Stretching from the peaceful banks of the Kavango River in northern Namibia to the wildlife-dense plains of Botswana’s magnificent Chobe National Park, the journey between these two regions offers rustic campers one of the most intense and enjoyable trips into one of Africa’s wildest landscapes.
This holiday will lead you through lush woodlands, picturesque riverside campsites, and some of the continent’s most iconic wildlife habitats. Along the way, the gentle rush of the Kavango River and the distant calls of elephants on the Chobe floodplains will be your peaceful constant companions.
For those seeking an authentic African adventure, this guide will provide a detailed camping itinerary, highlighting the best riverside spots to pitch your tent and the activities that will bring you closer to the region’s untouched beauty. From quiet mornings by the river to thrilling evenings with wildlife grazing nearby, camping here is not about luxury, but about a deeper connection to nature.
In this, our latest guide to planning the very best rustic Namibia tour, you’ll find all of the essential information on where to stay, what to do at each destination, and how to pack for an extended tour through this untamed terrain.
Whether you’re a seasoned camper or new to the world of outdoor exploration, this guide will equip you with everything you need to know for an unforgettable journey from Kavango to Chobe.
Destination 1: Kavango River and Rundu, Namibia
The Kavango River, an important lifeline in the dry parts of northern Namibia, is the perfect starting point for a riverside camping adventure.
The generously watered riverbanks are alive with the sounds of nature, which include the calls of exotic birds as well as the splash of hippos, as they playfully cool off in the water.
Here, life moves at a most tranquil pace, with local communities living harmoniously along the river’s edge, respectful of the wildlife, and travellers getting to enjoy the unique opportunity of being able to experience the sights and atmosphere as they move through the area.
For rustic travellers, there are several prime camping spots to choose from:
- Nunda River Lodge – Nestled on the riverbanks, this campsite is ideal for those looking to stay close to nature. The lodge has well-spaced sites that make for the ultimate peaceful retreat.
- Hakusembe River Lodge – Surrounded by beautiful green vegetation, this lodge’s camping area is designed to provide an intimate setting, with views of the river, perfect for a quiet escape.
Things to Do
- Boat Rides – You can glide along the Kavango River, keeping an eye out for hippos and crocodiles. Boat rides are ideal for photographing the wildlife up close.
- Village Visits – You can visit traditional Kavango villages, where you can learn about the local culture and traditions firsthand.
- Birdwatching – You can do a spot of birdwatching. The river is a paradise for bird lovers, with species like kingfishers, African fish eagles, and herons thriving in the area.
About Rundu, the largest and closest town to Kavango
As Kavango is the very start of your tour through this rugged and remote area, you need a place to stop and stock up on a few items before you head off on your trip.
Rundu is the urban gateway to the Kavango region. Set on the banks of the Okavango River, this town is a perfect first stop for campers, and it is home to all sorts of shops and other places to enjoy.
Camping Options
- Mukuku Rest Camp – A budget-friendly campsite close to the town centre, with easy access to interesting local attractions.
Things to Do
- Mahango Game Reserve – Just a short drive away, this small reserve is just the place to see elephants, buffalo, and hippos.
- Rundu Craft Market – Browse beautiful handmade baskets, carvings, and local art at this beautiful market. This is the perfect place to find authentic souvenirs.
Destination 2: Popa Falls
Popa Falls may not have towering cascades, but its series of scenic rapids along the Kavango River creates the sort of beauty that’s impossible to resist and deserves a spot on your riverside Namibia tour.
The water flows over rocky outcrops, creating the soothing sound of rushing water, a perfect backdrop for travellers who are looking for peace in nature. It’s a place where time slows down, and the mornings, with the mist rising off the river, are some of the most magical moments to experience.
For rustic campers, the riverside is the place to be. Here’s where you can camp for the night:
- Popa Falls Resort – This charming spot was made for rustic camping and it has just the right amount of comfort. The highlight is its proximity to the falls, which are just steps away, so you can hear the river’s constant hum as you drift off to sleep.
- Ngepi Camp – If you’re after something quirky and offbeat, Ngepi Camp delivers. With eco-friendly treehouses and sandy camping spots right on the water’s edge, it’s an experience that is truly whimsical while also designed to bring you close to nature.
