About Nambwa Tented Lodge
The high walkways that wend through the trees to the chalets at Nambwa are there for a purpose – elephants!
For this is their world, and the walkways ensure their freedom of movement through the trees, browsing as they go with barely a nod to wide-eyed visitors. It's not often you get to look down on an elephant's head – but at Nambwa Tented Lodge that’s a real possibility.
On a lazy boat trip, Bwabwata National Park’s plentiful birdlife comes into its own, too, while on game drives, as the sun sinks below the African horizon, keep an eye out for the creatures of the night.
While its focus is very much on the wildlife, the lodge – tucked into the treeline on a tributary of the Kwando River – is one of the smartest and most luxurious along the Caprivi Strip, with service and food to match.
Elegance is the watchword here – and some. There aren’t too many safari camps that can boast a chandelier hanging from the ceiling. Or tented chalets whose pointed canvas roofs are redolent of fairytale turrets. From this vantage point, it’s not difficult to settle down on a leather sofa with a pair of binoculars and let the wildlife come to you.
Our view
Nambwa Tented Lodge offers a high level of accommodation and service. Sightings on game drives and boat trips here may be variable, but are likely to be better in the dry season, when high elephant concentrations are common. And if you are lucky enough to get a bird’s eye view of elephants moving beneath the camp’s stilted structure it is truly special.
Accommodation
10 tented suites
Children
Best for 12+.
Open
All year
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Boat trip
Cultural excursion
Fishing
Guided walking safari
Private activities
Traveller reviews of Nambwa Tented Lodge
24 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
Arrived 7 Apr 2025, 3 nights
"Nambwa Tented Lodge review"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 23 Jul 2024, 2 nights
"Nambwa Tented Lodge review"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 26 May 2024, 2 nights
"Nambwa Tented Lodge review"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 1 Nov 2023, 2 nights
"Nambwa Tented Lodge review"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 18 Sep 2023, 4 nights
"Nambwa Tented Lodge review"
Overall rating: Good
Arrived 27 May 2023, 2 nights
"Nambwa Tented Lodge review"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 8 Oct 2022, 3 nights
"Nambwa Tented Lodge review"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 16 Sep 2022, 3 nights
"Nambwa Tented Lodge > five+ star all the way"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 12 Aug 2022, 2 nights
"Nambwa Tented Lodge review"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 11 May 2022, 3 nights
"Such a beautiful place"
Overall rating: Excellent



























