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Divava Okavango Lodge & Spa
Divava Okavango Lodge & Spa
Divava Okavango Lodge & Spa
Divava Okavango Lodge & Spa
Divava Okavango Lodge & Spa
Divava Okavango Lodge & Spa
Divava Okavango Lodge & Spa
Divava Okavango Lodge & Spa
Divava Okavango Lodge & Spa
Divava Okavango Lodge & Spa
Divava Okavango Lodge & Spa
Divava Okavango Lodge & Spa
Divava Okavango Lodge & Spa
Divava Okavango Lodge & Spa
Divava Okavango Lodge & Spa

Divava Okavango Lodge & Spa


18°6’55.2"S 21°35’19.1"E

About Divava Okavango Lodge & Spa

Divava Okavango Lodge & Spa is nestled high in the riverine forest on the banks of the Kavango River, just ...

... downstream from Popa Rapids (also known as Popa Falls) in Namibia's Caprivi Strip. Larger than most properties in the region, it feels more like a hotel in the bush than a traditional safari camp.

If you are looking for a larger lodge or would like to be pampered in the spa, Divava makes a comfortable base to indulge yourself for a day or two. It also makes a good platform from which to explore the Mahango and Bwabwata national parks.

Our view

If you are looking for a larger lodge or would like to be pampered in the spa, Divava makes a comfortable base to indulge yourself for a day or two. It also makes a good platform from which to explore the Mahango and Bwabwata national parks.

Tracy Lederer

Tracy Lederer

Namibia expert

Accommodation

20 chalets

Children

Best for 12+

Open

All year

Activities

4WD Safari

4WD Safari

Birdwatching

Birdwatching

Cultural excursion

Cultural excursion

Fishing

Fishing

Mokoro

Mokoro

Private activities

Private activities

Traveller reviews of Divava Okavango Lodge & Spa

7 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.


91%
7 reviews since August 2007
Excellent
5
Good
1
Average
1
Poor
0
Terrible
0
Piotr & GlenfromLondon

Arrived 29 Nov 2017, 1 nights

"Nice place for 1 night stay"

"the accommodation was very luxurious, comfortable and relaxing …" Read Piotr & Glen’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Good

Mr P & Mrs EfromCamden

Arrived 12 Sep 2017, 2 nights

"Divava Okavango Lodge & Spa review"

"Lovely place and people. Very nicely designed rooms …" Read Mr P & Mrs E’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr & Mrs HfromWoodbridge

Arrived 14 Nov 2016, 2 nights

"Divava Okavango Lodge & Spa review"

"Excellent in every way. Service, meals and an interesting enjoyable river cruise …" Read Mr & Mrs H’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mrs & Mr AfromAustralia

Arrived 12 Nov 2016, 1 nights

"Divava Okavango Lodge & Spa review"

"Maybe the lack of sign posts to find this place could have been a clue. We …" Read Mrs & Mr A’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Average

Mr dfromKilburn

Arrived 10 Aug 2014, 3 nights

"Divava excellence"

"Excellent facilities, great food and bar and very good activities. We were …" Read Mr d’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

B FamilyfromNottingham

Arrived 25 Jul 2013, 2 nights

"Luxury by the river"

"Superb location and outstanding rooms with excellent views over the river. …" Read B Family’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

The W GroupfromBerkshire

Arrived 5 Oct 2011, 2 nights

"Stunning vistas at Divava lodge"

"Wonderful central restaurant perched above the river with lovely views. Beautiful …" Read The W Group’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

See all Divava Okavango Lodge & Spa reviews

Divava Okavango Lodge & Spa: Our full report

Divava Okavango Lodge & Spa is nestled high in the riverine forest on the banks of the Kavango River, just ...

... downstream from Popa Rapids (also known as Popa Falls) in Namibia's Caprivi Strip. Larger than most properties in the region, it feels more like a hotel in the bush than a traditional safari camp.

In Namibia, the river that flows alongside Divava is known as the Kavango, but once it reaches Botswana, it goes by the Okavango. So while the lodge is definitely in Namibia, the owners have included the more famous Botswana name of the river in the full lodge title: Divava Okavango Lodge & Spa.

Divava is the sister property to Le Mirage Lodge in the Namib-Naukluft area. Like its sister lodge, and compared to most lodges in the Caprivi (now known as the Zambezi Region), it is quite a large property, with 20 spacious chalets. These have a light and airy feel, with plenty of windows as well as air conditioning, and are decorated in neutral sandy tones, with colour from one or two orange 'accents'.

Each chalet is split over two levels. The upper level, where you enter the room, has a large wooden wardrobe with plenty of hanging space, shelves, mini fridge and a small electronic safe. Down a few steps is the bedroom, where you’ll find two queen-size beds surrounded by a mosquito net, with bedside tables and an armchair.

