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Caprivi Strip
Caprivi Strip
Caprivi Strip
Caprivi Strip
Caprivi Strip
Caprivi Strip
Caprivi Strip
Caprivi Strip
Caprivi Strip
Caprivi Strip

Enjoy river cruises, fishing trips & birding in the Caprivi

Elephants frequently cross the river to feed

Spot game from camp

The Caprivi is the only place to see aquatic animals in Namibia

Birds abound

Birds abound

The Caprivi is home to large elephant herds Jul-Sep

Water-based activities aren't the only option

Some lodges offer fine dining

You can almost guarantee spectacular sunsets

Caprivi Strip

Caprivi Strip

Veined by permanent rivers, the Caprivi is home to birds and animals that live almost nowhere else in Namibia.

African fish eagles perch on branches high above the water; a thrilling flash of blue marks the passage of a bejewelled kingfisher.

Sitatunga and red lechwe thrive within the wetlands of the national parks – Bwabwata, Mudumu and Nkasa Rupara – whose plains are home to Cape buffalo and sable antelope as well as elephant aplenty. The range of habitats make this an exceptional place for birding, as well; indeed, more species have been identified in the Mahango area of Bwabwata than anywhere else in Namibia.

While often explored from a 4WD, this world of plenty is perfect for boating, at its best in the early morning or towards sunset. Whether you’re chugging along the broad reaches of the Kavango or meandering through picturesque channels, that’s a real bonus in a largely dry country. And if you fancy a spot of fishing, that too is on the agenda at many of the riverside camps.

Even away from the parks, the Caprivi – or Zambezi Region – feels very different. Smoke spirals up from fires in roadside villages, children play in the dirt, and foraging goats, cows and chickens present a constant hazard for drivers. Here and there, makeshift stalls offer drinks and local crafts, and the occasional small town offers up the essentials to passing travellers.

The Caprivi may not be on every traveller’s wishlist, but to come here is to experience a side of Namibia that is rarely seen – while staying in one of a handful of lodges whose standards of accommodation, food and guiding are among the best in the land.

And as a bonus, the region’s close proximity to the Victoria Falls presents a perfect add-on for many a self-drive safari.

Caprivi Strip

Safaris visiting Caprivi Strip

Just ideas, we'll always tailor-make a trip for you


Itinerary image

Rock Hare Self-drive Safari

20 days • 12 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO VICTORIA FALLS AIRPORT

An in-depth look at Namibia from the Namib Desert to the Caprivi, with additional stops in Botswana and Victoria Falls. This three-week adventure includes an unrivalled mix of environments and is great value.

US$5,370 - US$8,540 per person

Itinerary image

Pygmy Mouse Self-drive Safari

18 days • 10 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO VICTORIA FALLS AIRPORT

A truly epic southern African self-drive safari adventure from Namibia’s mountains and deserts, along the lush Caprivi Strip to Botswana and Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, staying at luxury lodges throughout.

US$6,320 - US$10,590 per person

Itinerary image

Sable Self-drive Safari

12 days • 7 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO VICTORIA FALLS AIRPORT

A great-value southern African self-drive adventure from Namibia along the Caprivi Strip to Botswana and Zimbabwe, combining other-worldly landscapes, unforgettable wildlife spectacles and rarely visited places, and ending at Victoria Falls.

US$6,280 - US$9,460 per person

Itinerary image

Great Egret Safari

12 days • 4 locations
MAUN AIRPORT TO VICTORIA FALLS AIRPORT

This wonderfully varied adventure combines Botswana's Okavango Delta and a live-aboard houseboat safari on the Chobe River, with big game in Zimbabwe's dry Hwange National Park and the stupendous Victoria Falls.

US$9,300 - US$17,210 per person

View all safaris

Most recent reviews of our safaris to Caprivi Strip

Click below to browse all 283 reviews from Caprivi Strip. All from our travellers; all are in full & unedited.


