About Serondela Lodge
Fanning out on the fringes of the Chobe River, Serondela has the feel of a watery wonderland. Guaranteed river views, guaranteed remoteness.
Even getting there is an adventure, a river trip from the small town of Kasane via one of the most laid-back immigration posts in the world.
Chalets on stilts give ample opportunity for taking in this pristine environment, whose constant fresh water and equally constant supplies of mud make it elephant heaven.
Fortunately, facilities for human visitors are rather more contemporary, with classy bathrooms and gauze-draped beds enhanced by large picture windows and a gloriously eclectic mix of local and upcycled materials.
Added to the mix are private patios, and a cooling riverside pool that’s a great bonus on a hot day. You’ll dine in style too, beneath curvy tented roofs or a star-studded sky.
And as you explore the waterways by boat, or take a stroll in the company of a guide, or meet some of the local villagers, you’re secure in the knowledge that the owners of Serondela – a partnership between the local conservancy and the Micheletti family – are committed to the preservation of this beautiful yet fragile stretch of land.
Our view
Serondela occupies prime position on the Namibian side of the Chobe River with spectacular views across the river to Chobe National Park. In the dry season a procession of animals come to the river to drink and you'll hardly need to leave the comfort of the lodge to see them. However, in wet season, when the Chobe's great herds of elephant and buffalo disperse, you may not find the area's wildlife to be quite as prolific. Throughout the year, you will have the opportunity for one game drive within Chobe on your day of departure, but if wildlife viewing in a 4WD is a priority you might consider combining time here with one of the lodges within the National Park. Come here to stay at a lodge with a commendable commitment to minimising its ecological footprint on a peaceful and pretty remote stretch of the Chobe River and to enjoy river focused wildlife viewing, which is great for birdwatching too.
Namibia expert
Accommodation
8 chalets
Children
Best for 12+
Open
All year
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Boat trip
Cultural excursion
Fishing
Guided walking safari
Private activities
Traveller reviews of Serondela Lodge
2 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
Expert Africa's gallery
When we travel we take lots of photos ourselves to give you a real and un-edited view of the safaris. See our 40 pictures of Serondela to get the candid view.
View gallerySerondela Lodge: Our full report
Priding itself on its eco-friendly and low-impact design, Serondela Lodge sits in a remote spot on the northern ...
... banks of the Chobe River, in the Zambezi Region of Namibia's eastern Caprivi. The lodge opened in March 2018, and with Botswana’s Chobe National Park on the other side of the river, is well located for some gentle wildlife viewing, relaxation and water-based activities.
Serondela has been built on high ground in the Kabulabula conservancy, and is accessible only by boat from Kasane in Botswana – a journey of around 45 minutes, or up to two hours if combined with a wildlife cruise.
Serondela prides itself on minimising its effect on the local environment. In a shift from the “standard” safari-camp style, it features plenty of curves, and makes use of both local and recycled materials, such as driftwood, cattle yokes, and upcycled PVC; it sounds bizarre, but it fits beautifully into the surrounding landscape.
Eight chalets are spaced out along the riverbank, on ground level decks. Designed to allow maximum game viewing from inside, the chalets are light and airy, each with large windows to the side and sliding glass and gauze doors at the front. Polished concrete floors are scattered with rattan rugs, and large mosquito nets envelop twin or double beds with contemporary fabric headboards. Burnished metal reading lamps hang over carved wooden tables at each side of the bed, and a low cushioned bench provides both seating and luggage storage. One family chalet has two additional day beds for children.
A door at the back of the chalet opens to reveal a spacious en-suite bathroom, simply designed with whitewashed walls, twin basins, glass and wood shelves, large mirrors and a quirky semi-circular shower cubicle. Woven rugs bring splashes of colour, candles in glass bowls give a stylish air, and complimentary toiletries are eco-friendly.
Outside, on a private deck, low, light-coloured concrete walls provide privacy from other chalets and shelter a small patio with chairs and a coffee table.
Just a short walk away, built around a big ana tree, Serondela’s roomy main area sits under three domed tented roofs, sheltering a large bar, dining area and lounge area. Cane furniture with comfortable cream cushions is scattered throughout, with half of the dining tables indoors, the others outside on additional decking.
A small swimming pool with sunloungers sits alongside a sandy area and wooden deck, under stretch shade, with beautiful views across the river. Though the majority of wildlife is found in the national park across the river, animals can often be seen crossing the river, and during our last visit, in May 2018, we watched a large herd of elephants swimming across in front of the lodge..
