MAMILI NATIONAL PARK

The name of this park comes from the last 7 chiefs who, since 1864 have ruled the Mafwe people in this part of the Caprivi. Mamili (soon to be renamed Nkasa Lupala) was also proclaimed in 1990 and lies just south of Mudumu.

It nestles in the curve that the Kwando River describes as it changes direction 1,000km from its source, looping northwards and eastwards creating the Linyanti Swamp, which in turn drains into the Chobe River. The northers section of the park is known as Dry mamili Grassland, while the south is Wet Mamili Grassland.

This is Namibia’s largest wetland with conservation status and when the river is in flood, up to 80% of Mamili can be submerged. The Linyanti is riddled with reed beds, papyrus swamps and twisting channels, dotted with lakes and the islands of Lupala and Nkasa. It is a haven for birds and other animals with species. With the record Kwando River flood of 2009, large parts of Mamili will reamain inundated for longer than usual.

Mamili is a remote and little visited place, 4x4-only country where special caution must be excercised to avoid becoming stuck. Totally self-contained camping at Rupara,Shivumu Pool and Mparemure (no facilities).

To reach Mamili travel through the village of Sagwali (S18º 16,02 E23º38.40) and take the next two left-hand forks. Entry is gained at the Shisinze Ranger Station.
Places to stay along the Kwando: Namushasha Country Lodge, Camp Kwando & two Conservancy Campsites.