograph Migratory Birds in Chobe
1. African Skimmer
Where to find it: Along the Chobe River, especially during sunset boat cruises
With its striking black-and-white plumage, bright orange bill, and skimming flight just inches above the water, the African Skimmer is a dramatic subject for bird photography. Its feeding behavior, dipping its lower mandible into the river to catch fish, makes for action shots you won’t want to miss.
One of my most memorable moments in Chobe was watching a group of African Skimmers glide across a glassy river at sunset. Their reflections mirrored perfectly in the water, it is always a magical time to see this happen.
Photography Tips:
Shutter Speed: Use 1/2000 or faster to freeze their fast, low-level flight.
Aperture: Try f/5.6 or wider to isolate the bird against a soft background.
Timing: Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) brings out the richness of their orange bill and enhances reflections.
Angle: If possible, shoot from a boat or low riverbank for a more dramatic water-level composition.
Pro Tip: Track their flight manually rather than relying on autofocus alone - they move in quick, erratic bursts!
2. White Stork
Where to find it: Chobe floodplains, Sedudu Island, and shallow wetlands
Tall, poised, and almost regal in appearance, the White Stork is a captivating subject to photograph. With its stark white plumage, jet-black wing tips, and long red legs, it stands out beautifully against Chobe’s lush green backdrops, especially during the rainy season.
These migratory birds are often seen wading in wet grasslands or slowly gliding overhead. Their slow movements and impressive wingspan make them ideal for both portrait and in-flight shots.
I once spent over an hour photographing a pair of White Storks feeding at sunrise on Sedudu Island. The soft light, the dewy grass, and their mirrored reflections in the water, it was one of those slow, quiet moments that make bird photography so meditative.
Photography Tips:
Wingspan Shots: Wait for takeoff or landing to capture their wings fully extended, perfect for showcasing detail and drama.
Shutter Speed: Use around 1/1600–1/2000 for flight shots.
Lens Choice: A 400mm lens is ideal to get close while maintaining respectful distance.
Bonus Tip: Look for reflections in puddles or shallow pools during golden hour, adds a poetic touch to your frames.
Pro Tip: White Storks are patient feeders, if you stay still, they’ll often come closer naturally. Let the scene unfold around you.
3. Carmine Bee-eater
Where to find it: Sandy riverbanks and nesting colonies along the Chobe River
Few birds capture the imagination, and your camera’s attention, like the Carmine Bee-eater. Their electric-red feathers, turquoise throats, and elegant wings bring bursts of color to the landscape. During the green season, they gather in colonies, perching along sandbanks or swooping gracefully through the air in search of insects.
Photographing a flock of Carmine Bee-eaters as they launched into flight from a riverbank felt like watching a fireworks show in slow motion, vivid, explosive, and completely mesmerizing.
Photography Tips:
Shutter Speed: Set to 1/2500 or faster to catch their rapid wing beats and aerial acrobatics.
Shooting Mode: Use burst mode to capture sequences of take-offs, landings, or feeding behavior.
Lighting: Aim for sunrise or sunset, the low-angle light adds depth and enhances their brilliant colors.
Composition: Frame groups of bee-eaters in flight for dynamic storytelling, or isolate a perched bird with a soft background for a portrait-style shot.
Pro Tip: Find a quiet stretch of the riverbank and wait. Once they get used to your presence, they’ll carry on naturally, and that’s when the magic happens.
4. Yellow-billed Kite
Where to find it: Soaring over floodplains, near riverbanks, and scavenging near safari lodges
The Yellow-billed Kite is a raptor with attitude. With its unmistakable yellow beak and forked tail, this bird of prey is often seen gliding effortlessly above the Chobe River, scanning for fish, carrion, or small mammals. Its flight is smooth but sudden, with powerful dives and sharp turns that test your reflexes as a photographer.
One unforgettable afternoon, I captured a Yellow-billed Kite mid-dive as it swooped down to snatch a fish from the water, a split-second moment that made every early morning and gear carry totally worth it.
Photography Tips:
Autofocus Tracking: Use continuous autofocus (AI-Servo or AF-C) to keep sharp focus as the kite soars and turns.
Shutter Speed: At least 1/2000 or faster to freeze action, especially during dives or quick directional changes.
Framing Tip: Include a bit of landscape or river below to tell a richer story of place and movement.
Weather Advantage: Slight overcast days can help reduce harsh shadows and highlight the bird's golden plumage.
Pro Tip: Watch for circling behavior, kites often loop a few times before diving. Anticipating their path can lead to razor-sharp, action-packed frames.
5. Southern Carmine Bee-eater
Where to find it: Breeding colonies on riverbanks and cliffs; perched on branches near open floodplains
While similar to their northern cousins, Southern Carmine Bee-eaters are just as captivating, with their vivid red-pink feathers, emerald-blue undertones, and whimsical, fluttery flight patterns. In Chobe, they often nest in muddy riverbanks or cliff faces, creating spectacular colonies alive with motion and sound.
