Boarding one of our deluxe houseboats, you will be immersed in this extraordinary wilderness, whilst enjoying all the comforts of an exclusive floating boutique hotel.
Located in Southern Africa, the Chobe River region offers a unique and unforgettable experience with its abundant wildlife, stunning scenery, bountiful fishing waters and cultural experiences.
Impalila Island is nestled on the most idyllic location on the Chobe River. This Namibian promontory is perched on the eastern tip of the Zambezi Region (previously known as the Caprivi Strip). It has the privileged position of being the meeting point between four countries, namely Namibia, Botswana, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
The Chobe River originates in Angola, where the Utembo and Cuando rivers merge to form the Kwando. It flows southeast along the border of Angola and Zambia before turning northeast at the Selinda Spillway, feeding the vast Linyanti wetlands and Lake Liambezi.
Near Ngoma Bridge, it becomes the Chobe River, winding east to join the Zambezi at Kasane. From there, it continues to Victoria Falls and eventually into the Indian Ocean.
Flowing through floodplains, forests and woodlands, the river supports rich vegetation and attracts a wide variety of wildlife. It flows year-round but rises significantly from February to May after the Angolan rains, occasionally causing a rare reverse flow into Lake Liambezi—known as the “backflow.”
Set against the backdrop of Northern Botswana and Namibia’s lush Zambezi Region (formerly the Caprivi Strip), this corner of Africa is defined by its rich biodiversity and breathtaking river landscapes. At its heart lies Chobe National Park—Botswana’s second-largest and one of the continent’s most game-dense regions. The Chobe River, which gives the park its name, flows along this boundary, drawing an incredible array of wildlife to its banks throughout the year.
Ichingo Chobe River Lodge sits just upstream, tucked away on Impalila Island, offering peaceful access to this extraordinary natural environment—close enough to explore, yet removed from the crowds.
The local tribe on Impalila Island is the Subiya, who were historically part of the Barotse Kingdom, located in what is now known as Western Zambia. The island is governed by an Induna (Senior Headman), who reports to the Chief of the Subiya in Bukalo, approximately 100 km away. This form of traditional authority remains in place, and most disputes are resolved during weekly Khuta meetings, where the Induna presides alongside various village elders.
Impalila Island has a history dating back to the 1800s when it was first discovered by David Livingstone during his epic journey from Luanda in Angola to Quelimane in Mozambique. Rumour has it that he camped on the island on his way downstream to discover Victoria Falls.
Kasane Airport is just a 10-minute drive from Kasane Immigration, making it an ideal gateway to the Zambezi Queen Collection. With direct flights, it offers a smooth start to your African adventure.
Enhance your safari by combining it with other iconic destinations: visit the breathtaking Victoria Falls just 70 km away, explore the Okavango Delta by mokoro, witness the zebra migration in the Kalahari and Makgadikgadi, enjoy Big 5 sightings in Kruger National Park, or discover the vibrant charm of Cape Town.
You’ve journeyed through the story of this extraordinary region, from the lifeblood of the Chobe River to the remote beauty of Impalila Island, where wildlife, culture, and nature converge. This is not just a destination, it’s an experience that stays with you long after you leave.
Now it’s your turn. Get in touch to start planning your Chobe river safari.
We’ll help you make it unforgettable.
