Looking at the map of Namibia the Caprivi Strip looks like a finger of land pointing east and into Botswana. A geographical oddity, Caprivi exists for historic reasons as an access point to the Zambezi River, thus allowing Namibia – in theory – to trade with East Africa. Unfortunately the Zambezi proved all but unnavigable for trade, with the Victoria Falls proving a big obstacle, but nevertheless the 450km (280 mile) long strip of land remains a popular area for tourism and a great area for viewing wildlife.

The Caprivi Strip is a place of water. Surrounded by four rivers, there are also extensive wetlands and riverine forests growing on the flood plains, attracting some 600 species of bird. In fact, this is one of the top birding destinations in southern Africa, with twitchers coming from wide and far for a chance of spotting a Coppery-tailed Coucal or a Slaty Egret. There is also a large animal presence here, with four of the Big Five (no rhinos) and four national parks (Mamili, Mudumu, Mahango and Bwabwata).

New roads in the Caprivi have opened up the area considerably and yet it still remains a little visited destination.  A huge meteorite – the Hoba – is another attraction for visitors although most people flock here for the wildlife and the chance to travel down the Zambezi and it remains one of Namibia’s top destinations.