With so many water based Caprivi activities, game drives don’t always dominate the activity list in the same way that they do in traditional safari hotspots. However, the Mamili and Mudumu National Parks really are excellent, bordering the fabled Botswana game haven of the Linyanti Wetlands and attracting most of the same species. In the Caprivi Strip, elephant, hippo and a diverse range of antelope will inevitably be spotted, while the birdlife is simply exceptional. There are also some decent predator populations, with lion, leopard, hyena and even sometimes wild dog among the potential sightings in certain areas.
It’s usually an early start for breakfast before setting off on a drive as the sun slowly rises: a cool but utterly enchanting time to be on the road, as the bush slowly wakes up and wildlife emerges to face the day. There are frequent stops to view animals, learn about the flora and fauna from your guide, take photographs and enjoy refreshments. Unfortunately, off-road driving and night drives are not permitted within the national parks, but the Caprivi is still relatively undiscovered so you shouldn’t see too many other vehicles or people. Ndhovu, and Nkasa Lupala are among the camps offering game drives in the richest wildlife areas.