Location and Name Change
The Caprivi region, now officially known as the Zambezi Region, is located in the far northeastern corner of Namibia. It forms a narrow strip of land extending eastward between Angola, Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. This strategic geographic corridor gives Namibia access to several major rivers, including the Zambezi, Chobe, Kwando, and Linyanti Rivers.The region was historically known as Caprivi Strip, named after German Chancellor Leo von Caprivi, who negotiated the land swap with the British in 1890 to give Germany access to the Zambezi River. In 2013, as part of Namibia's efforts to remove colonial names, the name was officially changed to Zambezi Region.
Climate of Caprivi
The Zambezi Region has a tropical climate, quite different from the arid and semi-arid conditions found in much of Namibia. It receives some of the highest rainfall in the country, especially between November and March, with annual precipitation ranging from 600 to 1,000 mm. The region experiences hot summers and mild to warm winters. The abundance of water makes this area lush and green, especially during the rainy season.
Flora and Fauna
Due to its wetter climate and river systems, the Zambezi Region supports rich and diverse ecosystems:
-
Flora: The region is characterized by riverine forests, savannah grasslands, papyrus swamps, and woodlands dominated by mopane, baobab, and mahogany trees. The landscape is green for most of the year, especially around floodplains and rivers.
-
Fauna: The area is one of the most wildlife-rich parts of Namibia. It is home to elephants, buffalo, hippos, crocodiles, antelopes (like sitatunga and red lechwe), lions, leopards, and wild dogs. The region also hosts a variety of birds, making it a haven for birdwatching, with over 450 recorded species.
 |  |
|---|---|
 |
Attractions in the Caprivi Region
The Caprivi is one of Namibia’s most unique and vibrant areas, offering a range of exciting experiences. This region is known for its lush, green scenery throughout the year—unlike anywhere else in the country. It features several national parks teeming with wildlife, making it ideal for safaris and nature lovers. Visitors can also explore the rich cultural traditions of the Caprivian people, adding depth to this remarkable destination.
Accommodation in Caprivi (Zambezi)
Caprivi Mutoya Lodge
Provides a variety of accommodations including chalets, safari tents, and campsites. Activities range from canoeing and bird watching to day tours to national parks.
Caprivi Houseboat Safari Lodge
Nestled on the Zambezi River, the lodge offers five en-suite chalets and houseboat safaris. Guests can enjoy fishing, river cruises, and bird watching.
Ichingo Chobe River Lodge
Located on Impalila Island, the lodge features eight Meru safari tents with private balconies. It's ideal for viewing wildlife in the Chobe National Park.
Jackalberry Tented Camp
Situated in the marsh area of the Linyanti River, the camp offers four luxury tents. Guests can enjoy exclusive wildlife viewing experiences.
Kazile Island Lodge
This luxury lodge comprises ten tents overlooking the Kwando River. Accessible only by boat, it offers a secluded experience amidst nature.
Caprivi River Lodge
Located just outside Katima Mulilo on the Zambezi River, this lodge offers 10 river-facing chalets with en-suite facilities. Activities include fishing, birding, and safaris to nearby national parks.
Chobe River Camp
Situated on the banks of the Chobe River, the camp features 20 tented chalets and 6 campsites. Guests can enjoy wildlife viewing, birding, and day trips to Victoria Falls.
Zambezi Mubala Lodge
Located 40 km east of Katima Mulilo on the Zambezi River, with 18 double chalets. Offers river cruises, birdwatching (notably carmine bee-eaters), and fishing.
Zambezi Queen
A luxury houseboat on the Chobe River (access via Kasika, Namibia) with 14 suites. Offers game viewing from the water, birding, and cultural village tours.
Zambezi River Lodge
Situated in Katima Mulilo along the Zambezi River, featuring 42 rooms. Provides conferencing, riverfront dining, and fishing excursions.
Zovu Elephant Lodge
Located on the Caprivi side of the Chobe River near the Ngoma border, with 10 en-suite bungalows. Offers boat cruises, Chobe game drives, and elephant viewing.
Sharwimbo River Camp
Set on the banks of the Kwando River near Kongola, with 6 luxury tents. Offers birding, game drives in Bwabwata, and boat safaris.
Nambwa Lodge
Nestled in the Mayuni Conservancy inside Bwabwata National Park, with 10 luxury tented suites. Offers guided game drives, boat cruises, and bush dining.
Namushasha River Lodge
Located on the Kwando River, 24 km south of Kongola, with 27 chalets. Offers boat trips, game drives, and cultural visits to the local Mashi community.
Camp Kwando
Situated on the banks of the Kwando River near Kongola, with 18 thatched bungalows and campsites. Offers game drives, mokoro trips, and cultural village tours.
