Caprivi

Caprivi

About Caprivi

Caprivi is a narrow strip of land in northeastern Namibia that borders Zambia, Botswana, and Angola. It's approximately 450 km long and 32 km wide at its narrowest point. The region has a tropical climate with a wet season from December to March and a dry season from April to November. It's home to several ethnic groups and boasts a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, and antelopes. Caprivi is one of the finest places you can discover while on your Namibia Safaris.

From the serenity of its rivers to the vibrancy of its culture, Caprivi invites you to experience a side of Namibia that is as enchanting as it is distinct.

Best Time To Visit Caprivi

The Best Time To Visit Caprivi is during the dry season from April to November when wildlife is more easily spotted, and the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities. However, if you are interested in birdwatching, the wet season from December to March is the best time as many migratory bird species can be seen. It's also worth noting that temperatures can get quite hot during the peak of the dry season, so plan accordingly. Know more from Best Time To Visit Namibia.

Wildlife

Caprivi is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, antelopes, lions, leopards, cheetahs, wild dogs, and hyenas. The region's numerous rivers, including the Zambezi and Chobe, support a wealth of aquatic wildlife, such as hippos, crocodiles, and various fish species. Additionally, Caprivi is a bird-watching paradise, with over 400 bird species recorded in the region. Know more from Namibia Wildlife.

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Caprivi

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History Of Caprivi

The Caprivi Strip, now known as the Zambezi Region, is a narrow strip of land in north-eastern Namibia that was annexed by Germany in 1890 as part of German South West Africa. South African forces occupied the territory in 1915 during World War I, and it was administered by South Africa until Namibia gained independence in 1990. Due to a lack of transportation infrastructure, the region was isolated and difficult to develop economically for much of its history

However, recent investments by the Namibian government in roads and other infrastructure have helped spur economic growth. Today, the region is a popular Namibia Destination for eco-tourism and is home to a variety of wildlife and ethnic groups.

Geography And Climate

Caprivi is approximately 450 km long and only 32 km wide at its narrowest point, making it a unique geographical feature in Namibia. The region is defined by four major rivers, the Zambezi, Chobe, Linyanti, and Kwando, which create a lush, green oasis in an otherwise arid landscape.

The rivers also support a wide variety of aquatic wildlife, including hippos, crocodiles, and fish species. The area is characterized by a tropical climate with a wet season from December to March and a dry season from April to November. The terrain consists of grasslands, floodplains, and dense woodland, providing habitats for a diverse range of Namibia Wildlife.

What Is The Best Time To Visit Caprivi Strip

Here is some information on what is the Best Time To Visit Caprivi, that will help you plan your Caprivi Safaris.

  • Generally, March to November is considered as most suitable Weather In Caprivi.
  • While September, October and November are considered as the warmest months in Caprivi, while June and July warmest months are coldest months.
  • Rainiest months in Caprivi are January and December.

Weather And Climate In Caprivi

Caprivi experiences semi-arid climate. The yearly average temperature in Caprivi Strip is 31 degrees Celsius. And annual rainfall is 1353 mm, with a maximum of 363 mm in January, and a minimum of 1 mm in August. Below the table shows yearly climate patterns in Caprivi.

Months

Climate

Temperature (Can reach up to)

January to March

Okay

21°C

April to June

Very Good

27°C

July

Beautiful

13°C

August-September

Perfect

36°C

October – November

Favorable

29°C

December

Correct

41°C

Visiting Caprivi In Dry Season

Visiting Caprivi during the dry season, which runs from April to November, is a popular choice for travelers who want to experience the region's wildlife and outdoor activities. During this time, the weather is generally mild and dry, making it ideal for game drives, guided walks, and river cruises.

Wildlife is also easier to spot during the dry season, as the animals tend to congregate around water sources. Visitors on Caprivi Safaris can expect to see a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, antelopes, lions, leopards, cheetahs, wild dogs, and hyenas.

What our Experts Says

it's important to note that temperatures can get quite hot during the peak of the dry season, so bringing plenty of sunscreens, a hat, and lightweight clothing is recommended. It's also important to stay hydrated and carry plenty of water when venturing out into the bush.

