About Camp Kwando
Camp Kwando is a comfortable camp set next to the Kwando River at the Caprivi Strip.
It offers decent base to explore the Mudumu National Park and the Mamili National Park (which is seasonal).
Camp Kwando is a pleasant camp with a good location for access to the Mudumu National Park and the Mamili National Park. Although the management can be a little aloof, the staff and the guides are very amenable, and all in all the camp is a good place to stay in this area.
Accommodation
20 tents/chalets
Children
Best for age 8+
Open
All year
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Boat trip
Cultural excursion
Fishing
Fly-camping
Guided walking safari
Mokoro
Private activities
Traveller reviews of Camp Kwando
24 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
Arrived 17 May 2017, 1 nights
"Superb location by the river."
Overall rating: Good
Arrived 14 Dec 2016, 1 nights
"Camp Kwando review"
Overall rating: Good
Arrived 20 Sep 2016, 2 nights
"Camp Kwando"
Overall rating: Average
Arrived 29 May 2015, 1 nights
"Camp Kwando stopover"
Overall rating: Average
Arrived 17 Nov 2014, 3 nights
"Camp Kwando review"
Overall rating: Average
Arrived 21 Jul 2014, 1 nights
"Camp Kwando review"
Overall rating: Good
Arrived 1 Jul 2014, 3 nights
"Loved It"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 1 Jul 2014, 3 nights
"Camp Kwando review"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 21 Sep 2013, 2 nights
"Staff could have been nicer."
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 21 Jul 2013, 2 nights
"Camp Kwando review"
Overall rating: Good


















Expert Africa's gallery
When we travel we take lots of photos ourselves to give you a real and un-edited view of the safaris. See our 22 pictures of Camp Kwando to get the candid view.
View galleryCamp Kwando: Our full report
Camp Kwando is a comfortable camp set next to the Kwando River at the Caprivi Strip.
It offers decent base to explore the Mudumu National Park and the Mamili National Park (which is seasonal).
Camp Kwando has 14 fairly simple tents facing the Kavango River. All tents are raised off the ground on a platform and have a thatched roof. Wooden pathways lead between the tents and to the main area. In front of the bungalows, over-looking the river, there is a veranda with deck chairs to relax in and, if you wish, do some fishing. The tents are all furnished with two beds with mosquito nets, a small open-sided wardrobe and a wooden table.
At the back of the tents there is an open-air en-suite bathroom with a flushing toilet, a wash basin and a shower. Complementary shampoo and soap are provided.
Camp Kwando's best rooms are the six luxury chalets, constructed out of wood and canvas and elevated on stilts. The chalets have a thatched roof to keep the rooms cool in summer time and warm in winter. From the outside deck you can enjoy incredible views across the river to Botswana. Inside the chalets there are comfortable double or twin beds equipped with mosquito nets. The large, spacious rooms are tastefully decorated in a modern, African design. The chalets have an en-suite bathroom with a basin, a flushing toilet, a bathtub and a shower.
The camp also offers ten camping pitches on a well-maintained lawn. There are communal bathrooms with basins, toilets and shower facilities, as well as the laundry.
The main area is split into three different thatched areas.
The main reception is central and to one side of this is the bar.
To the other side is the dining area. All three spaces have a semi circular deck overlooking the river and offer plenty of comfortable seating where you can relax and take in the views. The walls in the dining area are adorned with hand-woven baskets along with some other tasteful African artifacts.
There is also a well-stocked curio shop to buy some souvenirs from your trip.
Outside, at the back of the lodge, a small swimming pool is set into the landscaped garden. There is also a shady gazebo with some comfortable deck chairs to relax in when the sun gets too hot.
Several activities are possible at Camp Kwando, for example a boat trip along the Kwando River. A flat bottom aluminum boat, which can take up to 14 people, starts its tours early in the morning and late afternoon. This is a good opportunity to see the plentiful water birds which inhabit this area.
There is also the chance to go on day game drives to the Mudumu National Park. For the adventurous camping trips to the Caprivi Strip or Mamili Game Park can be organised. Please note that Mamili NP is subject to high water levels which can curtail these trips during the rainy season and beyond (November to May).
When open you can also visit the school near by.
Another activity that is possible, on request, is a fishing trip, but this is only available for a party of four people.
A mokoro trip, taking about an hour is also a possibility, subject to availability. On this trip you will be taken along the narrow channels and then return to camp with a guided walk.
Geographics
- Location
- Caprivi Strip, Namibia
- Ideal length of stay
- Two to three nights
- Directions
- Camp Kwando is located on the C49 south of Kongola. On our most recent trip in 2013 this road was not in a great condition with many potholes, so extra time and care is needed when driving on it. We hope it will be fully tarred by the end of 2014.
- Accessible by
- Self-drive
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Bed & Breakfast
- Food quality
- On our last visit in 2010 we found the food to be very enjoyable.
Breakfast was a full continental buffet along with a la carte menu offering a selection of hot dishes. The evening meal consisted of a three course set menu. Our main course was ‘bobotie’ (a South African dish not too dissimilar to lasagne), saffron rice and pumpkin. The pudding was a scrumptious Malva pudding with custard. - Dining style
- Individual Tables
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Drinks included
- No drinks are included
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Children are welcomed at Camp Kwando
- Property’s age restrictions
- There are no age restrictions here.
- Special activities & services
- There are no specific activities for children but they will most likely enjoy the pool and fishing opportunities.
- Equipment
- Extra beds for children can be added to the luxury chalets.
- Generally recommended for children
- There’s not a huge amount to keep children amused here, but the camp is family friendly. It’s probably more suited to older children.
- Notes
- Children should be under parental supervision at all times.
Communications
- Power supply notes
- The power is on from 8am until 12pm and then again 6pm until 10pm.
- Communications
- There is mobile phone reception and WiFi is available in the main area.
- TV & radio
- There are no TVs here.
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- Yes
- Medical care
- Clinic in Choi; a nearby village.
- Dangerous animals
- High Risk
- Security measures
- There are three guards on the property.
- Fire safety
- Fire extinguisher in each room
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Boat trip
Cultural excursion
Fishing
Fly-camping
Guided walking safari
Mokoro
Private activities
Extras
- Disabled access
- On Request
- Laundry facilities
- Full Laundry Service - extra charge
- Money
- There is no safe in the rooms or in the tents.
- Accepted payment on location
- Visa and MasterCard accepted. (No card payment under N$500 accepted). Cash payments can be in US dollars, UK pounds, South African rand, Namibian dollars or Euros.
Plan and book your trip with Expert Africa
All of our trips are tailor-made, so we'll always adapt them to suit you. Talk to an Expert and let us plan and arrange your perfect trip.

