Zambezi Region (Caprivi Strip)

Pros & Cons

• Excellent wilderness experience
• Good variety of animals not common in Namibia
• Little visited off-the-beaten-track destination
• Regular flooding and bad roads
• Mainly for serious 4x4 enthusiasts only; facilities are limited

Wildlife

There is plenty of wildlife in the Zambezi Region, including several species not found elsewhere in Namibia. The area, which becomes flooded in the Wet season, is home to many water-adapted animals. Crocodiles and hippos are common and water-loving antelopes such as red lechwe, sitatunga and reedbuck are present in healthy numbers. No less than 60% of the country’s buffalo and elephant inhabit this small area.

• More about Zambezi Region's wildlife

Scenery

The Zambezi Region is flat and lacks prominent physical features. Several wide, tropical rivers, such as the Kwando and the Zambezi, form the main landmarks. Thirty percent of the eastern Zambezi Region can be flooded during rains, making it resemble the more famous neighboring Okavango Delta. The vegetation is lush and tropical with many magnificent tree species.

Weather & Climate

Summer in the Zambezi Region, which is also the area’s Wet season (November to April), is punctuated by thunderstorms most afternoons, though they rarely stick around for long. It stays relatively hot over this six-month period, but nothing approaching the average afternoon temperature (34°C/93°F) during the final month of the region’s otherwise mild winter (May to October).

• More about the weather and climate

Best Time to Visit

The Dry season (May to October) is the best time to visit the Zambezi Region. At this time, temperatures are more bearable and wildlife viewing tends to be better. Roads can deteriorate badly during the Wet season (November to April).

• More about the best time to visit

Want to Visit Zambezi Region?

• Zambezi Region safaris and tours
• Tour operators for Zambezi Region