Reviews of Nambwa Tented Lodge

"We had been a bit worried about the journey to Nambwa Tented Lodge as there were 2 sets of directions. However, the preferred option was to drive to a place called the Sijwa Project, leave the vehicle there and be collected by boat which would take us to the Lodge. Actually it worked out very well. We had to call when we were in Kongola to arrange for the boat to be despatched and we struggled with the supplied numbers as there were network issues but in the end we called the main reservations number and they were very efficient, understood what we were asking and made the arrangement for us.

The Sijwa project was quite easy to find and although the people there were not expecting us, they showed us where to go and park the vehicle then helped us carry the luggage to where the boat would arrive. The boat did take a bit longer to arrive than expected but that was because the water level was very low so what would usually take 15 minutes, actually took 45 minutes. It was nice for us though because Eustace, our guide and driver, pointed out lots of birds and interesting facts about the plants and landscapes we passed.

The Lodge itself was lovely, raised up off the ground on a series of platforms connected by walkways through the trees. There was a small pool which we didn't have a chance to use. The lounge area had many separate areas with comfortable seating, a bar and a small gift shop area.

The room was great. It was technically a tent but so large and light it felt solid. It was seriously comfortable and very well laid out - to the right, a bathroom area with large shower cubicle and separate toilet, a free standing bath and double sinks all with toiletries and a hairdryer. There was a curtain to divide the bathroom area from the rest of the tent if you needed to switch the light on during the night without disturbing your partner. The lounge area was on the left side of the bedroom with all the facilities you could wish for except a kettle (hot water for tea was brought each morning at a pre arranged time).

The bedroom area had ample storage space behind the bed together with a safe, insect repellent and room spray and the bed was really comfortable. When we came back each evening after dinner, we found hot water bottles tucked under the duvet. It wasn't especially cold in the night, just cool, but this was a lovely touch. The platform the tent was built on was very solid, it didn't shake as you walked around and it was possible to walk right round the outside so it had views from the front across the plain and from the back across the open area of the lodge where wildlife walked through. We didn't see elephants in camp while we were there - we just missed them when we arrived but we could see evidence of them with lots of leaves pulled down and scattered on the ground. We did see lots of baboons and some bushbuck in the camp.

Food was excellent at breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner and service was friendly and efficient. The management and staff seemed to communicate well and everything ran smoothly.

Activities were good and there was a variety of game around. We had a couple of game drives centered on the famous horseshoe area, which deserved its fame but did attract other vehicles. Our first sundowner was in another area and there were several vehicles there together, understandable because the view of the river, the hippos and the sunset were second to none. Our guide for this drive (the only activity not guided by Eustace) made us fresh popcorn as well as providing the more usual crisps, nuts and dried fruit.

Next morning, we had a cruise on the river which was very enjoyable and we saw a variety of game including red lechwe and one sitatunga as well as monitor lizards, hippos, crocodiles, elephants etc and the wide variety of birds.

On our second evening we had another game drive. On our way along the edge of the river, we drove past a camper van where the occupants were having a picnic and the driver flagged us down. He seemed very familiar with the area and was telling Eustace that there were 'warthogs' at a location not far away. Eustace seemed to understand exactly where the gentleman meant because he set off quickly. It turned out the man hadn't said warthogs but wild dogs and sure enough we found a pack of 13 wild dogs enjoying the evening light and relaxing by a waterhole. This was a very special viewing and we mostly were the only vehicle there so were able to watch for a while.

Our sundowner was back overlooking the horseshoe and there were no other vehicles around. We were entertained by large herds of elephants and a troop of baboons playing just in front of us. Even though we were out of the vehicle and had snacks they ignored us and were no problem.

Overall, we thoroughly enjoyed our time at Nambwa, wished we could have stayed another night and recommend it highly.

