Updated July 15, 2026.
The Zambezi Region is the Namibia of large rivers, wetlands and safaris, including boat safaris. It is located in the far north-east of the country and is ecologically and culturally connected to Botswana, Zambia and Angola.
The historical name Caprivi is still used in tourism, but the current administrative name is Zambezi Region. It is not a short deviation from the classic circuit: it requires dedicated days and a logic of own travel.
Correct Geography: Kavango East and Zambezi Region
Those arriving from Etosha or central Namibia normally cross first Kavango East Region, where Rundu and Divundu are located. Continuing east you enter the Zambezi Region, which includes locations such as Kongola and Katima Mulilo.
Bwabwata National Park extends through parts of Kavango East and Zambezi Region. This distinction is useful for understanding distances, lodges and areas of activity; not all north-east administratively belongs to the Zambezi Region.
Because it is different from the classic circuit
- large rivers and floodplains;
- thicker vegetation;
- boat safaris in addition to game drives;
- particularly relevant birdwatching;
- villages and daily activities along the waterways;
- connection with cross-border ecosystems.
The region is part of the wider context of KAZA, a cross-border initiative of Angola, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
Source: Kavango Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area, consulted 15 July 2026.
Parks and main areas
Bwabwata National Park
Bwabwata is a special park because it integrates conservation areas, faunal corridors and community presence. The B8 crosses the park, while the areas dedicated to safari require deviations and planning.
Mahango Core Area
The one often simply called “Mahango” is the Mahango Core Area of Bwabwata National Park, near Divundu and the Okavango River. It is one of the most accessible introductions to safari in the north-east and can be combined with river activities operated by lodges.
Buffalo and Kwando Core Areas
Other major areas of Bwabwata include Buffalo and Kwando. Access, conditions and routes must be verified according to season, medium and directions of the manager.
Mudumu National Park
Mudumu offers thicker vegetation than Etosha. The sightings may require more patience, but landscape and immersion are part of the experience.
Nkasa Rupara National Park
It is a dynamic wet area, influenced by water levels. Access and routes depend strongly on conditions. A suitable vehicle and updated local information are essential.
Boat safari and game drive
The combination of water and earth is the main distinguishing element. Boat safari allows you to observe shores, birds and fauna from a different perspective; the game drives complete the experience.
The vegetation can make the animals less immediately visible than the open plains of Etosha. The comparison based only on the number of sightings is therefore not useful.
For other wildlife areas consult Safari in Namibia beyond Etosha.
How many days do you need
The region requires real extension. A single night does not allow you to understand the different river areas.
- Transit: useful only on a linear itinerary, with limited experience.
- Three or more stages: allows you to combine Okavango, Kwando and Zambezi.
- Regional itinerary: suitable for connecting Namibia, Botswana and Victoria Falls.
Compressing the entire area into two days after Etosha means spending a lot of time on the B8 and little time in the nature areas.
When to go
- Driest period: roads generally more manageable and fauna often more concentrated near the water.
- Green period: intense landscapes, strong ornithological activity and potentially more complex access.
Rain and river levels do not follow a perfect calendar. The conditions must be checked before entering remote areas.
Vehicle and accompaniment
The main roads have different needs from the internal slopes. For sand, mud and areas subject to water can serve an adequate 4x4 and real driving competence. In some activities, using the vehicle and driving the lodge is the safest solution.
Also consult the guide on 4x4 in Namibia.
Health
In the north-east the risk of malaria is more relevant than many areas of the classic circuit. Indications depend on season, route and personal situation and must be required to a doctor or travel medicine center.
Learn more in vaccines, malaria and health in Namibia.
Community and responsible tourism
The region is inhabited and lived. Villages, fishing, breeding and local movements are part of the landscape. Cultural activities should be organized with consent, mediation and comprehensible benefit for the people involved.
Consult the articles on conservancies and on meetings with communities.
Connections with Botswana and Victoria Falls
The Zambezi Region lends itself to linear routes towards Chobe, Kasane and Victoria Falls. The link, however, introduces frontiers, vehicle insurance, visas, transfer times and conditions of suppliers.
For options see how to combine Namibia, Zambia and Botswana.
Mistakes to avoid
- Add it to the classic circuit without sufficient days.
- Call Zambezi Region all the way from Rundu to Katima Mulilo.
- Underestimate border times and distances.
- Entering remote trails with inadequate equipment or experience.
- Neglecting malaria, heat, water and communications.
- Booking a lodge without understanding which river and near which protected area it is located.
Frequently asked questions
Are Zambezi Region and Caprivi the same thing?
Caprivi is the historical name still widespread. The current administrative name is Zambezi Region, but the tourist corridor of the north-east also includes locality in Kavango East.
Is Mahango a separate park?
Today it is correctly referred to as the Mahango Core Area of Bwabwata National Park.
Can it be added after Etosha?
Yes, with multiple days and stages spread out. It's not a short detour.
Do you need a guide?
Not for every transfer. It is particularly useful for safari, remote slopes and understanding of the territory; many lodges operate guided activities.
Build a dedicated itinerary
Redland develops the north east as part of a tailor-made trip or a wider regional project. Access, health, borders and tariffs are reviewed on actual dates before confirmation.
