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Chobe Holdings pursues growth through strategic expansions, partnerships

Xugana Island Lodge Main Area 2023-1
Xugana Island Lodge Main Area 2023-1

Chobe Holdings is positioning itself for sustained growth through a blend of organic expansion and strategic partnerships.

In a move that underscores its long-term commitment to the tourism sector, the group recently secured a 15-year lease renewal for the renowned Xugana Island Lodge from the Tawana Land Board. Additionally, discussions are at an advanced stage to finalise a second lease period for Okuti Camp, further strengthening Chobe’s footprint in key tourism hotspots.

As part of its strategic growth initiatives, Chobe Holdings is set to enhance its bed night capacity significantly. Projects are underway to add 14 beds at Maxa Camp, five beds at Xugana Island Lodge, and 14 more beds at King Lewanika Lodge.

"These expansions are expected to be operational in the Financial Year 2026, promising to bolster the group’s revenue streams as demand for luxury safari experiences continues to rise," the group stated.

Despite facing temporary setbacks due to the complete rebuild of Savute Safari Lodge and refurbishments at Nxamaseri Island Lodge and Okuti Camp, Chobe Holdings managed to offset the reduction in available bed capacity. This was achieved through improved rates and the favourable depreciation of the Botswana pula (BWP) against the US dollar (USD), which positively impacted revenue generation.

Key brands under Chobe Holdings, including Desert & Delta Safaris and Ker & Downey Botswana have continued to deliver exceptional performance. Their success is driven by robust marketing strategies, continuous product development, and targeted efforts to expand into new markets whilst consolidating existing ones.

Despite prevailing economic challenges in Europe, demand for Chobe’s offerings remains strong, with optimistic projections extending into the financial year 2026 and beyond. The resilience of these brands highlights the Group’s ability to adapt to dynamic market conditions whilst maintaining high service standards.

Looking ahead, Chobe Holdings remains focused on maximising occupancy-driven revenue growth. However, as occupancy rates rise, the company acknowledges the diminishing headroom for further growth within existing capacities. To address this, Chobe is committed to exploring new avenues for expanding bed night capacity, both through the development of traditional camps and lodges and through strategic partnerships with third parties.

Whilst it is still early to fully assess the performance of new properties such as King Lewanika Lodge in Zambia, Maxa Camp, and Grays Eden—which is yet to complete its first season—Chobe Holdings remains optimistic about their potential contributions to the Group’s long-term growth strategy.

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