Caprivi Strip Hotels
The Caprivi strip is a narrow piece of land in the northeast of Namibia that connects the country to Zambia, Zimbabwe and the Okavango Delta in Botswana. Having much higher rainfall than the rest of Namibia and with a network of waterways including the main perennial rivers of the Chobe, Zambezi, Kavango and Kwando, this area is typified by lush vegetation, riverine forest and open flood-plains. The only 2 towns of any significance in this region are Rundu and Katima Mulilo. However, the majority of Caprivi strip hotels are to be found in more remote areas, particularly around the Kavango River near Divundu, the Kwando River south of Kongola and along the Chobe.
Due to the dense bush and the negative effects of the bush-war in the 70s and 80s, game viewing is not as abundant as areas such as Etosha, but conservation efforts are seeing an increase in animal numbers and you can often see elephant, buffalo, lion, zebra, wildebeest as well as the more rare sable and roan antelope and lechwe. In addition, hippo and crocodile abound in the rivers. The best time of year to visit is in wintertime (May to August) when there is little chance of rain, the vegetation is more sparse and the day time temperatures are more comfortable. The main rainy season is between November and March when flooding can occur in certain areas and a 4x4 vehicle is generally advisable.
The Caprivi has one of the richest diversities of bird species anywhere in Namibia ranging from the brightly coloured Carmine Bee-eater breeding colonies to the very rare Pel's Fishing Owl. With over 430 species recorded in this relatively small area and many lodges being reasonably priced and accessible by normal 2x4 vehicle, this is one of the prime birding spots in southern Africa. The best time of year for visiting the Caprivi if birding is your main interest is between September and April but if you are keen on your creature comforts, it is worth remembering that many lodges have limited electricity and therefore it may be more enjoyable to visit mid-Aug to mid-Sept or in April when temperatures and humidity are more bearable.
There is a reasonable selection of Caprivi accommodation ranging from basic camping to really up-market Caprivi lodges. For simple Caprivi Strip accommodation expect to pay around US$50-60pp, mid-range between US$85-120pp and up-market lodges between US$200-300pp although some of the really exclusive establishments do go as high as US$650pp. The lower end of the market tend to only include breakfast in their prices whereas the more expensive lodges in the Caprivi Strip tend to include all meals and often activities as well.
Most people who travel to the Caprivi arrange a self-drive itinerary that goes between Windhoek and Vic Falls or, if time allows, returning to Windhoek possibly via Botswana. The other options include taking a local flight from Windhoek, booking a scheduled tour or arranging a private tour with your own guide. Whichever option takes your fancy, we can help organise everything for you.
The Caprivi and Kavango are malarial areas and it is recommended that travellers seek medical advise before travelling. Please contact us for any information as you plan your Caprivi travel, and don't hesitate for any recommendations as you search for Caprivi hotels.