Bwabwata National Park : The park was initially designated as the Caprivi Game Reserve in 1966 and was elevated to the status of Caprivi Game Park in 1968. In 2007, it was officially designated as the Bwabwata National Park, which included the previous Mahango Game Reserve. The park has experienced a complex history, having been designated as a military zone by the South African Defence Force during Namibia’s war of liberation. Only after Independence in 1990 could the park be effectively managed as a conservation area.
The park spans approximately 6,100 km² and features low vegetated sand dunes scattered with ancient drainage lines known as omurambas, bordered by the Okavango River to the west and the Kwando River to the east. Bwabwata National Park consists of three primary zones dedicated to wildlife and nature conservation: the Mahango Core Area and the Buffalo Core Area located in the western part of the park, along with the Kwando Core Area situated in the east. A multi-use area exists for the harmonious coexistence of humans and nature. This arrangement in Namibia is truly one of a kind.
Mahango Core Area
Located to the west of Cubango, along the border with Botswana, the Mahango Core Area of Bwabwata National Park presents an enticing option for a safari adventure. Elephants and buffalo traverse the bush and grasslands of the reserve. This section of the Okavango wetlands is characterized by the presence of hippos and Nile crocodiles, which dominate both the banks and the waters. Along the way, one can observe giraffes, zebras, lions, leopards, and hyenas, accompanied by stunning phoenix palms and majestic baobabs. With a touch of fortune, you may also spot the renowned sable, roan, and oryx antelopes wandering through the forests.
The path leads you from the B8 at Divundu to the C48/D3403, passing by the Popa Falls (which resemble waterfalls but are, in fact, rapids) and continuing towards the Botswana border. Wildlife can roam freely between the two countries, as there are no fences separating them.
Few roads branch off to the left or right of the main road in the Mahango Core Area. When traveling in a two-wheel drive vehicle, you can effortlessly discover the Scenic Loop Drive along with the transit route. As you make your way towards the Cubango River, a short journey of a few kilometers’ will lead you past the scenic viewpoint and the picnic area known as Kwetche, ultimately guiding you to the main road. In the western part of the park, 4×4 drivers can explore additional routes, including the 20km Circular Drive Loop, which typically provides excellent opportunities for game viewing.
Kwando Core Area
The Mahango and Buffalo Core Areas are situated near each other on the western side of Bwabwata National Park, whereas the Kwando Core Area is located on the eastern side. The Kwando Core Area stands out as the largest among the three core areas, covering an impressive area of around 1280 km². It is advisable to venture off the main road only if you are driving a 4×4 vehicle. Numerous sandy stretches exist that complicate driving, even during the dry season. This enhances the excitement of the journey. A diverse array of wildlife is also visible. That is, unless you happen to select one of those tragic days when the animals are taking a break in the dense wilderness.
A true gem in this area is the journey south along the Kwando River to ‘Horse Shoe’, which has become quite well-known. From above, it truly resembles a horse’s hoof. Along the journey, it is worthwhile to pause at the hills where Fort Doppies once existed – not an actual fort, but a modest military base during the Angolan war. The view from here offers a breathtaking perspective of the surrounding floodplains.
Sitatunga, reedbuck, and lechwe antelope dominate in this region. Common species include roan and sable antelope, waterbuck, kudu, impala, giraffe, and wildebeest. Hippos frequent the camps in the region. The presence of lions, leopards, cheetahs, African wild dogs, and hyenas enhances the thrill. However, it is primarily the large groups of elephants that evade the arid conditions of other regions and prefer to pause at the Horse Shoe during their migratory journeys. The lagoon is transformed into a vast open-air swimming pool. Of course, exclusive use.
Buffalo Core Area
If the Mahango Core Area seems tranquil, the Buffalo Core Area is nearly devoid of activity. The area remains relatively obscure, making it a hidden gem for safari enthusiasts. Access on the east side of the Cubango River is also available via the B8. When traveling from Divundu, you will encounter the “Buffalo Core Area” sign 12 km past the Cubango bridge; make a right turn there. The structures of a former military station unveil the rich history of the region. The base functioned as a support point for the South Africans during their mandate in Namibia, aiding them in their struggle against the freedom movement. Today, it offers a fascinating setting for game drives.
A self-drive safari here is quite effective. It can be a bit sandy in certain areas, and during the rainy season, it tends to be muddy, mushy, and churned up. A 4×4 ensures your safety. The majority of the road runs alongside the Cubango River. The difference from Etosha National Park is striking: a stunning river landscape and exquisite flood zones. Crocodiles and hippos inhabit the water, water birds thrive in the wetlands, large herds of elephants gather to drink and bathe, while buffalo graze serenely in the floodplains. Another highlight is the numerous roan and sable antelopes, often regarded as trophies on private farms.
What to do in Bwabwata National Park
Game viewing in the Bwabwata National Park
Bwabwata National Park hosts a variety of wild animals that can be observed in various areas of the park, particularly during the dry season. During the dry season, numerous animals emerge from their natural habitats and gather in the water-rich areas of the park, a result of the droughts that occur during this time. In Bwabwata National Park, you can encounter a variety of wildlife, including crocodiles, African buffalos, zebras, Assessable, wild dogs, red Lechwe, elephants, roan antelope, cheetahs, lions, leopards, hippos, reedbucks, sitatunga, white rhinos, and many others.
Birding in the Bwabwata National Park
Birding in the Bwabwata typically occurs during the wet season, focusing on various bird breeding sites within the Park, including the Mahango area and the Kavango River. You will have the opportunity to observe several bird species, including the seldom spotted African skimmer, the salty egret, rufous-bellied heron, collared palm thrush, owls, the African pygmy goose, Dickinson’s kestrel, white-backed night heron, Allen’s gallinule, Bennet’s woodpecker, and the swamp boubou.
Visit Mbunza living museum
Although the Mbunza museum is not situated within the Bwabwata National Park, it is nearby, allowing for a drive to the museum where you can immerse yourself in history and acquire souvenirs from the locals. The museum offers visitors an opportunity to explore the culture surrounding the Okavango River. Souvenirs available include pottery and woven materials, and one can admire the houses built from natural materials. It is noted that the village has existed for over a century. Guided bush walks will be available, led by the locals residing near the museum, allowing you to enjoy the captivating stories shared by the elders.