Talk to an Expert
Call or email us now! We’ll match you with the Specialist in our team who is best suited to help you. Then together we can start planning your trip.

Set up your itinerary
Based on our experience and your ideas, your specialist will create a detailed, costed itinerary. We’ll refine it together, until we have a trip that you’re perfectly happy with.

Prepare for your trip
The same Specialist will make the seamless arrangements for your trip, send you detailed travel documents, and be available to answer any questions before you depart.

Travel with peace of mind
After you set off, you’ll be cared for by our partners in Africa, most of whom have worked with Expert Africa for decades. And if you ever need us urgently, we’re available 24/7.

When you return
We love to learn about your trip, and so will always be grateful if you’ve the time to give feedback to your Specialist when you return.
Camp Kwando's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Camp Kwando.
Other lodges in Caprivi Strip
Alternative places to stay in this same area.

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

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

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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.

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

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.

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.
When to go to Caprivi Strip
Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Camp Kwando in Caprivi Strip
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Caprivi Strip in January
January marks the heart of the rainy season in the Caprivi Strip. The Zambezi and Kwando rivers swell, nourishing the lush landscapes of Bwabwata and Mudumu National Parks. Rainfall can be heavy but localised, with temperatures around 30°C/86°F.
The verdant environment makes a refreshing change, especially in typically drier areas. Birdlife is abundant, with many species in full breeding plumage and migratory birds present in force. In Nkasa Rupara National Park, the abundant water allows wildlife to disperse, making it more challenging to spot. However, boat cruises along the major rivers offer excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and birdwatching.
- Variable weather: hot and dry or humid with rain
- Occasional localised thunderstorms in the region
- Abundant birdlife, especially migratory species
- Wildlife dispersed, harder to spot in Bwabwata
- Few tourists, low rates at lodges and camps
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in January
Caprivi Strip in February
February is the wettest month in the Caprivi Strip, with the Zambezi Region experiencing some of the heaviest rainfall. The Kavango and Zambezi rivers reach their peak levels, creating a lush, green paradise.
Days alternate between clear, hot and humid, and cooler with building clouds culminating in spectacular thunderstorms. These storms can cause flash floods, bringing ephemeral rivers to life and making travel more challenging, especially in remote areas like Khaudum National Park. The landscape feels vibrant and alive; insects and smaller animals are more easily seen in Bwabwata and Mudumu National Parks. Many birds and animals are raising their young. However, the abundance of water and thicker vegetation can make it harder to spot larger wildlife. Boat safaris along the Chobe River offer excellent game viewing opportunities.
- Weather alternates between hot/dry and humid/rainy
- Thunderstorms meander over the lush landscape
- Vibrant birdlife in wetlands and floodplains
- Wildlife scattered across Bwabwata National Park
- Low tourist numbers, great deals on accommodation
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in February
Caprivi Strip in March
March usually sees the main rains in the Caprivi Strip tailing off, though precipitation varies across the region. Many days are clear with strong sun, while others may end with short, spectacular thunderstorms. As the month progresses, these rains reduce in frequency and volume. The landscape remains vivid and green, particularly in Bwabwata and Mudumu National Parks.
Wildlife viewing can be challenging as animals disperse, but patient observers may spot young animals and a variety of bird species in breeding plumage. The Kwando and Zambezi rivers remain high, offering excellent opportunities for boat safaris and fishing. Impalila Island becomes more accessible as water levels start to recede.
- Weather varies: clear and hot or cloudy and humid
- Thunderstorms decrease as the month progresses
- Animals well-fed after months of plentiful food
- Wildlife viewing challenging in Bwabwata Park
- Few visitors, low rates at lodges and camps
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in March
Caprivi Strip in April
