A boat cruise on the rivers, tributaries and channels of the Caprivi Strip is a highly enjoyable activity, with a more tranquil feel then game drives. Late afternoon cruises can be particularly relaxing, as you watch the sun set beautifully over the waters with a drink in hand before slowly making your way back to camp for dinner. Wildlife encounters will generally involve hippo, and you will almost certainly see crocodiles basking in the sun. From certain lodges such as Nkasa Lupala, you’re also likely to find water based antelope running through the shallower waters, and elephant and buffalo arriving to drink. The varied birdlife sightings from the water are extremely impressive, and it is not unheard of to see predators on the riverbank from a boat, although these are generally scared off by the engine noise.

The exact body of water you will explore depends entirely on the location: in the western Caprivi at lodges such as Ndhovu and Nkwazi you can get onto the mighty Okavango; Mazambala is right next to the Kwando River; Nkasa Lupala allows guests to explore the channels of the Linyanti-Kwando Delta; while in the far east at areas such as Impalila Island, serene sundowner cruises on the Zambezi and game viewing boat trips on the Chobe Riverfront are possible.