Ichobezi Houseboats: Our full report

At the eastern end of Namibia's Caprivi Strip, two houseboats cruise the Zambezi and Chobe Rivers. A few nights on one of these is a fantastic way to experience the birds, animals and scenery of this lush corner of Namibia.

The Ichobezi Moli houseboat is 18 metres long and has four large twin cabins. Each cabin has a large sliding window that gives you a fantastic view of the changing river scenery as the houseboat glides by. The cabins have comfortable twin beds, storage space and an en-suite bathroom fitted with a shower, toilet and hand basin.

Part of the Ichobezi Moli's top deck has a lounge and bar area with comfortable seating and a shade cover. The other part is open to the sky and it is here that guests can enjoy delicious meals prepared by the houseboat's chef. There is also a small plunge pool on the top deck – the perfect place for a cooling dip whilst enjoying the passing scenery.

The Ichobezi Mukwae houseboat is newer than the Moli but built to almost the same specifications. Although similar to its sister houseboat, the Ichobezi Mukwae's front cabin has the added attraction of its own private balcony. The Mukwae also has an added sun deck above the main top deck that gives even great leverage from where guests can experience this lush wetland.

Each houseboat has dedicated tender boats. These are small motor boats that accompany the houseboats on their travels. A tender boat allows guests the freedom to partake in any excursions or activities best done away from the main houseboat.

Both the Ichobezi Moli and Ichobezi Mukwae houseboats provide a memorable way to explore this lush river landscape. Whilst sailing on the Chobe River the houseboat's top decks provide an ideal platform from which to view the abundant wildlife of the Chobe National Park. Other activities offered include fishing on the Zambezi River renowned for its sizeable tiger fish and bream, sunset cruises and birding trips in the tender boats, and visits to some of the local fishing communities in the area.

Geographics

Location: Caprivi Strip, Namibia

Directions: Guests for the Ichobezi Moli and the Ichobezi Mukwae houseboats will be met at Kasane by one of the small tender boats.

Key personnel

Owner: Ralph & Dawn Oxenham

Food & drink

Usual board basis: Full Board

Dining style: Group Meals

Dining locations: Outdoor Dining

Cost of meal e.g. lunch: Included

Drinks included: All house wines, local beers, soft drinks and water.

Children

Attitude towards children: Children of all ages are welcome on the Ichobezi Moli and Ichobezi Mukwae houseboats.

Health & safety

Malarial area: Yes

Dangerous animals: Low Risk

Extras

Disabled access: Not Possible

Laundry facilities: As there are no laundry facilities on board the Houseboat, no laundry service is offered.