About Hakusembe River Lodge
Situated on the banks of the Kavango River, Hakusembe River Lodge is a substantial but established lodge, ...
... which has been extended in recent years. It's a peaceful spot, about 12km west of the town of Rundu at the gateway to Namibia’s Caprivi Strip (or Zambezi Region). The lodge is set in lovely well-kept gardens, with roses and other colourful flowers planted in lawns that lead down to the river. Ample shade is provided during the heat of the day by acacia trees, beloved of the resident bird population.
Hakusembe River Lodge is in a fantastic location and setting. Despite its size it serves as a good-value and relaxing staging platform for a trip along the Caprivi Strip. It would also be a good base for keen anglers.
Our view
Hakusembe River Lodge is in a fantastic location and setting. Despite its size it serves as a good-value and relaxing staging platform for a trip along the Caprivi Strip. It would also be a good base for keen anglers.
Namibia expert
Accommodation
20 chalets
Children
Best for aged 8+
Open
All year
Activities
Birdwatching
Boat trip
Cultural excursion
Fishing
Private activities
Traveller reviews of Hakusembe River Lodge
94 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
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Hakusembe River Lodge: Our full report
Situated on the banks of the Kavango River, Hakusembe River Lodge is a substantial but established lodge, ...
... which has been extended in recent years. It's a peaceful spot, about 12km west of the town of Rundu at the gateway to Namibia’s Caprivi Strip (or Zambezi Region). The lodge is set in lovely well-kept gardens, with roses and other colourful flowers planted in lawns that lead down to the river. Ample shade is provided during the heat of the day by acacia trees, beloved of the resident bird population.
Hakusembe is a Gondwana Collection property. As with its sister properties in northern Namibia, Namushasha Lodge, Etosha Safari Lodge and Etosha Safari Camp, it is on the larger side of properties in the area and can feel a little less personal than other options. This said, it is in a fantastic location and offers good value.
Hakusembe has a range of guest accommodation, from en-suite chalets and family rooms to an unusual floating chalet and a good campsite.
Dotted across Hakusembe’s neatly mown lawns are 20 en-suite chalets, each quite sparsly decorated and furnished with twin or double beds – though some of the chalets have a third bed in the corner for young children. Colourful throws and pillows enliven the bedroom, which is kitted out with mosquito nets, air conditioning, a ceiling fan, a mini fridge, tea/coffee station and an electronic safe. At the back of each chalet is an en-suite shower and separate toilet. A small veranda outside has its own sitting area.
Half of the chalets here face the river, but the others are set back from the river so don’t enjoy the view. Although we didn't get to stay on our last visit ,on previous visits we have stayed in the river-facing chalets and found them to be comfortable, albeit a little dark and lacking in character.
A second option at Hakusembe is one of the two family rooms, each sharing a bathroom but with a separate toilet. The chalets differ in design and layout, but both are split over two levels, and both come with,an outdoor braai area, a microwave, mini fridge and kitchenette. One of the family rooms has a small lounge area with the children’s room on a mezzanine floor above their parents’ room. The other is large with a children’s room upstairs that has enough space for four single beds.
Finally, set back from the river, is Hakusembe's campsite, with eight individual pitches.
Hakusembe River Lodge's sprawling main areas include a thatched reception with a curio shop, a large thatched bar with a small seating area, and a restaurant. That said, and weather permitting, dinner is sometimes served on the deck outside the restaurant. In the garden there is a sparkling swimming pool with a few sunloungers and its own changing rooms.
The range of activities from Hakusembe River Lodge includes champagne sunset cruises, sunrise cruises, fishing or birdwatching boat trips and visits to a local village.
One of Hakusembe's real attractions is its tranquil riverside setting where you can watch the birds, hear the locals on the other side of the river laughing as they wash their clothes, and listen to the lapping of the water against the banks.
The downside of this proximity to the river is that during heavy rains (January-March), much of Hakusembe floods. Where possible the lodge will say open, with guests leaving their vehicle in a local village where they will be collected and transferred to the lodge by boat. During such times, guests are also ferried about the lodge by boat, as the walkways can be up to a metre underwater. Because of this flooding the track which leads from the main road to lodge was in quite a bad state of disrepair in June 2017 and we would recommend approaching this with caution.
Geographics
- Location
- Caprivi Strip, Namibia
- Ideal length of stay
- Most travellers are in transit and spend only one night at Hakusembe, but two nights would give more time to appreciate the peace and quiet and enjoy the river. Anglers in search of tigerfish may want to stay longer.