There was one issue which caused some confusion and we wished it had been explained from the start. We assumed because we stayed 2 nights, we would be having 4 activities because that's what we have been used too not just on this holiday but on other safari holidays in Southern Africa. We did need to leave fairly promptly on our last morning so asked if we could have a shortish activity in the general area of the lodge on that morning and were told yes that can be arranged. When we checked out on our return, we found we had been charged for that last game drive. It wasn't an excessive charge but we were surprised and when we queried it the manager explained that they don't offer an activity on the last morning of a stay. This didn't spoil things but we felt things could have been clearer.

We were taken back to our vehicle by boat and again it took a while as that part of the water was very low. Nambwa kindly called ahead to our next lodge and told them what time to expect us." See all these reviews: 19n in Namibia; 3n in Botswana; 2n in Zimbabwe

"As good as it gets! A superb lodge in an amazing location.

From beginning to end the service provided by all the staff was of the highest quality.

The rooms were luxurious and amazingly located above trees below which antelope, water hogs and baboons roamed. The game drives were excellently guided and we saw lions and herds of elephants as well as numerous birds, antelope and other wildlife.

The food was excellent." See all these reviews: 16n in Namibia; 2n in Botswana; 1n in Zimbabwe

"Nambwa Tented lodge was in a lovely location with views across the plains and the river. The main deck and tents were positioned on tall walkways which allow elephants to walk through as the camp's location is positioned on an ancient migration route, down from Angola. It gave the whole lodge site an interesting and quirky feel. Sadly, we never saw any elephants pass through - we were advised the migration is usually when the first rains come.

There were 10 tents and most of the time the lodge was full which made it feel busy. Our tent was very comfortable and spacious. There was no aircon and during the day and most nights it was sweltering and a little uncomfortable. Our tent was positioned under a large sausage tree which seemed to keep the baboons amused most of the day and night with the occasional sausage pod (approx. 30lbs) dropping loudly on our tent and deck.

Meals were served on a beautiful large main deck built under a number of majestic Knobthorn, Jackleberry and Sausage trees. A very comfortable area to relax with a drink from the bar admiring the expansive views and listening to the baboons squabbling in the trees. Food was very good albeit a bit repetitive at lunchtimes. Just thought the staff, although very pleasant could have benefited from better training to increase their ability to interact with the guests and also their knowledge of what dishes/courses were on offer.

Beavan was our guide who's company we enjoyed on vehicle and boat drives. Game drives were fairly quiet and uneventful. Boat safaris on the Kwando river channels were very enjoyable and relaxing. Birdlife was plentiful, such as sightings of kingfishers, bee-eaters, hundreds of colourful carmine bee-eaters on the banks of the river. Hippos, crocs and monitor lizards were also spotted." See all these reviews: 7n in Namibia; 6n in Botswana

"This is a very beautiful lodge - the rooms are beautifully designed and situated. The little touches are wonderful - some port in your room - hot water bottles at night - a fabulous shower - wonderful toiletries.

The lodge is nearly an hours drive off the main road - we are really pleased we arranged to be met at the road - the track is very sandy and requires skilled driving to negotiate.

The staff are welcoming and courteous - our guide, Eustace, was great and very knowledgeable. Early morning hot water delivered to your room before a game drive was most welcome too.

All meals were good and served at a most attractive outside area. We did not use the swimming pool so cannot comment." See all these reviews: 16n in Namibia; 3n in Botswana; 2n in Zimbabwe

"The staff and Manager Joanne were excellent and very helpful. The accommodation superb and comfortable.

Our Guide Cameron was enthusiastic and knowledgeable making the whole experience even better. Sadly, we didn't see any Lion or Leopard but they were definitely around. We did see an Aardwolf however which was amazing. The Fishing was fun even though my husband and daughter failed to catch a tiger fish and the Carmine bee-eaters spectacular. The Sijwa tour was very interesting and worth the trip although we spent too much but all in a good cause!

