The Wildlife and Rivers of the Zambezi Region - Small Group July 2026

The Caprivi Strip, also known as the Zambezi Region, a narrow corridor of green in northeastern Namibia, is a vital lifeline in the dry savannah landscapes of southern Africa. Enclosed by Angola, Zambia, and Botswana, this remarkable region is defined by the convergence of five major rivers: the Zambezi, Chobe, Kwando, Linyanti, and Okavango. These waterways form a mosaic of wetlands, floodplains, and riparian forests, creating a unique ecosystem that supports a stunning diversity of life. In this semi-arid region, water is the key to survival, transforming the Caprivi into a haven for species that thrive here in abundance.

The seasonal flow of these rivers plays a critical role in shaping the ecosystems of both northern Botswana and southeastern Namibia. During the wet season, floods rejuvenate the plains, creating fertile grazing grounds for ungulates such as roan antelope, buffalo, and zebra, alongside other species like lechwe, kudu, impala, and waterbuck. These prey species attract predators such as lions, leopards, and even the elusive striped hyena, which finds sanctuary in this richly varied landscape. Riparian forests along the rivers, home to towering jackalberries, sausage trees, and wild date palms, offer food and shelter to elephants and a host of other species, while aquatic plants like papyrus and water lilies support fish and nesting waterbirds. As the waters recede during the dry season, the region becomes a vital migratory corridor, connecting the wetlands of Botswana’s Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park with Namibia’s Zambezi Region.

For southeastern Namibia, the Caprivi rivers are a lifeline. Seasonal flooding from the Zambezi and Chobe spills into ephemeral pans, creating bursts of life in this arid corner of the country. These waters sustain not only wildlife but also local communities who rely on the rivers for agriculture and fishing. This delicate interplay of flowing and receding water underscores the importance of the Caprivi’s rivers in sustaining vibrant biodiversity and interconnected ecosystems across the region. For those seeking an unusual safari destination, the Caprivi offers an extraordinary blend of water-fed abundance in a semi-arid wilderness, where rare and fascinating species thrive against the odds.