Bwabwata National Park

Bwabwata National Park supports a high diversity of wildlife closely linked to its river systems and seasonal floodplains. Elephants dominate the landscape and are frequently encountered moving between feeding grounds and water sources, often in large herds. Buffalo are also abundant and form impressive concentrations during the dry season. Plains game such as zebra, impala, roan antelope, and sable antelope thrive in the park’s woodlands and grasslands. Predators including lions, leopards, spotted hyenas, and African wild dogs are present but can be elusive due to dense vegetation and extensive ranges. Bwabwata plays a critical role as a wildlife corridor, allowing animals to move freely between Namibia, Botswana, Angola, and Zambia.

Wildlife highlights include close encounters with free-ranging elephants along riverbanks, large buffalo herds grazing floodplains, and the opportunity to observe natural cross-border wildlife movements. Bwabwata is also notable for its conservation model, demonstrating how people and wildlife can coexist within a protected landscape. River-based sightings add a unique dimension to traditional safari experiences.

The best time for wildlife viewing is during the dry season from July to October, when animals concentrate along the Kwando and Okavango rivers and remaining water sources. Vegetation is less dense, improving visibility, and wildlife activity increases near floodplains and river crossings, especially during early mornings and late afternoons.

Bwabwata National Park is one of Namibia’s most important birding destinations due to its extensive wetlands, riverine forests, and floodplains. These habitats attract a wide range of resident and migratory bird species, including waterbirds, raptors, and woodland specialists. Storks, herons, kingfishers, bee-eaters, and fish eagles are commonly seen along rivers, while grasslands and woodlands host bustards, hornbills, and francolins. Seasonal flooding creates ideal breeding conditions and significantly boosts bird diversity.

The best time for birdwatching is from November to March, when migratory species arrive and breeding activity peaks following the rainy season. During this period, wetlands are at their fullest, insect life is abundant, and bird behavior becomes more active and visible.

The best time for wildlife viewing is during the dry season from July to October, when animals concentrate along the Kwando and Okavango rivers and remaining water sources. Vegetation is less dense, improving visibility, and wildlife activity increases near floodplains and river crossings, especially during early mornings and late afternoons.