The Kavango Region
Namibia
The Kavango Region is dominated by the Kavango River and its broad flood plains, which makes the area considerably greener than the rest of Namibia. The river forms a natural border between Namibia and Angola for more than 400km and is the lifeline to the Kavango people. The people make a living from fishing, tending cattle and cultivating sorghum, millet and maize. The Kavango people originate from the large lakes of East Africa moving to Kavango between 1750 and 1800. Today the Kavango Region consists of five tribes each led by a traditional chief and assisted by a traditional headman.
The largest urban settlement is the regional capital of Rundu while the towns of Divundu and Nkurenkuru also have sizeable populations.
In the Kavango Region is the wild and undeveloped Khaudum Game Park. It covers 384,000 hectares and is home to animals such as antelope, elephants, zebras, wild dogs, lions, leopards as well as 320 bird species. However game numbers vary considerably as the park is un-fenced enabling animals to follow their natural migration routes. Because the roads can be so poor the best time to visit is during the dry winter months, June to October, but even then a four wheel drive vehicle is essential.
Bordering the Kavango River is Mahango Game Reserve. It covers 244km2 and is characterised by riverine forests, abroad floodplain, magnificent baobabs and large herds of elephant and red lechwe. The game park also harbours rare game species such as buffalo, sable, roan, bushbuck, reedbuck, tsessebe and sitatunga. It is also home to over 400 bird species and is one of the only game parks in Namibia where unguided walking is permitted.
Divava Okavango Lodge
An upmarket lodge and spa on the banks of the Kavango River. The only traditional luxury lodge on this stretch of river
Kaisosi River Lodge
A few kilometers east of Rundu a nice functional lodge that more than adequately serves as an overnight stop while travelling through the Kavango and Zambezi region. The rooms, bar and restaurant area offer lovely views of the Kavango River.
Mahangu Safari Lodge
Situated close to the Mahangu Park in west Caprivi - this is an excellent stop-over between Namibia, Maun (in Botswana) and the Victoria Falls
Ngepi Camp
A rustic river side campsite and lodge offering excellent value for money. A lively bar and restaurant ensures this appeals to the younger or more socially inclined traveller
Ndhovu Lodge
Refreshingly, and surprisingly for the area, this lodge does not have the word 'River' as part of its name. Do not be misled it is situated on the banks of the river opposite the Caprivi Game Park (Bwabwata National Park)
Popa Falls Rest Camp
Close to the Popa Falls (a series of rapids on the Kavango River), this rest camp was renovated in 2013
RiverDance Lodge
Near the village of Divundu, this small but wonderfully managed lodge is a perennial favourite of ours. Lovely wooden chalets, with large decks overlook the river. Those wanting to experience the river can choose from fishing and sunset river cruises
Shamvura Camp
One of the best lodges for birders visiting Namibia - but also great for fishing, chilling or generally becoming part of the family (the family consists of a host of creatures including goats, otters and guinefowls all lovingly adopted by the owners)
Taranga Safari Lodge
A small lodge a short distance west of Rundu. The rooms have river views and guests can choose from a range of activities