April in the Caprivi Strip is characterised by increasingly dry weather, with temperatures starting to fall. Days remain pleasantly warm, and humidity is still high, but nights start to have a slight chill. The recent rains leave the region lush and green, particularly in Bwabwata and Nkasa Rupara National Parks.
Animals are in excellent condition, often with fast-growing young. As the atmosphere clears, photographers can capture spectacular landscapes and healthy wildlife. Stargazing becomes more rewarding as night skies clear.
In the northern parks like Mudumu and Bwabwata, water and food remain plentiful, so big game can be more dispersed. However, boat safaris along the Zambezi and Chobe rivers continue to offer excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. April is an ideal time for birdwatching, with many migratory species still present.
- Nights become cooler and drier in the region
- Easter sees a slight increase in visitor numbers
- Wildlife still dispersed in Bwabwata National Park
- Migratory birds begin their northward journey
- Lush green landscapes and crisp, clean air
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in April
Caprivi Strip in May
By May, the Caprivi Strip is drying out, but if rains have been good the land remains green. Wildlife in Bwabwata and Mudumu National Parks starts to congregate around permanent water sources. The air quality and clarity can be amazing, making this an ideal month for photography.
Typical days are warm with crisp, clear mornings and blue skies. Evenings are cool, with temperatures possibly dipping below 10°C/50°F overnight. Many lodges still charge low season prices, offering good value. The combination of increasingly good wildlife sightings, beautiful landscapes, and crystal-clear air makes May one of the best months to visit the Caprivi Strip. River activities along the Zambezi, Chobe, and Kwando rivers are particularly enjoyable, with pleasant temperatures and good wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Pleasant weather: warm days and cool nights
- Landscapes remain green as the region dries out
- Excellent visibility for wildlife photography
- Low visitor numbers and moderate lodge rates
- Wildlife starts to congregate near water sources
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in May
Caprivi Strip in June
June sees the Caprivi Strip fully dry, with blue, cloudless skies. Days are warm and dry, while nights can be cold, sometimes near freezing in more exposed areas. Warm clothing is essential for early morning game drives in Bwabwata and Mudumu National Parks.
Wildlife viewing enters its dry-season pattern, focusing around waterholes and rivers. The Kwando and Zambezi rivers offer excellent boat safari opportunities, with animals frequently coming to drink. Photographers benefit from superb air clarity, with minimal dust or smoke. Fishing, particularly for tigerfish, becomes increasingly popular as water levels stabilise.
Historically, June accommodation prices have been low, but the region's increasing popularity means some lodges now charge higher prices.
- Clear days, cold nights
- Great conditions for landscape photography
- Moderate lodge rates in this shoulder season
- Wildlife gathers at waterholes for easier viewing
- Some greenery persists in the lush landscape
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in June
Caprivi Strip in July
July in the Caprivi Strip offers reliably warm daytime temperatures above 20°C/68°F and excellent wildlife sightings. Rain is extremely rare, and clear skies make for great photographs, especially in Bwabwata and Nkasa Rupara National Parks. Nights can be very cold, potentially below freezing in exposed areas. Visitors should dress in layers and be prepared for chilly morning and evening game drives.
As vegetation dries out, game concentrates around water sources., and the Kwando and Zambezi rivers become wildlife hotspots, offering excellent boat safari opportunities. Lodges charge high season rates, and many are fully booked well in advance, especially during European school holidays.
- Dry days, cold nights ideal for stargazing
- European holidays bring more family travellers
- Peak season with higher rates and busy lodges
- Excellent wildlife viewing in Bwabwata Park
- Boat safaris popular on the region's rivers
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in July
Caprivi Strip in August
August is the height of winter in the Caprivi Strip. Expect cloudless skies and warm sun during the day, but nights can drop to freezing in exposed areas. Warm clothes are essential for early morning and evening activities.
The landscape is dry, with much vegetation turned golden brown, creating stark and beautiful scenery in Bwabwata and Mudumu National Parks. Wildlife congregates around available water sources, guaranteeing excellent animal sightings, especially along the Kwando and Zambezi rivers. Boat safaris and fishing expeditions are highly rewarding, with animals frequently seen coming to the water's edge to drink.
August is the most popular time to visit, particularly for families. Advance booking is crucial for the best lodges.
