The perennial Chobe River encourages the growth of a dense forest of tall trees, which are forced upward in the race for sunlight, ending in typically small crowns. Little grass survives among the shrubs and creepers in their deep shade. The region's steadily growing elephant population has had an effect on this dense riverine growth, with many trees being uprooted during the pachyderms’ continual quest for food. As the forest has become less dense, it has formed a suitable habitat for many other herbivores and the carnivores that prey on them.

Located in the far northwestern corner of Chobe is the Linyanti marsh, an area of permanent swamplands often referred to as the miniature Okavango. Semi-aquatic antelope such as the red lechwe and sitatunga, as well as bird species such as the slaty egret, lesser jackana and Pel’s fishing owl occur in this watery wilderness. Large numbers of elephant concentrate around the waterways and marshlands in the dry season. Crocodile and hippo can be found in the larger channels and open water areas of the Linyanti. Lion and hyena, as well as smaller predators such as the African wild cat or caracal, can be encountered in the area. 

A hot and dry corridor extends throughout portions of the park, where vegetation becomes sparse and water more difficult to find. The elusive oribi antelope can be seen in this difficult terrain, as can gemsbok, eland, ostrich and steenbok. Other species wandering through this area include giraffe, roan, sable and elephant. Bird enthusiasts can enjoy the sight of white-faced duck, knob-billed duck and red-winged pratincole in their thousands. Carmine bee-eaters build massive colonies in exposed sandbanks, while guinea fowl and francolin roam the riverside.