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 56 pictures of Nambwa Tented Lodge to get the candid view.
View galleryNambwa Tented Lodge: Our full report
Nambwa Tented Lodge, opened in early 2015, lies deep in Namibia's Bwabwata National Park and is the most ...
... luxurious lodge in this part of the Caprivi. Situated on the wooded banks of a tributary of the Kwando River, it has ten stylish suites nestled among jackalberry. sausage and knobthorn trees and offers a good range of safari activities.
Nambwa Tented Lodge, along with its sister properties Nambwa Lagoon Camp and Kazile Island Lodge are set within the Mayuni Conservancy of the Bwabwata National Park, which is nearly 300km2 in size.
The lodge is made up of ten spacious tented suites, beautifully decorated in soft tones of white and stone, with wooden floors. At the centre of each stands a large double bed surrounded by a mosquito net, and behind a wooden headboard you'll find a luggage rack, shelves and hanging space for clothes, and a digital safe.
To one side of the bedroom is a lounge area with a sofa, chairs and a coffee table with complimentary sherry. To the other is the open-plan bathroom, with twin basins on top of a wooden vanity unit, a glass-enclosed shower and a free-standing bath in front of a gauze window. The toilet is in a separate room. Complimentary toiletries are provided.
Cream-coloured curtains hang in front of the gauze windows for added privacy. But if you wish to bring the outside inside, the canvas front of your tent can be fully rolled up to open the room to the elements. Each suite has a private deck with a small table and two chairs, overlooking either the river/floodplain or the lodge's own waterhole: a perfect place for sitting with a pair of binoculars to watch the prolific birdlife. During one of our visits, we even had a hippo, fondly named Oliver by the staff, grazing outside our tent through the night.
Raised wooden walkways, high enough to allow elephants to move through camp relatively easily, meander through the trees and link the suites and the main area. Having encountered a herd of elephants on the drive into camp, we then found them moving through camp an hour or so after we arrived. As we made our way along the walkways trying to get the best view, the elephants ambled beneath us and browsed on the large trees that surround camp, completely unperturbed by our presence. Getting a different view of these animals was special; it’s not often you get to look down on an elephant’s head!
The main area at the Tented Lodge has a large deck built on two levels. The circular lower deck features plenty of seating around a recessed firepit: a great spot to spend the evening with a drink and watch the sun set. The main deck incorporates the tented dining area and bar, and a separate tented lounge that is stylishly decorated with comfy sofas and chairs in tones of brown and cream. There are coir mats and animal skins on the wooden floors – and a chandelier hanging from the canvas ceiling!
Guests can dine either under cover at a large communal table surrounded by big modern chairs, or under the stars at a selection of individual tables. Hot and cold drinks are available all day at the open bar from consistently smart, friendly and well-trained staff. The managers were very welcoming and knowledgeable, and we could not find fault with any of the staff.
There is also a small pool with umbrellas and sun loungers, just behind the Tented Lodge, and is shared with Lagoon Camp which is just a short walk away. Being in surrounded by trees it’s a lovely spot to while away an hour or two relaxing and bird-watching at the same time!
Activities at Nambwa Tented Lodge focus on day and night game drives, bush walks and boat trips (when water levels are high enough); it's also possible to arrange a visit to a local village. On our last stay, it was possible to extend an afternoon drive inside the national park until 8.00pm, giving you the chance to spot some of Namibia's nocturnal animals. To make the most of this opportunity, the managers are hoping to get the 8.00pm deadline extended.
Game densities in Bwabwata National Park don't rival those in Botswana's Chobe National Park, but we understand that there are large numbers of elephants in the dry season (June to October), as well as roan and eland. Predators include lion, leopard, hyena and wild dog – although you may have to work hard for good sightings. On afternoon drives we have seen lots of elephant, along with kudu, buffalo, impala and vervet monkeys (which can be a nuisance in camp). Highlights among the birds were broad-billed rollers and African fish eagles.
During a morning boat trip we were lucky enough to see a normally shy sitatunga in an area of papyrus – as well as bushbuck, red lechwe, numerous hippos and some enormous crocodiles. Birdlife along the river was also very good including lots of white-fronted bee-eaters nesting in the riverbanks, goliath herons, pied and giant kingfishers, fish eagles and various plovers and ducks. Note however, that in the dry season there is not always enough water for boat trips, so if this is important to you, please ask us for the most up-to-date information.
Geographics
- Location
- Caprivi Strip, Namibia
- Ideal length of stay
- Given its remote location and potential for good game, at least three nights here would be ideal to settle into the area and soak up this little-visited national park.
- Directions
- Self-drivers will be met at an arranged time at reception, which is located at the main entrance to the park. Here they will leave their car, then be transferred by road and sometimes boat to the lodge – a trip of about 45 minutes. If you have a 4WD and know how to drive it in deep sand (plus some sort of SatNav), you could alternatively drive through the national park to the lodge, though we generally do not recommend this.
- Accessible by
- Self-drive
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Full Board & Activities
- Food quality
- During our stay in June 2018, we found the food at Nambwa Tented Lodge to be of a high standard.
The buffet breakfast was extensive and included fresh fruit salad, yoghurt, fruit juice, cereals, fresh bread and pancakes. A cooked breakfast and a range of coffees were available to order.
Lunch was light and fresh and consisted of a salad and a chilli wrap.
On our first evening, dinner started with a tomato tart and side salad, followed by a delicious pork fillet with mustard sauce, a sweet potato bake and carrot and beetroot. Dessert – a meringue with stewed fruit – was less impressive as it tasted as though the sugar had been missed out.
During our second evening at the lodge our starter was served as we stopped for sundowners. A makeshift bar was erected, and hot soup and freshly cooked game kebabs were passed around. We thought this was a lovely and unexpected touch. - Dining style
- Mixture of group dining and individual tables
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Drinks included
- Soft drinks, house wine and local spirits are included at the lodge when staying on a full board and activities basis. Fine wines, champagne and imported spirits and liqueurs are not included and are charged as extras.
Water from the tap is not suitable for drinking, but bottled water is provided.
Special interests
- Honeymoons
- If your honeymoon plans include Namibia’s Caprivi Strip, stop and spoil yourselves at Nambwa Tented Lodge. Large suites include baths and private lounge areas; the service is superb and the food excellent.
- See ideas for Honeymoons in Namibia
- Birdwatching
- One of only a few camps located inside Namibia's Bwabwata National Park, Nambwa Tented Lodge is well placed for visitors to this top birdwatching location, whose diverse range of habitats includes reed-fringed waterways and mature woodlands.
- See ideas for Birdwatching in Namibia
- Photography holidays
- Built up in the trees with long walkways from the main area to the rooms it isn't uncommon fro wildlife, particularly elephants to pass under Nambwa. This offers photographers an unique perspective for some unusual shots.
- See ideas for Photography holidays in Namibia
- Cultural Experiences
- Of the many different tribes in Namibia, each has its own unique customs and traditions. Find out about some of these on a cultural excursion to a local Caprivian village from Nambwa Tented Lodge.
- See ideas for Cultural Experiences in Namibia
- Walking safaris
- Experience the lush environment of Namibia's Babwata National Park on a walking safari from Nambwa. Led by a professional guide this is a great opportunity to focus on the small things and see the bush in a different light.
- See ideas for Walking safaris in Namibia
- Luxury
- A complementary sherry awaits you when arriving in your luxurious suite at Nambwa Tented Lodge. A swanky chandelier in the lounge area with polished wooden floor as well as comfortable and classy leather armchairs complete its stylish and sumptuous appearance.
- See ideas for Luxury in Namibia
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Children of six years and over are welcome.
- Property’s age restrictions
- Families with children aged between six and 12 will have to pay for a private vehicle. Children under six years may be accepted at the discretion of the lodge.
- Special activities & services
- None
- Equipment
- None
- Generally recommended for children
- Not recommended for children under the age of 12.
- Notes
- The lodge is located high up on wooden walkways and platforms and could be dangerous for young children. Large game, including hippo and elephant, also moves through camp regularly, so children should be kept under close supervision at all times.
Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Nambwa Tented Lodge
Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Nambwa Tented Lodge have kindly recorded their wildlife sightings and shared them with us. The results are below. Click an animal to see more, and here to see more on our methodology.