99%
283 reviews since August 2007
Excellent
274
Good
10
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
0
Mr & Mrs M from London

Arrived 10 Sep 2024, 23 nights

"Botswana & Zambia Sept 2024"

"What an adventure! The entire trip was fabulous from start to finish …" Read Mr & Mrs M’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr P. from Tatsfield

Arrived 4 Sep 2024, 14 nights

"My Sep 2024 trip"

"wouldn't change a thing …" Read Mr P.’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs B from Avon

Arrived 5 Sep 2024, 18 nights

"My Sep 2024 trip"

"A great holiday which fully met our expectations. …" Read Mr & Mrs B’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr W from Lincolnshire

Arrived 8 Aug 2024, 19 nights

"My Aug 2024 trip"

"cannot fault the service from Expert Africa....a truly marvellous memorable trip …" Read Mr W’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mrs C. from Dubai

Arrived 10 Jul 2024, 13 nights

"My Jul 2024 trip"

"The trip was fantastic! Maruska really understood the experiences we wanted …" Read Mrs C.’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Happy Campers from Perth

Arrived 14 Jun 2024, 22 nights

"Our Botswana Safari (June 2024)"

"A great time in Botswana, again!! Lucy has been unfailingly helpful. …" Read Happy Campers’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Jonathan from Newcastle

Arrived 19 Jul 2024, 14 nights

"My Jul 2024 trip - Botswana & Namibia"

"Very impressed with everything - flawless in its organiasation .. incredible. …" Read Jonathan’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Travel Photoman from USA

Arrived 21 Jun 2024, 13 nights

"My Jun 2024 trip"

"Excellent trip from start to finish... Lucy was a great resource …" Read Travel Photoman’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Baker&Rosher from Aus

Arrived 31 May 2024, 18 nights

"My May 2024 trip"

"The whole trip ran very smoothly …" Read Baker&Rosher’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr S & Dr B from UK

Arrived 16 Jun 2024, 14 nights

"My Jun 2024 trip"

"An amazing trip ... everything worked out fantastic …" Read Mr S & Dr B’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

See all Caprivi Strip reviews

Where to stay in Caprivi Strip

Our suggestions for safari camps in Caprivi Strip


Ndhovu Safari Lodge

Ndhovu Safari Lodge

Ndhovu is a simple riverside lodge, with tents that are reminiscent of safaris a decade or two ago.


88% (126 reviews)
Hakusembe River Lodge

Hakusembe Lodge

Hakusembe River Lodge is a substantial lodge with a superb location on the Kavango River.


86% (94 reviews)
Chobe Princesses

Chobe Princesses

The Chobe Princess houseboats offer a memorable way to explore the Chobe and Zambezi Rivers in Namibia's Caprivi. Perfect for a couple or for a group of family or friends.


96% (71 reviews)
Lianshulu Lodge

Lianshulu Lodge

Beside the Kwando River, within Mudumu National Park, Lianshulu is a small safari lodge offering 4WD safaris and river trips – with particularly good birdlife.


91% (60 reviews)
Nkasa Lupala Tented Lodge

Nkasa Lupala

Peaceful Nkasa Lupala is a comfortable lodge in a remote and little-explored area close to Nkasa Rupara National Park.


92% (37 reviews)
Nunda River Lodge

Nunda River Lodge

NNunda River Lodge overlooks a pretty part of the Kavango River near Popa Falls and the productive Mahango National Park.


84% (30 reviews)
Camp Kwando

Camp Kwando

Near to Mudumu National Park, Camp Kwando is a comfortable and unfussy option with opportunities for game drives, boat safaris and fishing.


74% (24 reviews)
Ichingo Chobe River Lodge

Ichingo Chobe Lodge

Safari holiday in Namibia's Caprivi Strip, staying at Ichingo Chobe River Lodge on Impalila Island.


97% (24 reviews)
Nambwa Tented Lodge

Nambwa Tented Lodge

A beautiful safari lodge In the remote Bwabwata National Park, Nambwa Tented Lodge brings serious comfort to a relaxing safari.


95% (23 reviews)
River Dance Lodge

River Dance

Build on stilts on the banks of the Kavango River, River Dance Lodge has great views, a relaxed ambience and excellent birdlife.


93% (18 reviews)
Zambezi Queen

Zambezi Queen

The Zambezi Queen offers luxurious two- and three-night cruises along the game-rich Chobe River, including game viewing by small boat and 4WD as well as catch-and-release fishing.


95% (11 reviews)
Taranga Safari Lodge

Taranga Lodge

Situated on the banks of the Kavango, Taranga Safari Lodge works as a convenient stopover before going onto explore the Caprivi.


