About Namushasha Lodge
Namushasha Lodge is nestled amongst riverine vegetation on the banks of the Kwando River, in Namibia’s Zambezi ...
... Region – formerly known as the Caprivi Strip. On the opposite side of the river to the Bwabwata National Park, the lodge overlooks a hippo pool, offering lovely views and good birdwatching opportunities – the area boasts over 300 bird species.
Namushasha Lodge is in a good location for visits to Bwabwata National Park and boat trips along the Kwando River, and its deck overlooking the river is well positioned for watching wildlife. On the down side, it doesn't really offer the same levels of personal service as the smaller, owner-run establishments – and although independent travellers do stay here, the lodge is more geared toward groups.
Our view
Namushasha Lodge is in a good location for visits to Bwabwata National Park and boat trips along the Kwando River, and its deck overlooking the river is well positioned for watching wildlife. On the down side, it doesn't really offer the same levels of personal service as the smaller, owner-run establishments – and although independent travellers do stay here, the lodge is more geared toward groups.
Namibia expert
Accommodation
24 chalets
Children
Best for aged 8+
Open
All year
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Boat trip
Cultural excursion
Fishing
Guided walking safari
Private activities
Self-guided walking
Traveller reviews of Namushasha Lodge
3 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
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View galleryNamushasha Lodge: Our full report
Namushasha Lodge is nestled amongst riverine vegetation on the banks of the Kwando River, in Namibia’s Zambezi ...
... Region – formerly known as the Caprivi Strip. On the opposite side of the river to the Bwabwata National Park, the lodge overlooks a hippo pool, offering lovely views and good birdwatching opportunities – the area boasts over 300 bird species.
Namushasha Lodge is part of the Gondwana Collection, and is in many ways similar to its sister property, Hakusembe Lodge. It is large in comparison with most lodges in the area, and caters predominantly to group safaris rather than independent travellers. While that comes with a consequent loss of personal service, it also means that the lodge caters well to those on a relatively limited budget. You could also combine this with a stay in one of Gondwana's Etosha properties Etosha Safari Camp or Etosha Safari Lodge.
Namushasha has 24 thatched chalets which all face the river. These are made up of standard and family chalets – one of which doubles as a honeymoon chalet; all are decorated and finished in a similar style. There is also a campsite.
- The 21 standard chalets are modestly furnished with twin beds (only one has a double), mosquito nets, air conditioning and a tea and coffee station. All have an en-suite bathroom with a flushing toilet, a single washbasin and a shower. Two of the standard chalets have an interleading door, so it can serve as a family unit when required. This would suit those with older children who want a little more privacy as each room has its own en suite bathroom.
- The three family chalets are purpose-built two-bedroom chalets, each with a shared bathroom and separate toilet. The newest additions to the lodge, they are located a short walk (up to 500m) from the main area, beyond the campsite – but it is possible to drive between them and the main area if desired. The chalet furthest from the main area doubles as a honeymoon chalet and features an outdoor shower and private hot tub.
- Each pitch in the campsite has its own BBQ, electricity supply and private ablution block.
Within the lush grounds is a small swimming pool where you can relax on deckchairs during the heat of the day.
Activities at Namushasha focus on full or half day game drives into Bwabwata National Park, where herds of elephant and buffalo are found, as well as plains game, the occasional predators and water-loving antelope such as sable, roan and the rarely seen sitatunga.
On the water, there are usually boat cruises along the Kwando River morning and evening, giving you the opportunity to see the diversity of birdlife in this area – from herons and jacanas to the migrant carmine beeeater. On our last visit in July 2017 both game drives and boat trips were possible however on a previous visit in December 2016 the river level was too low for boat activities.
There is also the option to do some catch-and-release fishing, go birdwatching or take a guided walk or un-guided walk along a marked trail close to the lodge.
Guests who are travelling in a 4WD vehicle can explore the nearby Mudumu National Park independently. Although the same applies to the Nkasa Rupara (formerly Mamili) National Park, caution needs to be taken here as often the area can be flooded. Do not attempt to visit this park without prior planning and preferably only with two vehicles.