Visiting Caprivi In Wet Season

Visiting Caprivi during the wet season, which runs from December to March, can be a unique and rewarding experience for travelers who don't mind some rain and humidity. The wet season is characterized by heavy afternoon rain showers, which can create lush, green landscapes and swollen rivers. The region's vegetation is at its most vibrant during this time, making it a great time for birdwatching and nature walks.

The wet season also brings migratory bird species to the area, which can be seen in large numbers. However, the rainy season can make roads and trails muddy and difficult to navigate, so visitors should be prepared for some inconvenience.

What our Experts Says

Mosquitoes and other insects are also more prevalent during this time, so taking precautions against insect bites is essential.

Considering all above information, April to November is the most optimal time for Caprivi Tours.

Getting To Caprivi

Despite of its remote wilderness, Caprivi is easily accessible. There are several ways to get to Caprivi, depending on where you are coming from and your preferred mode of transportation.

By Air:

The easiest and most convenient way to get to Caprivi is by air. There are several airports in the region, including Katima Mulilo Airport and Mpacha Airport, which offer daily flights to and from other major cities in Namibia, such as Windhoek and Swakopmund. You can book a flight with Namibian Airways or Air Namibia.

By Road:

If you prefer to travel by road, you can take a bus or drive to Caprivi. Several bus companies operate in Namibia, such as Intercape and TransNamib, which offer daily services to and from major cities in Namibia. If you plan to drive, you can rent a car in Windhoek or other major cities and drive to Caprivi. The roads are generally well-maintained and easy to navigate.

By Boat:

You can also reach Caprivi by boat, as the Zambezi River flows through the region. There are several boat tours and cruises available, which offer a unique way to explore the region and see the wildlife from a different perspective. Some of the popular boat tour companies include the Zambezi Queen and Ichingo Chobe River Lodge.

What our experts says

It is important to note that Caprivi is a remote and sparsely populated region, so it is recommended to plan your trip in advance and be prepared for long distances and limited services. Make sure to bring plenty of water, food, and other supplies with you, especially if you plan to explore the national parks and reserves.

Wildlife In Caprivi

The Caprivi in Namibia is a unique and biodiverse region that is home to a wide variety of wildlife. Some of the iconic wildlife species that can be found in the Caprivi Safaris include elephants, lions, leopards, buffaloes, hippos, crocodiles, zebras, giraffes, and various antelope species such as kudus, impalas, and bushbucks.

Birdlife

For Bird-watchers, Caprivi is definitely a safe haven. This region is home to several bird species, including fish eagles, kingfishers, and herons, among others.

Cultural Heritage

The Caprivi Strip, also known as the Zambezi Region, is a narrow strip of land in Namibia that borders Angola, Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. The region is home to several indigenous communities, each with their own unique cultural heritage.

Lozi People

One of the most prominent cultural groups in Caprivi is the Lozi people, who migrated from present-day Zambia in the 19th century. The Lozi people are known for their traditional monarchy, with the Litunga (king) being the supreme ruler. The annual Kuomboka festival, which takes place in April or May, is a highlight of Lozi culture and celebrates the migration of the Litunga and his people from the floodplains to higher ground.

Mafwe People

Another significant cultural group in Caprivi is the Mafwe people, who are known for their rich oral history and storytelling traditions. The Mafwe people also have a strong connection to the environment, with their cultural practices emphasizing sustainable use of natural resources.

The San People

The San people, who are also known as the Bushmen, are an indigenous group in Caprivi with a deep knowledge of the local flora and fauna. They have a rich tradition of hunting and gathering, and their cultural practices are closely tied to the natural environment.

Caprivi is also home to several cultural sites, such as the Katima Mulilo Museum, which showcases the cultural heritage of the region, including traditional artifacts, clothing, and musical instruments. The Impalila Island, which is located at the confluence of the Zambezi and Chobe Rivers, is another cultural site and is home to several ancient rock paintings that date back thousands of years.

Overall, Caprivi is a region with a rich cultural heritage that is closely tied to the natural environment. Its diverse cultural groups, traditional practices, and cultural sites make it a fascinating destination for travelers interested in learning about Namibia's cultural history.

For your quick understanding on people and culture of Caprivi, take a look at the following table.