- Dry days and cold nights continue in Caprivi
- Cloudless skies offer spectacular stargazing
- Busier season, especially for family accommodation options
- Peak rates and advance bookings necessary
- Prime time for game drives and river safaris
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in August
Caprivi Strip in September
September in the Caprivi Strip brings blue, cloudless skies and fantastic wildlife viewing. Rain is almost unheard of, and temperatures gradually increase. Daily maximums can reach the low 30s Celsius / 80s Fahrenheit, though low humidity keeps it comfortable. Nights remain cool.
The air becomes dustier, creating atmospheric scenes for photography. In Bwabwata, Mudumu, and Nkasa Rupara National Parks, animals cluster around remaining water sources, making September one of the best months for game viewing. It's a popular time for visitors, with high season rates in effect. Safari enthusiasts often choose this month for its reliable wildlife sightings. Boat safaris along the Zambezi and Chobe rivers offer excellent opportunities to see elephants and other wildlife coming to drink.
- Excellent month for wildlife viewing in Caprivi
- Warming temperatures as the month progresses
- Landscape transitions from green to golden brown
- High season rates at lodges and camps continue
- Advance bookings essential for accommodation
Our view
Fantastic: the very best time to visit
Weather in September
Caprivi Strip in October
October is typically the hottest and driest month in the Caprivi Strip. Temperatures build throughout the month, with daily highs potentially exceeding 40°C/104°F, though the low humidity makes it bearable. In rare years, isolated showers may occur late in the month.
Wildlife viewing in Bwabwata and Mudumu National Parks is at its peak, with animals congregating around dwindling water sources. The Zambezi and Kwando rivers become crucial lifelines for wildlife. October is popular among wildlife enthusiasts and commands peak-season prices. Dust and occasional smoke can create hazy conditions, challenging for photographers but creating dramatic scenes. Boat safaris offer respite from the heat and excellent game viewing.
- Peak wildlife-viewing in Bwabwata National Park
- Hot and dry conditions throughout the region
- Hazy air due to dust and occasional bush fires
- High season rates at lodges and camps persist
- Early October sees many facilities fully booked
Our view
A very good time to visit
Weather in October
Caprivi Strip in November
November in the Caprivi Strip can be unpredictable, alternating between hot, dry periods and cooler, cloudier days. Typically, mornings start clear and hot, with clouds building in the afternoon. Humidity increases, often culminating in spectacular late-afternoon thunderstorms. These storms are usually localised, bringing relief to some areas while others remain dry. Places receiving rain quickly flush green, softening the landscape in Bwabwata and Nkasa Rupara National Parks.
Many mammals give birth as the first rains arrive. Once rains begin, wildlife in the parks becomes more dispersed, making game viewing more challenging. However, this is an excellent time for birdwatchers, with migrant species arriving in breeding plumage. Boat safaris along the major rivers continue to offer good wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Variable conditions depending on the rains
- New life emerges with the onset of rains
- Wildlife viewing shifts to wetter areas
- Shoulder season offers value for money
- Increased chance of showers later in the month
Our view
A good time to visit, with pros & cons
Weather in November
Caprivi Strip in December
December marks the first proper month of the Caprivi Strip's rainy season and is one of the hottest. Mornings are often clear, giving way to building clouds and occasional short, spectacular thunderstorms. These rains are generally welcomed, clearing the air of dust and prompting plant life to erupt across Bwabwata and Mudumu National Parks.
Young animals abound, and many bird species are in breeding plumage. Wildlife disperses widely with the increased water availability, making game viewing more challenging but rewarding for patient observers. The Zambezi and Kwando rivers offer cooler temperatures and continued opportunities for boat safaris and fishing. Christmas and New Year fall within local summer holidays, so accommodation options can be surprisingly busy, especially around Katima Mulilo and other major towns.
- Hot and humid, occasional cooling showers
- Landscape turns green where rain has fallen
- Renewed energy in the lush Caprivi environment
- Clear air enhances photography opportunities
- Excellent for birdwatching, challenging for mammals
Our view
This is not a great time to visit
Weather in December

Looking for inspiration on where to travel next?
Visit our trip chooser to explore your options and find inspiration for your perfect African adventure
Inspire me