
Caprivi Strip
A lush water-fed area, the narrow extension of land known as the Caprivi Strip (also known as the Zambezi region), protrudes eastwards from the extreme northeast corner of Namibia. The Caprivi borders Botswana, Angola, Zambia and, contrary to popular belief, not Zimbabwe (close, but no).
Caprivi Strip Facts
- Size: Length +- 450km, width, between 30km and 105km
- When to visit: May-Oct (cool, dry season - preferred for game viewing)
- Climate: Pleasant with avg. daily temp. at 26°C
- Rainfall: above 500mm per annum varying
- Altitude: 1000m above sea level
- Location: Top northeast corner
- Accommodation: Zambezi Region Lodges
Information On Caprivi Strip
Although the wildlife in the Caprivi has not yet recovered from years of poaching and the destructive bush war of the 1970s and 80s, it is a superb conservation area that may in the future rival Etosha and the Okavango and Selinda national Parks.
Named after Leo Graf von Caprivi, the strip was ceded to colonial Germany by the British. The Caprivi is in a tropical climate zone and receives a high amount of rainfall in the summer months.
Open throughout the year; the Caprivi region is dominated by broad-leafed deciduous woodlands comprising wild Seringa, Copal Wood and Zambezi teak. It is the wettest region in Namibia, with its high rainfall fed by a number of major rivers like the Okavango, Kwando and Zambesi.
The small town of Katima Mulilo at the eastern tip of Caprivi offers some attractive lodges, an airport, a hospital, some petrol stations, grocery stores and a street market with crafts, traditional baskets woven from grass, wood carvings, jewellery and clothes.
Malaria is an endemic, year-round problem and prophylaxis are recommended for all visitors.
Animals seen here include: buffalo, elephant, zebra, antelopes, hippo, crocodiles, lion, giraffe, puku, sitatunga, red lechwe, spotted necked otters, waterbuck, Roan antelope, Oribi, wild dog.
As many as 339 bird species have been recorded in west Caprivi.
Where is Caprivi Strip located?
Located in the far northeast corner of Namibia, in a nutshell, drive north from Windhoek and turn right at Rundu, 100 kilometres later, one arrives in the Caprivi.
To give one more of an overhead view of where the Caprivi/Zambezi Region is located, have a look at this link; Google Maps - Caprivi Strip
Best Time to Visit Caprivi Strip?
In our humble opinion, the dry winter months are the best months to travel through the region; the days are mild to warm, as are the nights. The summer months are the rainy/wet months. Although this period is excellent for birding, accessing certain areas of the national parks is prohibited by rising waters, with a very good chance of one getting stranded.
Main Attractions Of National Park
- View 4 of the 'Big 5'
- Remarkable birdlife
- Fishing and boat trips
- Access into Botswana from Namibia (and visa-versa)
- Popa Falls
- Bwabwata National Park
- Mudumu National Park
- Nkasa Rupara National Park
- Desert Rhino Camp
Desert Rhino Camp is situated in the 1-million-acre private Palmwag Reserve in northwest Namibia, between Etosha and the Skeleton Coast.
There are very few places on the planet that can offer this level of privacy and wilderness experiences; Damaraland is truly special.
- Mushara Outpost
On the edge of Etosha National Park, Mushara Outpost offers a luxurious retreat in the heart of the wilderness. The lodge's steel and canvas design captures the essence of a classic African safari, blending perfectly with its natural surroundings.
Start your day with an exhilarating game drive into the Etosha National Park, home to an array of iconic African wildlife. After a day of exploration, relax by the inviting pool or indulge in gourmet meals featuring local flavours in the elegant dining area.
- Zambezi Mubala Lodge
Zambezi Mubala Lodge is one of Namibia's best-kept secrets with a Zambezi Riverfront setting, 450 species of bird and good fishing all on the doorstep.
The perfect base from which to explore all that surrounds or simply sit back and relax in the lap of luxury.
- Camp Sossus
Nestled in the heart of the Namib Desert, Camp Sossus offers an unforgettable escape into one of the world's most breathtaking and remote landscapes. This exclusive Camp combines luxury with sustainability, providing guests with a chance to connect with nature while enjoying modern comforts.
During your stay at Camp Sossus, immerse yourself in the unique beauty of the Namib Desert. Explore its stunning vistas through guided activities such as nature walks, scenic drives, or stargazing under impossibly clear night skies.
- Doro Nawas Camp
Doro Nawas Camp is situated in the beautiful Damaraland on a small, rocky outcrop within the floodplain of a small tributary of the Huab River; guests are housed in 16 natural walled units that blend in with the surrounding scenery.
- Mushara Lodge
Located on the edge of Etosha National Park, Mushara Lodge offers a perfect blend of nature and luxury. Surrounded by northern Namibia's stunning landscapes, it's an ideal gateway to explore the park's rich biodiversity and beauty.
Mushara Lodge provides an idyllic retreat after a day of exploring the wonders of Etosha. With well-appointed accommodations, exquisite dining, and tranquil surroundings, it offers a sanctuary for relaxation and reflection.