EthnicGroup

Heritage

Unique Features

Lozi

Annual Kuomboka Festival

Boat procession of the king and his entourage to higher ground during flooding season

Subiya

Traditional fishing practices

Use of basket traps to catch fish in the Zambezi River

Mbukushu

Traditional homesteads

Circular-shaped thatched huts with a central courtyard

San

Rock art sites

Paintings depicting their hunting and gathering activities

Mafwe

Traditional dance and music

Use of drums and rattles in their performances

Attractions Around Caprivi

The Caprivi Strip is a narrow stretch of land in northeastern Namibia that protrudes between Zambia and Botswana. It is a unique and ecologically diverse region with a range of attractions that you can discover during your Tours in Caprivi.

Bwabwata National Park:

This park is located in the eastern part of the Caprivi Strip and is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, and antelopes. Visitors can take game drives or guided walks to explore the park.

Mahango Game Reserve:

Located in the western part of the Caprivi Strip, this reserve is home to over 400 species of birds and a variety of other wildlife, including hippos, crocodiles, and antelopes. Visitors can take game drives or go birdwatching.

Zambezi River:

The Zambezi River forms the northern border of the Caprivi Strip and offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and birdwatching. Visitors can also take a sunset cruise or canoe trip down the river.

Popa Falls:

Located on the Okavango River in the eastern part of the Caprivi Strip, the Popa Falls are a series of cascading rapids that are popular with tourists. Visitors can take a guided tour or hike to see the falls up close.

Mudumu National Park

This park is located in the eastern part of the Caprivi Strip and is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and buffalo. Visitors can take game drives or guided walks to explore the park.

Khaudum National Park:

This park is located in the northeastern part of the Caprivi Strip and is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and hyenas. Visitors can take game drives or go camping in the park.

Things To Do In Caprivi

Being closely tied to natural environment, there are many things to do around Caprivi. Starting from Game Drives to Bird-watching, you can take part in a lot of activities during your Caprivi Tours.

Game drives and safaris:

Caprivi is home to several national parks and game reserves, such as Bwabwata National Park, Mudumu National Park, and Nkasa Rupara National Park. These parks offer excellent opportunities to see a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, buffalo, hippos, crocodiles, and various antelope species.

Boat cruises:

 The Zambezi River is a major Attraction In Caprivi, and a boat cruise offers a great way to explore its channels, floodplains, and islands. You can see a variety of birdlife, aquatic animals, and hippos from the comfort of a boat.

Cultural experiences:

 Caprivi is home to several indigenous communities, each with their own unique cultural heritage. You can visit cultural sites such as the Katima Mulilo Museum, Impalila Island, and the Nyangana Craft Center to learn about the region's cultural heritage, traditional crafts, music, dance, and storytelling.

Fishing:

 The Zambezi River is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts, with several species of fish, including tigerfish, bream, and catfish. Fishing trips can be arranged with local guides and operators.

Bird watching:

 Caprivi is home to over 450 bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Some of the best spots for bird watching include Mahango Game Reserve and Bwabwata National Park.

Hiking: The Caprivi Strip offers a range of hiking opportunities, from guided walks through national parks to multi-day hikes along the Zambezi River.

Cultural Tours: Visitors to the Caprivi Strip can also take cultural tours to learn about the traditions and customs of the local people, including the Himba and the San.

Know more from Things To Do In Namibia.

Where To Stay In Caprivi

Caprivi offers, a wide range of accommodations option. Following are the options, where visitors can choose to stay on their Tours in Caprivi.

Lodges: There are several lodges throughout Caprivi, ranging from budget-friendly to luxury. Some lodges offer all-inclusive packages that include meals, activities, and game drives.

Camping: Camping is a popular option in Caprivi, with several campsites located throughout the region. Some campsites offer basic facilities, while others have more amenities like electricity, hot showers, and restaurants.

Guesthouses: There are also several guesthouses in Caprivi, offering budget-friendly accommodation with basic amenities.

Resorts: If you're looking for a more upscale experience during your Caprivi Tours, there are several resorts located throughout Caprivi. These resorts offer luxury accommodations, fine dining, and a range of activities and amenities.

A Comprehensive Travel Requirements For Caprivi

Before you embark on a Caprivi Tour, all visitors need to know all travel requirements you need, starting from passport to visa requirements.

