Ichingo Chobe River Lodge: Our full report

Ichingo Chobe River Lodge overlooks the Chobe River on the south side of the Impalila Island at the very eastern tip of the Caprivi Strip. Owned and run by the friendly and knowledgeable Ralph and Dawn, it has eight large safari tents amidst the riverine forest.

For an offbeat complement to the lodge, you can opt (in advance) to spend a night or two on one of the two Ichobezi Houseboats which ply the Chobe and Zambezi Rivers. The Ichobezi Moli and Ichobezi Mukwae each have four cabins that look out onto stunning views of the river, whilst the top decks have a plunge pool, a bar and lounge, and tender boats for short excursions.

Note that although Ichingo stands on an island in Namibia, it is very close to Chobe National Park in Botswana – and some of its activities are boat trips along the Chobe in search of the park's game. Ichingo can easily combined into most trips to Botswana – or even used for a short side-trip of a few days when staying in the Livingstone area.

Two other lodges close by, on the other side of Impalila island, are Impalila Island Lodge and the luxurious Ntwala Lodge.

Geographics

Location: Caprivi Strip, Namibia

Ideal length of stay: 2 to 3 nights

Food & drink

Usual board basis: Full Board

Dining locations: Indoor and Outdoor Dining

Special interests

Birdwatching: Ichingo is on a lush island between the Chobe and Zambezi rivers, and this is a top bird-watching destination. Some of the Okavango's specials are found here, as well as highly unusual species like the rock pratincoles, which frequent the bubbling rapids.

See more ideas for Birdwatching in Namibia

Wildlife safaris: Ichingo's motor-boat trips along the Chobe and Zambezi rivers are excellent for birdlife and general river-based wildlife – and relaxed big game is also often seen from the waterfront of Chobe National Park.

See more ideas for Wildlife safaris in Namibia

Health & safety

Malarial area: Yes

Dangerous animals: Moderate Risk