- Directions
- Hakusembe River Lodge is about 12km west of Rundu.
- Accessible by
- Self-drive
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Half Board
- Food quality
- At the time of our last stay at the lodge , and on previous occasions, the food at Hakusembe River Lodge was generally good and hearty. Many vegetables are fresh and sourced from the lodge's own garden, and vegetarian meals are available.
Breakfast, usually served between 7.30am and 9.00am, was fairly standard, with fruit, yoghurt, cold meats and toast, plus juice, tea & coffee. A cooked breakfast is also available.
Lunch is available on request, usually between midday and 2.00pm
A buffet-style dinner is usually served between 7.00pm and 900pm. In December 2016 we enjoyed game carpaccio followed by soup, a selection of salads, mashed potatoes, couscous, steamed veg and a choice of kudu steak or hake fillets. Dessert was a lemon cheesecake. - Dining style
- Individual Tables
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- No
- Drinks included
- No drinks are included in the rates at Hakusembe Lodge, except for bottled water in the rooms. Typical prices for drinks are Coke/mineral water N$12–13 (75p); beer N$16 (£1); glass of wine N$16–18 (£1–1.20); bottle wine from N$100 (£6.25); gin and tonic N$23 (£1.45).
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Families with children of all ages are welcome at Hakusembe River Lodge.
- Property’s age restrictions
- There are no age restrictions.
- Special activities & services
- There are no special activities at the lodge, but most children will love the large garden and the pool.
- Equipment
- None, but there are two large family rooms.
- Generally recommended for children
- Hakusembe welcomes children, and there is a family room, so there’s no problem to bring children here, although there is not a lot to keep them entertained.
- Notes
- Crocodiles and hippos are periodically seen on the lawns that run down to the river so children should be supervised at all times and the pool is also unfenced.
Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Hakusembe Lodge
Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Hakusembe River 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.
29% success
Communications
- Power supply notes
- The electricity supply in this area is notoriously unreliable, especially in the rainy season; there is a back-up generator for use in the event of a power failure.
- Communications
- There is cellphone reception at Hakusembe River Lodge and phone and fax facilities can be requested from reception.
- TV & radio
- None
- Water supply
- Other
- Water supply notes
- Water is pumped from the river and filtered. This is fine for washing but is not fit for human consumption.
There is hot and cold running water in the rooms and flush toilets throughout, with the exception of the floating chalet.
Sustainability
Funding a new kindergarten in a nearby village
Comprising of 20 chalets in an oasis along the river, Hakusembe River Lodge is committed to operate following the principles of sustainability. Funding the construction of a nearby kindergarten is just one of the many examples of the lodge’s determination of building a close link with the surrounding communities.
Paukeni Kindergarten was officially opened in 2017, following the complete reconstruction of the previous building which was badly damaged during the previous rainy season. Moreover, a jungle gym was constructed for the kids inside the fenced school yard. The construction was made possible through Hakusembe Community Development Fund, which the mother company, Gondwana Collection, established when it took over Hakusembe River Lodge in 2012. Through the fund, the lodge supports projects in its vicinity using a percentage of each guest fee. These range from education and youth development to access to potable water and sanitation facilities.
Additionally, two more projects by the Hakusembe Community Development Fund were inaugurated on the same day as the kindergarten - a new borehole hand pump, providing clean water to the entire village, as well as a new fence around the Ru-Rumwe Primary School to improve the children’s security.
The lodge’s uppermost sustainable practices were recognized by the Namibian Tourism Board which awarded the lodge with a sustainability certification of four desert flowers in 2016 Eco Awards.
See more great sustainability projects in Namibia
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- Yes
- Medical care
- The closest doctor and hospital are in the town of Rundu, just 12km from the lodge.
- Dangerous animals
- Moderate Risk
- Security measures
- There are guards onsite 24 hours.
- Fire safety
- Each chalet at Hakusembe River Lodge is fitted with a fire extinguisher.
Activities
Birdwatching
Boat trip
Cultural excursion
Fishing
Private activities
Extras
- Disabled access
- Not Possible
- Laundry facilities
- A daily laundry service is available at extra cost, excluding weekends and public holidays. It costs about N$5–15 (30–95p) per item.
- Money
- No currency exchange is possible. Each of the rooms has a small electronic safe.
- Accepted payment on location
- Payments may be made by Visa, Mastercard and Maestro, as well as in cash using Namibian dollars or South African rand.
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Hakusembe River Lodge's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Hakusembe Lodge.
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Nunda River Lodge
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When to go to Caprivi Strip
Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Hakusembe 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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