Protected Areas-Caprivi
Home to the Owambo & Caprivian people and the most densely populated area; northern Namibia is quite the opposite to the dramatic desert scenes of the rest of the country. Numerous national parks and river systems divide it into a combination of wetlands, islands and densely wooded habitats. With vivid scenes of color painted into the landscape and wildlife ranging from herds of antelope species and elephants to over 600 bird species, the Caprivi region abounds in incredible and awe-inspiring experiences. Namibia is one of the only countries in the world that has conservation contained within its constitution, and the northern parts lend their full contribution.
Mahango Game Reserve
Proclaimed a national park in 1989 with the aim being conservation of Namibia’s buffalo population, the Mahango Game Reserve stretches across 400 hectares of pristine woodlands, lush vegetation dotted with baobab trees and the Okavango River. Considered one of the richest areas in Namibia, the park provides incredible game viewing opportunities with species such as sitatunga, bushbuck, red lechwe, sable and tsessebee. The banks of the Okavango are frequented by herds of elephant, hippopotamus and ever watchful crocodiles while cheetah, lion, leopard and wild dog balance the scales. Mahango Game Reserve offers visitors two routes to choose from. The eastern track stretches about 15km and offers a good road while the western one is only suitable for 4x4 vehicles. 31km of track will take you into some of the most beautiful landscapes Namibia has to offer. With the Popa Falls only 12km away, the Mahango Game Reserve is well worth the visit!
Caprivi Game Park
Proclaimed a park in 1968, Bwabwata National Park (formerly the Caprivi Game Park) is named after a local village. The name means "the sound of bubbling water". It expands over 6,100km² and encompasses the entire area between the Okavango and Kwando rivers. Not only is it home to around 35 game species and 339 bird species, it also houses a large portion of the cultural diversity of the Caprivi. Although it portrays the lush vegetation that the Caprivi is known for, the game visibility might not be overly abundant due to the park only having one road, a fairly sandy trek recommended for 4x4 vehicles only. Bwabwata National Park is a synergy between local communities and the environment with tourism being one of the main contributors to economic growth in the region.
Mudumu National Park
With the Kwando River forming its western border, the Mudumu National Park is a paradise of floodplains, mopane forests and lakes. Sitatunga, red lechwe, buffalo, sable antelope and oribi are just some of the game species you may encounter in this treasure trove. Lion, hyena, leopard and 430 bird species including cranes and jacana add that extra special touch. The park houses only one unfenced campsite and visitors must provide own water, food and fuel. With stunning vistas of a wild and untamed frontier, Mudumu National Park offers a glimpse into wildest Africa!
Mamili National Park
At the southernmost tip of the Caprivi Strip lies Mamili National Park, a wild wonderland of wetlands, islands and river channels. Apart from being a birder’s paradise, herds of elephant, buffalo, giraffe and antelope species such as red lechwe and reedbuck can be spotted amongst dense woodlands and reed beds with crocodile and hippo crowding the river banks. Mamili National Park holds the record for the largest wetland area with conservation status in Namibia. Roads can be difficult to navigate with deep pools and muddy tracks requiring a 4x4 vehicle, driving in convoy is a recommended advantage. Visitors are also encouraged to be self-sufficient in terms of food, water and fuel. While the park does offer rugged camp sites, more luxurious options are offered along the outskirts of the park.