Things to Do
- Walk Along the Rapids – Take a stroll on the riverbank at dawn to capture the sunrise. This is a photographer’s dream, especially as you will have plenty of golden light filtering through the trees.
- Canoeing – Go paddling through the calmer waters of the Kavango, enjoying the utter quiet as well as spotting wildlife along the shore as you paddle.
- Mahango Game Reserve – A stone’s throw away, this game park is teeming with elephants, buffalo, and the graceful sable antelope, making it a must for wildlife lovers and the perfect place for a Namibia safari.
Destination 3: Mahango Game Reserve
Tucked away along the floodplains of the Kavango River, Mahango Game Reserve is one of those special places that feels like a secret safari paradise.
Unlike some of the busier parks in Africa, Mahango retains an untouched, almost sacred quality.
It’s a small sanctuary, but it has some incredible ecosystems which range from riverine forests to open savannas, creating the setting for an incredible variety of wildlife encounters that will leave you in awe.
On any given day, you can spot elephants grazing near the river, hippos submerged in the cool waters, or herds of antelope gracefully moving across the plains.
For those wanting the full natural experience, camping inside the reserve is a dream. Here’s where you can stay:
- Mahango Game Reserve Camp – Nestled deep in the wild, this basic campsite will give you a raw and unforgettable connection to nature. You’ll fall asleep to the sounds of the African bush, with nothing but canvas between you and the wilderness.
Things to Do
- Game Drives – Early morning or late afternoon drives are the best times to see elephants, buffalo, and even the occasional lion or leopard. The park’s open landscapes make wildlife spotting easy.
- Walking Safaris – For a more intimate experience, a guided walking safari will bring you closer to the reserve’s plant life and smaller creatures, while you will be able to enjoy the sights of the larger game from a safe distance.
- Birdwatching – With over 400 species of birds, Mahango is a birder’s paradise. From fish eagles to the rare wattled crane, the skies and riverbanks are alive with winged wonders.
Destination 4: Caprivi Strip
The Caprivi Strip is a stunningly narrow ribbon of land that feels as though it has no business being a part of Namibia.
This corridor stretches from Namibia’s northeastern corner, threading its way between Botswana, Angola, and Zambia, before opening up to the rich floodplains of Chobe.
What makes the Caprivi truly captivating is its role as a wildlife highway, where it creates a vital link for animals to move freely across borders in search of water and food. At the same time, it helps the animals, it gives travellers the unique chance to see nature at its most raw and unbridled.
For rustic travellers, camping along the Caprivi’s rivers is an unforgettable experience and these are a few places you can pitch your tent:
- Namushasha River Lodge – Situated along the serene Kwando River, this lodge has the most beautiful riverside camping options. It also offers boat rides, which are a highlight for those who want to spot hippos and crocs lounging in the shallows.
- Camp Kwando – Set on the banks of the Kwando River, this peaceful campsite has comfortable shaded spots and an abundance of birdlife. It’s a place where mornings start with the chatter of birds and evenings end with the sounds of the bush.
Things to Do
- Game Drives through Bwabwata National Park – One of the most remarkable parks in the region, Bwabwata is a haven for elephants, lions, wild dogs, and more. A drive through these plains is like stepping into a living wildlife documentary.
- Sunset Boat Cruise – You can drift along the Kwando River just as the sun dips low and paints the water in shades of gold and crimson. It’s a photographer’s dream, especially with animals gathering at the river’s edge to drink in the fading light.
- Visit Lizauli Traditional Village – For a cultural connection, you can visit the Lizauli Traditional Village where you have the chance to meet the Mafwe and Mbukushu people and learn about their customs, traditional crafts, and their deep connection to the land.
Destination 5: Ngoma Border Crossing to Chobe
After a bit of driving, this is your final stretch as you get closer to Chobe.
As you cross the iconic Ngoma Bridge, the anticipation builds; you’re leaving behind the tranquil riverside camps and entering the heart of Chobe, a region renowned for its incredible wildlife populations and its spectacular open landscapes.
The crossing itself is smooth, though preparation is a must as you will want to be fully prepared for the journey thereafter.