  • Passport: All visitors to Namibia must have a valid passport with at least six months validity beyond the date of entry.
  • Visa: Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter Namibia. Visitors from certain countries are exempt from visa requirements. You can check the visa requirements for your country on the Namibian Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security website.
  • COVID-19 Testing: All travelers to Namibia are required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken within 72 hours of departure. Visitors must also complete a health questionnaire and have their temperature checked upon arrival.
  • Travel Insurance: It is recommended that all visitors have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, emergency medical evacuation, and repatriation.
  • Yellow Fever Vaccination: If you are traveling from a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission, you must have a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate.
  • Car Rental Requirements: If you plan to rent a car in Namibia, you must have a valid driver's license, be at least 18 years old, and have a credit card in your name.

Here in the table, we have summarized all above data.

Travel Requirement

Details

Passport

Valid passport with at least 6 months validity beyond the date of entry

Visa

Depending on nationality, a visa may be required. Check with Namibian Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security website.

COVID-19 Testing

Negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken within 72 hours of departure

Health Questionnaire

All travelers must complete a health questionnaire

Temperature Check

All travelers must have their temperature checked upon arrival

Travel Insurance

Recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, emergency medical evacuation, and repatriation

Yellow Fever Vaccination

Valid yellow fever vaccination certificate required if traveling from a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission

Car Rental Requirements

Valid driver's license, minimum age of 18, and credit card in your name if renting a car

Final Words

Caprivi is a captivating region located in northeastern Namibia that offers a wealth of experiences for visitors. With its stunning national parks, meandering rivers, and vibrant culture, Caprivi is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for an unforgettable experience on Namibia Safaris.

best month to Visit Caprivi

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Peak

Low

Mixed

Caprivi in January

January is the height of Zambia’s summer rainy season and most guide books will tell you it’s the worst time to visit. By January, heavy downpours have turned Zambia’s dirt and gravel roads to an impassable mush, rivers break their banks, and many camps and lodges close completely, only reopening once the waters have subsided. Daytime temperatures average about 30°C, with nights around 20°C across most of the country.

Caprivi in February

February in Zambia is much the same as January, with short, fierce afternoon thunderstorms, swollen rivers and washed-out roads. It can be a difficult time to visit in Zambia, unless you’re flying into a specialist lodge that operates throughout the season. These usually offer their best safari deals from January to April and will sometimes have discounts for families and children. Expect day-time temperatures around 30°C and nights falling below 20°C by the end of the month.

Caprivi in March

Zambia’s wet season is nearing its end in March, but there’s still plenty of rain, especially in the north. Up north, the season lasts longer, but gradually the rains retreat from the south, first from Livingstone and then Lusaka. Hot days remain around 30°C, but the nights get slowly cooler – down to around 15°C by the end of March.

Caprivi in April

Although not considered prime game-viewing season, April is an excellent time to Safari In Zambia . Rates tend to be lower, the weather drier and slightly cooler, and the atmosphere clear and crisp and scattered with fluffy clouds. It’s an ideal month for photography enthusiasts and for those who want to see the greener side of Southern Africa without the afternoon downpours. Hot days will still touch 30°C, with colder nights falling to between 10°C and 15°C. By mid-April the rains have almost completely left the south, but may linger in the north into the first few weeks of May.

Caprivi in May

May is arguably Zambia’s most beautiful month, with the vegetation at its lush best and Victoria Falls in full flow. By May, all of Zambia’s southern camps and lodges have reopened after the rains and across the south the dirt roads are drying, allowing self-drivers back into the parks. May is not yet prime time for wildlife viewing – the thick vegetation makes animals harder to spot. That said, Zambia’s guides are experts and guided game drives can still produce great sightings.

Caprivi in June

June marks the start of Zambia’s prime safari season, but many lodges still offer reduced ‘shoulder season’ rates so it’s one of the best months to visit. Later in the season conditions can get very hot, but June is cool and pleasant, with daytime highs not much over 25°C and nightly lows around 10°C. Pack thick socks and a warm jacket for early morning walks and game drives. And prepare yourself for one of Zambia’s best months for a walking safari.

