Nkasa Lupala

Northern Namibia

Rating: Mid-range

highlights

Just 300m from the Nkasa Lupala National Park.
Raised decks make for excellent game viewing from your tent.
95% of staff are from the local area, warm hospitality.
Idyllic setting on the river bank.

Nkasa Lupala overview

Nkasa Lupala is situated close to the entrance of Nkasa Lupala National Park which was formerly known as the Mamili National Park. The lodge is a joint venture between a private investors and members of the Wuparo conservancy, 95% of the staff here are from the local area, so you can be assured of genuine Namibian hospitality.

The lodge is built on the banks of one of the channels of the Kwando river, an idyllic setting. There are ten luxury tents built on stilts. This additional height means the view from each tent affords fantastic wildlife viewing opportunities for which this area is known. The tents have wooden floors throughout, and are simple but comfortably furnished with wooden beds and wardrobes. To the rear, the en-suite bathroom is modern and contemporary with a curved shower partition. The neutral colour palette is enhanced with brightly coloured cushions and throws. The floor-to-ceiling sliding door opens out to the elevated deck with views of the surrounding landscape.

The tents are linked to the main lodge via pathways which wind behind the tents and lead to the quirky main building. Two adjacent thatched dome roofs which cover the lounge and dining area are topped with a viewing platform, the height allows for some amazing views of the wildlife which roams freely around the unfenced lodge. Nkasa Lupala is a fine example of an eco lodge. The lodge has been constructed using local and sustainable materials. It is totally energy self-sufficient for both electricity and water which is heated by solar panels.

This region is known for its birding opportunities, and the probably has the highest number of species in Namibia. Take part in game drives offered by the lodge and you could see lion, elephant, buffalo, hippo, impala, zebra, kudu and also wetland species such as lechwe, the shy sitatunga and reed buck. During the drier months night drives are also offered in the reserve. For the fitter and more adventurous, you can enjoy getting close to nature on a walking safari with a community guide, this activity is always subject to safety precausions. Boat cruises enable you to see the area from the water and get a different perspective. It is also quite rewarding to partake in a village visit and see the children in the local school, this will give you a good overview of life in this remote area of Namibia.

details

Open: Nkasa Lupala is open all year round.

Location: This camp is 300m from the Nkasa Lupala National Park in the Caprivi Strip.

Rooms: This eco camp, powered by solar has 10 tents built on stilts. The furnishings are comfortable and simple with an en-sutie bathroom with hot running water.

Activities: Game drives and boat trips take place within the park and surrounding area. It is also possible to do guided walks and village visits and partake in night drives to see some of the nocturnal animals.

Facilities: There main area houses the lounge, bar and dining area along with a viewing deck perched on top of the building. Dining can take place undercover in the dining room or al-fresco, under the stars.

Dining: Meals are taken at separate tables. Breakfast is continental but hot food can be served to order. Lunches are generally a light affair and dinners are a wholesome affair.

Children: Children of all ages are welcome, but bear in mind this camp is unfenced.

Health: This is a malarial area.

Communication: There is WiFi availablel in the main area and also quite a good mobile phones signal too.

AMANDA