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Species photography guide

Chobe Bushbuck Photography Holidays

Tragelaphus scriptus ornatus

Explore our Chobe Bushbuck photography holidays in Botswana, built around field time with this species during the dry season - May to October -.Our small-group photography holidays prioritise time in the field, light, behaviour, positioning & repeatable photographic opportunities rather than rushed wildlife viewing.

Species profile

About this species

The Chobe Bushbuck is a medium-sized antelope found primarily in the riparian woodlands & thicket areas along the Chobe River in northern Botswana. Males display a rich chestnut to dark brown coat with white spots & stripes, along with spiral horns, while females are lighter in colour & lack horns. They are shy & solitary animals, most active during the early morning & late afternoon hours.

Habitat

Riparian woodland, riverine thicket & dense bush along watercourses, particularly the margins of the Chobe River & adjacent floodplains in northern Botswana.

Where to photograph

Where our trips feature this species

You can photograph Chobe Bushbuck with us in Botswana.

These departures are part of our Africa programme.

In the field, Pui Hang Miles helps guests make the most of these encounters.

Field notes

Photography notes

Best time

Early morning & late afternoon during the dry season - May to October - when reduced vegetation & reliable water sources concentrate animals along the Chobe River floodplain.

Approach

Position yourself downwind near water sources or thicket edges at dawn, as bushbuck follow predictable drinking routes that allow for close, unobtrusive observation. Use a telephoto lens of 300-500mm to maintain distance & avoid startling this timid species, keeping your profile low & movements slow. Soft side-lighting during the golden hour enhances the rich colouration & texture of the coat, making early morning sessions particularly rewarding.

Available holidays

Trips featuring Chobe Bushbuck

The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.

    The photography holidays listed below operate in regions & habitats where the Chobe Bushbuck is regularly encountered. As with all wildlife photography, sightings can never be guaranteed, but our itineraries are designed around seasonal behaviour, suitable habitat, & photographic opportunity, giving you the best possible chance of meaningful encounters in the field. Our small-group approach allows time in the field to adapt to conditions, behaviour, & photographic opportunities as they unfold. You can photograph the Chobe Bushbuck in Botswana. During our photography holidays, the Chobe Bushbuck is often photographed alongside African Buffalo, African Elephant, African Fish Eagle, African Lion, African Skimmer, & African Wild Dog. Seasonal presence & photographic opportunity vary by location & time of year.

    • Join Us For The Wildlife of the Chobe River Photography Safari

      Launch Offer

      23rd - 30th Oct 2027 - Wildlife of the Chobe River

      Location: Botswana

      Explore trip details for an October 2027 Botswana photography holiday, focused on elephants & river-based wildlife photography.

      7 nights w. Single occupancy for Was: £6999 Now: £6499

      Guided By Pui Hang Miles

      View Wildlife of the Chobe River