Anyone interested in birds this lodge is a must. The game drives we full of wildlife we especially enjoyed the elephants playing in the lake as the sun went down. We would certainly recommend this lodge to anyone probably one of the highlights of our trip." See all these reviews: 5n in Namibia

"Super camp from beginning to end of our stay there. Well done to all the staff

The collection from park gate was seamless and punctual. After leaving the car in the park’s HQ we were taken by Cameron (our guide) back to camp.

However, the journey took much longer because our guide discovered that we were interested in birds. 😊

Consequently, we stopped numerous times as many birds were new to us. He saw a racquet-tailed roller (an early visitor) - a first for him in 2022 - and a 'lifer' for us. 😊

Cameron went beyond his role simply as a guide to satisfy our wishes. (This would not have been possible if other guests were present).

We suspect that he enjoyed looking for anything other than the usual requests for four-legged animals.

The welcome at camp, when we eventually arrived, was excellent, as was the accommodation.

An evening drive proved fruitful for us, in fact all the river cruises and drives delivered stunning sightings and for us, birds that we hadn’t ever seen 😊

We had an early morning drive, investigating areas seen on the evening drive. Cameron asked whether we would like to track an hyena.. !!!!

YES !!!

So for 90 minutes we / Cameron followed this Hyena’s tracks across the plains. Then they disappeared. ☹

Ever the optimist I suggested that it had left the deep sand trail up onto the bank. and a few hundreds of metres later it re-joined the track 😊

Just a couple of minutes later a (female) hyena bounded across the track. Cameron was over the moon having tracked it for 90 minutes 😊

Success for guests and guide 😊

The meals were simply outstanding. The service throughout was first class and very friendly.

Thank you to every one at Nambwa, especially Cameron for listening to our wishes and accommodating them.

This is a camp that we strongly recommend to Caprivi visitors. It was simply superb for staff, guides, accommodation, meals and activities. Undoubtedly great !" See all these reviews: 13n in Namibia; 2n in Botswana

"Gem of a camp in a quiet park.

Amazing staff and rooms/facilities, as well as a lot of wildlife and almost no crowds. 4 of the big 5 (no rhinos, but the rest of Namibia has a lot of those), as well as dogs and lots of birds.

One of the best stays on my trip across Namibia." See all these reviews: 15n in Namibia; 2n in Botswana

"Oh wow! Nambwa Tented Lodge is stunning in all aspects. From collection at the Reception of the park, to the service, the food, the guiding (I’ll come back to this), the rooms, the shared public areas, just everything. We had elephants through the camp when we stayed - which was exciting - and there was much to watch from the comfort of the outdoor areas and to hear from the comfort of our beautiful room. The wifi worked very well. The only change I would make to this place is to make the sign on the B8 a little easier to spot, otherwise the whole experience was just perfect.

We were so very fortunate in having Cameron as our guide and even more fortunate when Edmund accompanied him. Their knowledge and enthusiasm for all aspects of the flora and fauna, their willingness to share their knowledge, to search for the things we wanted to see with such patience and determination, their courtesy, their obvious desire to give us the very best - and safe - experience we could have, all combined to make our drives in this area better than we could have ever hoped for. So very, very enjoyable.

Our time at Nambwa is one we will remember with great fondness for a very long time; this was the hardest of places to leave." See all these reviews: 17n in Namibia; 3n in Botswana

"Loved every aspect of this camp. Couldn't fault it in any way. Management and staff all excellent.

Our guide for 4 days was Alphius- a lovey knowledgable guide.

Fabulous spacious tented room. Loved the high walkways - elephants came through the camp one evening and we were able to observe them silently from above, we were so close to them.

Delicious food - all meals.

We visited The Sijwa Project which I would highly recommend.

Would love to return again one day." See all these reviews: 15n in Namibia; 3n in Botswana

"Management and staff really friendly and most helpful.

Definately the best guide in Alphieus (/) of the whole trip and as with all of the guides absolutely brilliant eyesight, not only in front of them but at the sides as well.

I suspect that if an animal crept up from behind they would see that too." See all these reviews: 14n in Namibia