75% (11 reviews)
Divava Okavango Lodge & Spa

Divava Lodge & Spa

The substantial Divava Okavango Lodge & Spa offers plenty of pampering opportunities in an unspoilt riverside setting


91% (7 reviews)
Cascade Island Lodge

Cascade Island Lodge

Cascade Island Lodge, near Kasane in the Caprivi Strip is a very luxurious, high end option for those seeking peace and privacy on the Zambezi River.


85% (4 reviews)
Shametu River Lodge

Shametu Lodge

Shametu River Lodge has the best views of the Popa Rapids of any private lodge in the Divundu area.


70% (4 reviews)
Jackalberry Tented Camp

Jackalberry Camp

Jackalberry Camp is uniquely situated in the Nkasa Rupara National Park affording unrivalled access to this little-visited corner of Namibia.


90% (4 reviews)
Namushasha Lodge

Namushasha Lodge

One of the larger lodges in the Bwabwata National Park, Namushasha is an economic option with an attractive river-side location.


80% (3 reviews)
Kazile Island Lodge

Kazile Island Lodge

On an island in the Kwando River within Bwabwata National Park, the remote Kazile lsland Lodge offers games drives, bush walks and boat cruises.


70% (2 reviews)
Serondela Lodge

Serondela

Accessible only by river, Serondela combines the remoteness of Namibia’s Caprivi Strip with access to Botswana’s flagship Chobe National Park.


80% (2 reviews)
Chobe Savanna Lodge

Chobe Savanna Lodge

Chobe Savanna Lodge stands opposite Chobe National Park, Botswana. Click here to learn more about the area and your options for a safari there.


100% (1 review)
Chobe Water Villas

Chobe Water Villas

Chobe Water Villas is a beautiful and thoughtfully designed lodge, in a great location on the Namibian banks of the Chobe River.


No reviews yet

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Our travellers’ wildlife sightings in Caprivi Strip

This is their success for sightings in Caprivi Strip. Click on a species for more detail. How we work this out.


Hippo

84% success

Elephant

82% success

Buffalo

69% success

Giraffe

67% success

Zebra

64% success

Wildebeest

47% success

Lion

39% success

Sable antelope

30% success

Roan antelope

25% success

Sitatunga

19% success

Leopard

15% success

Eland

15% success

Wild dog

4% success

Cheetah

3% success

Spotted Hyena

3% success

Pangolin

1% success

Brown Hyena

0% success

Aardvark

0% success

When to go to Caprivi Strip

Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Caprivi Strip in Namibia


Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Namibia in January

January is at the heart of Namibia’s rainy season. However, as you’d expect from a country dominated by desert and semi-desert environments, the rains are often (but not always) weak and usually quite localised. Some days will be clear, the strong sun raising temperatures to around 30ºC/86ºF; on others humidity and clouds build, sometimes culminating in spectacular thunderstorms. In extreme cases, these generate flash-floods which race down the beds of ephemeral rivers.

Across the country, the greening landscape makes a refreshing change, especially in desert areas. Many birds are in full breeding plumage and migrant species are here in force. In the north, where the rains are more reliable, the abundant water and food allows wildlife to disperse, making it trickier to spot.

  • Variable weather: clear, hot & dry, or cloudy & humid with some rain
  • Occasional, highly localised thunderstorms
  • Many animals with young; birdlife at its most spectacular
  • Wildlife dispersed & harder to see, especially in Etosha & the Caprivi
  • Very few tourists (apart from the New Year) so rates mostly low

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in January

Namibia in February

February is the wettest month, but as Namibia is dominated by deserts, the rains are often weak and patchy. The variation in weather across Namibia is significant, too; the central highlands and Caprivi can see some heavy rain. More typically, some February days are clear with a hot, strong sun; others are cooler as cloudy skies build and, sometimes, culminate in short, spectacular thunderstorms. Occasionally these generate flash-floods, bringing ephemeral rivers to life and making travel more challenging.

Across the country, the landscape feels green and alive; insects and smaller animals are more easily seen, and many birds and animals are raising their young. However, small pools in the bush and thicker vegetation can make it hard to spot the wildlife.

  • Variable weather: clear, hot & dry or cloudy & humid with some rain
  • Occasional localised thunderstorms meander over the landscape
  • The bush feels alive; birdlife is at its most spectacular
  • Wildlife in Etosha & Caprivi is dispersed & harder to see
  • Few tourists, so rates usually at their lowest

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in February

Namibia in March

March usually sees Namibia’s main rains tailing off, although actual precipitation varies hugely across the country and can be unpredictable from day to day. Many days will be clear, with a strong sun driving temperatures up. On others, clouds will build, and the late afternoon may see a short, spectacular thunderstorm. Such deluges reduce in both frequency and volume as the month progresses.