From the lodge’s location on the banks of the Chobe River, activities naturally revolve around the water, with fishing trips, boat cruises and birdwatching available. While wildlife on the Namibian side of the river is not particularly prolific, a game drive in Chobe National Park is included in a stay at Serondela. This generally takes place on your check-out day to facilitate getting to and from Kasane, in Botswana, and thus reducing travel time through immigration points. Village visits and nature walks are also possible, and at an additional cost, fishing trips, cultural tours and visits to Zimbabwe to see the Victoria Falls can be arranged.
Serondela is a sister lodge to Nkasa Lupala and Jackalberry Tented Camp, both in Namibia’s Nkasa Rupara National Park, so would combine well with either on a self-drive trip through Namibia.
Geographics
- Location
- Caprivi Strip, Namibia
- Ideal length of stay
- We'd recommend a stay of at least two nights here, to make the most of the activities on offer. Serondela works well as an add-on to a self-drive trip through Namibia.
- Directions
- Serondela is accessed by boat from Kasane in Botswana, which requires you to clear immigration in both Botswana and Namibia before your transfer to the lodge.
- Accessible by
- Self-drive or Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Full Board & Activities
- Food quality
- Though we didn’t have time to eat at Serondela Lodge during our last visit in May 2018, we were impressed with the food at its sister camps, so we’d expect a similarly high standard here.
Breakfast is served buffet style, with cooked options to order.
Lunch is flexible, depending on the number of guests and the activities each guest is taking part in.
Dinner is a fixed three-course menu, though sometimes there will be a braai or traditional buffet. The lodge team encourages hosted group meals, but private dining is also available if preferred. - Dining style
- Mixture of group dining and individual tables
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- Room service is not available at the lodge.
- Drinks included
- Filtered water is provided in the rooms and at meals, though bottled water is also available. All soft drinks, local wines, beers and spirits are at additional cost.
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Children of all ages are welcome at Serondela.
- Property’s age restrictions
- None
- Special activities & services
- None provided
- Equipment
- Cots can be provided on request.
- Generally recommended for children
- Though there is no age limit at the lodge, we think Serondela Lodge is better suited to older children, due to its riverside location and the activities included.
- Notes
- Wild animals do enter camp at times, and there are no fences to the pool, or the river, so children should be supervised by a parent or guardian at all times.
Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Serondela
Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Serondela Lodge have kindly recorded their wildlife sightings and shared them with us. The results are below. Click an animal to see more, and here to see more on our methodology.
100% success
100% success
100% success
100% success
100% success
100% success
100% success
100% success
100% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
0% success
Communications
- Power supply notes
- Serondela has a back-up generator on site. There are charging points in each chalet as well as in the main area.
- Communications
- 3G WiFi signal is available in the main area. You'll find limited cellphone reception at Serondela.
- TV & radio
- There are no TVs at the lodge.
- Water supply
- Other
- Water supply notes
- Water is pumped from a borehole and is filtered and processed through a reverse osmosis system. The bathrooms are fully plumbed, with flush toilets and hot showers.
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- Yes
- Medical care
- A first-aid trained member of staff is on site at all times. The closest doctor is in Kasane, which requires a 45-minute boat trip then a short drive. In the event of a serious incident, guests would be flown to Windhoek, from Kasane.
- Dangerous animals
- High Risk
- Security measures
- Serondela has both security guards patrolling in the day, and nightwatchmen. You will be escorted to and from your chalet before dawn and after dusk.
- Fire safety
- Fire extinguishers are located in each chalet as well as in the main area. Staff are trained in their use.
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Boat trip
Cultural excursion
Fishing
Guided walking safari
Private activities
Extras
- Disabled access
- Not Possible
- Laundry facilities
- A laundry service is available, at extra cost.
- Money
- There is a safe in each of the chalets for storing valuables. Currency exchange is not available.
- Accepted payment on location
- Payment is accepted by Mastercard and Visa, though the lodge is unable to accept American Express. It's also possible to pay in Botswana pula, Namibian dollars euro, British pounds or US dollars.
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Serondela Lodge's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Serondela.
Other lodges in Caprivi Strip
Alternative places to stay in this same area.
Ndhovu Safari Lodge
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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
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River Dance
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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.
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 Serondela 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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