Rated: 77 / 100
Feel: 8 / 10
The small triangle in the bottom corner of the Zambezi region has great potential to be a world class safari destination.
This corner of Namibia is perhaps the most densely populated area in the entire KAZA region. Consequently the wildlife distribution has taken a hit during the 20th century. With the advent of focused conservation efforts wildlife is returning with a bang. If harmony between humans and animals can be reached, then there is no doubt that the Zambezi region of Namibia should be on your bucket list in future.
Wildlife and Environment
Scenery
What should be the Kwando delta, a water-filled paradise, is actually fairly dry and barren grassland. Water levels are low following poor rains and less water coming down from Angola. It’s beautiful down by the water’s edge, but pretty empty elsewhere.
Variety of Game
Very similar to the nearby Kwando Core area, there are perhaps a few more wetland bird species here during times of flood.
Amount of Game
Warthogs are the more prolific here than anywhere we’ve been. Shuffling along beneath the long grass they’re easily mistake for something else. There’s a good concentration of elephants and hippos down by the river.
Sightings
We spotted a leopard, a rare and lucky sighting even if he did spend the rest of the day trying to evade our gaze.
Wildlife & Environment Rating
25 / 40
Infrastructure
Access and Roads
Surprisingly good, we were provided with an excellent map at reception, and detailed guidance on which routes were worthwhile drives.
Campsites
The only campsites available are outside the park, however the excellent and expanding Rupara restcamp is worth a visit. It’s a community run enterprise, so any profits benefit the community and the pricing is reasonable.
Game Loops
Given the dryness of the terrain the roads were in good condition. The map we were given was accurate and the loops led us to the most prolific sites for game watching.
Crowdedness
Very few people visit, perhaps this place should start getting a better reputation.
Infrastructure Rating
34 / 40
Administration
Entry Price
Identically to Kwando, Namibian parks are the best value of all, 250 NAD per day for the two of us plus car – less than £10. The park does need some improvement before it can be considered amongst the Southern African heavyweights, so the price is good. Our sightings here earn an extra half star for the park.
Staff and Administration
Gate staff were the friendliest and most helpful of anywhere. We were given a good briefing before entering and the advice on best locations was well received.
Administration Rating
18 / 20
“Feel”
Our subjective star rating not impartial at all.
Maybe our unique leopard sighting sways our opinion, but we enjoyed the park and hope it continues to improve in the coming years.
Overall Rating
| Wildlife & Environment | Infrastructure | Administration |
| 25 / 40 | 34 / 40 | 18 / 20 |
77 / 100
Small Holiday Big Dream 