Across the country, landscapes are often vivid: a “green and pleasant land”. Many birds and animals are finishing raising their young, so smaller animals and insects are in evidence. In the north, where rains are generally heavier, pools in the bush and thicker vegetation can make it difficult to spot larger animals.

  • Variable weather: clear, hot & dry or cloudy & humid with some rain
  • Afternoon thunderstorms less common as March progresses
  • Animals looking sleek and well-fed, after 3–4 months of plenty
  • Wildlife in Etosha & Caprivi is dispersed & harder to see
  • Few tourists visit during March, so rates often low

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in March

Namibia in April

Typically, April is dominated by dry weather; there’s an ever-decreasing chance of rain. Temperatures are now below their peak and continue to fall. Even so, days remain pleasant and warm, but there might be a slight chill in the air at night. The rains usually leave many parts of the country verdant and green, so animals are in fantastic condition – often with fast-growing young in attendance.

With the dust washed out of the atmosphere, photographers make the most of clear air, spectacular landscapes and healthy animals. Stargazers will have clearer night skies as the month progresses. In the game parks of Northern Namibia, water and food remain in plentiful supply, so finding big game can prove trickier than later in the year.

  • Becoming drier &, especially at night, also cooler
  • Few visitors, except around Easter, so rates remain low
  • Wildlife in Etosha & Caprivi remains relatively hard to see
  • Migrant birds have started to leave
  • Fresh, clean air and often green, verdant landscapes

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in April

Namibia in May

By May, Namibia is usually drying out fast as the rains have ended. If they’ve been good, then the land remains green, but wildlife starts to congregate at more permanent water sources. Over much of the country the air quality and clarity can be amazing, making this an ideal month for photography.

Typical days are warm, with crisp, clear mornings and clear blue skies. Evenings are usually cool, and temperatures may dip below 10ºC (50ºF) overnight. Many lodges still charge “low season” prices, although with Namibia’s increasing popularity in recent years, some have started to introduce higher “shoulder season” rates.

May’s good-value rates, increasingly good wildlife sightings, beautiful landscapes and crystal-clear air combine to make this one of our favourite months in Namibia.

  • Lovely weather: dry, warm days & cool nights
  • The country is drying out although many landscapes remain green
  • Fantastic air clarity – ideal for keen photographers
  • Visitor numbers are often still low, mirrored by lodge rates
  • Wildlife is starting to congregate more around remaining water

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in May

Namibia in June

Namibia is dry again. Skies are blue and usually largely cloudless. Days are lovely: warm and dry; nights are cold, sometimes below freezing in the desert. Most swimming pools in Namibia are always outdoors, making them too cold for all except the very dedicated.

Take a warm hat and gloves for game drives, where dawn and dusk will feel particularly chilly. In the north, especially Etosha, wildlife viewing is now into its dry-season pattern, focusing around the waterholes – though the park is still not busy.

Photographers come for superb air clarity, with minimal dust or smoke in the air. Historically, June rates have been low. However, with Namibia’s increasing popularity many lodges now count it amongst their “high-season” months, and request higher prices.

  • Clear, bright days with blue skies; cold nights, mornings & evenings
  • Great air quality, especially welcome for photographers
  • “Shoulder season” for some lodges: lodge rates moderate
  • Wildlife gravitates to waterholes, making game-viewing productive
  • Some greenery in the landscape, depending on the last rains

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in June

Namibia in July

Reliably warm daytime temperatures (upwards of 20ºC/70ºF) and good wildlife sightings make this a popular month to visit Namibia. Rain would be very unusual indeed and clear skies make for great photographs. Once the sun sets, though, temperatures cool rapidly bringing cold nights that may dip below freezing in the desert. Be prepared: dress in layers and expect early-morning and late-afternoon drives, and anywhere coastal, to be cold.

As the land dries and vegetation shrivels, game congregates beside drinking water: Etosha’s waterholes are busy with animals. Across the country, lodges charge “high season” rates; many are fully booked a year or more in advance, especially during European school holidays (from the latter half of July to late August).