Their group behavior makes them ideal for photographing social interactions, perfect for storytelling shots that go beyond a simple portrait.
I remember crouching behind a termite mound one early morning, watching a flurry of Southern Carmines take turns entering and exiting their nest tunnels. The rhythm, the noise, the color, it felt like nature’s own symphony in motion.
Photography Tips:
Shutter Speed: Use 1/2500 or higher to freeze fast wingbeats and feeding mid-air.
Group Shots: Look for interactions, mid-air food passes, squabbles, or synchronized take-offs.
Framing: Use branches or riverbank textures as natural framing elements.
Lighting: Shoot during golden hour to accentuate their jewel-like colors and soften shadows.
Pro Tip: If you find a nesting colony, stay quiet and still. The birds will go about their business, giving you authentic behavior shots without disruption.
Conservation in Chobe: Photography with Purpose
Chobe National Park is more than a dream location for photographers, it’s also a conservation success story. Botswana’s strong commitment to low-impact tourism and protected areas means that wildlife, including migratory birds, can continue to thrive in their natural habitats.
As a bird photographer, your presence can contribute to sustainable eco-tourism, especially during the green season when fewer tourists visit. Hiring local guides, choosing eco-certified safari lodges, and respecting wildlife space are all simple yet impactful ways to give back.
Remember, every shutter click is a chance to raise awareness. Use your photos to tell stories that inspire conservation, not just admiration.
FAQs for Planning Your Botswana Bird Photography Safari
Q: When is the best time to photograph migratory birds in Chobe National Park?
A: The green season (November to April) is ideal. This is when migratory birds arrive, the landscapes are lush, and bird activity is at its peak.
Q: What kind of camera gear do I need?
A: A DSLR or mirrorless camera with a 300–600mm telephoto lens is perfect. Don’t forget extra batteries, memory cards, and weather protection.
Q: Can I join a guided bird photography tour in Chobe?
A: Yes! Many operators offer specialized birding safaris with expert guides and photographers. Look for companies focused on ethical, eco-conscious experiences.
Q: Do I need a tripod or monopod?
A: A monopod is a great lightweight option, especially useful on game drives or boats. A tripod is helpful in low-light conditions or for long stints in hides.
Start Your Birding Adventure Today
If you’ve ever dreamed of photographing vibrant, rare migratory birds in one of Africa’s most visually striking settings, Chobe National Park is calling.
With its rich ecosystems, dramatic skies, and unforgettable birdlife, a Botswana bird photography safari offers far more than just images. It offers moments. Stories. Stillness. And color you’ll carry forever.
Ready to plan your trip? Check out our Ultimate Botswana Safari Planning Guide, or talk to one of our safari experts about booking a custom birding experience during the green season.
Recommended Safaris for Bird Photography in Chobe & Beyond
Planning a photography-focused safari can be overwhelming, but curated, expert-led trips make the experience seamless, and infinitely more rewarding.
For bird photographers looking to explore Chobe National Park, we offer guided tours specifically crafted for capturing African wildlife through the lens.
Here are some standout safaris for birding and photography in Botswana:
Zimbabwe & Botswana Explorer
Destinations: Chobe National Park, Hwange National Park, and Victoria Falls
Duration: 8 Days
Focus: River-based birding in Chobe, predator action in Hwange, and the iconic falls
Why it’s great for birders: Combines rich wetland habitats and open savanna—perfect for both migratory birds and raptors👉 Explore this Safari →
Botswana Photo Safari (Linyanti, Moremi & Khwai Regions)
Duration: 7 Days
Best For: Birding in riverine habitats with dynamic lighting and incredible scenery
Highlights: Boat-based and vehicle safaris, intimate group sizes, pro guides, and image reviews👉 View Safari Details →
Custom Birding Safari Itineraries
Want a birding-focused safari tailored to your needs? Their team offers bespoke itineraries that align with migratory patterns, seasonal birding peaks, and your specific photography goals.👉 Talk to a Safari Planner →
What Sets Us Apart: Small group sizes photo safaris designed with intent, beanbag-equipped vehicles, camera gear rental, Lightroom image reviews, and in-field mentoring by professional wildlife photographers.
More Reads: Deepen Your Safari Knowledge
Continue learning with these helpful resources from the African Photo Safari Blog:
What is an African Photo Safari?
A great starting point if you’re new to the world of wildlife photography safaris.
Best Times to Visit Botswana for Photography
(Find or request from the blog)Discover when to travel for bird migrations, baby animals, or lush green backdrops.
Beginner’s Tips for Wildlife Photography
(Find or request from the blog)Learn composition, camera settings, and how to anticipate wildlife behavior.
Bookmark our blog - it's packed with insight from seasoned photographers who’ve spent years in the field.
Hope to see you out on safari soon.
Nick Wigmore
Co-founder & Photographic Guide
