Mahango Game Park, alternatively referred to as Mahango Game Reserve, is a designated protected area located in Namibia, nestled within Bwabwata National Park. It is located at the eastern border of the country with Botswana, within the flood plains of the Okavango River basin, near the Popa Falls on the river. The Caprivi Strip surrounds the western section of the park. Established in 1986, it spans an area of 24,462 hectares (60,450 acres). Home to more than 300 bird species, it has been recognized as an Important Bird Area by Birdlife International.
Approximately two thirds of the bird species present in Namibia can be found in this region, as it covers both wetland and tropical terrestrial bird species. Vegetation is composed of 38% shrubland and 62% grassland. Riparian forests serve as a crucial type of dense vegetation contrasting with the dry woodlands found in the upper sections of the river valley, as well as the reed beds, swamps, and expansive flooded grasslands of the flood plains.
The park boasts a diverse vegetational pattern, showcasing a rich array of flora, with a documented 869 species across 88 families. The region boasts a remarkable variety of mammal species, with 99 reported, including elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, and hippopotami. Several key species that appear on the threatened list include Lycaon pictus (EN), Loxodonta africana (EN), Kobus leche, and Lutra maculicollis (VU), primarily located in aquatic environments.
Safari Activities to do in Mahango Game Park
Game Viewing
The Mahango Game Park boasts a significant population of elephants, along with a notable presence of antelopes that are rare or absent in other regions of Namibia. The roan and sable antelope, tsessebe, and the red lechwe are among those included. The park is also home to a number of sitatunga; however, these antelopes are quite rare, and spotting them would require excellent luck. The ideal period for observing elephants and antelope is during the dry season. A section of the park adjoins the Kavango river, creating the potential for crocodile sightings. To observe hippos, the traveler should arrange a nocturnal game viewing excursion, since hippos are active during the night.
The optimal period for observing animals is during the dry months from March to October. The Mahango Game Park serves as a remarkable location for observing birds. The area features three distinct habitats: the Kavango River, the flood plains referred to as omurambas, and woodlands, allowing for a diverse array of species to be observed. The optimal season for bird watching occurs during the rainy months, specifically from November to February.
Bird Watching
Bird watching occurs from November to March, featuring sightings of pelicans, rollers, sunbirds, storks, and other water endemics that migrate from the Okavango Delta to neighboring protected areas.
The bird species includes wetland birds such as Egretta vinaceigula, Bugeranus carunculatus, Ardeola rufiventris, Pelecanus rufescens, Ephippiorhynchus senegalensis, Microparra capensis, Vanellus albiceps, Vanellus crassirostris, Glareola pratincola, Macronyx ameliae, and Circus pygargus. In the riverine habitat, the bird species of significance include Glareola nuchalis and Rynchops flavirostris, while the fringing riparian vegetation is home to Scotopelia peli and Gorsachius leuconotus species.
Best time to visit Mahango Game Park
Mahango National Game Park is especially pleasant to visit by the river in the afternoon, where you can observe elephants swimming and drinking alongside hippos and crocodiles. This can be regarded as the most anticipated view of nature.
The Mahango Namibia game reserve is home to large game species such as elephants, rhinos, giraffes, and buffalo, along with lions, leopards, and cheetahs. Alongside them, one can observe a variety of other animal species within the reserve, including sable, hippo, wild dog, lechwe, sitatunga, and roan antelope. The flawless river banks are consistently resided by large crocodiles, so caution is advised.
Bird watching occurs from November to March, featuring sights such as pelicans, rollers, sunbirds, storks, and other water endemics that migrate from the Okavango Delta and nearby protected areas, providing remarkable charm. As one of Africa’s most preferred travel agencies, we guarantee you an exceptional trip to Namibia.
Getting to Mahango Game Park
Mahango National Game Park stands out as a premier tourist destination in Namibia. If you’re seeking a destination that offers a true sense of wilderness away from the usual tourist spots, the Mahango Game Park within Bwabwata Park is definitely worth a look. When the wilderness teems with wildlife, it embodies an enchanting land like Mahango. Many travelers throughout the year choose this region as their final destination for wildlife viewing.
Mahango values their viewpoint. The majority of visitors prefer a fly over other ride. You may choose between Windhoek International Airport and Eros Airport to select your ride. It is essential to carry all your important travel-related documents, including tickets and VISA.
Where to stay in Mahango Game Park
There are a wide range of accommodations in Mahango Game Park. These range from budget accommodations, mid-range accommodations and luxury accommodations. Accommodation is available in several safari lodges, and camps with examples like Mahangu Lodge, Ndhovu safari Lodge, Divava Okavango safari lodge and Lodge, Popa falls Lodge among others.