  • Dry days, warm in the sun, with crisp, cold nights
  • Cloudless skies: July is usually superb for stargazing
  • The beginning of European school holidays so more families travelling
  • Peak season: so high rates and many lodges fully booked far in advance
  • A fantastic time of year for wildlife watching, particularly in Etosha

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in July

Namibia in August

August is the height of Namibia’s “winter”. Expect cloudless skies and plenty of warm sun in the day, but nights down to freezing in the desert. Dress in layers and bring warm clothes (including hats and gloves) for chilly starts and evenings. Only the hardiest even contemplate using outdoor pools.

It’s 3–4 months since any rain, so the land is dust-dry and much vegetation is golden brown. Many landscapes appear sparse and harsh. Wildlife congregates around available water sources, helping to guarantee good animal sightings.

Namibia is never really “busy” by the standards of Europe or the USA, but August is the most popular time to visit, especially for families. Book early (over a year in advance) if you want to stay at the best lodges.

  • Dry days, warm in the sun; cold mornings, evenings & nights
  • Cloudless skies in the day; spectacular stars at night
  • Busy by Namibian standards: family rooms in particular demand
  • Peak season: so high rates and many lodges fully booked far in advance
  • A fantastic time of year for wildlife watching, particularly in Etosha

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in August

Namibia in September

September is a month of blue, cloudless skies and fantastic wildlife viewing. Rain is almost unheard of. As the month progresses, the days and nights get warmer. In some areas, daily maximums hit around the low 30s Celsius, although low humidity ensures this feels comfortable. The contrast makes the nights seem very cold. The air is becoming dustier, occasionally augmented by smoke from fires – so becoming hazy for photographic purists.

In the national parks, animals congregate around remaining water sources – making September one of the best months for game viewing. Hence it’s one of Namibia’s most popular months for visitors: a “high season” month that is often the time of choice for safari aficionados.

  • One of the best months for wildlife viewing
  • Warm days & cold nights, with temperatures rising during the month
  • Many plants have faded from green to golden brown
  • Air can be hazy – with dust & sometimes smoke
  • High season rates; many lodges & camps are full 9 months in advance.

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in September

Namibia in October

Namibia is usually at its hottest and driest in October. Temperatures build as the month progresses; towards the end, daily highs may exceed 40ºC/100ºF, though with humidity close to zero, even this rarely feels oppressive.

In exceptional years, isolated rain showers may fall in late October. More usually, the end of the dry season sees wildlife watching at its best, particularly in Etosha. The place feels like a desert as spectacular herds of thirsty animals gather around the available water. October is popular amongst wildlife enthusiasts and commands peak-season prices, even if dust and smoke may make the air hazy, challenging photographers. Visitor numbers can fade towards the end of the month, allowing a window for last-minute bookings.

  • Probably the most spectacular month for wildlife-viewing in Etosha
  • Hot and dry: much of the country feels like a desert
  • The air can be hazy with dust & smoke
  • It’s peak time to visit, so expect high season rates
  • Lodges & camps are full, especially early in October

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in October

Namibia in November

November is always a bit unpredictable: sometimes dry and hot; sometimes cloudier and cooler. Typically, mornings are hot and cloudless and clouds appear in the afternoon. Humidity builds and eventually breaks, resulting in spectacular thunderstorms that bring convection rainfall in late afternoons. Such storms are typically sparsely distributed and highly local – being completely absent from desert areas, for example. Places that do get good rain will flush green, with a tangible feeling of new life softening the landscapes. Many mammals give birth to their young.

Once any rains come, wildlife dissipates in search of food, and game viewing in Etosha becomes harder. Conversely, this is a great time for birdwatchers, with migrant species in breeding plumage.

  • A very interesting, variable month, depending on the rains
  • With rains come an amazing explosion of both vegetation & new life
  • Wildlife viewing better in Damaraland than Etosha if it has rained
  • Shoulder season: mid-range rates offer great value
  • Away from the Namib, showers are more likely later in the month

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in November

Namibia in December

December is the first “proper” month of Namibia’s rainy season, and one of its hottest. Clear mornings give way to building clouds and, with luck, the occasional short, spectacular thunderstorm: refreshing and cleansing. These are often highly localised and generally warmly welcomed: most Namibians love rain!

Rains clear the air of dust. Even relatively short showers enable plant life to erupt, carpeting this thirstland in green and providing food for the young animals which abound. Animals disperse widely, which can make game viewing challenging. Many birds are breeding and so sporting their most colourful plumage.

