Recreation at the Kwando River
After the exciting animal adventures in Etosha National Park, we were looking forward to some relaxation and especially hippos up close at the Kwando River! The drive from Etosha through the Caprivi Strip is quite long. Therefore, after a grocery shopping in Tsumeb, we recommend a 1-night stopover at our favorite campsite called Roy’s Camp. It is perfectly located at the intersection of the two roads that lead one way or the other into the Caprivi.
After a quiet night we made the many kilometers on the B8 behind us. Arrived in Kongola, a super friendly and well prepared campsite manager Roxy awaited us. The Bush Camp by Camp Kwando is a brand new built campsite and belongs to Camp Kwando. After a short briefing on the possibilities, we pitched our tent on site 4. A wonderful lush tropical paradise directly at the river course!
In the coming days we should be able to experience many hippos very closely at the Kwando River. Even directly at our campsite they passed by at night. Not without pointing out to us with a loud snort that the place and the grass around it is reserved for them at night!
Hippos up close at the Kwando River
Hippos are among the largest land-dwelling animals. According to a widespread opinion, the hippo is one of the most dangerous animals for humans. This is certainly due to the fact that hippos spend most of their time in the water during the day, can dive for a long time and often appear completely unexpectedly.
The best way to experience the hippos is on a boat trip across the Kwando River. Here it is advisable to have an experienced helmsman who can interpret the water and the behavior of the hippos well. We were lucky enough to go on a sunset boat trip with the owners of Camp Kwando, Anke and Michiel. The two are quite familiar with the hippos around their campsite and lodge. Especially Otto and Anna, who have settled around the Bush Camp. These two should also keep us distant company every evening!
Kwando River Fishing
A nice option of relaxation is fishing. The waters are especially good for fishing tiger tetra. Either you go on a boat tour and let yourself be driven to the best current places. Alternatively, you can hold the rod directly from the campsite into the water and hope for your luck. This year the peculiarity was that the water level was very high due to the extremely good rainy season. New watercourses and currents had formed everywhere. A magnificent sight!
While Martin challenged his fishing luck, I made myself comfortable with my book in our hammock. The desired relaxation as well as the hippos very close at the Kwando River we should get in full extent. We liked it so much that we spontaneously added an extra night. Well strengthened, we were able to start the next stage of the honeymoon.
Stay tuned!
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