From the bedroom a large door opens out on to a private viewing deck with two heavy outdoor chairs and a coffee table – the perfect place to soak up the views of the river in peace.

The en-suite bathroom has both indoor and outdoor showers, a bath, his and hers basins and a separate toilet. Again, there are plenty of windows allowing natural light in – though on our visit in June 2017, we thought that the outdoor showers could have been slightly better screened off to ensure total privacy.

The main area of Divava is a series of large thatched buildings. The reception houses a small lounge where free WiFi is available, and the lodge’s curio shop. A fairly long flight of stairs leads down to the main bar and restaurant. This building is right on the river’s edge and from the outdoor seating areas there are partial views of the rapids just upstream. Inside, next to the main bar there is a lounge area with comfortable seating and some traditional games and books of interest scattered amongst the tables. Head down a couple more stairs to the restaurant and its smartly dressed tables, there is also an accompanying deck, so meals can be enjoyed both inside and alfresco.

As well as a stunning free-form swimming pool, Divava has a spa facility, the ‘wellness village’. which consists of individual or couples’ treatment rooms, changing rooms, sauna and a steam room. On a previous stay we were lucky enough to enjoy some very relaxing massages – the perfect antidote to bouncing around in a safari vehicle. If you would like a treatment, it is best to let the lodge know as early as possible, preferably the day before. We nearly missed out because we had not been made aware of this!

Activities at Divava, as with many of the lodges in the Caprivi, focus predominantly on the river and include fishing, sundower cruises, mokoro trips, boat safaris and even island dinners. The lodge also offers village visits and game drives into Mahango National Park and the buffalo core area of Bwabwata National Park.

Geographics

Location
Caprivi Strip, Namibia
Ideal length of stay
2 - 3 nights
Directions
Divava Lodge is located 7km southwest of Divundu in Namibia's Zambezi Region (formerly known as the Caprivi Strip).
Accessible by
Self-drive or Fly-and-Transfer

Food & drink

Usual board basis
Half Board
Food quality
Although we did not have a chance to sample the menu on our most recent visit in June 2017, on a previous stay in December 2016, we were impressed by the food, even if the service was a little slow.

Breakfast at Divava takes the form of a buffet with a selection of continental-style pastries, breads, pancakes, jams, cereals, fresh fruit, fruit salads and fruit juices. A cooked breakfast is also available to order.

Lunch is from a small à la carte menu which, when we last visited, included salads, sandwiches, pasta and pizza.

For dinner, which was five courses, we had a pre-starter of grilled pineapple with bacon. This was followed by vegetable soup, then smoked salmon and cream cheese, before the main course: a choice of kudu or hake fillet served with seasonal vegetables and baked potatoes. The meal was rounded off by a choice of desserts.
Dining style
Individual Tables
Dining locations
Indoor and Outdoor Dining
Further dining info, including room service
None
Drinks included
None. We were informed that the tap water was safe to drink, but as it was still slightly brown during our stay- we feel it would be safer to stick to bottled water.

Special interests

Wellbeing
Divava Okavango Lodge & Spa has a wellness spa with a sauna, steam room and treatment rooms, making it a good choice for a spa holiday in Namibia.
See ideas for Wellbeing in Namibia

Children

Attitude towards children
Divava welcomes children of all ages.
Property’s age restrictions
None
Special activities & services
None
Equipment
The lodge can provide highchairs and an additional single bed in chalets for younger children on request.
Generally recommended for children
The feel of Divava is quite adult and we think that young children would feel out of place here.
Notes
There are a lot of steps and drop offs around Divava. There is also unfenced access to the river and an unfenced, unguarded pool so children would need constant supervision here.

Communications

Power supply notes
There is a back-up generator in case the mains power fails.
Communications
There is cell phone reception throughout the lodge and free WiFi in the reception area.
TV & radio
None
Water supply
Other
Water supply notes
Water is pumped from the river and treated.

Health & safety

Malarial protection recommended
Yes
Medical care
The nearest doctor is in Divundu (7km away), and there is a hospital in Rundu, (210km away).
Dangerous animals
Moderate Risk
Security measures
There are guards on the gate during the day and patrolling the premises at night.
Fire safety
There are fire extinguishers placed throughout the property.

Activities

  • 4WD Safari

    4WD Safari

  • Birdwatching

    Birdwatching

  • Cultural excursion

    Cultural excursion

  • Fishing

    Fishing

  • Mokoro

    Mokoro

  • Private activities

    Private activities

Extras

Disabled access
Not Possible
Laundry facilities
A laundry service is available at an additional cost.
Money
There is a small electronic safe in each chalet.
Accepted payment on location
Cash payments may be made in South African rand, Namibian dollars, Botswana pula, euros and US dollars. Visa and Mastercard are accepted card payment methods.

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Divava Okavango Lodge & Spa's location

Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Divava Lodge & Spa.


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When to go to Caprivi Strip

Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Divava Lodge & Spa 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

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