Popa Falls
Kavango East
Popa Falls is a unique natural feature located on the Okavango River in the Kavango East region of Namibia, near the Caprivi Strip. Contrary to what its name suggests, Popa Falls are not traditional waterfalls but a series of cascading rapids created by the river splitting the rock and forming a network of channels with an elevation drop of about 4 meters. The area is encompassed by the Popa Game Park, established in 1989, which spans 0.25 square kilometers and features lush savannah vegetation. It hosts diverse wildlife including hippopotamuses, crocodiles, and over 400 bird species, making it a prime location for bird watching and nature observation. Visitors can enjoy hiking and angling in the area, though swimming is discouraged due to the presence of crocodiles. The nearby Popa Falls Resort offers accommodation options such as river cabins, bush chalets, and luxury units, along with amenities like a restaurant, curio shop, and swimming pool. The resort serves as a gateway to exploring the north-eastern corner of Namibia, with opportunities for game drives and boat cruises along the river. The surrounding landscape includes indigenous woodlands, riverine forests, floodplains, and reed-lined channels, providing a rich ecological environment for visitors to explore.
Plan your trip to Namibia with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: The best time to visit Popa Falls is during the dry season when the cascading rapids are clearly visible due to lower water levels. Visitors are advised to book accommodation and activities at Popa Falls Resort in advance, especially during peak seasons. Swimming is not recommended because of crocodiles, so plan for hiking, bird watching, and boat cruises instead. Consider obtaining a NamLeisure Card for discounts on accommodation, meals, and activities in Namibia. Guided game drives and boat cruises offered by the resort enhance the wildlife experience.
Interesting facts
- •Popa Falls is not a traditional waterfall but a series of rapids with a 4-meter elevation drop.
- •The Popa Game Park hosts 417 bird species, making it a hotspot for bird watchers.
- •Hippopotamuses and crocodiles are common in the waters around Popa Falls.
- •Swimming is prohibited due to the presence of dangerous crocodiles.
- •Popa Falls Resort offers a variety of accommodation including river cabins and luxury units.
History
Popa Game Park was established in 1989 to protect the unique ecosystem around the Popa Falls rapids on the Okavango River.
The area has long been recognized for its ecological significance due to the diverse fauna and flora supported by the river and surrounding savannah.
Over the decades, conservation efforts have maintained the habitat for hippopotamuses, crocodiles, and hundreds of bird species.
The resort and park have developed into a key destination for eco-tourism in the Kavango East region, complementing nearby protected areas such as Mahango Game Park.
Place Guide
Popa Falls Rapids
The cascading rapids of Popa Falls are formed by the Okavango River splitting over rocks, creating a network of channels and a natural spectacle of flowing water. This area is the heart of the Popa Game Park and can be accessed by foot from the resort.
Popa Falls Resort
A resort offering accommodation options such as river cabins, bush chalets, luxury units, and campsites. Facilities include a restaurant, curio shop, jetty bar, swimming pool, and conference facilities, serving as a base for exploring the falls and the surrounding wilderness.
Contact
Phone: 066 259 023
