Things to Do in Caprivi Strip

The Caprivi Strip, now officially known as the Zambezi Region, is Namibia's narrow panhandle extending eastward between Botswana to the south and Angola and Zambia to the north. This unique geographical appendage stretches approximately 450 kilometers and is dramatically different from the rest of Namibia, featuring lush wetlands, perennial rivers, and dense woodlands instead of the country's characteristic desert landscapes. The region serves as a vital wildlife corridor and offers some of Southern Africa's most pristine wilderness experiences. The Strip is defined by four major rivers - the Okavango, Kwando, Chobe, and Zambezi - creating a network of floodplains, channels, and islands that support an incredible diversity of wildlife including elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and over 400 bird species. This water-rich environment has sustained local communities for centuries, with the region being home to several ethnic groups including the Masubia, Mafwe, and Mayeyi people. The area offers exceptional opportunities for river-based safaris, cultural encounters, and serves as an excellent base for exploring the famous 'Four Corners' where Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe meet.

Dining in the Caprivi Strip centers around lodge restaurants and local community establishments, with most visitors eating at their accommodation due to the remote nature of the region. Lodge dining typically features a mix of international cuisine and local specialties including fresh river fish, game meats, and traditional maize-based dishes. Local markets in Katima Mulilo and Rundu offer fresh produce and traditional foods, while community tourism initiatives provide authentic meals featuring local ingredients like mopane worms, traditional porridge, and river fish prepared with indigenous herbs and spices.

The best time to visit the Caprivi Strip is during the dry season from May to October, when wildlife viewing is optimal as animals concentrate around permanent water sources, and roads are most accessible. This period offers comfortable temperatures, minimal rainfall, and excellent conditions for boat safaris and game drives. The wet season from November to April brings lush green landscapes and exceptional birdwatching opportunities, but some areas become inaccessible due to flooding, and wildlife disperses across the expanded wetlands, making sightings more challenging.