About River Dance Lodge
Opened in 2010, River Dance Lodge is built high in the riverine forest that lines northern Namibia’s Kavango River.
This small, owner-run property has strong community links, with many of the staff hired from local villages. Guests at River Dance are invited to soak up the view, relax on the river and learn more about the Caprivi’s prolific birdlife.
With views of the river, a tranquil setting and excellent birdlife, River Dance is a great spot for birding, fishing or simply taking in the setting. On our last visit we so enjoyed the ambience and food that we wished we could have stayed longer. The only down side seems to be the lack of proximity to the Caprivi’s national parks. That said, as a place to kick back and relax River Dance would be hard to beat.
Our view
With views of the river, a tranquil setting and excellent birdlife, River Dance is a great spot for birding, fishing or simply taking in the setting. On our last visit we so enjoyed the ambience and food that we wished we could have stayed longer. The only down side seems to be the lack of proximity to the Caprivi’s national parks. That said, as a place to kick back and relax River Dance would be hard to beat.
Namibia expert
Accommodation
5 cabins
Children
Best for 10+
Open
All year
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Boat trip
Cultural excursion
Fishing
Guided walking safari
Private activities
Traveller reviews of River Dance Lodge
19 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
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Sable Self-drive Safari
12 days • 7 locations • 3 country
WINDHOEK AIRPORT TO VICTORIA FALLS AIRPORT
A great-value southern African self-drive adventure from Namibia along the Caprivi Strip to Botswana and Zimbabwe, combining other-worldly landscapes, unforgettable wildlife spectacles and rarely visited places, and ending at Victoria Falls.
Visiting Etosha, Chobe and 4 other areas
US$8,470 - US$9,380 per person
River Dance Lodge: Our full report
Opened in 2010, River Dance Lodge is built high in the riverine forest that lines northern Namibia’s Kavango River.
This small, owner-run property has strong community links, with many of the staff hired from local villages. Guests at River Dance are invited to soak up the view, relax on the river and learn more about the Caprivi’s prolific birdlife.
River Dance Lodge has just five wooden cabins, built on cantilevered platforms atop stilts, which makes them feel part of the forest canopy; it also affords excellent views through the foliage to the river and across to Angola.
The design and shape of the rooms and decks are unique to each cabin, but their facilities are similar throughout. Each is tastefully decorated, their muted stony and sandy tones lightened by pastel blankets and cowskin rugs. The beds – twins or a large double – are covered with mosquito nets to keep biting insects at bay. You will also find a chaise longue, built-in storage, an electric fan, a mini-fridge with complimentary drinking water, and a tea and coffee station.
All of the cabins have their own bathrooms, most of them in an adjacent cabin, perhaps down a step or two on a different deck. In each you’ll find a large free-standing bath, a separate shower, his and hers basins and a toilet.
At the front, both the bedrooms and the bathrooms have floor-to-ceiling windows looking out onto the Kavango River, giving the cabins a light, airy feel. Sliding doors open onto a private viewing deck with a couple of chairs from which you can enjoy the river and attendant birdsong, or read a book.
The two rooms furthest from the main area can be combined via an interlocking door to create a two-bedroom family or honeymoon unit. This comes with two separate bathrooms and its own seating/braai area down by the river, as well as its own parking spot.
The path between the cabins and the main area at River Dance is winding, uneven and, for the lower numbered cabins, quite long. If you think you would struggle with this, we suggest that you request a cabin closest to the main area.
The main area itself is made up of a dining area, reception, bar and lounge. Like the cabins, it is built on stilts and it shares similar views and styling. Outside, on a deck overlooking the river, there are some very comfy sofas around a firepit: the perfect spot to enjoy a sundowner or – weather permitting – breakfast and dinner.
Next to the main area, surrounded by a manicured lawn and the trees of the riverine forest, is a small but delightful pool with a few sunloungers. If you are lucky you might spot the lodge’s semi-tame duiker, which we were told on our last visit, in December 2016, likes to play with the owner’s dog.
Lower down you’ll find a covered viewing deck set with chairs that overlooks the river and the lodge’s pontoon/boat launch. We think that this would make a great birding platform.
Activities at River Dance naturally focus on the river, with its high number of resident and migratory birds. Guests may take part in sundowner and early-morning cruises, as well as fishing trips. You can also experience local culture with a village tour, take an island walk, or drive to Popa Falls (35km) and Babwata National Park (45km), either in your own vehicle or with a guide from the lodge.