100% success

94% success

93% success

73% success

71% success

69% success

64% success

62% success

58% success

46% success

31% success

25% success

17% success

15% success

8% success

0% success

0% success
Communications
- Power supply notes
- The generator is on all day except 4–6.00pm (usually when guests are out on activities). At night, it is switched off about an hour after the last guest has gone to bed.
- Communications
- WiFi is available in the main area.
- TV & radio
- There are no TVs
- Water supply
- Other
- Water supply notes
- Water is pumped from the river and filtered but is not suitable for drinking. There is hot and cold running water in the tents, and flush toilets.
Sustainability
The Sijwa Project
The Sijwa Project began as a vision of Chief Mayuni’s, from the local conservancy, to try and fight Namibia’s plastic waste, and was brought into fruition in conjunction with the owners of African Monarch Lodges. This joint venture has many facets, all with the aim of enabling people and wildlife to live sustainably together.
One aspect of the projects work is to take all recyclable waste from the African Monarch lodges (Nambwa Tented Lodge / Lagoon Camp and Kazile Island Lodge), and from the local community, and reform it into beautiful, resalable arts and crafts.
It also supplies food for the local people and lodge guests from its organic permaculture garden. The sandy soil is enriched with composted food waste, worm juice, and even elephant dung.
There is also a cultural village, artisanal skills training centre, a beehive project, a free-range egg scheme and a junior ranger training venue, as well as an indigenous tree nursery for visitors to buy and plant a tree to offset their carbon footprint.
As a guest of African Monarch Lodges, you will have a chance to visit the Sijwa Project if you like, where you’ll get to experience local culture, interact with the community as they make pretty, recycled objects, buy gifts, plant a tree and thus support for this community-driven initiative.
African Monarch Lodges have also been closely involved with local communities on a number of other projects over the years and this involvement still continues.
See more great sustainability projects in Namibia
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- Yes
- Medical care
- The nearest doctor is at Kongola about 20km from the lodge.
- Dangerous animals
- High Risk
- Security measures
- None.
- Fire safety
- There are fire extinguishers at each room and in the main area
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Boat trip
Cultural excursion
Fishing
Guided walking safari
Private activities
Extras
- Disabled access
- On Request
- Laundry facilities
- Complimentary daily laundry service.
- Money
- Each suite has an electronic safe
- Accepted payment on location
- Payment is accepted by Visa and Mastercard as well as in Namibian dollars and South African rand cash.
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Nambwa Tented Lodge's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Nambwa Tented Lodge.
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.

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

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

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 Nambwa Tented Lodge 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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