The Okavango Delta is synonymous with Botswana but savvy safari lovers know that its waters have their origins in the highlands of Angola, wending their way along hundreds of miles and passing through Namibia’s lush and fertile Caprivi Strip. Located within earshot of the meandering Okavango River tumbling over nearby rapids on their way to the Popa Falls, the Divava Okavango Resort & Spa allows you to discover the enchanting Caprivi Strip. Here you find a green and well-watered land in stark contrast to the country’s more famous desert and mountain landscapes like Etosha National Park, Damaraland, or Sossussvlei.

The thatched lodge sits above the river and offers 20 air-conditioned suites, each fully en suite, right down to the exhilarating outdoor shower. There is plenty to do and see around the lodge: facilities include a sun-splashed swimming pool and the Mystique Spa, whose rooms open out to the river. There is also a wide range of activities on offer: you can explore the river on sunset cruises and watch crocodiles and hippos go by; be poled along in a traditional mokoro or dugout canoe, perhaps to a deserted island for a picnic; go angling for tiger fish or tilapia; or visit the local Kavango community to learn more about life in this verdant corner of Namibia. The scenic Popa Falls are within walking distance and the air rings with the sound of birds – over 450 species have been recorded in the area. Birders should look out for white-fronted bee-eaters, swamp boubous, red-chested flufftails, and bat hawks.

Highly recommended is a visit to nearby Mahango Game Park, a famously bio-diverse reserve. You can drive yourself or book a guided game drive to go in search of the Big 5 (elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion, and leopard). The park is considered a ‘mini Okavango Delta’ where wild dogs thrive and the bird watching is sensational. One of the more memorable sightings will be the presence of Mahango’s baobab trees, known for their colossal size and number.

Divava supports the local pre-primary school as part of its community outreach initiative.

Highlights

• Charming Okavango River location
• Swimming pool & open-air spa with sauna & steam room
• Air-conditioned suites with river views
• Excellent bird-watching destination
• See the Big 5 in nearby Mahango

Activities

• BOAT EXCURSIONS
• BUSH DINING
• GAME DRIVES
• PICNICS
• BIRD WATCHING
• FISHING
• MOKORO TRAILS

This luxurious lodge is perfectly located for exploring the surrounding wilderness. Amenities are deluxe, welcoming, and friendly staff. Enjoy the lovely spa with a full range of treatments, pools, rivers, or surrounding wilderness. Ideal for trips to Popa Falls, Mahango National Park, or even Tsolido Hills across the border in Botswana.

Rooms

Luxury Chalet

Each of the 20 thatched suites the resort overlooking the Okavango River and comes complete with a private viewing deck. In-room facilities include a mini-bar and a tea-and-coffee station so you can toast sunset or sunrise from your suite.

Split over two levels, your room is air conditioned and features two queen-sized beds draped with mosquito netting. There is a full en suite bathroom that comprises twin vanities, a clawfoot bathtub looking out over the river, and both indoor and outdoor showers.

Facilities

Divava Okavango Resort & Spa is well-appointed: the main lodge area is home to a lounge with complimentary Wi-Fi and a safari shop where you find essentials or a gift or two. Outside you find a free-form swimming pool with sundeck and loungers as well as the Mystique Spa. This ‘wellness village’ echoes traditional African architecture and features five individual and couples’ treatment rooms as well as a sauna, hydro bath, and steam room.

There is a shuttle service from Bagani Airstrip for travelers who prefer to fly in or who are flying to another destination. Divava Okavango Resort & Spa has disabled access for guests who require it.

Dining

Dining is enjoyed inside or outside depending on the weather (the rainy season runs from about November to about March). Breakfast is a buffet while lunch is a la carte with a selection of light meals. Dinner is a grand 5-course affair, comprising a set menu with two options for the main course. Dishes are international with African influences. Please note that vegetarian guests should notify the lodge in advance. On occasions, the multi-course dinner is replaced by a gourmet buffet.