Christmas and the New Year fall within local “summer holidays” – so places to stay can be surprisingly busy, especially in and around coastal towns, where temperatures are cooler.

  • Hot and humid; sometimes refreshed by cooling showers
  • Landscapes flushed green if/where there has been rain
  • A tangible life and energy amidst this often green & pleasant land
  • Very photogenic: blooming deserts amidst crystal-clear air
  • Best time for birdwatchers; larger animals harder to spot

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in December

Caprivi Strip: In detail

Caprivi Strip

Jutting out in the far north-east of Namibia is a peculiarly shaped stretch of land – the Caprivi Strip – that seems to defy any logical border definitions. Officially called the Zambezi Region since 2013 (although this name hasn’t really caught on yet), it’s sandwiched between Angola and Botswana and stretches to the borders of Zambia and Zimbabwe.

This lush tropical strip of land is both fringed and crossed by wide rivers, including the Zambezi, Kavango (Okavango), Chobe and Linyanti, whose very names conjure up images of lush green floodplains, herds of wildlife and ancient baobabs – a stark contrast to much of the rest of the country.

With so much water, the area supports a greater number of people than almost anywhere else in Namibia, and this in turn gives the Caprivi a very different feel to the rest of the country: in many ways more like parts of Zambia or Botswana. Villages spawn attendant goats, donkeys and cows grazing by the roadside, and stalls sell everything from wooden carvings to fresh fruit. Yet there are no large population centres. The Strip’s main town, Katima Mulilo, may serve as an entry point to Zambia, Zimbabwe and Botswana, but it is still relatively small, with something of a frontier feel about it, typical of an African border town.

As with much of the Caprivi, the reserves and parks have seen a lot of change in recent years. Today there are officially four protected areas, although most sources still talk about five - Popa Falls Reserve, Bwabwata National Park, Mahango Core Area, Mudumu National Park and Nkasa Rupara National Park.

The Caprivi makes a fantastic addition to any Namibia safari, but perhaps is best suited to those on a return trip or a longer safari. Its national parks support good populations of some of Africa’s iconic species as well as several species largely absent from the rest of Namibia, such as Cape buffalo, sable and roan antelope. Added to this is the opportunity to get out on a boat, an enjoyable and often welcome contrast to sitting in a 4WD.

Typically accessed on a self-drive safari from the west via the town of Rundu, the Caprivi also serves as a great jumping-off point for the Okavango Panhandle or the Tsodilo Hills in Botswana’s North-west Kalahari, the elephant- and buffalo-rich Chobe National Park, and/or the world-famous Victoria Falls (from either Victoria Falls town in Zimbabwe or Livingstone in Zambia).


Popa Falls Reserve

Despite the name, the “falls” are essentially a series of rapids where the Kavango River breaks up and drops 2.5m over the first of five geological faults which ultimately form the iconic Okavango Delta: pretty rather than spectacular at high water, they are rather underwhelming when the water is lower. Even a warden at the entrance once admitted that many visitors are disappointed. Beyond the rapids, the Kavango crosses into Botswana, changes name and begins gradually to spread out across the Kalahari. It is worth noting that the river has three distinct names; the Kavango in Namibia, the Rio Cubango in Angola and the Okavango in Botswana.

The area by the riverside at Popa Rapids is thickly vegetated with tall riverine trees and lush green shrubs, which encourage waterbirds and a variety of small reptiles. Footbridges have been built between some of the islands, and it's worth an hour's stop to hop between the islands, or to walk upstream for a good view of the river before it plunges over the rapids. In a few hours you can see all of this tiny reserve, and have a good chance of spotting a leguvaan (water monitor), a snake or two, and many different frogs.

Bwabwata National Park

Bwabwata National Park (frequently pronounced "Babatwa" and formerly know as the Caprivi Game Park) covers a large chunk of the Caprivi Strip. This is a largely undeveloped park which, while home to much wildlife, has few facilities and little in the way of marked game-viewing side roads. All that you can usually see from the road are a few raptors aloft and the occasional elephant dropping on the road – but drive carefully in case something does appear unexpectedly.

Mahango Core Area

Formerly the Mahango National Park, this was officially combined with the Caprivi Game Park in 2007 to create Bwabwata National Park, although most sources still refer to the two separately.

The core area’s focus is the Kavango River, which forms its eastern boundary. Here the river forms channels between huge, permanent papyrus reedbeds adjacent to extensive floodplain areas, where you're quite likely to spot red lechwe or sable antelope.