Caprivi in July

July to October is peak season in Zambia, when game-viewing is at its finest, but lodges and camps also charge their highest rates. This is this the best time to go on Zambia Safari, with the thinning vegetation making wildlife easier to spot. It’s also the coldest month to visit Zambia, with daytime temperatures around 25°C in the south. Hot days can still reach 30°C, especially in the north, but expect some chilly nights and take a fleece, or better yet a windproof jacket, for early morning walks and game drives.

Caprivi in August

Zambia’s peak season extends into August and the combination of cool, dry weather and increasingly thinning vegetation makes it one of the best months to go on Zambia Safari. Across the country, surface water is rapidly drying and by the end of the month the animals begin to mass along the rivers, congregating near permanent water in ever increasing numbers. As pools dry, fish are trapped, and a variety of birds, including the supremely ugly marabou stork, descend for an easy meal.

Caprivi in September

By September things are hotting up in Zambia, as temperatures rise and the increasingly water-stressed animals compete for resources. As more pools dry, fish are exposed – an easy meal for hungry eagles, storks and scavengers. Both predators and prey stay close to the rivers and lion sightings are more common as their range decreases and their movements become more predictable. By the end of September hot days can easily reach 35°C, with nightly lows of between 15°C and 20°C.

Caprivi in October

October is peak safari season in Zambia – but it’s hot! Known locally as ‘suicide month’ the relentless heat hits the low-lying regions hardest, especially the Luangwa and Zambezi valleys where temperatures in the shade can reach well above 40°C. This includes Livingstone and Victoria Falls where white-water rafting is no longer just about the world-class rapids, for many it’s simply a great way to cool down. A stint on Lake Kariba is ideal at this time of year. It’s arguably the best month to catch giant tigerfish and in the deeper waters it’s also safe to swim.

Caprivi in November

November is the spring ‘shoulder’ season in Zambia when many lodges offer reduced rates or close completely, mostly on account of the unpredictable weather. Nobody knows exactly when the rains will begin, but they usually start in the north of Zambia first, then slowly move south over the course of the month. Lodges with fly-in access are more likely to stay open, but even some of these shut down for the wet season. As soon as the rains set in most dirt roads become impassable and lodges replying on road transfers generally close by mid-November at the latest.

Caprivi in December

December is the start of Zambia’s rainy season – generally cooler than the previous few months, but nevertheless still hot and humid. Expect daytime averages of roughly 30°C and nights down to only around 20°C. Rainstorms can be fierce, with heavy downpours rapidly turning the dirt roads to mud. Camps and lodges without fly-in access close completely and many close anyway due to flooding. Few safari operators continue through the wet season, but those that do stay open usually offer lower rates. It can still be a rewarding time to visit, especially for bird lovers, as the migrant species return in full force and the breeding season begins in earnest across the dambos and swamps.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Caprivi is a region located in northeastern Namibia, bordered by Angola, Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

The Main Attractions In Caprivi include national parks like Bwabwata, Mahango, Mudumu, and Khaudum, as well as the Zambezi and Okavango rivers, Popa Falls, and cultural tours to learn about the local people.

The Best Time To Visit Caprivi is during the dry season from May to October when wildlife is easier to spot. However, the wet season from November to April is also a good time to visit for lush greenery and migratory birds.

The currency used in Caprivi is the Namibian Dollar (NAD), but South African Rand (ZAR) is also accepted.

The main languages spoken in Caprivi are English and various Bantu languages like Lozi, Subiya, and Mbukushu.

The easiest way to get to Caprivi is by air. There are several airports in the region, including the Katima Mulilo Airport, Mpacha Airport, and Rundu Airport. You can also reach Caprivi by road from Windhoek or neighboring countries like Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter Namibia. Visitors from certain countries are exempt from visa requirements. Check with the Namibian Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security website for more information.

Caprivi is generally a safe place to visit, but visitors should take precautions like being aware of wildlife, using insect repellent to avoid mosquito bites, and carrying enough food and water when traveling long distances.

There are several options for accommodation in Caprivi, including lodges, campsites, guesthouses, and resorts.

Yes, you can rent a car in Caprivi. Requirements include having a valid driver's license, being at least 18 years old, and having a credit card in your name.

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