Geographics
- Location
- Caprivi Strip, Namibia
- Ideal length of stay
- River Dance is perfect for a one-night stop over, but to enjoy the tranquillity two nights would be better.
- Directions
- River Dance lies about 30km west of Divundu.
- Accessible by
- Self-drive
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Half Board
- Food quality
- When we last stayed at River Dance in December 2016, the food was excellent, perhaps the best we had on that trip.
Breakfast was a continental style buffet with a good selection of fresh breads, pastries, fruit, cereals and juices. A cooked breakfast may be ordered on request.
On our last visit, we didn’t have lunch here, but the sample menu that we saw featured savoury pancakes, toasted ham-and-cheese sandwiches and chicken schnitzel, all served with salad.
Dinner was a set menu with a starter of Cape smoked salmon served with cream cheese and a cheese soufflé. This was followed by beef steak with a mushroom sauce, gem squash, green beans and baby roast potatoes. Our meal was rounded off with mini toffee apples in a caramel sauce. - Dining style
- Individual Tables
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- Room Service is not available.
- Drinks included
- Drinks are not included, with the exception of the complimentary bottled water.
Tap water is filtered but comes from the river and is unsuitable for human consumption. Bottled drinking water is provided in the fridge in your room.
Children
- Attitude towards children
- The lodge welcomes children of all ages.
- Property’s age restrictions
- There are no age restrictions.
- Special activities & services
- None
- Equipment
- Children's beds and cots can be provided on request
- Generally recommended for children
- River Dance Lodge has an adult feel and we do not consider it suitable for young children.
- Notes
- The buildings at River Dance are set up on stilts, there is an unfenced pool and the pathways are uneven, so young children would require supervision at all times.
Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from River Dance
Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at River Dance 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.
85% success
18% success
18% success
17% success
17% success
9% success
9% success
8% success
8% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
Communications
- Power supply notes
- There are electrical failures here, especially when it rains so there is a back-up generator.
- Communications
- There is free WiFi in the main area and cell reception throughout.
- TV & radio
- None
- Water supply
- Other
- Water supply notes
- All rooms have hot and cold running water, flush toilets and plumbed showers.
Sustainability
Authentic stay with locally-sourced products
River Dance Lodge has one clear goal: sustainability in every aspect of tourism. Closeness with the local Hambukushu people reveals community engagement as one of its guiding principles. The team at River Dance Lodge is particularly well-known for celebrating all things local, with some of the most evident aspects being the sourcing of local building materials and local food.
Each of the 8 private log cabins which make up River Dance is built using hardwood from the nearby Mobyo Community Forest. Similarly, guests staying at River Dance Lodge will are provided with ‘Namlinen’, handmade linen, and environmentally friendly toiletries including the organic ‘Desert Secrets Namibia’ range of products.
Meat served at the lodge’s restaurant comes from a fourth generation cattle farm in North Namibia, and fish is caught off the Namibian Atlantic Coast. Additionally, the lodge founded the Cattle Road Safety programme in an effort to protect the livelihood of local farmers. River Dance also supports subsistence farming when purchasing reeds, baskets, wild fruits, honey and a whole host of ingredients for the kitchen.
What ultimately provides an immersive experience in the Namibian way of life is interacting with locals at the lodge. Over half of the staff employed is from the nearby Hambukush village, and their welcoming nature makes it easy for tourists to chat with the locals or even learn some words in Timbukushu.
See more great sustainability projects in Namibia
Health & safety
- Medical care
- The nearest doctor is in Divundu (30km away), and there is a hospital in Rundu, some 185km away.
- Dangerous animals
- Moderate Risk
- Security measures
- The lodge has a lockable gate that is manned during the day and locked at night. The owners also sleep on site.
- Fire safety
- Fire extinguishers are provided in each of the rooms and in the main areas.
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Boat trip
Cultural excursion
Fishing
Guided walking safari
Private activities
Extras
- Disabled access
- In Place
- Laundry facilities
- Laundry is available at an additional charge for guests staying at least two nights. Underwear will not be washed.
- Money
- There are no safes in the rooms, but you can leave valuables with the manager for storage in the office safe.
- Accepted payment on location
- Payments may be made using Visa, Mastercard or Amex. Alternatively US dollars, Namibian dollars and South African rand are accepted for cash payment.
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River Dance Lodge's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of River Dance.
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.
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 River Dance 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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