Beside these, on the higher and drier land along the bank, are wide belts of wild date palm-forest, as well as the lush riverine vegetation that you'd expect. Further from the river are dry woodlands and acacia thickets, dotted with a few large baobabs. This rich variety of greenery attracts an impressive range of animals, including the water-loving buffalo, elephant, sable, reedbuck, bushbuck and waterbuck, and the more specialist red lechwe and sitatunga. Good numbers of hippo and crocodile are also present.

Mahango is a favourite of many birdwatchers; more species can be found here than in any other park in Namibia. This variation should come as no surprise, as the reserve has one of Namibia's few wetland habitats, adjacent to large stretches of pristine Kalahari sandveld. Thus many water-loving ducks, geese, herons, plovers, egrets, kingfishers and various waders occur here, along with the dry-country birds that you'll find in the rest of Namibia. Okavango specialities like the slaty egret can sometimes be spotted, too, and for many birds – including the lesser jacana, coppery-tailed coucal and racket-tailed roller – Mahango marks the western limit of their distributions.

Mudumu National Park

The more northerly of Eastern Caprivi's two reserves, Mudumu, covers 850km2 of riverine forest south of Kongola. Bordered to the west by the Kwando River, the reserve is notable for its buffalo, roan and sable antelope, as well as the water-loving lechwe and sitatunga. In the dry season (July to October) the park attracts large herds of elephant and there are good populations of birdlife throughout the year – although the migrants in the wet season (approx. September to March) are the highlight in this regard.

Nkasa Rupara National Park

Originally called Mamili National Park, before a brief spell as Nkasa Lupala National Park, this 350km2 conservation area lies in the south-west corner of the eastern Caprivi Strip, where the Kwando sharply changes direction to become the Linyanti. The park was declared shortly before Namibia's independence and consists largely of marshland, veined by a network of reed-lined channels. It includes two large islands: Nkasa and Lupala. Together with Mudumu National Park, it has the vast majority of Namibia's population of sitatunga, red lechwe and puku, as well as large herds of buffalo, and a recorded 430 bird species.

Historically there was little development within Nkasa Rupara, but this is changing rapidly as wildlife densities and the number of visitors increase.

A brief history of the Caprivi Strip

As perhaps suggested by the region’s peculiar shape, the Caprivi has an interesting if relatively short history. The Lozi kings of what is now western Zambia ruled the area until the late 19th century when, in the Scramble for Africa, it came became part of the British protectorate of Bechuanaland (Botswana).

In 1890 the German Empire disputed the British claim to the spice island of Zanzibar. Later that year the dispute was settled at the Berlin Conference with the signing of the Heligoland-Zanzibar Treaty, in which Germany gave up its claim to Zanzibar in exchange for the island of Heligoland in the North Sea, and a strip of land that gave the colony of German South-west Africa (now Namibia) access to the Zambezi River. Negotiated by German Chancellor Leo von Caprivi (the Strip’s namesake), the treaty aimed to provide a more direct link between Tanganyika (German East Africa) in modern day Tanzania and the south-western colony via the Indian Ocean. Unfortunately for the colonial German powers, this was made impossible by the British colonisation of Rhodesia (now Zambia and Zimbabwe) and the fact that the Zambezi River is impassable at Victoria Falls – a seemingly careless mistake.

During World War I, the Caprivi came back under British rule, although it was largely ignored and became something of a lawless frontier. Then in 1939 administration of the region was transferred to South Africa before its status changed once more, into a pseudo-independent region known as the Eastern Caprivi homeland. Only to have its administration moved to Windhoek following Namibian independence in 1990.

During this time the region also played key strategic roles in various conflicts including the Rhodesian Bush War (1965–1979), the African National Congress (ANC) struggles against the South African apartheid regime (1965–1994), the Angolan Civil War (1975–2002) and the Caprivi Conflict (1994–1999). Given such sustained periods of military action, the Caprivi remained well off the tourist map for many years, and as a result development of the region has lagged behind the rest of the country. Yet with some fantastic, remote wilderness areas to explore here, ever-increasing numbers of tourists are driving growth in this diverse and rewarding area.