Things to Do Before Crossing
- Stock up in Katima Mulilo – As the last significant town before the border, Katima Mulilo is the perfect place to fill your tank, gather food supplies, and pick up any essentials you may need for the next leg of your journey.
- Savour the Scenic Views – The approach to Ngoma has some of the most spectacular views of the Chobe River. Take a moment to soak it in. The water is often dotted with wildlife, and the surrounding plains stretch far into the distance, making for some incredible scenes.
- Watch for Wildlife – Keep your camera ready! This area is prime territory for elephant and buffalo sightings, with herds often spotted grazing right near the road. It’s a wonderful preview of what awaits you in Chobe National Park!
Destination 6: Chobe National Park, Botswana
Chobe National Park, the final stop on your rustic adventure, is renowned for its huge elephant populations and for the stunning Chobe River. This iconic wildlife sanctuary has something unique and extra special for every wildlife enthusiast.
In keeping with the theme of your trip, there are plenty of riverside camping places worth having a look at, such as:
- Ihaha Campsite – Right along the Chobe River, Ihaha Campsite gives campers breathtaking views of hippos and elephants in the water. When you stay here, you will get to fully enjoy the tranquillity of the wilderness, all while listening to the sounds of nature.
- Chobe Safari Lodge Campsite – Conveniently located near Kasane, this riverside camp is a popular choice among travellers because of its accessibility and beauty. When you stay here, you get to enjoy the convenience of being close to amenities while still getting to fully enjoy the natural surroundings.
Things to Do
- Boat Safari – Spot elephants, crocodiles, and a variety of water birds as you glide along the river.
- Game Drive – Take a guided game drive to explore Chobe National Park up close. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for lions, leopards, and other predators that roam the landscape.
- Sunrise at the Chobe Riverfront – Enjoy the iconic African sunrise at the Chobe Riverfront. As the first rays of light paint the sky, you’ll be taken in by the stunning silhouettes of wildlife against the backdrop of the rising sun, a sight that will stay with you forever.
A Checklist for the Journey
To ensure you’re fully prepared for your rustic camping adventure from Kavango to Chobe, these are the essentials you should consider bringing along:
Camping Gear
- Sturdy tent
- Sleeping bag
- Groundsheet
- Cooking equipment
- Utensils
- Matches or lighter
Clothing
- Lightweight, breathable clothing for daytime
- Warm layers for chilly nights
- Wide-brimmed hat
- Sunglasses
- Sturdy footwear
Food and Cooking Supplies
- Non-perishable food items
- Water storage containers
- Cooking fuel
- Salt, pepper, and other seasonings
Camera Equipment
- DSLR camera with a zoom lens
- Extra batteries
- Memory cards
Other Must-Haves
- Reliable GPS or map
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen
- First-aid kit
- Basic medications
- Toiletries
Remember, packing light is essential when camping in remote areas so prioritise the items that will make your stay more comfortable and safer.
Comparing Kavango and Chobe
While Kavango and Chobe are both stunning destinations in southern Africa, they give travellers distinctly different experiences.
Wildlife
Kavango is known for its unique ecosystem, hosting a variety of species including elephants, lions, leopards, and buffalo. However, Chobe National Park is renowned for its immense elephant population and is often referred to as “elephant heaven.” Visitors to Chobe can see herds of elephants bathing in the Chobe River, a truly unforgettable sight.
Cultural Experiences
Both regions have opportunities to interact with local communities and learn about their traditions. In Kavango, visitors can experience the ancient culture of the San people, one of the oldest indigenous groups in Africa. Chobe also provides opportunities to engage with local communities, particularly those living along the riverbanks and who are dependent on the park’s resources.
Landscapes
The landscapes of Kavango and Chobe differ significantly. Kavango is characterised by lush wetlands, palm-fringed waterways, and dense forests. In contrast, Chobe is dominated by open plains, acacia woodlands, and the iconic Chobe River. While both regions have breathtaking scenery, the contrasting landscapes provide a unique experience for travellers.
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A Kavango to Chobe trip is one of the best holidays you will ever have in Africa. To plan your next great getaway, be sure to have a look at our Namibia tours.