Nkasa Rupara (Mamili) National Park
Wildlife & Animals
Namibia Parks
Anthony is a renowned Africa expert and author of many Lonely Planet guidebooks, including the 'Botswana & Namibia' guide.
Nkasa Rupara National Park (formerly Mamili National Park) is located in the Zambezi Region (formerly Caprivi Strip). It can be quite inaccessible but offers many wildlife possibilities. Elephant and buffalo are commonly seen wallowing in the marshes, while hippo and Nile crocodile are abundant in the reed-lined channels. Lion, wild dog and spotted hyena are the main predators, though they can be hard to spot.
Wildlife Highlights
Rare sightings of spotted-necked otters have been recorded in the Kwando River. Aquatic antelope wade through marshy areas, among them red lechwe and the rare sitatunga. The park is also a stronghold for Namibia’s last population of puku antelope.
Best Time for Wildlife Viewing
The Dry season (May to October) is the best time for wildlife viewing, with ideal conditions from May to September. The roads become extremely rough to traverse, if not completely impassable, during the Wet season (November to April). In years of good rains, 80% of the park can become flooded.