Geographics
- Location
- Caprivi Strip, Namibia
- Ideal length of stay
- 2 nights
- Directions
- Namushasha is some 25km south of Kongola along the C49.
- Accessible by
- Self-drive
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Bed & Breakfast
- Food quality
- None of the team at Expert Africa has had the chance to taste the food at Namushasha. However, the lodge tells us that their lunch is to order – usually something small like fish and chips, a sandwich or a salad. Depending on the number of people in camp, dinner is either a set menu or with larger numbers of people in camp, a buffet is more commonly done.
- Dining style
- Individual Tables
- Dining locations
- Indoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- No room service is available.
- Drinks included
- Complimentary bottled water is provided in the chalets, but no other drinks are included.
Special interests
- Cultural Experiences
- Namushasha Lodge worked with local people to help create the Namushasha Heritage Centre in 2014. This “living museum” showcases the village life, traditions and culture of the HaMbukushu, BaLozi and MaFwe peoples who inhabit the Caprivi area.
- See ideas for Cultural Experiences in Namibia
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Children are welcomed at Namushasha Lodge.
- Property’s age restrictions
- No age restrictions
- Special activities & services
- There are no special activities, but children are given discounts on activity costs. Extra beds, depending on availability, can also be added to the rooms and some of the rooms are inter-leading suiting a family with older children,
- Equipment
- None
- Generally recommended for children
- Yes, there is plenty of space and a pool for children enjoy. We also felt that the atmosphere here was better suited to children than many of the lodges in the area, perhaps as it is a little larger.
- Notes
- The camp is raised up above the river, where there are hippos and crocodiles, so children need to be supervised at all times.
Communications
- Power supply notes
- The generator is off from 10.00pm until 5.00am, there is no power between these times but a torch is provided in the rooms.
- Communications
- There is cellphone reception throughout and WiFi in the main area, which is turned off at 9pm.
- TV & radio
- None
- Water supply
- Other
- Water supply notes
- The water here is pumped from the river and filtered. This is fine for washing, but is not suitable for human consumption. All the chalets have hot and cold running water, and flushing toilets.
Sustainability
Leaving behind a legacy for culture conservation
Situated on the banks of the Kwando River, Namushasha River Lodge acts as an ideal base for a leisurely cruise to explore the native Jackalberry and Mangosteen trees. The lodge prides itself not only with operating in an eco-friendly manner, but also with initiatives to conserve the cultural heritage in the Eastern Caprivi region, which is something it strives to educate its guests about.
Working closely with the local community, in 2014 the lodge helped open the Namushasha Heritage Centre, together with Mashi community members, in celebration of the rich cultural diversity in Eastern Zambezi. The centre was built using natural resources including reeds and grass, and adds value to a region heavily reliant on tourism, where culture and wildlife are the main attractions. Shedding light on a diverse array of traditional activities, from traditional healing practices to making African musical instruments, guests are encouraged to get involved in a wide range of activities including traditional dancing and making arts and crafts. By promoting visits to the heritage centre, Namushasha River Lodge hopes to increase respect for the local culture and therefore determine tourists to act responsibly during their stay.
Apart from offering an enriching cultural experience, the centre provides local communities with a stable income, empowers them to manage their resources, and educates them to carry on conserving the culture and wildlife of the Zambezi River.
See more great sustainability projects in Namibia
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- Yes
- Medical care
- The closest hospital is in Katima Mulilo, 133km away.
- Dangerous animals
- Moderate Risk
- Security measures
- Security guards are on site 24/7.
- Fire safety
- Fire extinguishers can be found thought the lodge.
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Boat trip
Cultural excursion
Fishing
Guided walking safari
Private activities
Self-guided walking
Extras
- Disabled access
- On Request
- Laundry facilities
- Laundry can be done at an extra charge
- Money
- There are small electronic combination safes in each of the chalets.
- Accepted payment on location
- Visa and Mastercard are accepted, and cash payments may be made in UK pounds, US dollars, euros, South African rand and Namibian dollars.
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Namushasha Lodge's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Namushasha 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.
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.
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 Namushasha 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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