Map of Caprivi Strip

Choices for where to stay in Caprivi Strip


Reference map

Caprivi Strip: Safaris


Showing 1-4 of 4
Name
Duration
Cost
Most popular
Itinerary image

Pygmy Mouse Self-drive Safari

18 days • 10 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO VICTORIA FALLS AIRPORT

A truly epic southern African self-drive safari adventure from Namibia’s mountains and deserts, along the lush Caprivi Strip to Botswana and Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, staying at luxury lodges throughout.

US$6,320 - US$10,590 per person

Itinerary image

Great Egret Safari

12 days • 4 locations
MAUN AIRPORT TO VICTORIA FALLS AIRPORT

This wonderfully varied adventure combines Botswana's Okavango Delta and a live-aboard houseboat safari on the Chobe River, with big game in Zimbabwe's dry Hwange National Park and the stupendous Victoria Falls.

US$9,300 - US$17,210 per person

Itinerary image

Rock Hare Self-drive Safari

20 days • 12 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO VICTORIA FALLS AIRPORT

An in-depth look at Namibia from the Namib Desert to the Caprivi, with additional stops in Botswana and Victoria Falls. This three-week adventure includes an unrivalled mix of environments and is great value.

US$5,370 - US$8,540 per person

Itinerary image

Sable Self-drive Safari

12 days • 7 locations
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO VICTORIA FALLS AIRPORT

A great-value southern African self-drive adventure from Namibia along the Caprivi Strip to Botswana and Zimbabwe, combining other-worldly landscapes, unforgettable wildlife spectacles and rarely visited places, and ending at Victoria Falls.

US$6,280 - US$9,460 per person

Showing 1-4 of 4

Our top 21 lodges and safari camps in Caprivi Strip

There are now many places to stay along the Caprivi Strip ranging from rustic simplicity to modern luxury. This area is continuing to develop rapidly with many new lodges having opened recently or planning to do so soon, speak to one of our experts to talk thought the options.


Showing 1-12 of 21
Name
Traveller's rating
No. of reviews
Ndhovu Safari Lodge

Ndhovu Safari Lodge

Ndhovu is a simple riverside lodge, with tents that are reminiscent of safaris a decade or two ago.


88% (126 reviews)
Hakusembe River Lodge

Hakusembe Lodge

Hakusembe River Lodge is a substantial lodge with a superb location on the Kavango River.


86% (94 reviews)
Chobe Princesses

Chobe Princesses

The Chobe Princess houseboats offer a memorable way to explore the Chobe and Zambezi Rivers in Namibia's Caprivi. Perfect for a couple or for a group of family or friends.


96% (71 reviews)
Lianshulu Lodge

Lianshulu Lodge

Beside the Kwando River, within Mudumu National Park, Lianshulu is a small safari lodge offering 4WD safaris and river trips – with particularly good birdlife.


91% (60 reviews)
Nkasa Lupala Tented Lodge

Nkasa Lupala

Peaceful Nkasa Lupala is a comfortable lodge in a remote and little-explored area close to Nkasa Rupara National Park.


92% (37 reviews)
Nunda River Lodge

Nunda River Lodge

NNunda River Lodge overlooks a pretty part of the Kavango River near Popa Falls and the productive Mahango National Park.


84% (30 reviews)
Camp Kwando

Camp Kwando

Near to Mudumu National Park, Camp Kwando is a comfortable and unfussy option with opportunities for game drives, boat safaris and fishing.


74% (24 reviews)
Ichingo Chobe River Lodge

Ichingo Chobe Lodge

Safari holiday in Namibia's Caprivi Strip, staying at Ichingo Chobe River Lodge on Impalila Island.


97% (24 reviews)
Nambwa Tented Lodge

Nambwa Tented Lodge

A beautiful safari lodge In the remote Bwabwata National Park, Nambwa Tented Lodge brings serious comfort to a relaxing safari.


95% (23 reviews)
River Dance Lodge

River Dance

Build on stilts on the banks of the Kavango River, River Dance Lodge has great views, a relaxed ambience and excellent birdlife.


93% (18 reviews)
Taranga Safari Lodge

Taranga Lodge

Situated on the banks of the Kavango, Taranga Safari Lodge works as a convenient stopover before going onto explore the Caprivi.


75% (11 reviews)
Zambezi Queen

Zambezi Queen

The Zambezi Queen offers luxurious two- and three-night cruises along the game-rich Chobe River, including game viewing by small boat and 4WD as well as catch-and-release fishing.


95% (11 reviews)
Showing 1-4 of 21
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